It sounds like a debate that belongs in the same category as “should you hang toilet paper over or under?” and “is it acceptable to wear shoes in the house?” And yet, there is actually some science behind the morning-versus-night shower question. A shower can wake you up, help you unwind, support better sleep, rinse away allergens and protect your skin and scalp. But when you take that shower could make the difference between getting those benefits and missing out on them.

Interestingly, Americans do seem to have a preference: A 2024 Harris Poll found that 60% of Americans typically shower in the morning, while 33% shower at night and 36% shower in the afternoon or evening. Yes, that adds up to more than 100%—some people shower more than once a day, which is either deeply admirable or extremely exhausting, depending on your feelings about hair styling or laundry.

Ahead, we talked to five experts in trichology (aka scalp health), dermatology and sleep habits to get to the bottom of this longtime debate. So before you automatically turn on the water at your usual time, read on to see what they had to say.

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Does it really matter what time you shower?

It can, but not always for the reason you might think. From a basic hygiene standpoint, the best time to shower is when you need one: after a sweaty workout, a humid commute, a day outside, a sunscreen-heavy beach afternoon or an evening spent around smoke, dust or other irritants.

But when you are trying to achieve a specific goal—better sleep, fewer allergy symptoms, healthier skin or a cleaner scalp—timing can make a difference. “There isn’t one perfect time to shower for everyone,” says Christine McMillan, a board-certified trichologist and the founder of Scalp Garden. That’s because your own biology, schedule, skin type, scalp type and sleep habits all matter.

So the short answer is: Shower timing can matter, but only when you match it to your goal.

What is the best time to shower?

For a more productive day: Morning

If your shower is less about getting clean and more about becoming a functioning person, morning may be your moment. The water, steam and built-in routine can help create a mental shift from sleep mode to day mode, especially if you wake up groggy, sweaty or oily.

McMillan says morning showers can be a good choice for people who use them as a wake-up ritual. “If a morning shower helps you wake up and feel ready for the day, great!” she says.

And that may be reason enough. When a shower helps you feel cleaner, calmer and more pulled together before the day begins, it can become less of a hygiene habit and more of a productivity cue.

For better sleep quality: Night

If sleep is the goal, night showers have the strongest scientific case.

Eric Zhou, PhD, a researcher and clinician at Harvard Medical School’s Division of Sleep Medicine, points to a 2019 meta-analysis showing that a shower or bath of 10 minutes or longer, taken about one to two hours before bedtime at a temperature of 104 to 108.5 degrees, improved sleep quality and sleep efficiency. The reason is tied to body temperature.

“Our body starts to naturally cool down in the hours leading up to bedtime,” Zhou says. “The shower potentially helps this process along because the hot water stimulates blood to flow to your extremities, thereby allowing your body to cool faster.”

A second benefit of an evening shower, says Zhou? If it occurs at a consistent time before you head to bed, it creates a predictable routine that your brain learns, and then it begins to associate the shower with beginning to wind down and get ready for sleep. One caveat: You’ll want to avoid climbing into bed overheated and damp. Give your body time to cool down after the shower.

For better health during allergy season: Night

“If someone has seasonal allergies, sensitive skin or eczema, showering at night can help wash off pollen, dust, sweat and outdoor irritants before bed,” says Shamsa Kanwal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and a consultant at MyPsoriasisTeam. “This may reduce irritation on the skin and also keep allergens off pillows and sheets.”

That’s important, says David Puyandayev, founder of the BiohackBeast brand of products that promote healthy breathing during sleep. “Pollen, dust and dander collect on your skin and hair and transfer to your pillow, sitting right next to your airway all night,” Puyandayev says. “That drives nighttime congestion, and congestion forces mouth breathing, which fragments sleep.”

The steam helps too, he adds. “A warm shower temporarily opens your nasal passages, so you breathe more easily through your nose as you fall asleep.”

For better skin: Night

The best time to shower is before bed, as this washes the dirt and sweat off your skin, explains Purvisha Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Advanced Dermatology and Skin Cancer Associates in Tennessee and Mississippi.

Another benefit of the nighttime shower? Skin-care products work better at night, since they’re on the skin for the longest amount of time. Plus, your body temperature spikes at night, which helps increase absorption. Applying them to post-shower damp skin helps trap moisture.

For better hair: It depends

Hair is where the morning-versus-night debate gets more personal. “From a scalp-health perspective, I’m honestly less concerned about whether someone showers in the morning or at night and more concerned about whether they’re cleansing often enough for their scalp type, job or lifestyle,” McMillan says.

People with dandruff, psoriasis, folliculitis, excess oil or hair loss may actually under-wash because they have heard that washing less is healthier. “But in many cases,” she says, “a consistently cleansed scalp is a happier scalp.”

One key rule: Try not to sleep with soaking-wet hair. “Hair is at its most fragile when it’s wet, and keeping the scalp damp for hours overnight can sometimes make scalp conditions worse,” McMillan says. “As long as you dry your scalp and hair most of the way before lying down to sleep, you’ll be fine.”

If you love night showers but have thick hair that takes forever to dry, consider showering at night but washing your hair in the morning—or using a blow-dryer on the roots and scalp before bed.

For less stress: Night

A warm shower can feel like a reset button, and nighttime is often the best time to press it. It creates a transition between the demands of the day and the quieter rhythm of bedtime, says Dr. Kanwal.

“From a skin perspective, the main caution is to keep it warm rather than hot,” she says. “Very hot showers may feel relaxing in the moment, but they can strip natural oils and leave the skin dry, itchy or more sensitive.”

What else is important to keep in mind when showering?

The timing of your shower gets all the attention, but your technique matters just as much. A perfectly timed shower can still leave your skin and scalp unhappy if the water is too hot, the cleanser is too harsh or the shower goes on forever.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Keep it short. Dr. Kanwal recommends showers of about five to 10 minutes. Long showers may feel luxurious, but they can dry out the skin.
• Use lukewarm water. Super-hot water can be rough on the skin and scalp barrier. “Lukewarm water is usually the sweet spot,” McMillan says.
• Choose a gentle cleanser. If you have dry, sensitive or eczema-prone skin, Dr. Kanwal recommends a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
• Skip aggressive scrubbing. Dr. Kanwal recommends avoiding harsh loofahs or exfoliating gloves every day, especially if your skin is sensitive or irritated.
• Moisturize quickly. Pat skin dry, then apply moisturizer within a few minutes to help seal in hydration.
• Cleanse for your lifestyle. If you sweat a lot, work outside, use heavy styling products or have an oily scalp, you may need to wash more often than someone with a dry scalp or less-active routine.
• Don’t chase “squeaky clean.” Skin that feels tight after showering may be a sign that your routine is too harsh.

The bottom line: Showering at night may have the most benefits, but consistency and comfort matter too. The best shower is the one that fits your life, supports your skin and scalp, and helps you feel like a clean human being—whether that happens at 7 a.m. or 9 p.m.

RELATED:

• Debate Settled! Find Out If It’s Better to Dry Your Hands with Dryers or Paper Towels
• This Is the No. 1 Spot You’re Missing When You Apply Sunscreen
• Debate Solved! Here’s Whether You Should Leave the Toilet Lid Open or Closed 99% of the Time

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Shamsa Kanwal, MD, board-certified dermatologist with MyPsoriasisTeam; email interview, June 17, 2026
• Christine McMillan, BCT, board-certified trichologist and founder of Scalp Garden; email interview, June 17, 2026
• Eric Zhou, PhD, researcher and clinician at Harvard Medical School; email interview, June 17, 2026
• David Puyandayev, founder of BiohackBeast; email interview, June 17, 2026
• Purvisha Patel, MD, board-certified dermatologist, Mohs and cosmetic surgeon, email interview, June 17, 2026
• Harris Poll: “Examining Americans’ Shower Habits”
• Sleep Medicine Reviews: “Before-Bedtime Passive Body Heating by Warm Shower or Bath to Improve Sleep: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”

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Aries: Han Solo

March 20–April 19

Because you were born under Aries, the cardinal fire sign, you move through life with a tough, reluctant, impulsive and daring personality like Han Solo, who’s equal parts charming and self-focused. A master of survival who doesn’t shy away from being in the heat of the most adrenaline-pumping action, Han Solo acts first and thinks later.

His confidence and directness—like when he replies “I know” to Leia’s “I love you” in The Empire Strikes Back—as well as his sense of loyalty and protectiveness, exudes the energy of the first sign of the zodiac. His cool exterior also mirrors your tendency to want to be seen as ahead of the curve, even in moments when you might not be 100% sure of the path forward. (Also, for the record, Han shot first, no matter what George Lucas remastered later on.)

Taurus: Chewbacca

April 20–May 20

As a Taurus, you’re known for being steadfast, grounded, deliberate and deeply invested in taking your sweet time … which means your spirit best mirrors Chewbacca’s. Han Solo’s perpetually devoted best friend, confidant and co-pilot, is fiercely loyal, has a long fuse (but will lose his cool and enter a state of primal rage when pushed to the brink) and expresses himself in a physical way with his iconic roar.

He’s also a gentle giant who loves to give hugs, and these qualities are among the Bull’s signature traits. Chewie’s ability to stand strong against the Empire and remain devoted to Han Solo for years reflects your innate tenacity and devotion to the people you hold most dear.

Gemini: Luke Skywalker

May 21–June 20

If you came into the world when the sun was moving through Gemini—the curious, expressive, enthusiastic, information-gathering air sign—you’re most like Luke Skywalker, whose adaptability is the key to his success. Being born under the sign of the Twins lends itself to an innate restlessness and, at times, painfully frustrating boredom. That’s more likely when you’re not able to pivot quickly enough or find exactly the right mental stimulation. Of course, that’s something Luke Skywalker experienced when staring at the twin suns on Tatooine and also when waiting for Obi-Wan to tell him what he was capable of.

But Luke’s Gemini-esque insatiable curiosity also turned out to be his superpower: His desire to gather information and understand the Force on his own terms led him to become the last Jedi, ultimately inspiring the entire galaxy.

Cancer: Obi-Wan Kenobi

June 21–July 22

Family-oriented, funny, deeply nurturing and able to feel, understand and express your emotions in a way that few other people are able to, you are very much like Obi-Wan. His most heart-wrenching losses, such as Anakin’s fall, sit with him for decades, which is something you can relate to, given your sensitivity and ability to feel deeply about experiences from the past.

Although Obi-Wan appears stoic at times—something you’re also capable of, as you can be super self-protective—it’s a cover for his deep sentimentality. Talk about being a softie who takes cover in a hard shell! His wittiness is also a powerful character trait, as is his innately caregiving side, seen as he raises Anakin from childhood, mentors Ahsoka and watches over Luke from a distance for years.

Leo: Lando Calrissian

July 23–Aug. 22

If you’re a Leo—charismatic, upbeat, action-oriented and spotlight-loving—you’re most like Lando Calrissian, Han Solo’s old comrade and fellow smuggler and gambler. The original owner of the Millennium Falcon before he lost the ship to Han Solo in a game of sabacc, Calrissian first flaunted his smooth-talking, magnetic ways in The Empire Strikes Back, later leveraging his adoration of the spotlight to become the administrator of Cloud City.

And unsurprisingly, given that bright, bedazzling MO, he’s able to charm Leia, rally the Rebel fleet at the Battle of Endor and deal with conflict while keeping his head held high. His confidence and charm mirror your ability to move through life believing in the bright side and in your own ability to power through.

Virgo: Princess Leia

Aug. 23–Sept. 22

As someone born when the sun was moving through Virgo, the mutable earth sign ruled by Mercury, you’re whip-smart, self-possessed, detail-oriented, resourceful, strategic and a talented wordsmith, just like Princess Leia, aka General Leia Skywalker Organa Solo. Having been given a great amount of responsibility at a young age—becoming a senator at 19 and a Rebellion leader by the time she was in her early 20s—she proves that she can channel her cerebral nature and intuitive strength toward any challenge she’s up against, which is truly Virgo-coded.

Her ability to manage tough trials (such as seeing the love of her life get frozen and handed to a bounty hunter) by putting her nose to the grindstone mirrors your own. And her ability to match Han’s sharp wit is also an example of braininess that goes hand-in-hand with claiming the Maiden as your sign.

Libra: Padmé Amidala

Sept. 23–Oct. 22

Born when the sun was moving through elegant, beauty-seeking, conflict-abhorring Libra, you care deeply about diplomacy, justice and bringing more balance into every space you occupy and every situation you experience. As a teenage queen who becomes a senator and seeks the truth and justice for all, Padmé’s personality is representative of the cardinal air sign. Her stunning, striking, wow-worthy costumes—think: the elaborate headdresses and white battle suit—can’t help but resonate with the sign ruled by Venus, the planet of style.

Padmé is also conscious of speaking with care, which you can relate to as a person who aims to be precise with your language in an effort to keep the peace. You’re also beauty-loving and eager to ensure your environment is harmonious, which is also quite true of Padmé, whose home on Naboo, famously known as Varykino, the Lake Retreat, is a Libran fantasy.

Scorpio: Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader

Oct. 23–Nov. 21

Fearless, mysterious, magnetic, on a lifelong mission to seek transformation and capable of feeling intensely and deeply, Scorpio is the water sign co-ruled by a Mars, the planet of war, and Pluto, the planet of power. Your astrological identity most aligns with Anakin Skywalker, aka Darth Vader, the enforcer of the Galactic Empire. Like Scorpio, Darth Vader is a master of secrets who withholds information from even his nearest and dearest—most consequentially, concealing his true identity from his son.

Anakin is also relentless and obstinate, doggedly pursuing power (something Scorpios perpetually strategize to command) and enforcing the Emperor’s will with an iron fist. And in love, even before his fall, he was all-in, telling Padmé as a 19-year-old that he had never stopped thinking about her since they were kids. That’s something you can understand, given that you’re emotionally intense and deeply devoted in your intimate relationships.

Sagittarius: Poe Dameron

Nov. 22–Dec. 21

The best words to describe you, Sag? Direct, unfiltered, jovial, bold, occasionally reckless and even philosophical. For you, it’s all about going big or going home, and that vibe best aligns with Poe Dameron, a confident, irreverent ace pilot who becomes a key leader of the Resistance. With an insatiable appetite for adventure and even danger, he tells it like it is to whomever he believes needs to hear it, such as when he boldly and loudly disagrees with Vice Admiral Holdo in The Last Jedi.

From the start, it’s apparent that when Poe does anything—from cracking jokes with Finn mid-dogfight to leading an unauthorized assault on a First Order Dreadnought that costs the Resistance its entire bombing fleet—it’s to the max, a philosophy that people born under the sign of the Archer embrace. His warmth, sense of humor and ability to make friends out of nowhere are also reflective of the mutable fire sign.

Capricorn: Rey Skywalker

Dec. 22–Jan. 19

Capricorns are goal-oriented, serious, hardworking and pragmatic, and you’re wired to put your nose to the grindstone in an effort to achieve recognition. In a very Capricornian fashion, Rey, whose deepest wound is having been left on Jakku as a child, sees hard work as a way to feel worthy.

Her pride in being self-made is also representative of the sign of the Sea Goat, as is her scrappy, industrious nature that’s seen in how she survived solo by scavenging and bartering. Her earnestness and desire to make decisions based strictly on what’s concrete versus abstract also mirrors the cardinal earth sign. As an old soul, Capricorn reveres tradition, and we see that in Rey’s desire to restore the Jedi Order.

Aquarius: Finn

Jan. 20–Feb. 18

Don’t deny it, Aquarius: You love being contrarian. You’re also future-minded, group-oriented, humanitarian, friendly and innovative—and rebellious, much like Finn. A former First Order stormtrooper who strikes out against the Order following his first combat mission, Finn frees imprisoned Poe Dameron, ultimately pairing up with him and Rey to take on the First Order to push for the Resistance’s survival.

Finn’s initial bold, altruistic and out-of-the-blue move is very Aquarian, given that the air sign is co-ruled by Uranus, the planet of sudden change. That same shocking energy also informs other moves, like when he charges into Maz Kanata’s castle without a combat plan because Rey is in danger. He’s expressive, quirky and endearing (like when he shows delight just by being included), as well as funny and loyal—all traits that you can relate to as a Water Bearer.

Pisces: Yoda

Feb. 19–March 20

And last but not least, Pisces—a sign that’s spiritual, dreamy, mystical, psychic, emotionally astute and deeply healing to others. Sounds a lot like Yoda, doesn’t it? Attuned to the Force, Yoda’s investment in dispelling the dark side and fully owning the light side goes hand-in-hand with his innate spirituality, a trait that’s quite Piscean. Given Pisces’ innate wiring to be such an empath, it’s crucial that you find ways to ground yourself in your emotions and inner knowing.

That’s something Yoda is well-versed in, like in Revenge of the Sith, when he absorbs the pain of the Jedi being slaughtered across the galaxy, processes the weight of the experience and then stands back up. He’s also a therapist, healer and spiritually gifted mentor to Luke, Anakin, Obi-Wan and Dooku—roles many people born under Pisces can’t help but step into.

Why trust us

Reader’s Digest provides an easy-to-understand guide to all things astrology—from understanding sun signs, moon signs and rising signs to exploring each zodiac sign’s strengths, challenges and desires. You’ll learn about your ideal match in love, career, hobbies and more, as well as learn how big astrological events will affect you. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including practicing astrologers, as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

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Growing up near historic Morristown, New Jersey, I often felt very close to the early American era. I worked for a summer at the local Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, where I handled, categorized and labeled artifacts from the daily lives of Colonial Americans. My sister worked as a docent just up the road in Jockey Hollow, now a national historic park, where George Washington and his troops spent a bitter winter in 1789 and 1790.

At Jockey Hollow’s Wick House, the home of the farmer on whose land Washington camped his troops, my sister would don an old-timey outfit and tell visitors about the Wicks while performing daily activities of Colonial life. Some of her responsibilities? “We used a Dutch oven to cook in the fireplace, and I made cornbread, soup, biscuits and cookies,” she says. “I would wash the dishes by pumping water into two basins: one with soap to scrub, one to rinse them off. We made candles by dipping string into melted wax. There was a kitchen garden we sometimes tended. The beds were made with woven rope underneath, which sometimes had to be tightened—and that’s apparently what the phrase ‘sleep tight’ meant!”

Yes, a lot has changed since this whole American experiment started on July 4, 1776 … or has it? In some ways, people’s lives are surprisingly similar. “Persistence, advocacy, sacrifice and dedication by ordinary Americans helped achieve the independence of the United States,” says Matthew Skic, director of collections and exhibitions at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia. “Today, we employ those same attributes as we support causes, improve our communities and strive to achieve ideals we believe in.” And then there’s the price of butter, which, believe it or not, has not changed all that much over the past 250 years!

Ahead, Skic and our other experts—Cathleene B. Hellier, PhD, senior historian at the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, and Robyn Schroeder, PhD, an affiliate history faculty member at William & Mary and the assistant director of the college’s National Institute of American History and Democracy—tell us what it was really like to live in 1776 vs. today, just in time for America’s birthday.

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How different was America in back in 1776?

America itself was vastly different than it is today, comprised of only the original 13 Colonies. Many Colonies were also smaller in size than their corresponding states today, totaling just 430,000 square miles along 1,000 miles of Atlantic coastline. Now, the U.S. spans from coast to coast across 3,809,525 square miles, about nine times larger than it was in 1776.

Of course, the population was also much smaller: In 1780 (the closest Census Bureau estimate to 1776), around 2.8 million people lived in the Colonies. Today, at 342 million people, the population of the U.S. is almost 123 times greater.

With no modern conveniences or technology in 1776, it’s hard to imagine how different life was. Homes were smaller, particularly for the average “middling” class, as it was known. And many people grew their own food, made their own clothes and even made their own soap to clean them. We probably wouldn’t last a week in 1776 with all the things we’d need to learn how to do!

Life in 1776 vs. today

While we have a vague sense of how different things were back then, direct comparisons really drive home that point. Just how big were those homes? How much were people paying for groceries? What did they eat, and how did they spend their free time? Get ready to take a trip back through history with these facts about America in its early years.

Homes

1776: The average rural home might include two rooms and a sleeping loft measuring 18 x 20 feet (about 360 square feet), with no indoor plumbing and only a fireplace for heat (which required lots of wood chopping!). “Average, yeoman houses would have been very different from places like Mount Vernon or Monticello, the houses that come to mind when you imagine this era, and different, too, from urban dwellings of tradespeople,” Schroeder says. “Several hundred thousand dwellings, most of them modest, would have populated the Colonial landscape of the 1770s.”

2026: Today’s average suburban home is a whopping 2,447 square feet, with three or four bedrooms and at least two bathrooms, in addition to a living room, dining room, kitchen and, often, family room. Today’s homebuyers also crave an office, finished basement, laundry room, pantry and more.

Average family size

1776: In the late 1770s, the average family consisted of 5.7 people. “Who made up a household in Revolutionary America varied, as it does today,” Skic says. “Back then, households could include a nuclear family but also extended family, including multiple generations under one roof, indentured servants and enslaved people.”

Blended families were also normal, Hellier says, as they are today. But instead of being due to divorce, they were a product of shorter lifespans and parental death, particularly the death of women during childbirth.

2026: Although today’s homes are way bigger than in the Colonial period, families are much smaller, with households averaging just 2.5 people. That’s the result of families having fewer children, of course, as well as more people living alone. “The size of the average American household today is nearly half the average size of an American household at the time of the Revolutionary War,” Skic says.

Personal space and privacy

1776: With a large family and a small living area, personal space really wasn’t a thing. There were no parents saying, “Go to your room!”—unless they were wealthy. And it’s hard to imagine how families were so big when parents had no privacy! “Living with many people in such small quarters was possible because of the array of outbuildings they would have had: granaries, summer kitchens, timber supply, necessaries (outhouses), brew-houses, laundries and stables, and more successful families might have dairies,” Schroeder says. “We can also surmise that most people spent more time outside their houses.”

Even when not at home, today’s social rules of personal space didn’t really exist. During the Continental Congress in September 1776, delegates John Adams and Benjamin Franklin had to share a bed—and apparently argued about whether to keep the window open or shut!

2026: Privacy is a much bigger deal for modern Americans. Spending “me time” is a priority, and even when we’re connecting online with others, we’re often physically alone. Our houses are big enough to spread out, and kids as well parents get their own bedrooms. The first time we might have to share our sleeping space with a stranger is in a college dorm room.

Travel

1776: The average person in Colonial America didn’t take vacations. “Some people never left the county they were born in because they had no reason to travel,” Hellier says. People, mostly men, mainly traveled for business. But the time it took depended on how you traveled and what the conditions of the roads were. For example, walking, the most common way of getting around, from Washington, D.C., to New York City would take about three weeks in the best-case scenario; on horseback, one to two weeks.

During the Revolutionary War, delegates traveled to attend the Continental Congress and to join the army, often followed by their wives. “Many ‘regular’ men who fought in the army traveled far from home to places they would not otherwise have visited,” Hellier says. Still, it was a lot easier to travel by water, which was why maritime trade was big. “[Traders] traveled extensively by sea—along the American coast, to the Caribbean, to Britain,” Hellier says. In addition, travel inland along rivers and canals was quicker than over land for transporting goods.

2026: Our main road-trip gripe these days is traffic, which slows us down—but in a very different way! Cars can travel on the highway (legally) at 65 or 70 miles per hour, compared to 4 to 5 miles per hour on horseback, and a measly 2 miles per hour walking over rugged roads in 1776. We can make it from D.C. to New York in three to four hours, without traffic, on I-95.

The cost of everyday items

1776: This is a hard one for historians to estimate, because although the Colonies used pounds, shillings and pence, the value of each was different from Colony to Colony and from British currency, so there was no standardization. In addition, goods were often bartered or traded instead of using money, and economic records and statistics weren’t kept on a larger scale. That said, historians have come up with some comparisons. For example, a pound of butter in 1776 cost around 4 pence, or about $3 today.

2026: The cost of groceries has been notoriously high lately, but butter is actually not that much more expensive today. The national average is around $4 a pound.

The most popular jobs

1776: By far, the most popular job in 1776 was farming, with the first census in 1790 finding 90% of Americans in agriculture. “Farmers and plantation owners primarily learned agriculture from parents or other relatives, and they also continued to learn by experimenting with different methods for fertilizing and controlling pests,” Hellier says. Even George Washington, a wealthy landowner, considered himself a “farmer first” and learned new agricultural methods to improve the industry.

Next on the rung of popular jobs were merchants and skilled tradesmen, such as blacksmiths, coopers (barrel makers), tailors, printers and dressmakers. “Trades here focused on producing the goods and services needed for daily life,” Hellier says. The Revolutionary War also brought new job opportunities for women. “Perhaps 10% to 15% of the armies were women laundresses, cooks, artisans and merchants, many of them wives of enlisted men and officers,” she says.

2026: Home-health and personal-care aides comprise the most common jobs of 2026, followed by retail salespeople and fast-food workers. Health care is one of the fastest-growing fields today and, as a result, very in-demand. Theoretically, today you can have just about any job you want, provided you can afford the right education and training.

The most popular book

1776: The most popular book in Colonial America was Thomas Paine’s Common Sense, published in January 1776. In modern terms, it went viral. Paine’s “pamphlet” argued in plain, easily accessible language why the Colonies would be better off with independence from the British king. Half a million copies in 25 editions were produced within the first year, making it the nation’s first bestseller.

2026: Novels, which hadn’t yet fully emerged as a genre in 1776, are generally the most widely read books today. The New York Times bestselling fiction book in 2026 so far is Allen Levi’s Theo of Golden, a heartwarming story about a mysterious man who makes unexpected connections with townspeople in present-day Georgia. The most popular nonfiction New York Times bestseller so far this year is Stranger, a memoir by Belle Burden looking back over 20 years at what led to the demise of her marriage.

Favorite foods

1776: This was the original “farm to table” movement, with average Colonists’ diets affected by what was locally grown and available, as well as influenced by their various European heritages and the Native American knowledge of crops. In New England, fish dishes were common, as were corn-based meals in the Northern states and rice-based in the South.

“Meals were typically breakfast in the early morning; dinner, the main meal of the day in the mid-to-late afternoon; and supper in the evening,” Hellier says. “Meat, fowl or fish was typically a featured part of the main course.”

2026: Our favorite foods to cook at home today are just as varied as they were in Colonial times, with influences from immigrants and locally abundant ingredients. Although the concerning trend of ultra-processed and fast food has been growing, in recent years Americans have rediscovered their love of a home-cooked meal—especially as prices rise.

In what will come as no surprise, chicken dominates our dinner plates, and according to reports, it’s consumed around twice as much as other meats. Hamburgers, of course, also have a prominent place in our diets, along with french fries and other potato products. As for dessert, they don’t say “as American as apple pie” for nothing … even if it didn’t actually originate in America!

Health and medicine

1776: Life was precarious in 1776. Without modern medicine or antibiotics, a simple cut could potentially kill you. “Illnesses and medical conditions that we might take for granted today or those that are easily managed nowadays could end up being deadly,” Skic says. Doctors at the time also didn’t believe in germs, which didn’t help. “The idea that diseases spread via ‘miasma’ or noxious air was more widely believed,” he says. “Doctors treated patients with medicines derived from plants and other organic materials, but this was a time before disinfection and penicillin. Those with formal medical training in Europe could perform surgeries and inoculations.”

Interesting fact: George Washington was a major proponent of the smallpox vaccine to keep the disease from spreading among his troops.

2026: Although some evidence-based medical treatments are still looked at with skepticism, scientists and doctors have made huge strides in understanding and treating disease. We now know that washing our hands and avoiding close contact with sick people can help keep us healthy, and we have a whole new world of antibiotics and other medicines to treat infections and diseases. That first antibiotic, by the way, hasn’t even celebrated its 100th birthday yet. Penicillin was (accidentally) discovered by Scottish scientist Alexander Fleming in 1928.

Life expectancy

1776: Because treatments for sickness and injury weren’t very good, it’s no surprise many people didn’t live as long as they do today—or even survive childhood. Back then, the average life expectancy was 35 to 38 years old. “Average life expectancy in the United States today is roughly double what it was in 1776,” Skic says. “Higher infant mortality and childhood death rates compared to today’s rates are major factors in this difference.”

So if you lived past the age of 5 or 10, chances were much better you’d make it into older age: Ben Franklin, for example, was 84 when he died in 1790.

2026: Thankfully, today’s kids don’t face the same risks from disease as they did 250 years ago. The average life expectancy in the U.S. hit an all-time high in 2024 (the most recent year for stats) at 79 years old. But that number still lags behind other comparable countries, which have an average life expectancy of 82.7 years, about 3.7 years longer than the U.S.

School

1776: Many kids received an education back in the 1700s, but not necessarily in the way we think. “The general goal was to prepare children for the work they would do in life and their position in society,” Hellier says. “While public education was available in New England, it was typically a private matter elsewhere.” Children might be educated at a small private school, at a charity school for poor children, by tutors, by their parents, in a minister’s school, at a grammar school and college, as an apprentice or a combination.

“Most girls of middling status learned the basics: reading, writing and enough arithmetic to run a household or keep accounts,” Hellier says. “Girls of higher status might learn music, dance, French or other genteel accomplishments. Boys of higher status might learn Latin, history or geography, besides training for a profession. Enslaved people who performed trades or domestic duties received education that would enable them to do their jobs, such as literacy and numeracy skills.”

The records on how literacy rates varied among different races, genders and class are scarce. Historians estimate that around 90% of White men in New England could read in 1787, but only 48% of women; the numbers were slightly lower in the Southern states.

2026: Today, we’ve largely accomplished Thomas Jefferson’s goal of public schools that would teach “reading, writing and common arithmetick” to “all the free children, male and female,” with public schools nationwide. Still, national literacy rates are actually less than they were among White male New Englanders in the early years of the United States, with an overall literacy rate of U.S. adults today at 79%, according to the most recent data (2024).

Clothing

1776: Fashionable clothes were all the rage among the wealthy class, as they are today. “Historians call this period a consumer revolution, when the Atlantic world saw a vast increase in available goods and a hankering after fashionable items,” Hellier says. “Colonists imported vast amounts of textiles, from utilitarian to luxurious. Like today, some consumers went into debt to buy the goods they craved.”

Wealthier men wore short pants, or breeches, paired with waistcoats. Average middlings, though, dressed for practicality. “People did not only or primarily wear sleeves and long pants or skirts for modesty,” Schroeder says. “Lightweight clothing that protected the skin from sun and bug bites were functional necessities.”

With the Revolution, Colonists also came to dislike fancy British silks, which couldn’t be imported during the war anyway. They replaced these items with American-made linen and wool.

2026: Today, “fast” fashion has taken over. Clothes are produced quickly and cheaply for ravenous consumers, but they’re also poorly made, which means they have to be replaced often. Our clothes are simpler than they were in Colonial times, with comfortable clothing like T-shirts, jeans and athleisure worn most often. (We’re guessing all the men who wore breeches would be horrified!)

Cotton is the most popular fabric for clothing in the U.S. today, and our country is one of the world’s biggest producers of it. Modern synthetics like polyester, mainly imported from Asia, are also commonly sold and worn because they don’t wrinkle, they dry quickly and they’re cheap.

Leisure activities

1776: People in Colonial times weren’t so different than us when it came to their need for fun. “Vocal and instrumental music was popular, but you or your friends had to make it yourselves,” Hellier says. “Traveling troupes of actors performed in theaters. Reading, aloud or to oneself, was a form of leisure activity. Horseback riding and ball games were outdoor amusements.”

As for indoor fun, people played simple board games, including the Royall and the Most Pleasant Game of the Goose; card games like cribbage, loo and whist; and dice games like Hazard. People also whiled away their time with dancing, shopping and good, old-fashioned conversation. However, unlike us, “daily life and activities were also highly dependent on the weather and available light, either sunlight or candlelight,” Skic says.

2026: Just about everything on 1776’s list of fun activities is still true today, with a modern twist. But the biggest change in leisure activities has been the result of the internet and the constant presence of devices such as tablets and phones. Scrolling, playing video games and posting on social media are the new popular pastimes—although gossip was passed around communities nearly as easily in 1776 as it is online today.

What’s surprisingly similar about life in 1776 and today?

Yes, some aspects of daily life back then are inconceivable to us, but there are some very American throughlines in our history. For one, many people weren’t tied to their job and could even switch careers with the same industrious spirit Americans have today. “This was a very hierarchical society, but among the ‘middling sort,’ there was a lot of fluidity—what you might call mobility,” Schroeder says.

Like today, the soon-to-be United States was diverse, made up of immigrants from different cultures and classes who sometimes misunderstood one another, but they could come together when they recognized their similarities. The Revolutionary War itself helped do this, as people from all over ended up in army encampments together. “They were meeting each other across preconceptions that were engulfed by lifestyle divides—something about this feels familiar, doesn’t it?” Schroeder says. “The war created so much close-quarter contact between people who otherwise would never have met that you have to say it helped to create an American identity.”

And the same American optimism that’s shaped our culture was also present in the fledgling nation. “There’s another way people in this era were just like us: They were oddly confident, given how much was in flux and all the privations and problems they were up against,” Schroeder says. She quotes a letter from a woman in Williamsburg writing to her sister in England: “You see, my sister, I talk like an American; and well I may; she has been kinder to me than my native country; to her I owe everything I possess, and I will most cheerfully comply with whatever may be thought for the general good.”

This attitude represents the best that Americans can be, as we continue to fight for our rights as laid out in the Declaration of Independence of 1776 and later the Constitution. “I recognize this country that welcomed strangers and earned their loyalty through fights for expanding liberty and civil rights, quite well,” Schroeder says. As should we all.

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Matthew Skic, director of collections and exhibitions at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia; email interview, June 2026
• Cathleene B. Hellier, PhD, senior historian at the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation; email interview, June 2026
• Robyn Schroeder, PhD, affiliate history faculty member at William and Mary, and assistant director of the college’s National Institute of American History and Democracy; email interview, June 2026

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The good news? If you haven’t locked in your summer travel plans yet, or you’re hoping to squeeze in one more international getaway, there’s still plenty of time to save. Expedia analyzed millions of flight searches, bookings and data from the past year to identify two of the cheapest days to travel this summer—and they just so happen to be in August. Ahead, Melanie Fish, Expedia’s travel expert, gives us the scoop on the newest report so you can plan your trips strategically and keep more money in your travel budget.

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What are the two cheapest days to fly?

Circle Aug. 11 and Aug. 17 on your calendar. According to Expedia, those are the two cheapest days to fly internationally in 2026.

What makes these two days the cheapest?

It’s all about timing. “Mid-August is when international demand begins to ease as families return from summer vacation and back-to-school season starts,” says Fish. “It creates a sweet spot before the back-to-school travel surge fully dissipates.”

In other words, many travelers have already taken their big summer trips by this point. With fewer families booking vacations and students preparing to head back to school, airlines often lower prices to fill seats. Fish adds that early June and mid-August tend to offer better value on both flights and hotels than peak summer weeks.

What is the cheapest month to fly overall?

Despite summer travel being associated with sky-high prices, Expedia found August to be the most affordable month to fly in 2026.

And the savings can be substantial. According to Expedia’s data, travelers can find round-trip flights to destinations like Atlantic City, Fort Lauderdale, Myrtle Beach and Orlando for under $500, on average, in August. Looking farther afield? International destinations including Mykonos and Santorini, Greece; Toulouse, France; and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, can be reached for under $1,000, on average.

The report also identified some particularly affordable booking windows, including the week of July 6 for domestic travel and the week of July 27 for international travel.

When is the most expensive time to travel?

“December is the most expensive, given it’s the holiday season—no surprise there,” says Fish. “Across both domestic and international routes, December remains the peak of high airfare, as holiday travel surges spike prices across nearly all markets.”

Between Thanksgiving carryover travel, Christmas vacations, Hanukkah celebrations and New Year’s trips, millions of travelers are competing for the same flights. So if your schedule allows, traveling before or after the holiday rush can lead to significant savings.

What are the peak summer travel times?

The most expensive stretch of summer isn’t August—it’s actually much earlier. According to Fish, peak family travel occurs in late June and early July, particularly around Juneteenth weekend, Independence Day and the first weeks of summer vacation. That’s when schools are out, families are eager to travel and demand for flights reaches its seasonal high point.

Luckily, waiting just a few weeks can make a big difference. As summer winds down and back-to-school preparations begin, demand drops and airfare often follows. That’s a big reason why mid-August has emerged as one of the best-value travel periods of the entire year.

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Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing, and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Melanie Fish, travel expert at Expedia; email interview, June 24, 2026
• Expedia: “Expedia 2026 Air Hacks: Friday Takes Off as the New Cheapest Day to Depart and Book”
• Expedia: “Smart Planning and Value Take Center Stage in Summer Travel, According to Expedia “

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Personally, I’m partial to chocolate, cookies and cream, and dulce de leche, but that’s the beauty of ice cream—there’s a flavor for everyone. And people can get surprisingly passionate about their favorites. That’s what makes Innerbody’s recent study on the most popular ice cream flavor in every state so much fun. Some states stick with the classics, while others favor flavors you might never expect.

Before you decide what to order at your local ice cream parlor, read on to see if your state’s favorite scoop matches your own. You might find yourself feeling validated or shocked by what your neighbors have been putting on their cones.

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How did this report determine the most popular ice cream in every state?

This wasn’t decided by a nationwide taste test (as fun as that sounds). Instead, Innerbody analyzed Google Trends search data from all 50 states and Washington, D.C., looking at which ice cream flavors people were searching for most often. From there, researchers compared interest levels to identify each state’s favorite flavor, along with broader trends in ice cream brands, regional preferences and America’s overall ice cream habits.

What is the most popular ice cream flavor in each state?

Some states stuck with beloved classics, while others went all-in on trendy picks, local favorites and a few flavors you probably won’t find in every grocery-store freezer aisle. Here’s the most popular ice cream flavor in every state:

• Alabama: Birthday cake
• Alaska: Cookie dough
• Arizona: Rocky road
• Arkansas: Strawberry
• California: Strawberry
• Colorado: Chocolate chip
• Connecticut: Strawberry
• Delaware: Birthday cake
• Florida: Boba
• Georgia: Butter pecan
• Hawaii: Coconut
• Idaho: Vanilla
• Illinois: Chocolate
• Indiana: Peppermint
• Iowa: Birthday cake
• Kansas: Matcha
• Kentucky: Strawberry
• Louisiana: Birthday cake
• Maine: Blueberry
• Maryland: Strawberry
• Massachusetts: Cookie dough
• Michigan: Strawberry
• Minnesota: Strawberry
• Mississippi: Strawberry
• Missouri: Chocolate chip
• Montana: Cookie dough
• Nebraska: Strawberry
• Nevada: Strawberry
• New Hampshire: Cookie dough
• New Jersey: Chocolate chip
• New Mexico: Pistachio
• New York: Pistachio
• North Carolina: Birthday cake
• North Dakota: Caramel/Salted caramel
• Ohio: Strawberry
• Oklahoma: Neapolitan
• Oregon: Lavender
• Pennsylvania: Chocolate chip
• Rhode Island: Strawberry
• South Carolina: Peach
• South Dakota: Cookies and cream
• Tennessee: Strawberry
• Texas: Strawberry
• Utah: Vanilla
• Vermont: Peanut butter
• Virginia: Strawberry
• Washington: Neapolitan
• West Virginia: Pumpkin
• Wisconsin: Chocolate
• Wyoming: Vanilla

Was there a clear winner across the country?

Strawberry claimed the national crown, having been labeled as the top flavor in 15 states, including California, Texas and Michigan. Even more surprising? Chocolate chip and cookie dough are the second most popular flavors, each holding the top spot in four states. Apparently, Americans still love the classics—we just like a few extra ingredients mixed in.

What were the regional trends?

Some states wear their local pride on their waffle cones. Maine searches for blueberry, Hawaii prefers coconut and South Carolina leans peach, proving local flavors still matter. Another part of the study also labeled the Northeast as America’s biggest ice cream fan club, with seven of the 10 most ice-cream-obsessed states landing in the region. So much for cold weather ruining dessert.

Were there any big surprises?

Absolutely! While strawberry and cookie dough were busy winning over the masses, a few states decided to do their own thing. Florida’s top flavor was boba ice cream, Oregon preferred lavender and Kansas searched for matcha more than anything else. Then there’s ube, the vibrant purple yam flavor that’s been popping up everywhere lately but still ranks among the least popular nationwide.

Personally, I was shocked that only three states favored vanilla and two favored chocolate. In other words, Americans are getting a lot more adventurous with their ice cream choices, even if not everyone has caught up yet.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Innerbody.com: “Which States Love Ice Cream the Most, and Who’s Eating What Flavors?”
• International Dairy Foods Association: “Ice Cream Sales & Trends”

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A lot has changed in the United States over the past 250 years, including in our government. But the country is still clinging to one arguably outdated relic from its Founders: the Electoral College. Every four years, during the presidential election, we stare at our screens and bite our nails as pundits predict which candidate will get enough electoral votes to win the entire state—which isn’t necessarily the same as the candidate who gets the most votes.

That, of course, has put the Electoral College squarely in the crosshairs of some very angry voters, especially over the last two decades. As the argument goes, the Electoral College may have made sense in 1776, but in 2026, it may need to be tossed into the proverbial dustbin of history. Plus, let’s be honest: It’s just flat-out confusing.

“The world is very different now than it was then, so I understand how people feel frustrated,” says Lindsey Cormack, PhD, an associate professor of political science at Stevens Institute of Technology. “The Founders were dealing with a new, small republic, limited communication, weak development of national parties and a very restricted electorate. Today, we have mass parties, national campaigns, universal adult citizenship voting rights, instant communication, polling, television, the internet and a much stronger expectation that the person with the most votes should win.”

So why was the Electoral College created in the first place, and what (the heck) where the Founding Fathers thinking when they established it? We spoke with Cormack and three other constitutional scholars and political experts to find out. Read on to learn more about the history of the Electoral College—and if it might be on its way out.

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What is the Electoral College, exactly, and how does it work?

The Electoral College is the mechanism in the United States for deciding who will be president. It was the brainchild of the Constitutional Convention in 1787, devised as a compromise. (More on that in a minute.) “Instead of having direct elections of presidents, we add this additional step,” explains Tristan M. Hightower, PhD, an assistant professor of political science at Bryant University. “States are allocated a number of ‘electors’ based on congressional representation, which is, in turn, partly based on population.” Every four years, American citizens vote to determine which presidential candidate those electors will select.

Each state’s number of electors is equal to its total number of members of Congress. “Even the smallest states have at least three electors, since every state has two senators and at least one representative,” says Rodney A. Smolla, a constitutional scholar and professor at Vermont Law and Graduate School. Today, California has the largest number, 54, because it has two senators and 52 members of the House of Representatives. State legislatures determine how their electors will be awarded, Smolla adds.

Who are the electors, and how are they chosen?

For that honor, you have to be nominated by your political party. Typically, these positions go to people who have demonstrated loyalty to their political party. (Think: party leaders and activists, as well as state and local elected officials.) Members of Congress and other federal officials are not permitted to be electors. Electors pledge to vote for their party’s candidate, and in some states, like New Mexico and South Carolina, they’re required to do so by law.

The number of electoral votes in the U.S. has changed 24 times since this system was created. We started off with 69, then increased as the country grew and more states joined the union. In the 1960 election, the U.S. went from having 531 electoral votes to 537. Since the 1964 election, there have been a total of 538 electoral votes in the country, with a majority of the votes—270—needed to elect a president.

Why did the Founders create the Electoral College?

Now back to that compromise we noted above. The Founders needed to find a solution to major disagreement: how the president was selected. At the time, no other country voted directly for their head of state, so the Founders didn’t have a blueprint to work from.

One of the debates at the Constitutional Convention was whether to elect the president by a direct popular vote or an indirect system of election, like having Congress pick the president. “It’s important to remember that the Founding Fathers were not a single ideological bloc,” Hightower says. Founders James Wilson and Gouverneur Morris were in favor of having a popular vote, while James Madison and George Mason were in favor of a congressional vote.

Here’s what ultimately led to the creation of the Electoral College.

They didn’t trust the majority of Americans

While some Founders worried that election by Congress would make the president too dependent on Congress, others worried that direct election by voters was risky in a large, spread-out country with limited information. “Those Founders were also elitists who doubted that average persons were sufficiently well-educated or informed enough to be trusted,” Smolla notes. The Electoral College compromise was the result.

“After deliberating during the summer, [the Founders] created an Electoral College for an indirect election,” says historian Tony Williams, a senior fellow at the Bill of Rights Institute. “They wanted to protect the interests of less-populous states and have a president who represented the national will, rather than one who just won a few large cities. They also feared that a demagogue might appeal to passions and lead voters astray.”

One of the biggest concerns that led to the creation of the Electoral College was a worry about “tyranny of the majority,” Hightower says. “At the time, this type of democracy was largely experimental, and some were worried that too much direct control residing in the masses could lead to mob rule,” he explains. “This indirect selection process could also theoretically limit the possibility of populist leaders who would want to retain power once they got it, since their ability to appeal directly to the people would be limited.”

Racism played a disturbingly large role

Universal suffrage was not a feature in the early days of American democracy. “If you weren’t a White man who paid taxes or owned land, you probably did not have the right to vote,” Hightower says.

In 1787, the delegates to the Constitutional Convention were confronted with the question of how the hundreds of thousands of enslaved people living in the country would affect its systems and constitution. More specifically, there was a debate over if and how they would be counted when allocating seats in the House of Representatives, which was based on population.

The Founders came up with the Three-Fifths Compromise, which counted an enslaved person as three-fifths of a person. “The compromise artificially inflated the political power of the slave states, giving them extra representatives in Congress, and thereby also in the Electoral College,” even though enslaved people weren’t given the right to vote or any political rights, Smolla says.

Why do we still have the Electoral College today?

The main reason we still have the Electoral College is because it can only be changed via a constitutional amendment and that would be very difficult. It has changed a little, though, over the years through various amendments.

“The 12th Amendment [passed in 1803] fixed the early problem where electors did not vote separately for president and vice president,” Cormack says. Previously, the runner-up in the presidential electoral vote would become the vice president, instead of a president and vice president running together on a designated ticket. Then, the 23rd Amendment, passed in 1961, gave Washington, D.C., three electoral votes.

But aside from these changes, the Electoral College is structurally very similar to how it was originally designed, Hightower says. “The biggest change has been the size and diversity of the voting population,” he notes. “America looks much different than it did at the founding.”

Does this 1787 decision still make sense in 2026?

It’s debatable.

According to Smolla, who believes that the president and vice president should be determined by popular vote, “the Electoral ollege makes absolutely no sense whatsoever today.” For one, it’s responsible for the artificial influence of a handful of swing states, which often determine the election. “This tends to render irrelevant the votes of many voters in other states, in which it is clear who will likely win the popular vote within that state,” he explains. “If the nation went to a national popular-vote system, every single voter’s vote would be of equal weight—and matter.”

Williams, on the other hand, says the system created in 1787 still makes a great deal of sense because it helps to preserve federalism and the interests of the states. “It also continues to protect smaller states and make the president a national leader of the different interests and geographical regions of the country,” he says. “The new government in the early American republic faced similar challenges in terms of partisan divisions, passions and regional interests. So the Electoral College continues to serve its original purposes.”

Additionally, voting rights have improved exponentially since 1787. “America is a much more diverse place than it was at the founding,” Hightower says. “And, conceivably, that diversity means that popularly elected leaders must appeal to a broader base than they originally would have.”

How has the Electoral College been problematic over the last 250 years?

The main issue is that the winner of the popular vote hasn’t always come out on top. There have been five presidents—John Quincy Adams, Rutherford B. Hayes, Benjamin Harrison, George W. Bush and Donald Trump (in 2016)—who did not win the popular vote but were elected through the current system. “There is no logic or justice to support these outcomes,” Smolla says.

There have also been a few other instances where the Electoral College wasn’t the most effective way of choosing a president. “We have some 19th-century examples where the Electoral College either produced a tie, failed to produce a majority winner or generated serious legitimacy disputes, but I think the issues today are more about democratic equality rather than institutional bugs,” Hightower says.

An argument that persists today is the need to protect the rights and voices of small states. “[In 1787], New York and Virginia were powerhouses in terms of population that could, in theory, bulldoze through the interests of smaller states,” Hightower says. “Today, some people contend that many of those states that fill out the middle of the country are vulnerable to the larger states because of their small populations.”

Could the Electoral College ever be abolished?

Sure—but it will probably never happen. It would take a constitutional amendment to abolish the Electoral College, and those are virtually impossible to pass.

“I don’t see it coming,” says Cormack. A constitutional amendment would require two-thirds of both houses of Congress and ratification by three-fourths of the states. “The swing states benefit very much from the Electoral College in that they get the bulk of campaign dollars and attention, so they would be less likely to agree to such a change,” she adds.

The other possible solution is the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. “Under this proposal, if states with enough electoral votes to win the Electoral College—which is 270 total electoral votes—pledge to devote all of those states’ electoral votes to whichever candidate gains the most popular votes nationally, then the president would effectively be chosen by whoever wins the national popular vote,” Smolla explains. So far, 18 states plus Washington, D.C., have joined, adding up to a total of 222 Electoral College votes—48 short of the compact going into effect.

“I don’t think that we’ll see a sufficient number of states sign on, and even if they did, there would be thousands of challenges in the courts, so it’s sort of amend-the-Constitution-or-bust on this one,” Cormack says. Plus, at any given time in history, adds Smolla, one party perceives the current system to be an advantage, and that discourages reform.

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece why the Electoral College was created, Elizabeth Yuko, PhD, tapped her experience as a professor, bioethicist and longtime journalist who often covers history and knowledge for Reader’s Digest. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Lindsey Cormack, PhD, associate professor of political science at Stevens Institute of Technology; email interview, June 8, 2026
• Tristan M. Hightower, PhD, assistant professor of political science in the department of politics, law and society at Bryant University; email interview, June 10, 2026
• Rodney A. Smolla, professor at Vermont Law and Graduate School; email interview, June 2026
• Tony Williams, historian, educator and senior fellow at the Bill of Rights Institute; email interview, June 9, 2026
• The Conversation: “Who invented the Electoral College?”
• League of Women Voters: “The Three-Fifths Compromise and the Electoral College”
• National Archives: “Electoral College History”
• U.S. House of Representatives: “Electoral College Fast Facts”

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Are some people just plain sweeter? Is it true mosquitoes target women who are expecting, as I experienced? And, most importantly, what can we all do to escape these pests and their itchy bites this summer?

Bite prevention matters because mosquitoes can cause serious health problems. “Most mosquito bites are simply an annoyance that causes itching and discomfort, but some mosquito species can transmit diseases including West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis and, in some parts of the world, dengue fever, malaria and others,” says Daniel Parker, PhD, an expert in mosquito-borne illnesses and an associate professor at UC Irvine Joe C. Wen School of Population & Public Health.

To understand why some of us feel like we’re always getting eaten alive and to learn how to dodge mosquito bites, I spoke with Parker and insect-brain researcher Gabriella Wolff, PhD, an assistant professor of biology at Case Western Reserve University. Here are the wild reasons you may be a mark for mosquitoes—and what to do about it.

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Is it your imagination, or do mosquitoes find some people particularly delicious?

It’s not your imagination. “Some people appear to be more attractive to mosquitoes than others,” Parker confirms. Mosquitoes use carbon dioxide, body heat, skin odors and other factors to find hosts, he explains, which is why some of us end up covered in bug bites.

These little buggers are picky, and they put all their resources into finding the perfect targets. “Mosquitoes use their sense of smell, vision, taste, heat sensing and water sensing to find people to bite,” Wolff notes. (On the positive side: They went to an awful lot of trouble to pick you!)

Why do mosquitoes bite some people more than others?

Here are the main reasons why mosquitoes may be drawn to you.

The carbon dioxide (CO₂) you breathe out

Here’s some fascinating science: “Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide and follow plumes of this gas to find people to bite,” Wolff says. But wait—don’t we all exhale carbon dioxide? We do, but some of us breathe at a faster rate, so we expel more CO₂ than others due to differences in metabolism, she explains.

Your body heat

Mosquitoes are also drawn to your body heat, Wolff says. In fact, a 2015 study found that the type of mosquito that can spread dengue fever seeks out human body temperature over much higher and lower temperatures. Other research suggests being a little warmer—as you get when exercising—may bring these suckers your way.

Pregnancy

I am not the only woman who finds herself extra yummy to mosquitoes while expecting. “Pregnant women have higher body temperatures and breathing rates, so they emit more heat and carbon dioxide, which attracts mosquitoes,” Wolff says. “[And] their skin tends to contain more of a chemical called 1-octen-3-ol, which is attractive to some species of mosquitoes.”

Your sweat

When we work up a sweat, we give off lactic acid and other by-products. And while you may not love the scent of that post-workout funk, mosquitoes sure do. They’re drawn to components in your sweat, including lactic acid, according to a 2019 study published in Current Biology. But everyone who goes for a run or does hot yoga isn’t equally delicious. “Humans can have subtle differences in chemicals in their skin, breath and sweat that make them more attractive,” Wolff says. How lovely.

Exercise

Working out or playing sports outdoors achieves the trifecta for bug bites. As Wolff explains, “while exercising, people exhale more carbon dioxide, have higher body temperatures and build up lactic acid—all of which make them more attractive to mosquitoes.”

Your blood type

Among the weirder reasons for mosquitoes playing favorites: They may prefer a certain blood type. Some research suggests that people with type O blood get bitten more frequently. And a 2019 study looking into whether a certain blood type encourages the spread of dengue fever found that mosquitoes did prefer type O, though the mosquitoes that feasted on O didn’t produce more eggs (which is a good thing).

As a type A+, I kind of love this research. The only problem is, it isn’t settled science. “The studies are contradictory,” Wolff explains. “It’s still unclear if any blood type is the most attractive to mosquitoes.” You know what that means, right? All of us A’s, B’s and AB’s still have to apply our OFF!

Drinking beer and eating bananas

Do you love a cold brew on a warm night? You might want to rethink that if you’re in a buggy area. Same goes for munching on a banana. Turns out, drinking beer or eating bananas can make you mighty attractive to mosquitoes. “Eating these foods may increase the amount of ethanol and lactic acid released from skin, though the direct link hasn’t been found yet,” Wolff says.

Still, if you have a choice at that outdoor restaurant, you may want to go with a crisp white wine and dodge the beer-crazy mosquitoes.

Wearing basic black (yes, seriously)

Everyone loves black … even mosquitoes. Apparently, some mosquitoes may be more attracted to darker colors such as black and red, particularly after they’ve detected your carbon dioxide. When mosquitoes smell CO₂ from our breath, it prompts their eyes to scan for certain colors that they associate with potential hosts, according to a 2022 study by University of Washington researchers published in Nature Communications. They are drawn to black, cyan (a deep blue-green), red and orange. But there’s no need to ditch your summer LBD or blue romper, Parker says, since other factors are more of a lure to mosquitoes.

What can you do if you’re a mosquito magnet?

First, don’t panic if you see a few zipping around. “There are over 3,500 species of mosquitoes, and only some bite humans,” Wolff says. “Some prefer other mammals, birds or amphibians, and some do not feed on blood at all and only drink plant nectar.” So you can file that with all the other weird-but-true insect facts that you never imagined could be true.

But what about the mosquitoes that prefer humans to plants and mammals? You need to think about prevention. Here are some pro strategies to mosquito-proof your summer.

• Use mosquito repellent every time. “Bug sprays with DEET or picaridin have the strongest evidence behind them,” Parker says. There are several formulations to choose from, including sprays and wipes. OFF! Clean Feel Insect Repellent has picaridin—which is made from chrysanthemums. With DEET, you can choose from low concentrations (OFF! Family Care has 7% DEET) to higher ones like Ben’s Tick and Insect Repellent (with 30% DEET) if you’ll be somewhere especially buggy.
• Swap in these essential oils. Prefer to avoid DEET or picaridin? Clove, cinnamon or lemongrass essential oils have a repellent effect on mosquitoes, Wolff says. “DEET should only be sprayed on skin once a day, but essential oils can be reapplied when you no longer smell them.” It’s a strategy this pro uses herself: “I personally mix a little cinnamon oil in my lotion or sunscreen,” she says. Finding alternatives to DEET is actually becoming an urgent issue. A 2026 study by Virginia Tech scientists published in the Journal of Experimental Biology found that mosquitoes can learn to like the smell of DEET, as their brain rewires itself to link that bug-spray smell with a real reward (i.e., your tasty flesh).
• Wear proper clothes. To keep mosquitoes (and ticks) away, wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt in a light color, Parker advises. If you work outdoors or frequently hike in mosquito-laden areas, you may want to invest in special mosquito-resistant clothing. “Permethrin-treated clothing can provide additional protection for people who spend a lot of time outdoors,” Parker says. It comes in everything from tops and pants to socks and workout tights.
• Skip the flowery and fruity perfume. You’ve probably heard bugs like scented lotions and figured that’s just some old wives’ tale. Surprisingly, it’s true. “Mosquitoes feed on flower and fruit nectar for energy, so floral or fruity scents may be attractive to them,” Wolff says. If you’re hoping to turn them off, you may want to skip floral and fruit notes in your fragrance, as well as scented hair and body products.
• Shower after exercising. Post-workout, hop right in the shower, and suds up to remove traces of sweat.
• Run a fan. If you’ll be sitting outside, turning on a porch fan or other outdoor fan can help. “Mosquitoes are relatively weak fliers, and moving air can make it harder for them to find and land on you,” Parker explains.
• Consider a Metofluthrin-based spatial repellent (like Thermacell). These gadgets disperse a vapor of metofluthrin—an insecticide—about 15 feet into the outdoor air, deterring mosquitoes. “They are currently one of my favorite approaches,” Parker says.
• Get rid of any standing water. Parker calls standing water the biggest factor in contributing to mosquito problems. “Mosquitoes can breed in surprisingly small amounts of water, including buckets, plant saucers, birdbaths, clogged gutters and even bottle caps,” he says.
• Be alert for symptoms. Most bug bites are harmless. (Phew!) But Parker recommends keeping an eye out for symptoms of a mosquito-borne infection. If you develop a fever, severe headache, unusual fatigue, neurological symptoms or other significant symptoms within days to a couple of weeks after heavy mosquito exposure, contact a health-care provider. “Many people won’t remember a specific mosquito bite,” he says, “so the exposure history can be more important than recalling an individual bite.”

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Gabriella Wolff, PhD, assistant professor of biology at Case Western Reserve University; phone interview, June 12, 2026
• Daniel Parker, PhD, associate professor at UC Irvine Joe C. Wen School of Population & Public Health; email interview, June 15, 2026
• Nature: “Mosquito taste responses to human and floral cues guide biting and feeding”
• American Journal of Entomology: “Blood Feeding Preference of Female Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes for Human Blood Group Types and Its Impact on Their Fecundity: Implications for Vector Control”
• Journal of Experimental Biology: “Associative learning switches DEET valence from aversive to appetitive in Aedes aegypti”
• Virginia Tech News: “Think DEET keeps mosquitoes away? They may be learning to love it”
• PubMed Central: “The cation channel TRPA1 tunes mosquito thermotaxis to host temperatures”

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Luckily, Independence Day isn’t just about fireworks and backyard BBQs—it’s also one of the biggest shopping weekends of the summer. Still, not everything is open. To help you avoid any holiday hiccups, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular stores across the U.S. that will be open on America’s birthday. We’ve got supermarkets, gas stations, big-box stores and other major retailers, plus the places you can expect to find closed on July 4. Bonus: Along the way, we’ve highlighted some of the savings and special offers you may spot this year.

Just keep in mind that hours can vary by location, and since Independence Day falls on a Saturday this year, some locations observe the holiday on Friday, July 3, too. So while our list does the heavy lifting, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your local branch before heading out.

Read on to see which stores are open on the 4th of July and get ready for some star-spangled shopping.

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Grocery stores open on the 4th of July

• ACME: ACME stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, typically from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fourth of July sales usually include BOGO (Buy One, Get One) soda, chips and hot dogs, plus up to 50% off select meats.
• Albertsons: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. You’ll find digital coupons and summer BBQ promotions for the 4th.
• Aldi: Aldi locations are usually open on the 4th of July with limited hours, typically 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stores offer produce and seasonal food discounts on July 4th.
• BJ’s Wholesale Club: BJ’s locations are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. On July 4, members can save on bulk beverages, meats and grilling supplies.
• Costco: Costco stores are open on the 4th of July, typically with reduced hours from around 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Food Lion: Food Lion stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, usually from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Fresh Market: Stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. You’ll usually find 4th of July deals on premium steaks and meal bundles.
• Giant Food: Stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• H-E-B: Stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, typically from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Hy-Vee: Stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, typically from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Jewel-Osco: This store’s locations are typically open on the 4th of July during regular hours, from 6 a.m. to midnight.
• Kroger: Kroger stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, typically from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. For the 4th of July, they usually offer Buy 5 Save $5, extra fuel points and soda sales (sometimes 4 for $12).
• Lidl: Stores are open regular hours, typically from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Market Basket: Stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, typically from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Meijer: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 6 a.m. to midnight. Past 4th of July sales have included up to 50% off patio furniture, plus grilling specials.
• Publix: Stores are open regular hours, typically from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. On the 4th of July, Publix offers BOGO deals and discounts on deli platters and meats.
• Safeway: Stores are open regular hours, typically from 5 a.m. to midnight. Past 4th of July deals have included up to 50% off meat packages, as well as soda deals.
• Sam’s Club: Sam’s Club stores are open on the 4th of July with reduced hours, typically from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. You’ll find TVs from $100 to $600 off, as well as savings on bulk foods.
• ShopRite: Stores are open during regular hours, typically from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Sprouts Farmers Market: Stores are open regular hours, typically from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Expect produce and organic-food promotions.
• Stop & Shop: Stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, typically from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Trader Joe’s: Stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, typically from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Vons: Stores are open during regular hours, typically from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. You’ll find barbecue and beverage promotions.
• Wegmans: Wegmans stores are open regular hours, typically from 6 a.m. to midnight.
• Whole Foods Market: Stores are open during regular hours, typically from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fourth of July deals have included 20% to 30% off burgers, sausages and seafood.
• Winn-Dixie: Stores are open regular hours, typically from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. You’ll find 4th of July BOGO promotions and special discounts on meats and produce.
• Walmart: Walmart stores are open regular hours on the 4th of July, typically from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Past deals have included 50% off patio furniture and 30% off grills.
• Target: Target stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, typically from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Major retailers open on the 4th of July

• Kohl’s: Stores are open regular hours on the 4th of July, typically from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Lowe’s: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sales have included up to 40% off appliances and $300 off grills.
• Home Depot: Stores are open, typically from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., with 4th of July deals on outdoor power equipment and appliances.
• Macy’s: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Macy’s usually offers a weeklong sale with savings up to 60% across all departments.
• Marshall’s: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• T.J. Maxx: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• Target: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Shoppers usually get 50% off outdoor furniture, plus discounts on electronics and home goods.
• Best Buy: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Shoppers can expect TVs up to $1,000 off, and laptops and appliances up to 40% off.
• JCPenney: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Expect up to 70% off apparel and home goods.
• Old Navy: Stores are open regular hours on the 4th of July. Locations typically offer 30% to 60% off the entire store.
• Gap: Stores are open regular hours on the 4th of July, with discounts usually up to 50% off sitewide.
• American Eagle: Stores are open regular hours on the 4th of July. You can expect major discounts on your favorite jeans and shorts, often 25% to 50% off.

Pharmacies open on the 4th of July

• CVS Pharmacy: Stores are open on the 4th of July during regular hours, so check your local CVS. Pharmacy departments may have reduced hours.
• Walgreens: Stores are open regular hours on the 4th of July, with many locations open 24/7.
• Rite Aid: Stores are open regular hours, although the pharmacy hours are generally 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Walmart Pharmacy: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Publix Pharmacy: Publix pharmacies are open on the 4th of July, typically from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Kroger Pharmacy: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gas stations open on the 4th of July

• 7-Eleven: 7-Eleven stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• BP: Stores are open on the 4th of July,  typically 24/7.
• Chevron: Stores are open on the 4th of July, often 24/7.
• Circle K: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Exxon: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Love’s Travel Stops: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Marathon: Marathon stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Murphy USA: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Pilot Flying J: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• QuikTrip: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• RaceTrac: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Shell: Shell locations are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Speedway: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Sunoco: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Valero: Stores are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.
• Wawa: Wawa locations are open on the 4th of July, typically 24/7.

Places closed on the 4th of July

• Banks: Banks are closed on the 4th of July, and because Independence Day falls on Saturday in 2026, banks will also be closed on Friday, July 3.
• U.S. Postal Service (USPS): USPS locations are closed on the 4th of July, and because Independence Day falls on Saturday this year, banks will also be closed on Friday, July 3.
• Federal offices: Federal offices, including federal courts and passport agencies, are closed on the 4th of July as well as Friday, July 3.

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece on stores open on the 4th of July, Reader’s Digest Associate Editor Mariah Thomas tapped her experience covering holidays and observances, along with other lifestyle content. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

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There are certain foods that feel undeniably American: a burger sizzling on the grill, a tray of mac and cheese at a family gathering, an apple pie cooling on the windowsill. You grow up seeing them at cookouts, diners, school cafeterias and holiday get-togethers, so you kind of assume they’ve always been here, right?

Spoiler alert: They haven’t! As it turns out, many of these so-called American foods didn’t start out in America. Instead, they born elsewhere—sometimes centuries or even millennia earlier—before crossing oceans, changing with new ingredients and eventually evolving into the dishes we know today. In many cases, what we think of as American food is really the story of immigrants, adaptation and reinvention.

That’s fitting, because America’s food history mirrors America’s history. “We’re a country of immigrants, and the foods are immigrants,” says culinary historian Michael Krondl. “[People] adapt and transform it.”

That theme is echoed by culinary historian Ken Albala, PhD, a history professor at the University of the Pacific. He notes that American cuisine is influenced by “everything and everyone who’s come here. [People] put their own spin on things and change it in a way that makes it very unique and, I would argue, very American.” In other words, “American” food is less about a single origin and more about continual reinvention, as immigrant traditions mix with local ingredients and evolving tastes.

So which of our favorite “American” foods have surprisingly global roots, and how did they evolve into the dishes we know and love? I spoke with Krondl, Albala and culinary historian Cathy Kaufman to find out. Settle in to learn a few fascinating food facts—and likely get very hungry along the way. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

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Apple pie

Where it’s actually from: England and the Netherlands

The saying “as American as apple pie” is so familiar that most people never question it. But neither apples nor pies originated in America. “The reason we say it is because it was a British import with our first colonists,” says Kaufman. “Pie was something that had potentially both preservative functions and was a way of using bounty. It was also easy to eat and relatively easy to prepare if you did not have a lot of material in your kitchen.”

Believe it or not, apple pies existed in medieval Europe—the first recorded mention of the dish in the Oxford English Dictionary is 1589! That said, early versions were quite different from today’s sweet, cinnamon-heavy dessert. Sugar was expensive, and recipes generally leaned more savory or lightly spiced. Albala notes that early English versions sometimes included cheese or custard-like fillings. Dutch settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries likely played a major role in shaping the sweeter baked version Americans eventually embraced.

What made apple pie American wasn’t its origin but its adoption. Apples spread across the growing nation, helped in part by the legendary efforts of Johnny Appleseed, and pie became an everyday staple.

Hamburger

Where it’s actually from: Hamburg, Germany

The hamburger, as in the meat patty, traces back to Hamburg, Germany, where minced beef dishes were common in the 1800s. But chopped meat itself goes back much further. “You’ve got ways of stretching meat by putting in fillers, and it can be easier to chew if dental work is not your forte,” says Kaufman. “So chopping meat and making it into something like a patty or a meatball [has been around] for millennia.”

German immigrants brought their dish of seasoned ground beef with them; the Hamburg Steak appeared on the menu of New York City’s Delmonico’s restaurant in 1834. It eventually evolved into the hamburger sandwich, although there are conflicting reports as to who did it first. According to one widely believed tale, Charlie Nagreen, a vendor at an 1885 fair in Seymour, Wisconsin, realized fairgoers were hungry but needed something portable. So he flattened the meatballs he was selling and served them between two slices of bread, and the hamburger as we know it was born.

Albala finds it fascinating that the iconic bun-and-patty sandwich became such a defining national food. “There’s no logical reason why the hamburger should have become the quintessential American food,” he says. Yet through the rise of chains such as McDonald’s and Burger King, it became one of the most recognizable symbols of American cuisine.

Hot dog

Where it’s actually from: Frankfurt, Germany, and Vienna, Austria

The hot dog’s roots lie in sausages such as frankfurters and wieners, both named after the European cities where they originated and brought to America by German-speaking immigrants in the 19th century. By the 1860s, pushcarts in New York City began serving sausages with bread. And in 1871, Charles Feltman, a German baker, opened the first Coney Island hot dog stand, selling 3,684 “dachshund sausages” in a milk roll his first year in business, according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council. The world-renowned Nathan’s opened its first hot dog stand in 1916.

Hot dogs quickly became street-food favorites—especially once they started being served in buns at fairs and baseball games. What ultimately made the hot dog feel American? “The fact that you can pick it up with your hand,” says Krondl.

He also points to one particularly American twist in the evolution: Jewish immigrants transformed what were traditionally pork sausages into beef versions to comply with kosher dietary laws.

French fries

Where they’re actually from: Belgium and France

Fries weren’t born here and, despite the name, probably didn’t originate in France either. Belgium is often credited with developing fried potatoes centuries ago, and recipes for deep-fried potato slices appeared in French cookbooks long before fries became American staples.

The Virginia House-wife, a cookbook from 1824 by Mary Randolph (a relation of Thomas Jefferson), has a recipe for fried sliced potatoes, and there’s a recipe for the same dish in Jefferson’s own hand. Throughout the 19th century, potatoes were fried in a variety of shapes and sizes, but by the 1870s, some types of fried potatoes were standardized into particular shapes and sizes. The ones that were round and extremely thin became potato chips. The ones that were long, rectangular and approximately one-fourth of an inch thick became “french fried potatoes,” a name that was shortened to french fries by 1886, per the Oxford English Dictionary.

By the early 20th century, fries were common at diners and lunch counters, but their popularity exploded after World War II. The rise of car culture, drive-ins and fast-food chains (hello, McDonald’s) made fries cheap, convenient and easy to serve alongside hamburgers.

While we’re on the topic, that red stuff we put on our fries? Also not American. Ketchup began as fermented fish sauce in Southeast Asia. British traders adapted it, and over time, Americans transformed it into today’s tomato-based version.

Fried chicken

Where it’s actually from: England, Scotland and West Africa

Modern fried chicken emerged from a cultural exchange. British settlers brought traditions of cooking chicken in fried, battered and fricasseed preparations. Hannah Glasse’s influential cookbook The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy (1747) includes recipes for “Scotch chickens,” a fricassee-like dish, as well as battered and fried chicken dishes.

But it was enslaved West Africans who contributed deep-frying techniques, bold seasoning traditions and culinary expertise that helped transform these earlier European dishes into the crisp, flavorful fried chicken that became a hallmark of Southern cuisine. As Krondl notes, it represents a blending of European and African food that defined much of early American cooking.

Barbecue

Where it actually came from: Indigenous Caribbean nations

The word barbecue itself comes from the word barbacoa, which, in the Arawak and Taíno languages of the Caribbean, originally meant a “framework of sticks set upon posts.” Albala notes that slow-cooking meat over an open fire is hardly unique to America. “Every place in the world has a tradition of low, slow cooking over hot coals,” he says. The Europeans in the New World quickly adopted this novel method of slow cooking. And enslaved Africans (who did most of the cooking) brought their own traditions of seasoning, stewing and whole-animal cooking techniques. As Krondl explains: You’d fill a pit with coals, dump in a pig or cow, and cover it to cook.

Often, barbecues weren’t just the cooking technique; they were also the party. In a 1773 diary entry, George Washington says that he attended a “Barbicue [sic] of my own giving at Accatinck.” We still often call a backyard party a barbecue—even if we’re just grilling hot dogs and hamburgers.

What became uniquely American was the regional diversity that developed over time. Indigenous techniques mixed with European livestock traditions and African culinary influences, produced the distinctive barbecue cultures of Texas, the Carolinas, Memphis and Kansas City by the 20th century.

Mac and cheese

Where it’s actually from: Italy and France

Baked-pasta-and-cheese dishes existed in Europe long before they became American staples. Thomas Jefferson is often credited with popularizing mac and cheese in the U.S. after encountering pasta abroad and serving a baked pasta dish at a state dinner in 1802. The problem with that story is that the “macaroni pie” that was served didn’t really resemble today’s comfort-food classic. “Whatever Jefferson was eating, I don’t think it is what we’re eating today,” Kaufman says.

However, The Virginia House-wife (which, as noted above, had a recipe for those early french fries) includes this recipe for macaroni: “Boil as much macaroni as will fill your dish in milk and water till quite tender. Drain it, salt, put a layer in your dish, then cheese and butter as polenta and bake it in the same manner.”

“That’s sounding more like mac and cheese to me,” says Kaufman. The dish continued to evolve with the advent of processed cheese in the early 20th century, ultimately becoming the ooey-gooey comfort food classic we know today.

New England clam chowder

Where it’s actually from: France and England

New England clam chowder may be a regional American classic, but even its name hints at its foreign roots, says Kaufman. The name comes from the French chaudière, meaning “cauldron,” in which fishermen made their stews. In the 1700s, European settlers brought their fish-stew traditions to the Colonies, where abundant shellfish along the Atlantic coast and local ingredients helped create the creamy chowder associated with New England today.

By the way, the tomato-based Manhattan version, which shows up in the Oxford English Dictionary for the first time in 1887, is most likely descended from seafood stews from southern France, according to Kaufman. Manhattan clam chowder evolved in the same way as its New England cousin did—from the European traditions of fish soups and stews—but the Southern French ones (like bouillabaisse) had tomatoes.

Peanut butter

Where it’s actually from: Ancient South America

Long before peanut butter sandwiches became lunchbox staples, Indigenous peoples in South America were grinding peanuts into paste-like foods. European explorers took peanuts back to Spain, and from there, traders and explorers spread them to Asia and Africa, where they became important staple crops. Peanuts were introduced to North America during the Colonial era through European exchange and the transatlantic slave trade, with enslaved Africans playing a key role in cultivating them in the American South.

But modern peanut butter is a late-19th-century American development. Early versions were created by inventors such as Marcellus Gilmore Edson (who patented a process for grinding roasted peanuts into a paste in 1884) and John Harvey Kellogg (of cereal fame), a physician who developed his own version of peanut butter in the 1890s as a high-protein, easily digestible food for his patients.

Manufacturers began producing peanut butter in the early 1900s, but its real turning point came during World War I (1917–1918), when it was promoted as an inexpensive, high-protein ration for soldiers. Returning servicemen helped normalize peanut butter in everyday American diets. In the 1920s and 1930s, advances in industrial processing—especially oil stabilization and hydrogenation—made smooth, consistent peanut butter possible at scale. With the rise of national brands like Skippy, peanut butter became a uniquely American pantry staple and a mass-produced household food.

Pancakes

Where they’re actually from: Ancient civilizations around the world

Sure, pancakes feel like the quintessential all-American weekend breakfast, but flat griddle cakes appear across ancient cultures worldwide. European versions date back to at least the medieval period, and the word pancake appears in English usage by the 15th century.

Pancakes likely arrived in North America with early English and Dutch settlers, but the version most Americans recognize today developed later. In the 19th century, the widespread adoption of chemical leaveners, like baking powder, along with the use of buttermilk in home cooking, transformed simple griddle cakes into thicker, fluffier pancakes. The pairing with maple syrup—harvested from trees native to North America—helped distinguish American pancakes from their many European counterparts.

Doughnuts

Where they’re actually from: England and the Netherlands

As Krondl, who quite literally wrote the book on doughnuts, puts it: “Doughnuts are the quintessential American sweet, but they’re very much immigrants.” English, Dutch, German and French settlers all had some version of fried dough.

Dutch settlers brought olykoeks (oil cakes) to America, and there are British recipes from the middle of the 18th century for dow nuts (sweet, yeast-raised cakes fried in lard). Over time, American bakers transformed these Old World treats into something distinctly their own. The ring-shaped doughnut (with the hole removed so the dough would cook more evenly) developed around 1850 in New England.

Krondl notes that the cake doughnut, which relies on baking powder or baking soda rather than yeast, is an American invention. It made its big debut in the first edition of Lydia Maria Child’s Frugal Housewife in 1829.

Ice cream

Where it’s actually from: China and Persia (and later refined in Europe)

It may be one of America’s favorite desserts, but ice cream wasn’t invented here. Ice cream’s roots stretch back thousands of years to ancient China and Persia, where early frozen desserts and flavored ices were enjoyed long before the modern era. Over time, freezing techniques and dairy-based recipes were refined across the Middle East and Europe, eventually evolving into the ice cream we recognize today. By the mid–18th century, French cooks had developed rich custard-based ice creams made with egg yolks, a style that remains popular today.

The first known account of ice cream in North America dates back to 1744, when a guest of Maryland governor William Bladen described enjoying it at a dinner party. George Washington reportedly spent lavishly on ice cream, and Thomas Jefferson helped popularize it after returning from France with recipes he later served at the White House. Though we still enjoy custard-based French-style ice cream here, the version we typically eat—Philadelphia-style ice cream, an eggless recipe made with cream, milk and sugar—emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Which foods actually originated here?

Yes, there are some wholly American foods, and they are just as amazing as our favorites above. Here’s what was born right here in the good old US of A.

• Brownies: The rich, fudgy chocolate bar that became a staple of American home baking was developed in the United States in the late 19th to early 20th centuries. However, early versions appeared in New England, and a famously rich variation was created at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition before this classic treat spread widely through American cookbooks and home kitchens.
• Buffalo wings: The classic game-day food—fried chicken wings tossed in hot sauce and butter and served with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks—was invented at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, in 1964.
• Chocolate chip cookies: Invented by Ruth Wakefield at the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, in 1938, they were a happy accident when pieces of chocolate held their shape rather than fully melting into the dough. “It was a mistake, and it worked, and people liked it,” says Kaufman.
• Cobb salad: Created at the Brown Derby restaurant in Los Angeles in the late 1930s, the Cobb salad is said to have originated when owner Robert Howard Cobb assembled a late-night meal from leftovers in the kitchen. Combining chicken, bacon, eggs, avocado, tomatoes and blue cheese, it became a favorite among Hollywood celebrities and helped popularize entree salads in American dining.
• Corn dog: The classic American state-fair snack—featuring a hot dog coated in a thick cornmeal batter, skewered on a stick and deep-fried until golden—emerged in the United States in the early to mid-20th century. By the 1940s and 1950s, corn dogs had become fixtures at fairs, carnivals, ballparks and roadside stands. Their portability and convenience align with what Albala sees as a hallmark of American eating habits.
• Key lime pie: The tangy, creamy dessert made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk and a graham cracker crust was developed in the Florida Keys in the late 19th century and became established by the early 20th century as a signature regional American pie. According to Krondl, key lime pie exists “because the condensed milk companies wanted to come up with something.”
• Pecan pie: The classic Southern dessert made with native North American pecans baked into a sweet, syrupy custard filling in a flaky pie crust was developed in the Southern United States in the late 19th to early 20th centuries. It gained widespread popularity after corn syrup–based versions appeared in cookbooks and advertisements during the 1920s and 1930s.
• S’mores: First documented in Girl Scout materials in the early 1920s (the earliest-known published recipe dates to 1927), s’mores became a beloved campfire tradition combining graham crackers, chocolate and toasted marshmallows. (Fun fact: The name comes from the notion that they’re so good, you always want “some more.”) Krondl points to s’mores as an example of what scholars call creolization: mixing ingredients and traditions from different sources into something original. He imagines their creation as a moment of campfire inspiration: “Hey, what if we stick these together?” Genius.

In many ways, that spirit of experimentation is the story of American food itself—what Krondl describes as “an American approach to culinary inventiveness that is in many ways unique to the country.”

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Ken Albala, PhD, American food historian, professor of history at University of the Pacific and author of Opulent Nosh: A Cookbook for Audacious Appetites and The World Atlas of Fermented Foods and Drinks; interviewed, June 9, 2026
• Cathy Kaufman, culinary historian, food studies educator at the New School and author of Cooking in Ancient Civilizations; phone interview, June 9, 2026
• Michael Krondl, culinary historian and author of The Donut: History, Recipes and Lore from Boston to Berlin, Sweet Invention: A History of Dessert and The Great Little Pumpkin Cookbook; phone interview, June 10, 2026
• The Art of Cookery, Made Plain and Easy by Hannah Glasse (1747)
• The New Food Lover’s Companion by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst (2013)
• The Oxford Encyclopedia of Food and Drink in America by Andrew Smith
• The Virginia House-wife by Mary Randolph (1824)
• What Mrs. Fisher Knows About Old Southern Cooking by Abby Fisher (1881)

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And in your mind, it’s already plated perfectly: stacked beside fluffy pancakes for a lazy weekend breakfast, or layered into a BLT with juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce and toasted bread. Bacon isn’t just part of the meal—it’s often the star of the show.

But as simple as it seems, bacon can be surprisingly tricky to get right. One minute, it’s perfectly golden and gorgeous; the next, it’s curled, chewy, greasy, or burnt around the edges. That narrow margin between perfect and overdone can feel razor-thin, and that’s exactly why bacon cookery has inspired so many theories, hacks and so-called “secret techniques” over the years. When something this good is on the line, people will happily chase every strip of advice they can get.

Well, apparently, there’s a secret ingredient that leads to better bacon, and you’re definitely going to want the details. To get to the meat of what this method is and why it works, I consulted food scientist Ed McCormick and chef Jess Pryles, author of the forthcoming cookbook Prime Cuts: The Essential Guide to Choosing and Enjoying Meat. I also put it to the test myself. Let’s dig in.

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What are the challenges with cooking bacon?

The main challenge is getting the fat to render—or slowly melt and release from the meat—before the meat browns too much. “The biggest issue is that bacon contains both fat and water, and those components don’t leave the meat at the same rate,” says McCormick. “People often start with heat that’s too high. The outside begins browning before enough fat has rendered from the interior.”

Pryles agrees. “The biggest mistake with bacon is using too much heat too quickly,” she says. “Bacon needs time for the fat to render and the moisture to cook off. If the pan is too hot, the meat can brown or burn before the fat has properly rendered, resulting in bacon that is chewy, greasy or unevenly crisp.”

Another issue is that people put too much in the pan. When slices overlap or sit too close together, moisture is trapped, preventing proper browning. “If the strips are crowded,” Pryles explains, “they steam instead of fry.” Ack!

What is the secret ingredient that can make bacon even better?

The secret ingredient, according to some experts, is water. Yes—water in the pan with bacon.

At first, this cooking trick sounds completely backward. Water and oil don’t mix, and bacon is basically a slab of fat. But there is legitimate science behind the method. McCormick describes water as a kind of built-in temperature regulator. “When water is added to the pan, the temperature is temporarily limited to around the boiling point of water until most of that water evaporates.”

Because water cannot exceed roughly 212 degrees Fahrenheit, it prevents the pan from rapidly reaching temperatures that cause aggressive browning. “The water prevents the pan from getting excessively hot at the beginning, so it reduces the chance of scorching before the fat has rendered,” McCormick says. In simpler terms, “think of it as giving the fat a head start.”

That slower start allows more fat to melt before the bacon begins browning in earnest. Once the water evaporates, the bacon continues cooking in its own rendered fat and develops the crisp texture most people are looking for.

Pryles is particularly familiar with this technique. “Not only have I heard of it—I actually did my final research project on cooking bacon with water in the pan!” she says. (She has a graduate certificate in meat science from Iowa State University.) “The theory is sound. Water keeps the early cooking temperature lower, which gives the fat time to render before the bacon starts browning.”

How do you cook bacon in water?

There’s a little more to it than splashing some water in your pan. Follow these steps for the best chance of achieving bacon bliss.

1. Start with a cold pan. Lay your bacon strips in a single layer in a large skillet. Don’t overlap them if you can avoid it; crowding will still cause uneven cooking, even with water.
2. Add a little water. Pour in just enough cold water to barely cover the bottom of the pan: about 1/4 cup for a standard skillet. “The goal isn’t to boil the bacon,” says McCormick. “It’s simply to create a brief period of gentler cooking while the fat begins to render.” He cautions that excessive water simply extends the steaming phase and delays browning.
3. Turn the heat to medium. Bring up the temperature of the pan slowly. As the water heats, it will gently simmer around the bacon. You’ll hear a soft bubbling rather than aggressive sizzling at first.
4. Let the water cook off completely. This usually takes 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon. During this stage, the bacon will look a little pale and floppy. This is normal.
5. Continue cooking the bacon in its own fat. Once the water evaporates, the temperature will rise, and the bacon will start to sizzle in the rendered fat. This is where the magic begins. Keep the heat at medium to medium-low to avoid burning.
6. Flip as needed. Turn the strips occasionally for even crisping.
7. Drain and rest. Move the bacon to a wire rack or paper-towel-lined plate to remove the grease.

Does this trick actually work?

As an avid home cook with a foodie Instagram who has prepared her fair share of bacon, I had to try this for myself. I ran a simple side-by-side test: one batch cooked the traditional way in a dry skillet, and the other using the water method.

The traditional batch behaved exactly as expected. It started sizzling immediately, released fat quickly and crisped up in about 8 minutes. The downside was the usual: grease splatter, and a few pieces that curled tightly and browned unevenly. I will say that this side of my stove needed more cleaning.

The water method was noticeably different in the first phase. For the first few minutes, there was no sizzle at all—just gentle bubbling. The bacon looked like it was “steaming” more than frying. Once the water evaporated, though, things changed quickly, and the bacon started crisping up.

The water method took longer: closer to 15 minutes total. The bacon did render a lot of fat more gradually, and the final texture was slightly more uniform. The strips were flatter, with less curling, and the crispness felt more even from edge to center.

That said, the results weren’t dramatic. The traditional method still produced excellent bacon, especially if you’re attentive with heat control. The water trick mainly reduced splatter and was a bit more forgiving in the early cooking stage, which could be helpful for beginners or multitaskers.

What else will help you get perfectly crispy bacon?

Even without any special tricks, a few small adjustments can make a big difference in your bacon game:

• Start with a cold pan, so the fat renders slowly and evenly.
• Use moderate heat instead of rushing the process.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan so slices can crisp instead of steam.
• Drain the bacon on a wire rack instead of paper towels for maximum crunch.
• For consistent results, Pryles actually recommends roasting bacon on a rack set on a sheet pan in the oven.

The bottom line

Adding water to the pan won’t magically transform mediocre bacon into the greatest strip you’ve ever tasted, but it can help create a gentler cooking environment that encourages better fat rendering and more even crisping. If you’ve ever struggled with bacon that burns before it crisps, curls into odd shapes or splatters all over your stovetop, this simple trick is worth a try. At worst, you’ll spend a few extra minutes cooking breakfast. At best, you might discover a new way to bring home the bacon.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Edmund “Ed” McCormick, food science consultant, founder of Cape Crystal Brands and author of The Food Questions America Is Asking: How Journalists and Scientists Are Redefining What We Eat; email interview, June 19, 2026
• Jess Pryles, cook, television host and author of Prime Cuts: The Essential Guide to Choosing and Enjoying Meat; email interview, June 19, 2026

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The post This Secret Ingredient Will Make Your Bacon Even Better—And You’re Never Going to Guess What It Is appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Her latest novel, The Missed Connection, begins with every romantic’s dream—and nightmare. A casting director named Sasha Cruz finds herself seated next to a handsome stranger on a flight to Paris. “She falls desperately in love with him,” Williams tells us. He’s “dashing, [with an] Italian accent—a secret billionaire,” but the pair never exchange contact information. Determined to find him, Cruz hires a detective from her past to help and, as Williams teases, “antics ensue.”

The contemporary romance combines funny mishaps with emotional depth, and since its release in early June, it has already drawn praise for its memorable cast of characters. Williams admits she knows a thing or two about embarrassing mix-ups herself. When asked about the novel’s opening “reply all” email fiasco, she laughs, “I am no stranger to digital chaos. I’ve emailed the wrong person. I’ve texted the wrong person, revealing information. So embarrassing.”

Beyond her six novels, Williams serves as editorial director for the Estée Lauder Companies and has spent years shaping conversations around beauty, fashion and culture. But it’s her sharp and swoon-worthy stories that have made her one of romance’s most beloved voices.

For this episode of Reader’s Digest’s Escalator Interview, Reader’s Digest’s Leigh Belz Ray caught up with Williams at Barnes & Noble in New York City to talk about The Missed Connection, the most underrated genres, the “ick” in romance novels, her reading habits and lots more.

Watch the exclusive interview below, and then scroll down to shop her books and reading recommendations!

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’ve been sharing our favorite books for over 100 years. We’ve worked with bestselling authors including Susan Orlean, Janet Evanovich and Alex Haley, whose Pulitzer Prize–winning Roots grew out of a project funded by and originally published in the magazine. Through Fiction Favorites (formerly Select Editions and Condensed Books), Reader’s Digest has been publishing anthologies of abridged novels for decades. We’ve worked with some of the biggest names in fiction, including James Patterson, Ruth Ware, Kristin Hannah and more. The Reader’s Digest Book Club, helmed by Books Editor Tracey Neithercott, introduces readers to even more of today’s best fiction by upcoming, bestselling and award-winning authors. For this piece, Leigh Belz Ray interviewed author Tia Williams. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

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I’ve rescued a trash panda that was stuck in an actual trash can (I dropped a ladder in, and he climbed right out as I was still running away), and my friend who feeds and traps feral cats routinely gets a family of raccoon “porch porkies” who stop by to help themselves to the buffet line. And who can forget the raccoon who captured the world’s attention as she eluded rescuers and scaled a 20-story office building in downtown St. Paul?

All of this is to say that raccoons are everywhere, and they don’t mind living (mostly) harmoniously with humans. So why aren’t they pets? Could they become our next animal companions? A study published in Frontiers in Zoology looks at exactly that question and the fact that these cute critters may be domesticating themselves. Read on to learn whether the humble, mischievous raccoon will be the next wild animal humans call their “fur baby“—and if this would actually be a good idea.

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Why do scientists think raccoons are domesticating themselves?

It’s not just about proximity, though if you live in a city, you’d be forgiven for thinking raccoons are plotting to move into your spare bedroom. The study actually looked at physical traits of city-dwelling raccoons and their rural compatriots—who have zero interaction with humans at all—and found real, measurable differences.

The scientists were testing whether a known phenomenon called “domestication syndrome,” where animals develop different physical traits like floppier ears and flatter and rounder faces over time, could be quantified early on in the domestication process. To test their theory, they chose raccoons and evaluated thousands of images of city raccoons and their wild counterparts by measuring their skull and snout lengths.

Their conclusion? Today’s city raccoons have a “clear reduction” in snout length—more than 3.5% shorter—compared to their wild buddies, which confirmed their theory that raccoons could be following a domestication pathway. While this doesn’t mean that raccoons will become the next domestic pet anytime soon, the scientists hope that the research will open up opportunities to study domestication syndrome in real time.

Have animals domesticated themselves before?

Yep. We often think of domestication as a deliberate human strategy, but scientists say that’s not the case—and we can look to our current household pets as examples. Both cats and dogs decided long ago that their lives were easier when they hitched their wagons to a species that usually has reliable shelter and routinely tosses garbage everywhere they go.

And while humans do engage in selective breeding to produce “desirable” (often cosmetic) traits that have no benefit to the animal, most of the time, especially early on in the domestication process, wild animals self-adapt. How long does this take? It depends. Dogs started living with us at least 14,000 years ago, while cats, typically, took their own sweet time—starting about 10,000 years ago.

Would raccoons actually make good pets?

No, and this study should not be taken as an OK to get one. Except in a rescue situation, where you should definitely get an animal-welfare expert involved, raccoons are wild animals and should be left alone to live out their lives in peace. Here’s why.

• They’re mischievous. Running all over the house, climbing your hand-crafted raccoon tree and entertaining your guests with their loud, chattering voices might be cute for a while, but raccoons can be very destructive. They’re also clever and very dexterous, so anything not kept behind a very sturdy lock is fair game.
• They’re nocturnal. I hear you saying, Well, so are cats! But raccoons don’t have the luxury of being domesticated for 10,000 years and will likely not enjoy being trapped in your home while you sleep. Keeping them in a cage will only solve your problem, not theirs.
• They’re disease carriers. Raccoons carry various diseases, including rabies, distemper and roundworm. And because they are not fully domesticated or legal everywhere, if your pet raccoon bites or scratches someone, it could very well be euthanized or seized.
• They’re demanding. Raccoons can become aggressive and temperamental as young as 6 months old, so once that cute kit stage wears off, your adorable new pet will likely be miserable and ready to take it out on you.
• They’re messy. Raccoons like to “wash” their food in water, which isn’t really washing it as much as helping them taste their food. They’re also called trash pandas for a reason, so be prepared for that trash to end up on your kitchen floor (and everywhere else in your house).

Is it actually legal to own a raccoon in the U.S.?

It depends. In 2026, a total of 13 states allow people to keep raccoons as pets: Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Wisconsin and Wyoming. But even in states where they are legal to own, special permits may be required.

Because most states restrict raccoon and other wild-animal ownership, it’s difficult to quantify how many raccoons are currently kept as pets. Social media is filled with people with cute pet raccoons, but wild-animal ownership is not something to take lightly. Make sure you can provide veterinary care and enrichment for what will be a lifetime of responsibility for another sentient being.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Frontiers in Zoology: “Tracking domestication signals across populations of North American raccoons (Procyon lotor) via citizen science-driven image repositories”
• Popular Science: “Could raccoons become the new dogs?”
• PNAS: “Genetic history of dog domestication”
• 4theWild: “So you want a raccoon”
• PLoS One: “Neural crest cell genes and the domestication syndrome: A comparative analysis of selection”
• Brittanica: “Do raccoons wash their food?”
• Mass Audubon: “Raccoons”
• World Population Review: “Pet Raccoon Legal States 2026”

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The post Could Raccoons Be America’s New Favorite Pets? It Just Might Happen—Here’s What’s Going On appeared first on Reader's Digest.

To get to the bottom of this mystery, I talked to food scientist Bryan Quoc Le, author of 150 Food Science Questions Answered. Read on to find out what he said, plus everything else you might want to know about butter’s qualities and quirks.

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Why is butter yellow?

The explanation is surprisingly straightforward, even if it’s not something that ever actually occurred to you: It’s all about the cow’s diet. “There are certain fat-soluble compounds known as carotenoids that are transferred from the grass the cow eats to the butter that is made from the milk,” explains Le. “It’s not a very high concentration, but it’s just enough to change the color to yellow.”

Also known as beta-carotene, carotenoids are the compounds that give foods like carrots and sweet potatoes their vibrant orange hue. Of course, grass isn’t orange, which means it doesn’t contain very many carotenoids—only enough to change the color of butter from white to yellow.

But wait, that brings us back to our initial question: Why is milk white and butter yellow? It comes down to fat content. Carotenoids are fat-soluble, which means they are essentially suspended in the fat in the milk. “The concentration of fat in milk is fairly low, about 3%, and that fat is evenly suspended throughout the milk. The result is that the amount of carotenoids in the milk isn’t sufficient to create the color,” Le explains. But when the milk is churned into butter, the fat becomes highly concentrated. “Butter is 80% to 85% fat, so the carotenoid concentration is about 28 times higher in butter than in milk. So there is a high enough level to cause a change in color and appearance.”

Why is U.S. butter paler than butter produced elsewhere?

If you’ve ever bought Kerrygold grass-fed Irish butter, you’ve likely noticed that the color is a much deeper yellow than butter made from milk from American cows. Why? Kerrygold cows exclusively eat grass, and most American cows do not. “Cows in the United States tend to be fed a diet of corn alongside forage (grass and hay),” says Le. He explains that corn is more energy-dense than grass, so this combination of feed options results in cows in the U.S. eating less grass, and therefore consuming fewer carotenoids, than cows that are eating grass alone.

Should you be concerned if your butter isn’t yellow?

Not necessarily, especially during the winter. “Cows are fed more grass during the spring and summer season, and butter from their milk tends to be more yellow as a result,” says Le. In general, the warmer it is outside, the more deeply yellow you can expect your butter to be.

Still, you may be concerned about white or cream-colored butter simply because it doesn’t quite taste the same as yellow butter. “Generally speaking, since the yellow color of the butter is a reflection of certain compounds that accumulate in the fat, it’s some level of indication that there’s going to be more depth in flavor,” Le explains. If you’re using butter for cooking or baking, you likely won’t notice the difference between white and yellow butter in your finished product. But if you’re spreading butter on a freshly baked scone or over a short stack of pancakes, you may be able to taste the difference.

Le adds that butter should only be white, cream or yellow. Any other colors present—such as gray or brown—would likely mean that the butter is spoiled or oxidized, especially if it has irregular spots or streaks on the surface.

Do manufacturers ever use yellow dye in their butter?

No, according to Le, though he says some do add annatto extract, a pigment derived from annatto seeds, to improve the yellow color of their butter. However, he notes that any added extract would need to be included in the ingredients list, so if you’re suspicious, you can look for it there.

While manufacturers generally don’t artificially enhance the color of butter, they have been dying margarine yellow to look more like butter since it came to the U.S. in the mid-1800s. And this caused a huge brouhaha. The fact that it looked and tasted so much like butter, plus was cheaper and lasted longer, actually caused states and eventually Congress to pass laws to slow down margarine’s rise in popularity. According to the folks who maintain Historic Sugartown, a preserved 19th-century village in Pennsylvania, there was a steep federal tax on yellow margarine, while some states even forced margarine to be dyed bright pink so it couldn’t be mistaken for butter. Congress finally repealed the tax on margarine in 1950, so (sadly? thankfully?) there’s no more pink margarine gracing tables.

What else enhances butter’s taste?

High-quality butter shouldn’t have much else added to it, so the makeup of the cow’s diet (mainly the ratio of grass to other types of feed such as corn, alfalfa and hay) is the biggest factor that influences quality, along with the cow’s metabolism and breed. Apart from the salt added to salted butter, manufacturers don’t mix any additional ingredients into butter. If you’re after a particular taste or texture, you can look for the words “cultured” or “European style” on the label, which will typically mean that the butter has a slight tang (cultured) or a higher fat content and thus a creamier texture (European style).

Additionally, “the length of time in which butter is exposed to oxygen during production and storage can have a serious impact on the taste of butter,” says Le. According to the Center for Dairy Research at the University of Wisconsin, packaging is the penultimate step in butter production, right before chilling. The larger the manufacturer and the bigger the batch of butter, the longer it may take for all of the finished butter to be packaged, and the longer it may spend in storage before making its way to you, the consumer. “Any butter that has spent more time in storage will eventually lose many of the flavor compounds that give it its richness,” says Le. “It is going to taste bland, metallic or even have hints of rancidity.”

Smaller batches of butter from smaller producers, on the other hand, do not spend as much time in storage and therefore may maintain a richer taste. “Probably most customers will not notice, but depending on the genetics of the person or their childhood exposure to certain higher-quality butters, others may be able to detect a difference,” says Le.

Likewise, once you’ve brought your butter home, repeatedly unwrapping and rewrapping it exposes it to oxygen. If it takes you a while to go through a stick, the final few tablespoons may be a little less flavorful than the first for this reason. (Storing butter in the back of the fridge instead of the door can also help with this.) But honestly, I don’t know anyone who takes long enough to notice.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Bryan Quoc Le, PhD, food scientist and author of 150 Food Science Questions Answered; email interview, June 2026
• Fresno State Animal Sciences and Agricultural Education: “Manuel Mancebo Jr. and Katye Mancebo Dairy Production Unit”
• Historic Sugartown: “The Color of Butter (and the Great American Butter Wars)”
• U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center: “What Do Dairy Cows Eat?”
• Center for Dairy Research: “Butter Science 101”

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The post Here’s the Real Reason Why Butter Is Yellow appeared first on Reader's Digest.

I’m not the only one making this switch. According to a recent poll from CNET, almost half of U.S. adults considered buying refurbished tech in the past year, including 57% of Millennials. While some cite moral concerns like wanting to reduce e-waste, most say it’s for budget reasons. And if you know where to look, buying secondhand tech can be a fantastic way to save money, especially as computer-memory and chip shortages jack up the costs of buying new.

Personally, I love shopping secondhand. My first iPod was a refurbished model, and just last week I picked up a classic 35mm camera at a flea market for a fraction of the price of a new one. That being said, buying used or refurbished tech comes with some risks that new products don’t usually pose. After all, while my first iPod still turns on if you plug it in, that classic camera took one photo before breaking down.

I spoke with secondhand-shopping expert Steven Athwal, founder and CEO of The Big Phone Store, a popular retailer for refurbished tech in the United Kingdom, to learn about the growing market for older tech. Here’s everything you need to know about buying used or refurbished gadgets, including tips on where to shop and what to watch out for.

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What’s the difference between used tech and refurbished tech?

Both used and refurbished products fall into the category of secondhand items, meaning that someone else has purchased and owned them at some point. But while used products are generally sold in the same condition they were when last owned, refurbished ones have gone through a process to make them resemble a new product.

“A refurbished phone gets inspected, tested, repaired (when it’s needed) and graded before it goes anywhere near a customer,” Athwal says. “Used means exactly what it says: Someone owned it, they’ve finished with it and it’s being sold as-is. There’s no guarantee of checks, fixes, warranties, repairs [or similar protections].”

Used and refurbished items differ in price as well. Used items tend to be cheaper than refurbished ones and much cheaper than new ones. Refurbished tech will sit nearer to the new product’s price. Just one example: Apple’s certified refurbished tech can net you about 15% off new, according to its website. For other brands, specific discounts will depend on multiple factors, including how pricey the original item was.

Another difference is who’s selling the tech: Used items often come from independent sellers who are trying to pass on specific items they don’t want. Refurbished items usually come from established companies that take the time to repair and certify the products before they’re resold.

What should you know before buying used or refurbished tech?

Both used and refurbished products can be just as good as new ones. But since they’ve left the safety of the factory that built them, any purchase comes with risks. Here’s what to know.

A device’s lifespan could be shorter

Modern devices aren’t made to last. As time goes on, batteries degrade, screens get scratched and charging ports clog. Even if you take perfect care of your items, chances are that a five-year-old phone won’t run as well as it did when it was new.

Buying a secondhand item means you’re already partway down that road. That’s especially true for used items, which haven’t gone through any repairs. Whatever flaws they picked up along the way will still be there. That could mean that the battery won’t hold as much of a charge or that the buttons aren’t as responsive.

Refurbished items are safer in this regard, since a technician has done work to fix major issues. This work could include replacing the battery or opening it up to clean gunk out of the hardware inside.

Quality will vary

Athwal says that not all refurbishments are made equal: “The quality entirely depends on who’s doing the refurbishing.” That’s why it’s important to do your homework.

“Ask whether the testing is done in-house, ask what the grading standards actually mean and ask what happens if something goes wrong,” he says. We’ll get into warranties more below, but Athwal says checking the seller’s warranty and return policies, along with buyer reviews, can help you decide whether it’s a good purchase.

And know that there are some issues that even the best technicians can’t fix, like a device becoming obsolete. There comes a time when all devices stop receiving software updates, and if yours relies on an internet connection, it will likely stop working altogether at some point. The older a product is, the closer it is to obsolescence.

Physical wear could be more apparent

Few things are as beautiful as a piece of tech in mint condition. But that beauty fades pretty fast. And the older an item is, the more chances it’s had to take on some wear and tear.

Again, this is more true for used items. Although it’s considered polite to clean a product before you sell it, most people won’t have the resources to fix issues like a cracked screen or chipped plastic. I once bought a PlayStation 4 on eBay that had a cigarette burn on it!

Any refurbishment technician worth their salt will take care of obvious damage. But even they might miss faults that are harder to find, like a cable that’s just begun to fray or a single dead pixel.

Warranties will differ, or you’ll get no warranty

If there’s an issue with your device, a warranty will let you send it in for repairs at no cost. But secondhand-tech warranties have different terms.

Popular refurbished sellers like Back Market offer an automatic 12-month warranty on all sales, with the option to extend it for a fee. But this is different from the official warranty provided by the manufacturer. For example, buying an iPhone on Back Market means that Back Market will handle any issues, not Apple. This doesn’t mean that the warranty is worse; it’s just different.

Used products, meanwhile, generally have a limited warranty known as “buyer protection.” This applies if you buy a product from a user marketplace (like eBay) but it arrives broken or doesn’t match what was listed online. The site you used to make the purchase will issue a refund if you can prove that your issue matches its policy. Individual sellers might have their own refund and return policies too.

The tech might not work at all

This almost entirely applies to used products. If you bought something marked as “refurbished” and it outright doesn’t work, either you got scammed or there’s been a mistake. Either way, you need to contact the seller.

It’s rare that someone would sell something online that’s totally busted, considering how much work it takes to put up a listing, manage payment and ship it out. But some people will throw listings up without checking whether the product still works. If they’re selling lots of items in a bulk purchase—like, say, a box of old video games—this becomes more likely.

Casual marketplaces are big on this, especially if they’re offline. During a yard sale, for example, the seller might just take all the junk from their attic and slap a price tag on it. The goal is to get rid of things, not make the customer happy. That’s how I ended up with a broken camera.

In some cases, the seller might mention that the product is broken … but in extra-small font or in a sentence buried in a larger paragraph. Make sure you read carefully before handing over any money.

What are the best sites to buy used and refurbished tech?

The first thing to know is that refurbished items and used items tend to come from different places. Established companies handle refurbishments, while individual sellers handle used tech. But wherever you go, make sure that you examine the products and the seller carefully before you make a decision. “If a price looks too good to be true,” Athwal says, “it usually is.”

Here are some great places to find both kinds of pre-owned tech.

The best sites to buy refurbished tech

• Back Market: Probably the most popular site for refurbished tech right now, Back Market has a massive catalog ranging from phones to computers to audio equipment and more. It also offers a competitive warranty policy and a thorough refurbishment process.
• Micro Center: With locations throughout the United States, Micro Center is one of the most reliable places to buy refurbished tech. Their repair teams are skilled, and the customer support is top-notch.
• Best Buy: The retail juggernaut offers a wide selection of refurbished tech. When you’re browsing, keep an eye out for the “Geek Squad Certified Refurbished” tag—that means Best Buy’s experts personally handled the repairs instead of a third party. “Communication, support, and complaints procedures are all far harder to navigate when you’re dealing with a third-party seller,” Athwal says.
• Official manufacturer websites: Most major tech brands have an in-house refurbishment team and will sell officially refurbished products for a discount. These include the Apple Certified Refurbished store, the Nintendo refurbished systems page, the Dell Outlet, Sonos Certified Refurbished and more.

The best sites to buy used tech

• eBay: The classic online auction site is still a great place to find used tech. eBay also has a broad buyer-protection policy if you wind up with a dud.
• Mercari: Originally founded in Japan, this viral marketplace offers deals on all sorts of items. Mercari also features a unique buyer-protection policy that holds your payment until the item you bought is delivered and you give it a rating, or three days pass after delivery without a dispute.
• Facebook Marketplace: Meta’s community-based marketplace has become one of the world’s biggest e-commerce platforms. Unlike other sites, it puts more emphasis on in-person transactions; you communicate with a seller online but exchange items offline. However, its popularity also makes it a common shop for scammers. Keep an eye out, and remember that paying in cash means no buyer protections.
• Buy Nothing groups: Facebook is also home to Buy Nothing, a massive collection of local groups where people offer items they don’t want anymore for free—including tech. There are thousands of Buy Nothing groups worldwide, so no matter where you live, chances are that there’s one near you.
• Garage sales: Consider logging off to find a deal. If you live in a suburban area, it’s never hard to find a yard sale. And while flea markets are a great place to meet local artisans, large ones—like Connecticut’s Elephant Flea—also feature tons of used tech.

Is it worth buying used or refurbished tech?

Buying a refurbished item is absolutely worth it. If you’re buying from a legitimate refurbisher (like the ones listed above), there’s an overwhelming chance that you’ll wind up with a great item while saving money at the same time. And used tech can be fantastic, too, though with all the extra risks, it might seem like fool’s gold. “It’s the cheapest phones that are likely going to have all the hidden faults and end up costing you so, so much more in the long run,” Athwal says.

But not all used items are worthless. Personally, the first flatscreen TV my family ever owned was used, and it lasted nearly 10 solid years before giving out; the cigarette-burned PS4 I mentioned earlier might have been ugly, but I still played loads of games on it without any problems.

In either case, you have to be aware of the risks, read the fine print and make sure you’re buying from someone trustworthy.

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Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of articles on personal technology, arming readers with the knowledge to protect themselves against cybersecurity threats and internet scams as well as revealing the best tips, tricks and shortcuts for computers, cellphones, apps, texting, social media and more. For this piece, William Antonelli tapped his experience as a tech journalist to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We rely on credentialed experts with personal experience and know-how as well as primary sources including tech companies, professional organizations and academic institutions. We verify all facts and data and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Steven Athwal, founder and CEO of The Big Phone Store; email interview, June 2026
• CNET: “Nearly Half of U.S. Adults Have Considered Secondhand Tech, CNET Finds. Here’s What’s Motivating Them”
• Apple: “Certified refurbished”
• TechRadar: “‘Phone prices are going up and they’ll keep going up into next year’ — yet another tech CEO says the RAM crisis won’t end soon”

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The post 5 Things to Know About Buying Used or Refurbished Tech to Ensure You’re Actually Getting a Good Deal appeared first on Reader's Digest.

No matter what state I’ve lived in, I’ve dealt with this particular problem. Ants in my kitchen in Virginia. Ants in my bathroom in Washington. What am I doing wrong? While they’re not as worrying as illness-carrying pests like mosquitoes and ticks, I still don’t want to share my home or my food with them.

Well, according to Laurel Hansen, PhD, a certified ant biology expert, I am indeed making one huge mistake that’s causing an entire ant army to invade my home on the regular—and you’re probably doing the same thing. Read on to find out the common misstep that makes your problem worse, what to do instead and how to prevent ants from getting in your house in the first place.

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What’s the common mistake you’re probably making with ants?

Squishing them!

And there’s a scientific reason for this: When you squish an ant, it releases pheromones that signal to members of its colony that they should retrieve its body or mount an attack on a threat. Hansen told us that ants “are very fastidious, so they keep their nest very clean and they keep their trails clean.” Because of this, they don’t let a dead member of the colony remain near one of their pheromone trails. When they get the distress signal via pheromones, worker ants quickly assemble and remove the body.

So what starts as a tangle with a single ant can often result in what looks like a swarm of ants, with many, many more gathering at the site of the squishing.

Just how bad can things get?

Really bad, really fast! Depending on the type of ant, they can perceive pheromone distress signals from up to several centimeters away. That may not seem like a lot, but it’s more than sufficient to cause big problems. If that army of ants shows up quickly, it means the colony’s location is likely nearby. As ants follow their previously laid-down pheromone trails, they may encounter the distress or death pheromone. When this happens, the workers start producing their own pheromones, which attract more ants down the pheromone line, and so it goes until you have an ant swarm.

According to researchers at Vanderbilt University, ants’ sense of smell is much more high-def than other insects‘, making them especially good at this. And although a distress pheromone can’t travel very far on its own, the wind can help it reach a colony at farther distances. Plus, as the ant starts to decompose, its body releases oleic acid, which is more potent and can last longer than the distress pheromones.

The number of ants that may arrive depends entirely on the species. Some species may send a couple of workers, while others—like fire ants—can swarm into the thousands. Which is … not good!

What should you do instead of squishing that ant?

If you see a single ant in your home and are inclined to save a life, it’s worth removing it from the home and setting it a safe distance away so it can’t immediately re-enter. However, if you see more than one ant in an area where either food or water is available, odds are that you need to take more aggressive preventative and reactive measures to deal with their numbers.

And if you do squash one or two, here’s your plan of attack.

Prepare for the masses with an insecticide

Ants are drawn to moisture, so an insecticide that uses a boric acid, sugar and water combination—like Terro—is a good choice if you’ve squashed an ant and are preparing for the colony to arrive. Terro doesn’t kill ants on contact. Instead, it works slowly. Worker ants consume it wherever you’ve laid it down and then take it back to the nest, where they share it with the queen and larvae. Because odorous house ants—like the tiny little “sugar ants” that invade so many kitchens and may emit a musty odor when squished—can have many colonies with multiple queens, eliminating multiple colonies at a time is the most effective strategy.

Before putting down any chemicals, especially ones with boric acid, make sure to read all label instructions. Also keep the bait traps out of reach of children and pets.

Terro

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Block entry points

If it’s possible to see where ants are entering your home, do your best to stop them. Hansen suggests preventative measures such as trying “to plug up areas [and] remove vegetation from around the home.”

Wipe away as many trails as you can see

Here’s the tricky part: Humans can’t actually see ant pheromone trails, so it’s not possible to completely eliminate them on sight. But it doesn’t hurt, Hansen says, to wipe down any areas where you’ve seen ants with lemon juice or vinegar. This will throw ants off their own trails. Smart!

How else can you keep your home ant-free?

There are a few tactics, but the most important one is surprising because it has nothing to do with food. According to Hansen, “there should be no vegetation touching a structure, either on the roof or the sides or on the foundation, because those are all entry points.” So if your home has trees, shrubs, flowers or other types of vegetation that directly touch its walls, consider removing (or moving) those as a first step.

In addition, you should:

• Keep all surfaces clean and food-free.
• Plug any visible holes that could serve as entry points for ants. These include holes or openings along windows, doors and baseboards, as well as any points of entry along ceilings.
• Do your best to wipe down visible pheromone trails when you do encounter ants, cleansing surfaces with lemon juice and/or white vinegar.
• Eliminate obvious sources of moisture around your home. “Firewood laying on the ground is not a good idea, or planks laying on the ground,” Hansen says, “so clean up all that and any wood debris next to the structure.” That ounce of protection can save you a ton of grief from an army of ants!

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Laurel Hansen, PhD, entomologist, ant biology specialist and professor at Spokane Falls Community College; phone interview, June 11, 2026
• Vanderbilt University: “Ants have an exceptionally high-def sense of smell”
• Aptive Pest Control: “Why You Shouldn’t Squish Ants”

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The post Don’t Make This Common Mistake with Ants—Or You Could Have a Whole Ant Army Invading Your Home! appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Younger singles are revisiting the dating term that first emerged nearly a decade ago—and thanks to AI and social media, it’s more relevant than ever. And while it’s not as dramatic as catfishing, it can still lead to awkward first dates and the feeling that someone wasn’t entirely honest from the start.

So what is kittenfishing, exactly, and why are Gen Z daters suddenly talking about it again? Read on to find out, as well as learn how to avoid becoming a victim—or accidentally doing it yourself.

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What is kittenfishing?

Kittenfishing is basically the baby version of catfishing. While catfishing refers to someone creating a completely fake online identity, kittenfishing involves telling smaller lies or exaggerating certain details. According to Dictionary.com, kittenfishing is “the act of making oneself appear more desirable in online dating apps, especially through the use of old or edited photos and inflated profile descriptions.”

Even though it may feel like the latest Gen Z slang, the term kittenfishing actually dates back to 2017. The term was coined by the dating app Hinge and popularized by its then–relationship expert Meredith Golden as a way to describe the little white lies people tell on dating apps. Maybe someone adds a couple of inches to their height or says they attended a prestigious university when they really just took a course there. Maybe they shave a few years off their age or use heavily edited photos—or pictures that were taken when they were in high school. That, my friends, is kittenfishing.

Why are Gen Zers rediscovering kittenfishing?

Part of the reason is simple: Gen Z is exhausted. A recent Forbes Health survey found that 79% of Gen Z users have experienced dating-app burnout, with many citing ghosting, misleading profiles and the pressure to constantly maintain an online persona. After years of endless swiping, people are becoming less willing to overlook even small exaggerations.

And unlike when the term was coined in 2017, AI has completely changed the dating landscape. Back then, kittenfishing might have meant using the dog filter on Snapchat (oh, how we miss those days!) or touching up a photo. Today, AI tools can rewrite bios, suggest prompts, generate messages and even enhance or create profile photos with a simple tap.

It also doesn’t help that AI is increasingly being used for every aspect of modern relationships. According to the latest Wingmate survey by Talker Research, 41% of Gen Zers say they’ve used AI to help end a relationship, while others reported using it to draft texts and navigate difficult conversations.

Why do people do this?

Most people kittenfish because they want to make a good first impression. That pressure may be even more pronounced among younger adults, who appear to be increasingly anxious about dating.

According to a 2026 study from Brigham Young University’s Wheatley Institute and the Institute for Family Studies, only about 1 in 3 men and 1 in 5 women between the ages of 22 and 35 said they were confident in their ability to approach a romantic interest. Dating apps can feel competitive, so it’s incredibly tempting to tweak a detail here or there in hopes of getting more matches.

And chances are, you’re guilty of it too—almost everyone has kittenfished to some extent, sometimes accidentally. The photo you think of as “recent” might actually be three years old. And if you Facetune your face or body in photos because you’re not a fan of how you look in a certain pic, you might be falling into kittenfishing territory.

Still, some people take things a little too far, and online daters have plenty of stories to prove it. One Reddit user summed up their disappointment this way: “This just happened to me Saturday. I thought I was getting a young, jovial, tight-bodied man and got a balding, soft and older-looking dude. He had clearly used pictures from way back when. Le sigh!”

Another commenter wrote: “It’s why I prefer to use pictures that are less than 12 months old. I’ve been fooled multiple times by old pictures, as in she looked 27 in the pictures but 45 in real life.”

How can you avoid being kittenfished?

Watch for inconsistencies. Whether you’ve met someone on Tinder, Bumble, Hinge or Instagram, if the photos seem strangely dated, their stories don’t quite add up or they’re weirdly reluctant to video chat or follow you on social media, those can be red flags.

Personally, I always try to get someone’s Instagram or FaceTime with them before agreeing to a first date. And if you want to make sure you’re not accidentally kittenfishing yourself, honesty really is the best policy. Use recent photos. Be truthful about your age, height and interests. And don’t undersell or oversell who you are.

As someone who loves switching up my hairstyle, I also try to include multiple photos of myself in different settings and with different looks. One picture with long hair, one with short hair, one dressed up, one casual. That way, nobody’s shocked when I show up looking slightly different than I did in photo No. 3.

Overall, it’s part of proper dating etiquette, because most people aren’t upset that someone gained weight, changed hairstyles or got older. That’s life. They’re upset because nobody likes feeling tricked.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Dictionary: “Kittenfishing”
• Reddit: “Kittenfishing: The Common Dating Trend You’re Probably (Slightly) Guilty of”
• Institute for Family Studies: “The Dating Recession”
• Forbes: “Forbes Health Survey: 78% Of All Users Report Dating App Burnout”
• Wingmate: “41% of Daters Now Use AI to Break Up: Exclusive Study Shows AI Is the New Third Wheel in Modern Romance”

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The post “Kittenfishing” Is the Latest Dating Term You Need to Know—Here’s What It Means appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Kate Middleton is no stranger to these emotions (or the whispers). The Princess of Wales stepped out this past weekend at Trooping the Colour wearing a blue-and-white dress that immediately called to mind a look made famous by her late mother-in-law. The event, held every June to celebrate the monarch’s birthday, brought together Kate, William and other royals on the Buckingham Palace balcony to watch a parade complete with 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians.

So have you seen both dresses? What do you think? Ahead, we’ll take you through the latest fashion question lingering after the princess’ weekend appearance. Read on to learn whether Kate’s dress this year was a dupe for Diana’s or a loving homage.

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Did Kate wear the same dress as Diana once did?

No, it’s not the same dress, but you’d be forgiven for doing a double take because the two are remarkably similar. Both are double-breasted, light blue Catherine Walker coat dresses with white trim, though the blues are slightly different hues. Kate’s buttons are fabric-covered while Diana’s were not, and the lapel design, pockets and trim differ a bit as well.

Everyone is talking about Kate’s dress mimicking Diana’s Easter 1987 outfit, but there’s another Diana and Catherine Walker combo that might give you déjà vu as well: the light-blue-and-white suit Diana wore on a trip to Delhi, India, in 1992. Though Diana wore a white pleated skirt on that trip, the tailored blue jacket with white piping bears a striking resemblance to Kate’s Trooping the Colour dress.

And since no royal outfit would be complete without a fancy hat, Kate’s choice this year—light blue and white with a wide brim—also seems designed to recall Diana’s similarly styled lids.

What message was Kate sending with this outfit?

We can’t know for sure, but it’s definitely not the first time Kate’s fashion choices have given us Diana flashbacks. In 2022, the princess wore a polka-dot ensemble by Alessandra Rich to the Royal Ascot horse race, a clear nod to the Victor Edelstein dress that Diana wore to the Epsom Derby in 1986.

Speaking of polka dots, both princesses also wore spots when introducing their firstborn sons to the public. In 1982, Diana stepped out with baby William wearing a green polka-dot dress, while Kate sported a similar, if more modern, light-blue look in 2013 when introducing Prince George. Likewise, in 2018, Kate showed off Prince Louis in a red dress with a white collar, mirroring one Diana wore with Prince Harry in 1984.

Royal insiders have long said that William and Kate are aware of Diana’s reputation as a style icon and have hinted that Kate’s outfits are sometimes chosen deliberately with that in mind. “I think we have seen lots of examples where the reference is very intentional, and I think that Kate uses fashion to pay tribute to Diana in a very positive way,” Bethan Holt, the Daily Telegraph‘s fashion news and features director, told People.

In 1997, it was William who suggested that Diana auction her wardrobe off for charity. She did, raising more than $3 million for cancer and AIDS research.

Did Kate’s accessories also have special significance?

Not only did Kate’s dress evoke Diana nostalgia at this year’s Trooping the Colour—her jewelry choices also turned heads. Eagle-eyed royal watchers noticed Kate’s earrings right away: They were the same Cassandra Goad pearl floral burst earrings she first wore in 2018 for Louis’s christening. And earlier this year, the gorgeous earrings showed up again when Kate was on hand for the installation of the new archbishop of Canterbury.

Finally, there’s the bracelet Kate was wearing this weekend: a three-strand pearl stunner that used to be Diana’s. The late princess wore it multiple times in the late 1980s, most famously with a white bejeweled outfit known as her “Elvis” gown, which she wore with the iconic Lover’s Knot tiara.

William gifted the bracelet to his wife after his mom died, and this weekend, Kate wore it with pride. In a sweet twist, William and Kate’s daughter, Princess Charlotte, was wearing what looked to be a replica of the Nigel Milne–designed bracelet as well.

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• Here’s What Kate Middleton Really Thought About Meghan Markle When They First Met

Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of stories on the British royal family, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating facets of the monarchy. We regularly cover topics including the latest royal news, the history and meaning behind time-honored traditions, and the everyday quirks of everyone’s favorite family members, from Queen Elizabeth’s daily snack to Prince William’s confessions about his home life. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• ABC News: “King Charles III, Prince William and Kate, more step out for Trooping the Colour”
• Royal.uk: “What Is Trooping the Colour?”
• Princess Diana Museum: “Sequins Saves Lives”
• People: “Kate Middleton’s Blue Outfit Draws Comparisons to Princess Diana’s Matching Outfit with Young Prince William”
• Today: “Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, honors Princess Diana with her red maternity dress”
• BBC: “Royal Family watch Red Arrows flypast on palace balcony”
• Fox News: “Kate Middleton wears Princess Diana’s pearl bracelet at Trooping the Colour as Charlotte mirrors her mother”
• Town & Country: “Kate Middleton Looks Lovely in a Pair of Sentimental Earrings at Trooping the Colour 2026”

How Queen Elizabeth Got People to Open Up

Which Royal Didn't Like Her Engagement Ring?

What Princess Kate Does in Her Spare Time

The post Did Kate Middleton Wear the Same Outfit as Princess Diana at Trooping the Colour? appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Most of us know to turn off the stove, close the windows and lock the doors. But there’s one simple habit that can make your routine even more reassuring. Not only that, but it can produce something genuinely useful if things go wrong while you’re away. And all it involves is taking a photo.

I spoke with Paul Grattan, a licensed home inspector and security expert who founded Graypoint Strategies, to learn more about the easy step you can take to bring you peace of mind when you leave your home. Read on for what to do and when.

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Which room should you take a picture of before leaving the house?

It turns out the most useful “before you leave” photo isn’t the kitchen, entryway or living room. It’s the bathroom. That might sound surprising at first, but according to Grattan, there’s a practical reason this often-overlooked space deserves attention before you walk out the door.

“People tend to focus on storms, break-ins or things happening from the outside,” Grattan says. “But a lot of the biggest problems start inside the home.” And few rooms concentrate more potential for internal problems than the bathroom.

What issues can you potentially prevent by doing this?

A quick photo will help remedy potential problems before you leave and capture a clear “before” state of the room in case something happens while you’re away. Here are things a simple photograph can help prevent and document:

Water damage

At its core, a bathroom is a network of pressurized water lines, drainage systems, seals and fixtures—all operating behind walls and under floors. When everything works, you barely notice it. When something fails, it can fail quickly.

“It’s wall-to-wall plumbing, and plumbing is where a lot of home disasters begin—especially water damage,” Grattan says.

Insurance hassles

Snapping a photo of your bathroom creates a timestamped record if you ever need to document damage for insurance purposes. By providing a clear reference point for the condition of the space before anything went wrong, your photo can help establish what changed and when.

“If you come home and there’s a leak or a stain that wasn’t there before, you’ve got proof of what the room looked like when you left,” Grattan explains.

Expensive replacements

Bathrooms also tend to hold more value than people realize, Grattan says. Beyond the fixtures themselves, there are often high-end items in constant rotation: electric toothbrushes, hair tools, skin-care devices, cosmetics and small appliances that can be easily overlooked in a rush … and would be expensive to replace if ruined.

Bad habits

Every time you snap a photo, you get a sense of your routine and what would work better next time. Maybe you never noticed that you leave your hair dryer plugged in all day until it’s time to do your nightly skin-care routine. Snapping a photo when you’re leaving could prompt you to develop better, safer habits—and unplug that dryer before you walk out the door.

Which areas of your bathroom should you photograph?

Grattan recommends starting with wide shots and then documenting anything of particular value. And there are a few nonnegotiables in terms of what you should do before snapping that ever-important bathroom photo. Here’s what to focus on:

• The entire bathroom: Snap a photo of the whole room first.
• The toilet and surrounding floor area: Toilets rely on internal mechanisms to regulate water flow. If a float or valve fails, the system can continue trying to refill indefinitely. “If something goes wrong, it may not shut off on its own,” Grattan says. “And that’s where continuous water flow becomes a real problem.”
• The vanity and sink area: Unplug everything on the vanity before you snap a photo. Flat irons, hair dryers and electric toothbrushes are fire hazards.
• Faucets, shower and bathtub: A single dripping faucet can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. If you’re leaving for an extended period, a drip can waste water and run up your bill—or worse, turn into an escalating and damaging leak while you’re away.
• Walls and ceilings: This is useful if you have cracks that develop or leaks that were lurking undetected before you left.
• Electronics and high-value personal items: Expensive gadgets, workout equipment, jewelry and clothing are expensive to replace, and photos can help for insurance claims.
• Cabinets and storage areas: If water or other damage strikes while you’re away, photos of your storage areas can help later.

Other areas of your home to monitor

Laundry rooms and nearby utility areas are other common sources of trouble.

Washing machine hoses remain pressurized even when the machine isn’t running, and over time, those hoses can weaken or fail. “If a hose bursts while you’re away, there’s nothing stopping that water,” Grattan says. “It just keeps going.” For longer trips, he recommends turning off the water supply valves to appliances entirely.

Water heaters are another overlooked risk. If a storage tank fails while a home is empty, the damage can escalate quickly. “You’re talking about 30 to 70 gallons of water released immediately,” Grattan notes. “And if it keeps trying to refill, it just keeps feeding the problem.”

In addition to flooding, hot water can create steam damage in enclosed spaces, leading to lingering moisture, odors and even mold conditions. For added protection, some homeowners install inexpensive water sensors that connect to smartphone apps and alert them to leaks in real time.

How often should you do this?

Taking photos doesn’t need to become part of your everyday exit routine. Instead, it’s most useful anytime you’re leaving for more than 24 hours or anytime you’ll be out of the house long enough that you wouldn’t immediately notice a developing problem.

“I always tell people to take photos or, even better, do a quick video walkthrough,” Grattan says. “A video catches things you might not think to photograph, like subtle leaks, sounds from appliances or the general condition of the space. It gives you a fuller picture if you ever need to compare later.”

Ideally, your photos or videos should live in a dedicated album on your phone—something like “Home Before Trips”—so they’re easy to find if needed, rather than buried in a camera roll. It takes less than a minute. If nothing goes wrong, it’s forgotten instantly. And if something does, it may be one of the most useful photos you’ve ever taken.

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• Warning! If You Have a Dog, He Can Actually Start a Fire by Doing This

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Paul Grattan, licensed home inspector and emergency preparedness consultant with Graypoint Strategies; email interview, June 2026
• EPA: “Fix a Leak Week”

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This Easy Household Test Could Save Your Life

The post Always Take a Picture of This Room Before Leaving the House (Hint: It’s Not the One You Probably Think!) appeared first on Reader's Digest.

For help explaining these out-of-the-box baby names, we turned to Rebekah Wahlberg, a specialist on the topic at BabyCenter, who notes these mid-year groupings differ a bit from what was predicted when 2026 began. Back then, NBA stars, Cowboy Carter and Francis (the Pope) variations, among others, were trending for baby names. Still, in both cases, “pop culture is prevalent—it always has our attention,” she explains. “As such, it holds a significant amount of front-of-mind real estate in people’s consciousness, so it makes sense that what parents are watching and listening to plays a big role in their baby-name choices.”

Ready to find out the biggest naming trends of 2026 so far? Read on!

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How did BabyCenter determine 2026’s biggest naming trends?

BabyCenter determined 2026’s biggest naming trends by relying on extensive name data provided by parents who use the site and app. Over the past 20 years, hundreds of thousands of new moms and dads have volunteered their wee ones’ names in real time, allowing BabyCenter to quickly tap into the zeitgeist to report on the monikers that are soaring and ones that may be headed to the dustbin.

What are the big baby-name trends of 2026 so far?

Along with the world of entertainment, a longing for the past is part of the big baby-name trends of 2026. “Pop culture presents parents with names they might never have previously considered, or it reconnects them with nostalgic names from their youth that had slipped from their minds but held a spot in their hearts,” Wahlberg explains.

Here’s what you need to know about each trend.

KPop Demon Hunters

It seems there’s no stopping this animated sensation from Korea about a K-pop girl group that secretly fights bad guys to save the world. Just as boy bands were a hit in previous years, now it’s all about KPop Demon Hunters, says Wahlberg. This phenomenon is trending big-time among new parents, who are choosing the movie’s character names (Rumi, Zoey) and those of the voice actors, like Arden (Cho), who sings Rumi’s part.

“This KPop Demon Hunters moment is closely tied to the success of other Korean entertainment exports that we’re seeing thrive in the United States—think: 2019’s Parasite, Netflix’s Squid Game and music groups like BTS and Blackpink,” Wahlberg says.

Underlining the K-pop popularity are the huge strides made by the leading girl’s name Rumi, which jumped an incredible 714 spots. These are the top KPop Demon Hunters–inspired names:

• Rumi
• Arden
• Zoey
• Rei
• Jinu
• Celine

The Year of the Fire Horse

There’s even more international flair this year, as 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse on the Chinese zodiac calendar. Names that mean fire or light or that evoke energy are on the upswing. “Zodiac, astrology and star signs are huge influences for parents,” says Wahlberg. “It’s fun to see that play out in a more literal way with these fire-associated names.”

Elio, which means sun or sunlight, is up 111 spots. Here are the zodiac-inspired names trending in 2026:

• Phoenix
• Apollo
• Elio
• Ember
• Sol
• Blaze
• Marisol

Y2K nostalgia from the small screen

Streaming a favorite show from one’s youth and then picking a name from it is a cozy way to revisit the past. And new parents are proving again that “pop culture leaves its stamp on baby names,” says Wahlberg. Among the shows providing ideas right now are Friends (Ross soared 756 places!), High School Musical, Malcolm in the Middle, Scrubs and Grey’s Anatomy, which saw the name Arizona climb a whopping 584 spots.

• Monica
• Ross
• Gabriella
• Troy
• Zeke
• Carla
• Reese
• Lois
• Callie
• Derek
• Miranda
• Arizona

Whisper-soft names

Baby names with quiet vowels and consonants make sense, as weary parents are constantly trying to softly shush their little ones to sleep. This age-old issue dovetails nicely with this trend that focuses on names with the letters S, F, M, N, L and R, which don’t have a hard stop when vocalized. One in particular, Milo, has cracked the top 100 for the first time, jumping 37 spots to land at No. 93 in 2026.

Check out some more of these (shh, quiet!) baby names:

• Milo
• Zamir
• Alonso
• Amos
• Lennon
• Solana
• Rhea
• Rosalina
• Aura
• Ines
• Ariel

Which trends are on their way out?

Alas, there’s always a trend or two that’s on the way out, and this time around, it’s girl names that begin with “Ad-” (Adele, for example, dropped 343 places to No. 1,211). Although it’s hard to pin down exactly why a set of names falls out of favor, Wahlberg posits that “the sound in [these] girl names may feel dated for parents today.” On the boys’ side, names ending with “-aden” have been dropping in popularity since 2024, she adds.

Here are the “Ad-” girl monikers that are cooling off in mid-2026:

• Adele
• Ada
• Adelyn
• Adalee
• Adira
• Adilene
• Adina
• Adhara

RELATED:

• A New Royal Baby Is on the Way! Here’s Who’s Expecting—And When We Can Expect the Cute Addition
• You Won’t Believe How Much a Babysitter Costs Right Now—How Do Your Area’s Rates Compare?
• It Costs *What* to Raise a Child in 2026?! (And This Doesn’t Even Include College!)

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Rebekah Wahlberg, specialist in baby-name trends at BabyCenter; interviewed, June 2026
• BabyCenter: “The biggest baby name trends of 2026 so far”

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This Baby-Naming Trend Flips the Script

Baby Names for the Season of Rebirth

The post From <i>KPop Demon Hunters</i> to Serious TV Nostalgia, These Are the Biggest Baby-Name Trends of 2026 So Far appeared first on Reader's Digest.

I tried everything: cooling sheets, blankets, you name it. While they worked fine for the non-summer months, they did nothing for me in sweltering temperatures. Eventually, I began looking at proper bed cooling systems. One specific product, known as the Sleep.me Chilipad, caught my eye. The prospect of lying on a network of cooling water tunnels sounded like something out of science fiction, but I was willing to try anything by that point.

And folks, I’m so glad I made the leap. Here’s my experience testing the Chilipad—and why I’m a customer for life.

We Tried It

Chilipad 2.0 Bed Cooling System

Using a water-filled hydrolayer, the Chilipad sleep system ensures sleepers stay cool throughout the night.

Shop on Sleep.me

What is the Chilipad?

Formerly called the Chilipad Dock Pro, the Chilipad 2.0 is a clever solution for overheated snoozers. The Chilipad comes in several parts, including a dock (which looks a bit like our family projector), hose, mattress cover and—the pièce de résistance—the hydrolayer insert.

Together, these pieces connect to create a mattress topper. The topper contains a network of cooling water channels, and these channels pull the heat from your body to the water. Then, the water is pumped back into the dock to cool down, where it’s then recycled back into the hydrolayer for further cooling magic.

How we tested it

I originally tested the original Chilipad Dock Pro in the summer of 2025. Recently, I received the Chilipad 2.0, which is the newest generation of Sleep.me’s bed cooling system. The operation is largely the same, though the 2.0 offers a few new bells and whistles compared to the original Dock Pro. For this piece, I’ll focus on the 2.0, since the Dock Pro is currently being phased out.

When I first unpacked the Chilipad, I was a little intimidated by all the connectors and gizmos. However, running it for the first time is surprisingly easy, especially using the included guide. Here are the basic steps:

1. Strip your bed of everything, including mattress protectors
2. Tuck the mattress cover over the mattress and unzip it
3. Fit the hydrolayer inside
4. Fasten the clips on the top and bottom of both the hydrolayer and mattress protector so both stay securely in place
5. Locate the water hose opening in the mattress cover and feed the hose through
6. Connect both ends of the hose to the hydrolayer and dock
7. Zip up the cover and make the bed
8. Plug the dock’s power cord into an electrical outlet
9. Plug the remote dial into an electrical outlet
10. Power on the dock and the dial

From there, the dock screen will prompt you to add a full packet of system cleaner and distilled water until the ‘low water’ icon disappears.

Once set up, I turned the remote dial to my preferred 73ºF. The dock immediately gets to work cooling the water and pumping it into the hydrolayer. While it’s not entirely silent, the noise level is low enough not to disturb me as I sleep. However, both the dock and hydrolayer pump get noisier when it’s about time to add more water.

You know that wonderful feeling when you slip between two cold sheets? Having the Chilipad is like enjoying that feeling all night long. It takes a night or two to get used to the sensation of the water moving below you, but after some adjustment, I found it rather soothing.

I used my original Chilipad Dock Pro throughout last summer, and my new Chilipad 2.0 nearly every single night during the last month. Incredibly, I haven’t had a single night sweat while using this device. During some chillier summer nights I have tried sleeping without my Chilipad turned on. But I ended up humbled each time by sweaty pajamas. For me, the Chilipad is absolutely essential for a good night’s sleep.

Cleaning

Each Chilipad comes with several packages of system cleaner to get you started. Overall, the device is also surprisingly low maintenance. I top it up with distilled water when the low water icon appears on the dock. Every month, just add a packet of system cleaner to keep bacteria at bay. You’ll also want to “deep clean” the dock by draining and refilling it every three to six months.

Pros

• Provides instant relief for hot sleepers
• Super easy to use and install
• No subscription required
• With the remote, you don’t need the app (but it’s nice to have)
• The two-layer system offers a built-in mattress protector
• 2-year warranty included (with an optional 3-year protection plan)

Cons

• Not loud, but also not silent
• Pricey—especially for full bed systems
• Requires space for the dock

Original Chilipad Dock Pro

The newest Chilipad 2.0 version offers a mattress protector, a longer warranty and a bedside “remote,” which are the biggest changes since the Dock Pro. These small adjustments make a big impact on the overall experience. The Dock Pro’s hydrolayer has a built-in cover, rather than the 2.0’s zipped full bed protector. Two elastic bands run from the top of the hydrolayer to the bottom and slide under the mattress, keeping everything in place. While functional, it does move around more than the new version, which clips securely into place inside of the mattress protector.

With the new remote dial, there’s no need to fire up your app for temperature changes. The mattress protector creates a comfortable layer between you and the hydrolayer. It also allows for better adjustment to a variety of mattress heights thanks to adjustable clips on the top and bottom. This thicker layer gives me more peace of mind against any punctures or leaks that could occur. That said, I still don’t let my cats onto the bed in case they pierce the Chilipad with their claws.

Long-term testing

While I’m still in the process of testing the new Chilipad 2.0 long term, the original Chilipad Dock Pro I used last summer still works well. I set it up on my husband’s side of the bed and everything still runs smoothly, even after six months of storage. It just required a new packet of system cleaner to get up and running.

That said, storage isn’t super straightforward if you plan on packing it up between seasons. First, you have to drain the machine, lest water and bacteria harm the interior of the dock. Not only do you then have to store the pad (which is already quite difficult), but you also have to find space to store the unit itself. And the unit is pretty sizable and heavy, so it requires a dedicated space.

Going forward, I plan on keeping both Chilipads on our bed year-round. While I won’t use mine much in the winter, my husband gets cold very easily and plans on using the original Dock Pro to keep his side of the bed warm.

Product comparison: Chilipad vs. Bedjet vs. Eight Sleep

Our product testers have also tried the Eight Sleep Pod 3 (there’s now a fifth generation) and the Eight Sleep mattress Pod Cover, along with the Bedjet cooling system. While these options all work well, there are many key differences between them. Here’s how they compare at a glance:

• The Bedjet, unlike Eight Sleep and the Chilipad, uses air rather than water for cooling
• The Bedjet is the most budget-friendly, but also the noisiest
• Eight Sleep products require a monthly subscription to access all the features—they’re also the priciest option
• While there’s an app for both the Bedjet and Chilipad, they’re not required for use
• Unlike Chilipad and Bedjet, Eight Sleep’s cooling systems also come with trackers to gather sleep data
• All options have a clunky dock that might not fit under the bed

Final verdict

As someone who suffers from night sweats, being able to sleep peacefully throughout the night isn’t just nice—it’s transformative. The relief I get from my Chilipad has genuinely improved my quality of life. Yes, I get more sleep on average now, but according to my sleep tracker it’s also better quality sleep. Waking up refreshed rather than sluggishly pulling myself out of bed each morning affects my whole day in a positive way. And the best part? There’s no monthly subscription needed!

If you find yourself tossing and turning from an overly warm bed, splurging on a bed cooling system like the Chilipad makes a night and day difference. Sure, it’s pricey, but the improvement in sleep quality is absolutely priceless. Plus, it makes for a much cleaner and less stressful sleep environment. I am not exaggerating when I say that I used to wash my sheets every night. Since using the Chilipad, I’ve had zero instances of night sweats. Zero!

Where to buy the Chilipad

We Tried It

Chilipad 2.0 Bed Cooling System

For folks with frequent night sweats, the Chilipad 2.0 is like having a personal air conditioner for your mattress.

Shop on Sleep.me

If you want to say goodbye to the night sweats for good, the Chilipad 2.0 and Dock Pro are both available on Sleep.me’s website. The 2.0 bundle—which includes the remote, dock, hydrolayer and mattress cover—retails for $1,500 to $1,800 for a single side, depending on the size of the bed. While pricey (especially for those who require full bed coverage for a second sleeper), the lack of a subscription model means that you only have to pay a single flat fee for all the features.

While you can still snag the Dock Pro at a slight discount, it’s currently being phased out, so I recommend investing in the newer version for the best experience.

FAQ

Does Chilipad really work?

After testing the Chilipad over last summer and into this summer, I can happily report that it does indeed work!

Is Eight Sleep better than Chilipad?

Whether one bed cooling system is better than another largely depends on your personal preferences. We’ve tested both Eight Sleep and Chilipad and find them both useful tools for managing night sweats.

Does Chilipad require a subscription?

Nope! Chilipad is one of the only bed cooling systems that doesn’t require a monthly subscription. While you can download the companion app, it isn’t required.

Do I need distilled water for the Chilipad?

Yes, you need to use distilled water in the Chilipad.

Why you should trust us

As a Shopping Editor at Reader’s Digest, Taste of Home and Family Handyman, value is always my top priority. I know better than anyone that not all products deliver on their promises. That’s why I tested my Chilipad for a year in my own home before drafting up this review. I’m also a hot sleeper—and I’ve tried everything to fix it. After having used both the original Chilipad Dock Pro and the new Chilipad 2.0, I can safely say that the brand offers some seriously solid bed cooling systems for folks like me.

The post Chilipad Review: This Smart Bed Cooling System Is My Secret to Deep Sleep in Summer appeared first on Reader's Digest.

If you’re anything like us, you’re already planning your purchases ahead of the June 16 launch. Like the rest of the Jellycat family, these nature-inspired pals look positively cozy to cuddle—just check out that fuzzy signature fabric!

As with the Summer Jellycat collection, we expect these to sell out fast. If you fall in love with a specific Jelly, plan to pop it in your cart on launch day!

What are the fall Jellycats?

Boasting botanical details, the cuddly critters from the newest fall Jellycat collection are channeling nature. This new crop of Jellies features forest-themed friends like a hiking Bartholomew and a peanut yeti. There’s even a sweet little s’mores duo! We polled our shopping editors for their favorites. Read on to see our top picks!

Without further ado, here’s the full roll call of new Jellies:

• Amuseables Zapperty Lightning Bolt
• Bretti Yeti
• Amuseables S’mores
• Amuseables Mulshi Woodland Floor
• Amuseables Ort & Tum Acorns
• Rockleton
• Bartholomew Bear Hiking Outfit
• Amuseables Peanut Yeti Outfit
• Trixiwoo Raccoon

Our top picks

Bartholomew Bear Hiking Outfit

Shop on Jellycat

When discussing Jellycats, we simply have to mention Bartholomew Bear. His new hiking outfit, comprised of a pair of rugged cargo shorts and a forest-inspired sweater, gives him an adventurous look. We also love that he comes with a backpack that converts into a sleeping bag for snoozing!

Rockleton

Shop on Jellycat

Rockleton is my personal favorite from the new collection. This geo-dude has a sweet, curious face that makes you want to give him a big hug. And—despite his rocky appearance—he’s still as soft and cozy as your other favorite Jellies. Standing at over a foot tall, it’s certainly difficult to miss him as he roams the woods!

Amuseables Ort & Tum Acorns

Shop on Jellycat

“Even though summer just started, I’m already thinking ahead to autumn thanks to these Amuseables Acorns” says resident Jellycat expert and Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski. “This dynamic duo is the perfect symbol for fall, and I love the variety of fabric textures used in their construction. They’re so cute, I could see Ort & Tum making an appearance on my Thanksgiving tablescape!”

Amuseables S'mores

Shop on Jellycat

“I don’t have any Jellycats (yet),” says writer Barbara Zito. “But the s’mores have won my heart. I could totally see this pair of cuties hanging out on my shelf. They’re as sweet as the real thing!”

Amuseables Mulshi Woodland Floor

Shop on Jellycat

“I’m not sure what it is about the Amuseables Mulshi Woodland Floor, but I feel like I have to have it,” says writer Marisa Hillman. “It reminds me of my summer camp days and the collection of nature treasures that made it into my backpack each day.”

Where to buy

As always, you can find the newfall Jellycats directly on the Jellycat website. Most styles will be available starting June 16, but we don’t think they’ll stick around for long! If you fall in love with a specific Jelly, we recommend snagging it as soon as you can.

As always: Be careful of Jellycat knock-offs. Many third-party sellers list faux plush using images of the real deal. If you see a price that is significantly lower than the list price through Jellycat, it’s likely too good to be true.

The post Fall Jellycats Are Coming—And Just Wait Until You See the S’mores! appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Take a recent dinner party where a friend confidently announced that we only use 10% of our brains. Just said it, like it’s a fact. It is not a fact. As a science writer who has covered this topic, I could feel my eye beginning to twitch. This is one of the most thoroughly debunked health myths—brain scans show activity across virtually the entire brain—and yet here it was, being delivered with complete confidence over dessert. I managed to stay quiet for approximately 45 seconds before I could not take it anymore. “Actually,” I said, “I wrote an article about that …” He would not back down, mostly because he was using it to support his theory that we are all living inside a simulation, and as I am firmly Team Science, we came to an awkward impasse. The table went silent.

The stakes aren’t always this high, of course. I have also gotten extremely pedantic correcting a friend who kept misquoting Friends, which, in hindsight, was not my finest hour. And on the flip side, I have absolutely corrected people only to discover, with great humility, that they were right and I was wrong. I’m personally grateful when this happens, as I’d genuinely rather know the truth than walk around confidently incorrect. Some people have the opposite preference, however, and those people are everywhere.

If you’ve spent any time in a social media comments section, you already know how deep this urge to correct runs. Some people have made it their entire personality. And in a “post-truth society,” where it’s getting nearly impossible to differentiate between AI videos of bunnies jumping on a trampoline and real adorable pets, it seems imperative that we help each other out. But where, exactly, is the line? Let’s discuss.

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The case for speaking up

The most obvious argument for correction is that misinformation spreads, takes root and causes actual harm. The American Psychological Association has noted that unchallenged false claims get repeated—and the more a false claim is repeated, the more believable it becomes. It’s a phenomenon known as the illusory truth effect. Eventually, if you say something often enough and loud enough, people believe it’s true. So from this view, letting misinformation slide isn’t polite restraint; it’s potentially complicit.

This applies to the silly stuff too. I love those online threads where people share the ridiculous things they were taught as a child that they believed far into adulthood. For me, it was when my dad told me that the white line divider bumps on the road were there so blind people could drive—you know, like braille for cars. And it didn’t even dawn on me how dumb that was until I said it out loud to a group of work colleagues when I was in my 30s. I still remember the shocked faces of my friends. Not just because I was oh-so-wrong, but because I had apparently graduated college (as the valedictorian, no less) while believing blind people were navigating the interstate via tactile feedback. I was deeply embarrassed but grateful to be corrected. Would you want your friend doing something similar? The secondhand embarrassment alone should motivate us to help each other out.

There are also practical considerations. If someone at work confidently presents incorrect data to leadership, staying quiet to avoid awkwardness could have real consequences. If a friend repeats a medical myth, silence could affect their health decisions. If a loved one’s cherished family story is wrong, it could lead to decades of hurt feelings. Context matters enormously, but so does the subject matter.

There’s also the dignity argument: Correcting someone, done thoughtfully, is actually a form of respect. It treats them as a person capable of handling accurate information, rather than a fragile person who needs to be protected from the truth. And people are often more open to it than you think. Research published in the journal Cognitive Research found that people are generally responsive to factual corrections, and the feared “backfire effect” (where being corrected causes someone to dig in harder) turns out to be far less common than previously thought.

The case against speaking up (and it’s a strong one)

Here’s where things get uncomfortable. Corrections—even accurate ones, even well-intentioned ones—can backfire. And it’s most likely to happen when the correction is addressing things other than clear facts (like feelings), goes against deeply held beliefs, feels condescending, comes from someone the person already distrusts or is delivered when others are watching. Public correction adds a layer of humiliation, and humiliated people rarely say, “You know what? Fair point.”

There’s also the Dunning-Kruger problem on both sides of the equation. Described by psychologists David Dunning and Justin Kruger at Cornell, this is the phenomenon where people who know very little about a subject are blessed with the confidence of a preschooler in an Iron Man costume, while actual experts stay quiet, worrying about all the things they might not know. This leads to a very special kind of argument in which one person has facts, evidence and years of experience, and the other has a YouTube video they half-watched while folding laundry. In these debates, the dumbest person usually wins simply by sheer persistence. So the person you’re correcting may be completely wrong and utterly convinced they’re right.

And here’s the humbling part: so might you. Before opening your mouth, it’s worth a beat of honest self-interrogation. How sure are you, really?

There’s also the social cost. Even when you are right, the act of correcting someone publicly can make you look like you’re prioritizing being right over the feelings of the person you’re with. As Dr. Phil once famously said, “Would you rather be right or be happy?” In group settings, especially, correcting someone can come across as a power move or a performance, or make you look like a know-it-all. As I can personally attest, being correct does not necessarily make you popular.

A few things to consider before you correct

Asking yourself these five questions will help you slow your roll and decide if you should actually utter those fateful words of correction.

1. What is your relationship to the other person? Correcting a close friend is very different than correcting a stranger, an acquaintance, a boss, a date or someone you’ve just met at a dinner party. The closer and more equal the relationship, the more a correction can land as caring rather than condescending (when said in an appropriate way; more on that below). With an acquaintance, the same words can read as an attack. With a boss, the correction can read as insubordination.

2. Is the topic innocuous or heated? Low-stakes factual errors can be overlooked. (Does it really matter what year the movie came out?) Crucial facts without any emotional connection are generally the best received—for example, “The project due date is this coming Friday, not next weekend.”

However, corrections that bump up against someone’s politics, religion or deeply held identity are different territory—not because those beliefs can’t be wrong, but because the social cost of the correction is much higher and the likelihood of success is much lower. You’re not obligated to let dangerous misinformation slide, but know that “I disagree with your take on this political candidate” is not the same thing as correcting a false fact. Spend your social capital wisely.

3. What is your tone? Tone matters more than almost anything else. There’s a world of difference between saying, “Oh, I actually read something different about that” and leading with “You’re completely wrong.” The first invites dialogue; the second invites defensiveness. Framing a correction as a question or as your own uncertainty (“Wait, wasn’t it … ?”) tends to land better than a declarative correction, even when you’re 100% certain. This is also, incidentally, the same principle behind talking to someone with an opposing viewpoint without it devolving into an argument: Lead with curiosity, not judgment.

4. Can you google it on the spot? The ability to fact-check people in real time is an incredible power and, like most superpowers, a potentially dangerous weapon. We’ve all been there: Someone says something dubious, and you have a device in your pocket that can resolve the dispute in 11 seconds. Whether it’s OK to pull it out depends entirely on the relationship and the vibe. Between close friends who do this all the time, it’s fine, even fun. On a first date, whipping out your phone to fact-check mid-sentence can have the other person frantically signaling for the check. Tread lightly.

5. What if you’re the one who’s wrong? This, frankly, is where character is revealed. If you speak up and it turns out you were the incorrect one, you have two options: Dig in (bad), or graciously concede the point (good). “Oh, you’re right! I had that wrong—thank you!” is genuinely one of the most disarming and likable things a person can say. It’s also rare enough that people remember it.

How to correct someone without being a jerk

When you’ve decided a correction is worth making, here’s how to do it and not become the person everyone dreads sitting next to.

• Keep it private when possible. Pulling someone aside after the fact (“Hey, I wanted to mention I think that statistic might be off”) lands much better than correcting them in front of a group. It lets them save face, which people genuinely appreciate.
• Make it about the information, not the person. “I think I read something different about this” is the start of a conversation, not a personal attack.
• Pick your battles. Not every wrong thing needs to be corrected right now, or by you, or even at all. Ask yourself: Does this actually matter? Will correcting it help anyone? Or am I just annoyed that someone said a thing incorrectly? (The answer, if you’re anything like me, is sometimes the third one. But hey, at least we know that about ourselves!)
• Be genuinely open to being wrong yourself. If you’re not willing to concede when you turn out to be incorrect, you don’t actually have the moral authority to correct anyone else.
• Understand what’s really at stake. In public or private settings with high stakes, you have a duty to speak up, even if it’s uncomfortable. When someone is spreading misinformation that could lead to real harm—dangerous medical advice, incorrect safety information or fear-based myths that affect real decisions—staying quiet in the name of social comfort is bad etiquette. You might make an enemy. You might also prevent someone from making a very bad decision. The social rules exist for a reason, but they shouldn’t paralyze you when the situation genuinely warrants action.

The verdict

Correcting someone who’s wrong is not inherently rude, but how you do it determines whether it comes across as helpful or obnoxious. The checklist is simple: Does this actually matter? Are you sure? Are you doing it for the right reason? And can you do it in a way that’s more “by the way” than red-buzzer “INCORRECT”?

The goal isn’t to win. It’s to leave everyone, including yourself, with more accurate information—ideally, with everyone’s dignity left intact. And if someone corrects you? The most gracious thing you can do is listen, consider it and update your view if the evidence warrants it.

Being correctable is more impressive than being right. And knowing when to shut up is—and I say this as someone who let a 10%-of-your-brain comment go exactly 45 seconds before cracking—a vital life skill. One that I am still working on. But hey, interrupting people after 45 seconds is actually a huge improvement from my childhood. Progress!

Have a social situation you can’t stop ruminating on? Email us at advice@tmbi.com, or message Charlotte on Instagram at @CharlotteHiltonAndersen.

Sources:

• American Psychological Association: “Recommendations for countering misinformation”
• Journal of Personality and Social Psychology: “Unskilled and unaware of it: How difficulties in recognizing one’s own incompetence lead to inflated self-assessments”
• Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications: “Examining the replicability of backfire effects after standalone corrections”
• Nature Reviews Psychology: “The psychological drivers of misinformation belief and its resistance to correction”

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The post Is It Really Rude to Correct Someone Who’s Wrong? appeared first on Reader's Digest.

What’s up for sale this month is a jersey that belonged to an absolute legend—not just of his game, but of all sports and all time. When I was a kid, my buddy had a poster of him on his bedroom wall. As an athlete myself (albeit a little lacking in the discipline, let alone talent, to make it to the bigs), I looked at it all the time, wondering how someone so young could be such a huge star.

Who is this mystery person, what did he accomplish and why is his jersey expected to fetch that astronomical price at auction? Read on to find out all the details, and get that checkbook out—this one’s going to sell fast.

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Which jersey is heading to the auction block?

It’s Pelé’s 1958 World Cup final jersey, which the 17-year-old Brazilian soccer phenom wore during a thrilling match against Sweden. He scored two goals in the match and still holds the record for the youngest player to compete and score in a World Cup final.

Pelé, whose given name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, also holds the record for the most goals scored by a footballer in his career. Between 1956 and 1977, Pelé scored 1,279 goals in 1,363 games, according to Guinness World Records. And the 1958 Brazil-Sweden match was one for the ages.

After the final, the beloved soccer star gave the jersey to his teammate, Edvaldo Alves Santa Rosa (known as Dida), whose family held on to it until 1993, when they donated it to a museum. The museum sold it in 2004 for just $105,000, so the estimated auction price of $6 million is quite the upgrade for the famous jersey!

Will this be the highest-priced soccer item ever sold?

Not just yet. The record for the highest-priced piece of soccer memorabilia goes to another blue jersey, this one worn by Argentina’s Diego Maradona in a 1986 World Cup quarter-final. Called the “Hand of God” shirt because Maradona was accused (rightly) by England of using his hand to score the first of his two goals during that game, the legendary jersey sold for nearly $9 million in 2022.

But Pelé’s 1958 World Cup final jersey could give Maradona’s a run for its money. World Cup fever is high right now, and other Pelé memorabilia routinely sells in the millions of dollars. One of his 1958 trading cards sold in 2022 for $1.33 million, and an auction lot of 2,000 Pelé items sold in 2016 for more than $4 million.

How does this compare to other sports memorabilia?

Pelé and Maradona are bona fide soccer legends, but so far, no piece of sports memorabilia has come close to the current record holder: Babe Ruth’s famous “Called Shot” jersey that he wore in the 1932 World Series. That sold in 2024 for an unbelievable $24 million.

Next on the most-expensive list is Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals Game 1 jersey, which sold for more than $10 million in 2022. The iconic red and black Chicago Bulls kit is known as the “Last Dance” jersey because it was featured heavily in an ESPN documentary of the same name.

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali’s famous “Rumble in the Jungle” championship belt, which he won for besting George Foreman in a 1974 fight in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo, also sold in 2022 for $6.2 million. This bout was a major comeback for Ali, who had previously been barred from boxing for refusing to fight in the Vietnam War.

If you have a cool $6 million, how can you get your hands on Pelé’s jersey?

Sure, it’s possible you have $6 million lying around, and we are here to help you spend it. Sotheby’s will be holding the auction for this iconic jersey; bidding starts on June 29 and ends on July 16, three days before the 2026 World Cup final. If you’re in the market for a piece of sports history (of course you are!), you can register to bid at Sotheby’s. But be aware: You’ll have to prove you have the financial means to bid, so have that bank account information ready.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• New York Times: “Pelé’s 1958 World Cup final shirt going to auction with estimated value over $6 million”
• Sotheby’s: “Pele 1958 FIFA World Cup Final Championship Clinching Match Worn Shirt | Two Goals | Brazil’s First World Cup Championship”
• Guinness World Records: “Most expensive football (soccer) shirt sold at auction”
• Guinness World Records: “Most career goals (football)”
• FIFA: “Maradona, England and The Hand of God”
• CNN: “Muhammad Ali’s WBC ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ belt bought for $6.18 million by Indianapolis Colts owner”
• Cllct: “Top 10 most expensive pieces of sports memorabilia ever sold”

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The post Would You Pay $6 Million for This Famous Jersey? Here’s What Has Sports Fans Salivating Right Now appeared first on Reader's Digest.

No. I was just experiencing one of the most common and most casually accepted little fashion quirks: the fact that buttons and zippers are on opposite sides depending on whether the clothing is designed for men or women. I don’t know how, in all my years of dressing myself, I’d never noticed it before. Men’s buttons and zippers go on the right side; women’s go on the left. It’s so standard that we rarely think to ask why or even notice it, and yet once you start pulling on that thread, you end up in a surprisingly interesting tangle of history, class politics, military strategy and fragile emperor egos.

Buckle up, and let’s dive into the details. (The buckle, for what it’s worth, can go on either side, regardless of your gender.)

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Have buttons and zippers always been like this?

Not exactly—this isn’t ancient history. Buttons themselves date back to around 2800 BCE, but the gendered side placement is much more recent. According to fashion historian and author Robert Ossant, “most button clothing design became standardized in the late 19th century, when we shifted from all clothing being bespoke to the modern system of production.” Before that, clothing was made to measure for individuals, and any rules about placement were more informal traditions set by the tailoring houses of London and Paris. John Smith, a fellow fashion historian and the vice president of fashion design at Poshéle, traces the convention to the 17th and 18th centuries, when tailors began systematically applying it to their clientele.

As for zippers, they weren’t invented until the beginning of the 20th century. Elias Howe patented an early “Automatic, Continuous Clothing Closure” in 1851, but the modern zipper wasn’t perfected until Gideon Sundback did it in the early 1900s. They weren’t common in clothing, however, until the 1930s. By then, Ossant says, the gendered button convention was already so established that zippers simply inherited it: “The convention of right over left for the concealing flap reflected the button style for womenswear, and the opposite for zips used in menswear.”

Why are buttons and zippers on different sides for men and women?

The short answer: class, convenience and a few centuries of deeply entrenched habit. The longer answer involves a remarkable number of things that have nothing to do with buttons or zippers.

Men needed quick access—to weapons

For men, the logic was entirely practical. Right-handed men (and about 90% of the population is right-handed) could more easily grip and manipulate a button or zipper when it was positioned on the right. This was especially important for soldiers and armed men who needed to quickly reach inside their coats for weapons. (Which apparently happened a lot back in the day?) Having the dominant hand control the buttons—holding the button between the thumb and forefinger and pushing it through—was simply more efficient. And the same logic applied to the button or zipper placement on pants, but for, ahem, a different type of quick release.

Wealthy women had someone to dress them

Here’s where it gets classist and sexist. Wealthy women of the 17th and 18th centuries didn’t dress themselves; they had ladies’ maids and servants to do it for them. A servant facing her mistress would be using her own right hand to manipulate the buttons, which meant the buttons needed to be on the left side of the garment. “It was largely a class and practicality distinction rather than a purely aesthetic one,” says Smith. In other words, the entire reason women’s clothing is designed the way it is was to make it easier for someone else to do the buttoning.

Ossant describes women’s clothing of the time as “more complicated, with lace-up undergarments, corsets, petticoats, added in ever more restrictive layers, so having someone help was essential.” The seamstresses who made these garments followed instructions to the letter. “[They] would never interfere with a design and change the placement,” Ossant says. “This would ruin the entire design.”

There’s also a breastfeeding theory floating around: that left-side buttons allowed nursing mothers to more easily open their tops while holding an infant in their dominant right arm. While it’s plausible, as a mom who nursed babies for nearly a decade, I’m side-eyeing this one. You need to breastfeed on both sides or you will become painfully engorged (and lopsided), and most women alternate which side they start with, so button placement is a moot point. Also, I preferred to hold my baby in my left hand so my right (dominant) hand was free.

Horseback riding may have played a role

“One of my favorite alternative theories is that the buttons were placed on the left due to how the wind passed over a woman’s body while riding sidesaddle,” Ossant says, explaining that women typically placed both their legs over the left side of the horse, so as they rode forward, the wind would pull open a blouse that opened to the right. “So some believe the placket (the fabric with the buttonholes) and buttons were swapped to ensure a woman riding sidesaddle on a horse didn’t have to worry about the wind blowing open her clothing,” he says. I feel like romance writers could really do a lot with this idea.

And then there’s Napoleon

If you prefer your history with a side of drama, Ossant offers another one of his favorite (if admittedly far-fetched) alternative theories: “Napoleon was alleged to have been enraged by women mocking his ‘right arm tucked in shirt’ look and ordered that women’s clothing was reversed so they could no longer mock him.”

Is this true? Probably not. Is it delightful? Absolutely.

Mass manufacturing locked it all in

Whatever the origins, the Industrial Revolution cemented these conventions permanently. When clothing shifted from bespoke to mass-produced in the late 19th century, factories needed clear, repeatable rules and patterns. “This came on the back of European-wide uniform standardization to make armies more efficient,” Ossant explains. “The fashion industry simply copied.”

Once those rules were built into the machines, the die was cast—literally.

OK, fine, but why is clothing still like that?

The honest answer is habit … and also the remarkable human capacity to not notice something until it’s pointed out. (Guilty!) “We have kept the gendered closure system mostly because people are used to it,” Ossant says. “It’s something most people don’t notice until it’s flipped, and then they’re confused.”

Smith adds a practical component as well. “Retooling production lines costs money,” he explains, “and as long as the majority of consumers aren’t actively complaining, brands have little financial incentive to change.”

There’s also a brand-identity element, particularly in outerwear. “The placement of a zipper or a set of buttons is part of the garment’s signature,” Smith explains. “Think of iconic motorcycle jackets: The asymmetric off-center zip is as recognizable as any logo. Changing it would feel like altering the product’s DNA.”

Design schools further reinforce the tradition. Both experts confirm that button and zipper placement is taught as a technical standard in garment construction curricula. “Design schools teach the established gendered method for inserting zip closures or button-up fronts because this is now an established norm and what people expect,” says Ossant, who adds a personal anecdote. He owns a man’s shirt that accidentally had its button closure made the “wrong” way. “Every time I put it on, it proves a little difficult because we are so used to the standard way assigned to our genders,” he says. So if even a fashion professional with full knowledge of the convention trips up, the rest of us never had a chance.

Is one side easier than the other to button and zip?

Yes, and this is the part where women discover they’ve been getting a raw deal their entire lives. Right-handed people will find men’s button placement more intuitive: The dominant right hand holds and guides the button, while the left hand holds the placket. For women’s clothing, that dynamic is reversed, meaning right-handed women are working slightly against their natural dexterity every single time they get dressed.

“The advantage of the historical system was ergonomics,” Smith says. “Each garment was optimized for who was fastening it and how.” And, essentially, women’s clothing was optimized for a right-handed servant, not the right-handed woman wearing it.

Left-handed people get their own version of this frustration, and they tend to find women’s garments slightly more intuitive by the same logic. And with zippers, Smith notes, the direction of the zip track matters enormously for comfort and ease. “A stiff or awkwardly placed zip on a structured leather garment is genuinely frustrating to use, especially when the leather is new and hasn’t yet broken in.”

Meanwhile, right-handed women have simply adapted. “It’s just another annoying inconvenience women face in everyday life,” Ossant says, in what may be the most understated sentence ever written about fashion history. This particular quirk may not rise to the level of the famous pocket disparity in women’s clothing, but it’s very much in the same family.

Will this fashion quirk ever change?

Slowly, yes. Ossant predicts that “more clothing [will be] designed as unisex and serve the 90% dominant right-handed population.” Smith is similarly optimistic: “We’re already seeing it in the market. High-end designers and outerwear brands are increasingly offering styles with centered zips, reversible closures or explicitly gender-neutral hardware placement.”

Major fashion houses, including Gucci and Stella McCartney, have launched gender-neutral or unisex lines, and the category has been growing steadily across the industry. “As consumers become more vocal about wanting clothing that fits how they actually live rather than how tradition dictates, the industry will follow,” Smith says.

That said, don’t expect to go shopping this weekend and find everything magically flipped. The machines that make the garments are already built. The patterns are already standardized. Vintage clothing already enforces this standard. And a significant portion of the population has spent decades internalizing which way to reach. As Ossant candidly says: “Men have never and would never have been inconvenienced. Whereas right-handed women have had to put up with a lifetime of it being slightly inconvenient, followed by an era of having to get used to flipping.”

So my confusion when I grabbed my husband’s shirt is not some kind of adulting failure. It is the result of several centuries of servants, soldiers, industrial machinery and possibly one very petty Napoleon. But progress is coming. In the meantime, take comfort in the fact that you now have a genuinely interesting thing to say at parties.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• John Smith, fashion historian and vice president of fashion design at Poshéle; interviewed, June 5, 2026
• Robert Ossant, fashion historian and author of The Art of Couture Embroidery; interviewed, June 5, 2026
• Smithsonian Libraries and Archives: “The Up and Down History of the Zipper”
• Retail Dive: “Consumers want gender-neutral retail clothing”

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The post Here’s Why Buttons and Zippers Are on Different Sides of Clothing for Men and Women appeared first on Reader's Digest.

I still reread them every few years, and when I moved to Minnesota 25 years ago, one of the first things I did was sign up for a 10-mile race through the Big Woods near Pepin, Wisconsin. As fans know, that’s where Laura and her family lived before the sounds of too many ax swings prompted them to push off in search of a new life.

Well, Half-Pint fans, the long-awaited Netflix reboot of the celebrated classic is finally here, and the trailer just dropped. I admit I felt a twinge of sadness that sweet Michael Landon is no longer with us, and Melissa Gilbert’s feisty little Laura exists only in my memory, but you guys, this reboot looks good!

Read on to learn what we know about the new show, what changes are in store and what people are saying about it.

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What did the trailer reveal?

The trailer sets the scene for the series, which covers the third book (appropriately titled Little House on the Prairie) in the Ingalls-Wilder family saga. It opens with a shot of Ma, Pa, Mary and Laura in a covered wagon (accompanied by Jack, their beloved dog that walked alongside the entire way) and a voiceover that paints a picture of their new life in Kansas: no church, no school, no post office. “It’s so small,” Ma says.

We see scenes of the family settling in to a bustling frontier life: Pa chopping down trees and playing his fiddle, Laura daydreaming among the tall grass and plenty of clashes (and community) among the townspeople. There are also glimpses of storylines to come, including one that hints at a deeper dive into conflicts with Native American tribes—something that the books and original show have been criticized for glossing over.

What do we know about the series so far?

The first season will follow the Ingalls as they set up outside of Independence, Kansas. “It’s about people deciding who they want to be, and it’s about people looking for a better life,” showrunner Rebecca Sonnenshine told Netflix. “It leans into the idea that it’s never too late to do that.” The series stars Crosby Fitzgerald as Caroline (Ma), Luke Bracey as Charles (Pa), Skywalker Hughes as Mary, and Alice Halsey as Laura.

But Sonnenshine said the series will go deeper than the original books and show, bringing in perspectives beyond Laura’s and getting to know the people who already inhabit the “free” land the Ingalls family is homesteading. The show partnered with Osage scholar and University of Kansas professor Robert Warrior to make sure their stories are told accurately and realistically.

We will be “seeing them as husbands and wives and mothers and cousins and sisters,” not just as background characters. “They had one foot, some of them, in this world of America that sprung up around them and a foot in their own culture,” Sonnenshine said. “I feel like that is very relatable for lots of people.”

How closely will it stick to the original series?

It sounds like it will be thematically similar but with key changes. We will see the Ingalls’s family life, just like in the original series, as well as the perils of life on the prairie, including fires, fevers and wild animals. But the focus will expand beyond the homestead. “It was very important that we have a family to mirror our Ingalls family,” Sonnenshine said. “A family that was also trying to figure out what the best future for them was and what that future looks like.”

That mirror will be an Osage family, consisting of father Mitchell (Meegwun Fairbrother), mother White Sun (Alyssa Wapanatâhk) and daughter Good Eagle (Wren Zhawenim Gotts). “If you’re going to tell the story, then you need to tell both sides,” she told Netflix. Season 1 will tackle issues like predatory land deals, Indian removal treaties and the railroads that will soon cut through Osage lands.

But Sonnenshine is quick to point out that it’s not all heavy political issues and emotional drama. “All those things were interesting to portray with these characters who are so funny,” Sonnenshine said. “That marriage is very loving, and their daughter is also a little bit of a disruptor, like Laura.”

And for people looking for Laura’s frenemy Nellie Oleson and her mother, Margaret, well, you’ll have to wait until Season 2 for that. Yep, the series has already been renewed, and Nellie, originally (and delightfully) played by Alison Arngrim, will be played by Willa Dunn.

What are fans saying?

Reactions to the trailer, and the overall concept of a reboot, are cautiously optimistic. Over on Reddit, some fans are ecstatic, others are wary—but most are on board. And some are just downright funny.

• “I am looking forward to it. I just hope it is not Netflixy—overly slick and constantly restating the plot,” said one commenter on Reddit. “Netflix is good at melodrama so that gives me hope!”
• “I normally am a snob about remakes, and I LOVE the original, so I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I am looking forward to this one,” said another.
• “I hope they explain the fancy bonnets,” said a third.

Overall, it seems that many fans are looking forward to a dose of good, old-fashioned nostalgia. “I love the Landon series overall, and look forward to this new version,” said a fan of the original NBC show. “The original series is childhood nostalgia for me, and maybe this will be it for a new generation of families.”

When is the series coming out?

Netflix’s Little House on the Prairie premieres July 9, and will drop all eight episodes at once.

Little House on the Prairie

Watch on Netflix

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Netflix: “The Little House on the Prairie Trailer Expands Laura Ingalls’s World”
• Deadline: “Rachelle Lefevre & Charlotte Sullivan Join ‘Little House on the Prairie’ Season 2 at Netflix”
• Reddit: “First official trailer for Netflix’s ‘Little House on the Prairie'”

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The post A Brand-New Trailer for Netflix’s <i>Little House on the Prairie</i> Series Just Dropped—And We Are Feeling Totally Nostalgic appeared first on Reader's Digest.

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Prime Day is the perfect time to stock up on your favorite exfoliator for instantly smoother, more radiant skin. It helps slough away dry patches while softening the look of fine lines for a fresh, polished glow.

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Curious about red light therapy but not ready to spend hundreds on a mask? At 47% off during the sale, this red light therapy mask is under $100, making it the perfect way to try the skincare trend for less.

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This five-pack of stackable storage baskets will have your linen closet looking organized in no time. Simple, sturdy and available in multiple colors.

3-in-1 Toddler Sensory Table

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This sensory table has kept my toddler busy for hours. The bins double as sensory play stations and storage containers, and you can add matching chairs or swap the tabletop as they grow. If it weren’t such a great investment, I’d be kicking myself for paying nearly double for it.

Breescape Cooling Eyemask

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Snag this travel essential while it’s on sale. This cooling eye mask has instant cool-to-the-touch fabric, full light-blocking coverage, and a soft, adjustable design for all-night comfort. It even comes with a travel bag, so you can get your beauty rest wherever you go.

Sol de Janeiro Jet Set

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Add this adorable travel set from Sol de Janeiro to your cart while you’re at it. With a body wash, body spray and lotion, it’s the perfect mini trio to toss in your pool bag, gym bag or carry-on all summer long.

Perricone MD Tinted Moisturizer

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Ideal for mature skin, this tinted moisturizer with SPF 30 hydrates and smooths the look of fine lines while delivering antioxidant-rich moisture. Lightweight and oil-free, it leaves skin looking fresh and radiant, never greasy or shiny.

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Maybe it’s just me, but clip-on book lights always feel too heavy for smaller books and somehow manage to turn themselves on in every tote bag and carry-on. This reading neck light solves both problems, giving you hands-free light without weighing down your poetry book.

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These award-winning eye patches help reduce the look of dark circles, depuff tired eyes and hydrate fine lines. Perfect for little gifts and goodie bags, especially for a weekend getaway that calls for a little extra self-care.

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An oldie but a goodie, go back to what you know and love with this fan-favorite, full-coverage concealer that delivers long-wearing, crease-free coverage. Now 40% off!

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This must-have candle warmer pulls double duty, melting your favorite scent without a flame and casting a warm, cozy glow in your space. This one passed our editors’ test as a stylish and safe way to enjoy your favorite candles.

Yankee Candle

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Yankee Candle’s fresh Sage & Citrus scent is perfect for summer hosting, so stock up now while it’s nearly half off for Prime Day.

MakeUp Eraser 7-Day Set

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The MakeUp Eraser 7-Day Set in a cherry print gives you a fresh cloth for every day of the week for easy makeup removal that’s as cute as it is practical.

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With over 35,000 Amazon reviews, this popular probiotic for women supports a healthy pH balance with prebiotics and Lactobacillus for everyday wellness support.

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This all-in-one kids Bluetooth speaker promotes screen-free fun with stories, music, podcasts, white noise, a nightlight, an alarm clock and more. It’s everything they need in one simple device.

Beekman 1802 Hydrating Face Mist

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This setting spray meets milky toner hydrates and refreshes to keep your skin in balance all day. Shopping Editor Emily Way even calls it her “holy grail skincare product” in her review. Infused with hyaluronic acid, squalane and nourishing goat milk (minus the fragrance), it’s your anytime pick-me-up for a fresh, dewy glow.

Mini Always Pan

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Small but mighty, this nonstick pan is a go-to for perfect fried eggs and effortless sandwich flips. Induction and oven-safe up to 450°F, it’s a compact, multitasking cookware hero that stands out among the stack.

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This daily gel cleanser uses gentle PHA to clear away dirt, oil and buildup without stripping or irritating sensitive skin. It’s an easy win for a simple routine that leaves skin soft, clean and balanced.

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Charge your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods at the same time with this MagSafe dock. Fast, easy alignment and a clean, simple setup that cuts down on clutter on your desk or nightstand.

Dawn PowerWash

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Everyone’s favorite dish soap spray, now 33% off!

Stanley Julienne Lunch Box

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We’re obsessed with this mini soft cooler that doubles as an oversized lunchbox. But does it really keep things cold for 12 hours? I put it to the test, and yes, it actually does. See the full review.

Cosrx PDRN Mask

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Meet your overnight glow-up! This peel-off mask pairs the super trendy skincare ingredient, salmon DNA PDRN, with exosome tech to help boost renewal and revive tired skin.

Magic Eraser Shower & Tub Scrubber

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Finally, a tub-and-shower cleaner that actually delivers. This Mr. Clean kit features a sturdy handle, a 360°-rotating head to reach every corner, and a built-in squeegee for a streak-free finish.

Simplehuman Sensor Spray

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Meet the spray bottle that does it all. This refillable, rechargeable sensor sprayer handles cleaning, plants and even hair, just add water or cleaner. Endlessly reusable and satisfying, it makes doing chores a whole lot better.

Crayola Travel Art Set

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Need to restock the kids’ art table or survive summer travel? This 2-in-1 lap desk and carrying case has everything covered. Compact, lightweight and packed with essential supplies (yes, even paper), it’s perfect for on-the-go creativity.

Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

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This popular anti-frizz spray smooths, shines and tames for glassy, ultra-sleek hair that feels like nothing’s there.

Ninja Backpack Cooler

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This backpack cooler is your all-in-one adventure pack, featuring a built-in can opener, leakproof zipper and a dry storage drawer for snacks and essentials. Perfect for hiking, camping or a day at the beach done right.

Ring Outdoor Cam

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Secure your home and property for half the price with this weather-resistant Ring outdoor security camera. With live view, color night vision, two-way talk, motion alerts and Alexa compatibility, it keeps you connected and in control from anywhere.

Le Creuset Tea Set

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Score this Le Creuset tea set for under $100 during Prime Day. It comes with a kettle and two matching mugs, perfect for cozy tea moments from an iconic brand.

Instant Pot Duo Plus

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This famous 9-in-1 multicooker does it all: pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming and more. It comes with 800+ recipes in the app and is 50% off for Prime Day.

Overnight Hair Serum

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Transform dry, brittle hair overnight with the Alterna Caviar leave-in serum that replenishes, moisturizes and restores. It also protects against humidity and heat, making it a summer haircare essential.

Shark Rocket

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The super-lightweight Shark Rocket is a corded stick vacuum that tackles carpets, rugs and hard floors with ease. It’s also great for picking up pet hair and cleaning upholstery. Even better? It’s less than $100 during the sale.

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Up your sleep game with this satin pillowcase that stays cool, smooth and wrinkle-free while treating your skin and hair gentler than most standard pillowcases. Machine-washable and finished in an adorable cherry print, it’s an easy pick for a little bedroom glow-up.

Bamboo Baby Pajamas

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These Dreamland Bamboo Sleepers are ultra-soft and thoughtfully designed, featuring a 2-way zipper for easy nighttime changing, along with built-in mittens and foot cuffs to keep baby cozy and comfy from head to toe.

Nori Travel Press

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Score the famous Nori Travel Press handheld iron and say goodbye to unpacked wrinkles for good. Compact, powerful and perfect for quick touch-ups on the go. Check out our full review here.

Play Picnic Set

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Pack a pretend picnic for the backyard or the living room with this adorable set made for little ones.

Cetaphil Moisturizer

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Restock your skincare basics while this classic Cetaphil moisturizer is over 40% off—simple, reliable hydration at a can’t-miss price.

The Good Patch Rescue Recovery

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An essential for bachelorette weekend goodie bags! This plant-powered Rescue Patch (infused with DHM, green tea, and vitamin B1) helps you bounce back fast so you don’t miss a beat. Clean formula, no latex, parabens, sulfates or synthetic fragrances—just your post-night-out reset, ready to go in patch form.

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Kristin Hannah’s latest novel, The Women, is a powerful, emotional story about the nurses who served in the Vietnam War. It’s the perfect book to tuck into your summer bag or wrap up as a thoughtful gift.

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Finish your picture wall with these frames—now 62% off—before the sale ends.

Touchland Hand Sanitizer Set

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Get a head start on stocking stuffers and back-to-school gift baskets with this set of five Touchland sanitizers. Now on sale for Prime Day!

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These classic menthol patches deliver long-lasting relief, perfect for overnight recovery or steady comfort while traveling.

The Summer I Turned Pretty Box Set

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Loved the Prime series? Go deeper with the complete book set about Belly and the Fisher boys. Say hello to your poolside obsession in one easy binge-read stack.

Fisher-Price Castle Block Set

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Build a storybook scene with this charming wooden castle block set. Each bright, cheerful piece is painted with nontoxic, water-based colors and tucks neatly into its tray when the adventure winds down.

Olay Peptide Face Toner

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This essence-toner hybrid wakes things up fast, preps skin like a pro and leaves your complexion looking bouncy, smooth and dewy. Trust us, it’s the step your routine didn’t know it was missing.

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Give your bedroom a hotel-style refresh with these soft down alternative pillows. Supportive yet fluffy, they work for stomach, back and side sleepers. No flipping or fluffing necessary—so you can sink in and stay there.

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Fire up the action with this motorized Hot Wheels track packed with wild intersections, tight turns and an epic crash zone. When the chaos ends, there’s plenty of parking to keep it all in check and off the floor.

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Our summer go-to, this sheer tinted lip balm delivers the perfect wash of color with a glossy, non-sticky finish. It keeps lips soft, hydrated and seriously shiny. Right now, it’s almost half off for Prime Day!

Beekman 1802 Milk Collagen Moisturizer

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Packed with skin-loving perks, this goat milk collagen moisturizer is naturally rich in lactic acid (a gentle exfoliant) plus vitamins and minerals. With a pH that mirrors your skin, it helps keep your microbiome balanced while reducing the look of irritation, sensitivity and early signs of aging.

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Fight frizz and protect against heat with this lightweight Pureology leave-in mist. The ultra-fine spray detangles, smooths and leaves a glossy finish without any sticky residue.

Clinique Black Honey Lipstick

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Score this cult-favorite tinted lip balm on sale for Prime Day. Black Honey has earned its place in makeup bags for years thanks to its ultra-flattering, super-pigmented tint. Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski is such a fan that she even wore it on her wedding day!

Rowenta Steamer and Iron

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This powerful 2-in-1 steam iron is a travel essential for business trips, weddings and special events. With five steam settings for different fabrics, wrinkle-free dressing is simple and stress-free.

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Help baby sleep soundly with this cool mist humidifier. It’s easy to clean, includes a built-in nightlight and is designed to help reduce mold and mildew buildup. Clean, steady moisture and easier breathing all night long.

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This peptide- and vitamin-infused lash serum helps support the look of longer, fuller lashes while conditioning them at the same time. Plus, it’s cruelty-free.

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This waterproof travel makeup bag opens wide for easy access and effortless organization. It even has a dedicated spot for brushes (win!), so you can keep all your toiletries neatly in one place on vacation.

Estée Lauder Night Repair Serum

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Another cult favorite, Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Serum is packed with hyaluronic acid and peptides to help leave skin looking plump, dewy and refreshed by morning.

Cozy Earth Pajama Set

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Editor’s note: This one isn’t under $100, but it’s a brand that we love, so it’s worth a look!

Score 25% off everything Cozy Earth on Amazon during Prime Day, including our editors’ favorite bamboo pajamas.

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Now in its sixth edition, this classic strategy board game is perfect for families. Trade, build and settle your way to victory. It’s great for building critical-thinking skills, and it’s hard to put down.

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Stock up and save! This ultra-absorbent bulk pack of Bounty triple rolls is built for big spills and fast cleanups. Prime Day is the perfect time to grab your go-to essentials for less.

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Flossing just got an upgrade. This Shark Tank-famous electric flosser uses sonic technology to clean 5x faster. It’s basically brushing your teeth, but for your gums, and the starter kit is on sale now.

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Bring that hotel-bed feeling home. These extra-soft, cooling sheets are wrinkle- and stain-resistant, come in tons of sizes and colors, and have racked up over 350,000 Amazon reviews. Perfect for refreshing your linen closet before guests arrive.

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Make mealtime easier with a toddler plate designed for independent self-feeding, featuring a curved shape and silicone dividers to keep foods separate. Made from plant-based materials with a sleek, modern look, it fits right in at the table and makes a great gift for new parents.

Culligan 10-Cup Water Filter

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This 10-cup water filter pitcher uses advanced five-stage filtration to reduce PFAS (“forever chemicals”) and other common contaminants, so your drinking water tastes cleaner.

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A little gross, but the SnotSucker is a total baby essential for clearing congestion and helping keep colds from getting worse when little ones need relief most.

Stakt Mat

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The original Stakt mat is more than a yoga mat. This foldable 2-in-1 design doubles as a yoga block and support tool, while its extra-thick cushioning helps keep workouts more comfortable, whether you’re at home or at the gym.

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Keep your luggage organized with this 5-piece packing cube set made from durable ripstop nylon. Everything stays neat, compact and easy to find on the go—and it’s a great hack for keeping your car organized, too.

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This lightweight hair dryer uses a quiet brushless motor for fast, low-noise drying and comes with two handy attachments. Compact enough for travel or your gym bag, it may just become your on-the-go styling essential.

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Barbie Dreamplane. Enough said, right? This updated version of the classic favorite comes with 15+ pieces, including a puppy and snack cart. Even better, the seats recline and the overhead bins actually open for extra-realistic play.

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Little chefs will love this wooden kitchen play set. With everything they need to whip up pretend soups, stir-fries and more, it’s a recipe for hours of play.

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Stress-free trims? Sign us up! This cordless, rechargeable pet nail grinder and trimmer is safe for dogs, cats and small animals. Plus, it’s gentle enough for first-timers to use with confidence.

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Travel smarter with this slash-resistant, anti-theft backpack for under $100 during the Prime Day sale. Compact, versatile and ready for anything from carry-on duty to day trips, it even has locking zippers for extra peace of mind.

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The original BioSilk hair treatment smooths, detangles and helps prevent split ends while adding a glossy finish. Sulfate-, paraben-, and cruelty-free, this miracle all-in-one product works on wet or dry hair and every hair type, so you can shine bright no matter what.

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Doing your nails at home just makes sense, and this Essie gel polish makes it easy. It delivers that ultra-glossy, gel-like shine with a chip- and fade-resistant finish. Best part? No UV lamp needed.

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If pet hair seems to get everywhere, this lint-roller set is a must-have. Designed to tackle stubborn fur on your cat’s favorite couch, clothing and carpets, it comes with plenty of refills so you can keep one in the car, at your desk, in the bathroom and wherever else fur likes to collect.

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Cute, cuddly and full of personality, this reversible octopus plushie flips inside out to match your mood. Ultra-soft and endlessly fun, it’s the perfect desk buddy, gift or cozy companion for kids, teens and adults alike.

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Soothe sore muscles and target deep-tissue tension with this powerful massage gun. With a long-lasting battery and 10 interchangeable massage heads, it’s easy to customize your recovery routine from head to toe.

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When the kids are packed and ready, travel gets a whole lot easier. This 5-piece kids’ luggage set is heavily discounted and comes in quirky prints, though we’re especially into the space design.

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Good oral hygiene matters, and a Waterpik water flosser makes it easier. It helps flush out stuck food from those hard-to-reach spots your toothbrush misses. Not even stubborn popcorn kernels stand a chance.

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Declutter your nightstand with one device that does it all. The Mini Restful combines medical-grade HEPASilent air purification, a gentle sunrise alarm, blue light-free evening lighting and calming soundscapes for better sleep with one device.

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Every parent knows the moment: your little one is suddenly done walking. Liftoff makes carrying them easy, just slip it over one shoulder and go. Lightweight and packable, it also features a built-in phone pocket, tuck-away bottle holder and handy D-rings for all your on-the-go essentials.

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Need a glow in a hurry? This Loving Tan lotion delivers visible color in as little as two hours. Simply rinse off the color guide and enjoy an instant bronze boost, with your tan continuing to develop and deepen over the next 24 hours.

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If Tide is your laundry staple, this skin-friendly formula is worth stocking up on. The Free and Gentle Pods deliver a deep clean in convenient detergent packs, making it easy to toss in a quick load whenever you need to.

Revlon Dryer and Styler

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This 2-in-1 hair dryer and styler smooths and straightens while you dry, so you can get out the door faster after wash day. Its one-step design also makes it a travel-friendly essential.

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On

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A carry-on spinner that keeps up. It fits under your seat so you’re less likely to gate-check, and it’s built for travel days with a USB port, quick-stash exterior pockets and a padded laptop compartment inside. Basically, your go-to travel work bag.

Furbo 360° Dog Camera

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Keep an eye on your pup so they stay safe, healthy and happy while you’re away. Furbo sends alerts for barking, unusual activity and emergencies, giving you peace of mind when you’re out.

Alligator Wooden Push Toy

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This popular wooden walker from Melissa & Doug is perfect for babies on the move. It’s a great gift for hands-on, screen-free play as they build confidence with every step.

Jack Black All-Over Wash

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This mild, pH-balanced cleanser is gentle enough for face, hair and body. It washes away dirt and sweat without stripping moisture, and it’s perfect for keeping your routine simple.

Cadence Haircare Capsule Set

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Now’s the perfect time to try those magnetic hexagon travel containers you’ve been eyeing. The Cadence Haircare Capsule Set keeps things simple with magnetic labels (no more shampoo/body wash mix-ups), plus it’s TSA-approved, leak-proof, and easy to fill and clean.

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Batteries aren’t cheap, especially rechargeable ones. That’s why Prime Day is the perfect time to stock up on this everyday essential.

Lovevery Block Set

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A wooden, heirloom-quality block set with a storage box for toddlers that also converts into an adorable pull car they’ll love, all from a toy brand we love.

Toniebox 2 Farm Bundle

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I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, my toddler is obsessed with her Toniebox. It’s delivered hours of screen-free play for over a year, and we still use it every day.

Chemical Guys Total Interior

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Glass, leather, vinyl, plastic, rubber, you name it, this Chemical Guys cleaner tackles it all. It leaves your car’s interior looking fresh with a streak-free finish. Speaking from experience, this car cleaner is truly a miracle worker.

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This tinted sunscreen delivers broad-spectrum SPF 40 and works just as well solo as it does under makeup, year-round. It also hydrates with hyaluronic acid to help skin stay soft and moisturized.

Verb Ghost Shampoo and Conditioner

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This luxury shampoo and conditioner set softens, detangles and tames frizz without weighing hair down. Perfect for hotter months when you want smooth, manageable hair without the heaviness.

Melissa & Doug Pull-Back Cars

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These adorable pull-back toy cars are made for zooming across the floor. They’re soft enough to spare your baseboards and furniture, and they’re even washable once the wheels come off.

Fold and Go Wooden Dollhouse

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This charming wooden dollhouse folds up, packs up, and goes wherever playtime leads. Complete with wooden furniture and two dolls, it’s a timeless gift that’s made to last.

Olay Peptide Face Moisturizer

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From a brand you already know and trust, a lightweight and fast-absorbing gel-cream moisturizer helps strengthen your moisture barrier while delivering visible anti-aging benefits.

Eureka Lightweight Upright Vacuum

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At just 10 pounds, this lightweight upright vacuum makes it easy to clean stairs and get around furniture. With powerful suction and pet tools, it handles everyday messes, no matter who makes them.

Label Maker

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Get ahead of household organizing and back-to-school prep with this compact label maker. Easily create crisp, high-quality labels right from your phone to keep everything neatly sorted and easy to find.

Keurig K-Mini

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Perfect for dorms and small offices, the K-Mini coffee maker delivers a quick, fresh cup when you’re short on time. Compact, convenient and $50 off right now.

Bedsure 100% Cotton Blanket

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This 100% cotton waffle-weave blanket is all about breathable, lightweight comfort. The perfect summer blanket, it keeps things cool while still feeling soft and cozy.

The post The Best Amazon Prime Day Deals Under $100—Last Chance to Save! appeared first on Reader's Digest.

That’s what he did recently on a surprise visit to England’s soccer headquarters before the team departed for the World Cup. Football’s biggest competition kicks off on June 11 and runs through July 19 in North America—England’s first qualifying game is against Croatia on June 17, in Dallas—so it was the perfect time to give the crew a boost.

So how did William give them a royal rev-up? Read on to find out.

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What did William say to the team?

He wished them the best of luck, of course. The prince made a surprise visit to the national team’s training hub, St. George’s Park, on May 27, to give the “team behind the team” a good-luck message and rallying cry in person. He was there to meet England manager Thomas Tuchel and his huge entourage of support staff who work behind the scenes. What a great strategy!

“I just wanted to take the opportunity to see the team behind the team today, and to say thank you and good luck to all of you guys who don’t get as much acknowledgement or credit as you deserve,” William told the staff. “It’s a big team that gets on that plane. It’s a big team that looks after them. Not everyone gets to see the hard work you put in, and the success of the players comes from the foundations you built, so thank you.”

Meeting the team behind the team ❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

We had a special visit from His Royal Highness Prince William at St. George’s Park as preparations continue for the @FIFAWorldCup 🏆 pic.twitter.com/6SZEFxfzTh

— England (@England) May 27, 2026

What else did William say?

He also acknowledged that they have a tough job ahead. “It’s not going to be an easy tournament as you well know … but I have no doubt you’ll rise to the occasion and deliver on all the things that you do so brilliantly.”

He then used some manifesting tactics to send the men’s team, known as the Three Lions, to victory, referencing the recent successes of the England women’s team. “All the things are coming in align now. The Lionesses’ successes that they’ve had, two men’s Euros finals—kind of feels like we’re closing in on that sort of ambition,” he said. “Go with my blessings and best wishes to all of you. Enjoy it and look after each other and give your best, and I’m sure we will do well, so good luck,” William said on footage on Instagram, raising his hands in prayer.

Even though the players weren’t in attendance this time, we’re sure Tuchel and his team are ready to rally the entire World Cup team. And something tells us superfan William won’t want to stay away from the pitch.

How big of a soccer fan is William?

He’s an absolutely huge soccer fan. William has a genuine passion for what’s dubbed “the beautiful game,” and he was recently seen celebrating his favorite team’s success in Turkey. William supports Aston Villa, who won the Europa League final on May 20 in Istanbul, and the prince was filmed screaming from the stands and singing “Sweet Caroline” with other supporters. He was even spotted declining a phone call that came in during the action. Afterward, William celebrated with the squad at their hotel. We told you he’s a genuine fan!

Will William be attending any of the World Cup games?

You bet. He hasn’t confirmed any details, but if past tournaments are anything to go by, William will likely make an appearance at critical games—though sometimes they do conflict with prior commitments. In 2024, he famously flew to Berlin with Prince George to watch England lose the finals of the European Championships against Spain, and in 2023, the prince received some criticism from the public for not flying to Australia to watch the Lionesses face Spain in the final of the women’s World Cup. However, royal insiders strongly suspect he’ll go to the USA at some point.

What will happen if the England team wins?

Who knows? After all, it hasn’t happened for a very long time. In fact, the only time England’s men’s team has lifted the World Cup trophy was in 1966, at London’s Wembley Stadium. The late Queen Elizabeth presented the captain, Bobby Moore, with the cup. She would later knight many soccer players, starting with Stanley Matthews, and just last year, David Beckham was given a knighthood by King Charles at Windsor Castle.

But back in 1966, the team enjoyed a banquet at a Kensington hotel. When England’s Lionesses scored back-to-back European Championship wins in 2022 and 2025, they were given a parade and victory party (in 2025, it was held outside Buckingham Palace). So, we’re sure William would want to honor the team if they did bring it home.

What does William do as a royal patron of the soccer team, exactly?

William gets a lot more involved as a patron than some other royal family members, mainly because he’s so passionate about football. It doesn’t seem like hard work for the very regal fan. Royal patronages began in the 1700s, under King George II, and royal family members are patrons and presidents of around 3,000 charities and organizations, globally. They represent everything from charities to sporting bodies, hospitals to nonprofits, education to the Armed Forces, and they schedule visits and events to highlight and support the organizations’ work.

As patron of the FA, William is the ceremonial figurehead, attending key matches and finals and highlighting the sport from the grass-roots level to the national team. He took over as patron in 2024—before that, he was president. One thing to know: William is only the patron of England Football; the Scottish Football Association is currently without a royal patron. That’s a little awkward, as Scotland also qualified for the World Cup and will play their first match on June 14.

What are some other notable royal sporting patronages?

The royal family represents multiple sporting bodies. While William loves soccer, Princess Kate is a huge tennis fan, so she was delighted to become patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (Wimbledon) in 2016, relieving the late queen of the role, who, well, wasn’t as into tennis as her granddaughter-in-law. (She attended Wimbledon only four times in 70 years!)

Here’s a sample of some of the sporting patronages the royals hold:

• Prince William: Patron of the Football Association (FA), Welsh Rugby Union and Swim England
• Princess Kate: Patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (Wimbledon) and Lawn Tennis Association, Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League
• King Charles: Joint patron of the Jockey Club with Queen Camilla, and patron of the British Olympic Association, Commonwealth Games and Royal Scottish Highland Games Association
• Queen Camilla: Joint patron of the Jockey Club and patron of British Equestrian
• Princess Anne: President of the British Olympic Association, patron of U.K. Coaching, vice patron of the British Horse Society, and patron of the Scottish Rugby Union and the U.K. Sailing Academy
• Prince Edward: Patron of the British Paralympic Association and GB Snowsport, and vice patron of the Commonwealth Games Federation
• Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh: Patron of England Hockey and the British Bobsleigh and Skeleton Association

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Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of stories on the British royal family, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating facets of the monarchy. We regularly cover topics including the latest royal news, the history and meaning behind time-honored traditions, and the everyday quirks of everyone’s favorite family members, from Queen Elizabeth’s daily snack to Prince William’s confessions about his home life. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• Instagram: “Prince and Princess of Wales”
• England Football: “HRH Prince William visits St. George’s Park”
• Instagram: “Archbishop of Banturbury”
• Royal.uk: “The Royal Family and Sport”

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The post Soccer Superfan Prince William Gave England’s World Cup Team a Pep Talk—And Used a Smart Strategy to Help Them Win appeared first on Reader's Digest.

Since the games are falling right at the start of the busy summer travel season and international airfares are through the roof, it’s a great time—and a pretty convenient excuse—to tack on a quick domestic excursion from whichever city you’re catching a match.

As a longtime travel writer, I’m always looking for bonus destinations wherever I go—from an interesting nearby town or cultural attraction to an unexpected adventure or activity that maximizes my time in a place. With so many cities hosting games, those rooting for teams on their home turf or traveling farther afield have plenty to explore beyond the stadium stands.

To help you take the most advantage of your soccer sojourn, we rounded up the best day trips from each World Cup location in the U.S., all conveniently located no more than a few hours by car or train. Read on to score some great ideas.

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If the match is in Atlanta: Dahlonega, Georgia

Distance: 70 miles; about an hour drive

Set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega claims the distinction of being both the heart of Georgia wine country and a mountain-adventure destination. In fact, this Appalachian town north of Atlanta is so picturesque that it’s become a popular filming location for Hallmark and Lifetime movies. (Even Netflix chose the community as the setting for the recent series His & Hers.) If that weren’t enough of a draw, it has a rich history, to boot: Dahlonega was the site of a major gold rush in 1828, predating California’s by two decades.

For more active soccer fans, a day trip to Dahlonega could include a hike to one of the area’s many waterfalls or a trek along the Appalachian Trail, which has its southern terminus in the area. Families on a post-game World Cup adventure might feel like they’ve struck it rich with the Gold Fever package: It includes a visit to the Dahlonega Gold Museum, a 45-minute underground mine tour at the nearly 200-year-old Consolidated Gold Mine and a hands-on gold-panning experience.

If the match is in Boston: Newport, Rhode Island

Distance: 70 miles; about a 1.5-hour drive

I’ve always enjoyed exploring Newport in the summer. On one trip, I stayed at the centrally located Hotel Viking, which turns 100 this year and recently underwent a major renovation. I spent a day strolling the miles-long Newport Cliff Walk, taking in the many Gilded Age mansions on this part of the Atlantic. On another, I headed out on a sailing excursion in Narragansett Bay, framed by the soaring Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge.

Soccer fans with a soft spot for sports of all kinds should make time for the International Tennis Hall of Fame. It’s housed in the historic Newport Casino and offers a great crash-course history of the game ahead of the U.S. Open later this summer. And on June 19 (the day Scotland faces off against Morocco at Boston Stadium in Foxboro), the seaside city will raise its sails to celebrate the 120th anniversary of the Newport Bermuda Race, the legendary 636-mile offshore sailing competition between Rhode Island and Bermuda.

For a more field-based sport, every Saturday this season, Newport Polo will welcome teams from around the world to face off against Team USA. Lawn seating, pavilion tables and other ticket options can sell out in advance, so booking early is highly recommended.

If the match is in Dallas: Fort Worth, Texas

Distance: 30 miles; 30- to 45-minute drive, or one-hour TRE commuter-rail ride

The World Cup stadiums can get rowdy, but that doesn’t quite compare to the Wild West energy of Dallas day-trip destination Fort Worth, also known as Cowtown. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is the epicenter of it all. There’s live honky-tonk music, country dancing and even twice-daily Texas longhorn cattle drives right down the middle of Exchange Avenue.

If you think soccer’s a tough sport, head on over to the Bull Riding Hall of Fame for a primer on what it takes to tame a bucking beast. Or, better yet, pony up $12 to try your luck on the mechanical bull near Stockyards Station. Kids appreciate the chance to get up close to goats, sheep and even camels at the Stockyards Barnyard Petting Corral, as well as rides in a replica 1800s Concordia stagecoach.

For another perspective on the West, check out the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, which highlights the important contributions cowgirls made to Western culture as they helped shape frontier history.

If the match is in Houston: Galveston Island, Texas

Distance: 50 miles; about an hour drive

Houston’s World Cup fans will no doubt want to escape the heat, and Galveston, on the Texas Gulf Coast, is a historic island town with wide, windswept beaches just a quick trip from the city. Families, especially, will have a blast making a day of it—or more—with the many aquatic-based activities available here. After splashing in the waves, rent bikes and pedal along the Galveston Seawall, explore the restaurants and shops along Seawall Boulevard or head to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. The pier is built entirely over the water and has classic rides, including a Ferris wheel, with Gulf views.

During the hottest part of the day, a trip to Moody Gardens is another great way to escape the Texas sun. Birds flit and sloths creep at the Rainforest Pyramid, while penguins, sharks and other sea creatures make their home in the newly renovated 1.5-million-gallon Aquarium Pyramid. Everything is bigger in Texas, and the movies featuring great white sharks and other wildlife at Moody Gardens’ 3D and 4D theaters, which boast the state’s largest screens, are true must-sees.

If the match is in Kansas City: Bentonville and Bella Vista, Arkansas

Distance: 200 miles; about a three-hour drive

The perfect antidote to the intensity of a sweaty stadium match in Kansas City is a road trip from Missouri to the outdoor playground of the Ozarks in neighboring Arkansas. The town of Bentonville—home of Walmart, yes, but also a cultural and creative hub in the northwest part of the state—has earned its reputation as the mountain-biking capital of the world due to its extensive network of trails.

One favorite spot to shred is the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. Bike rentals are available in the area, and guided rides—which can be tailored to all abilities, from beginners to advanced riders—are recommended for first-time visitors. The trails, with names like Dirt Therapy and Thunderdome, range from cross-country routes to dual-slalom lines. For more skilled mountain-biking daredevils, the new Cleared for Takeoff trail at Coler features an advanced jump that sends cyclists soaring up to 40 feet.

Need a bonus to the bonus trip? Just in time for the World Cup, nearby Bella Vista’s OZ Trails, which just officially opened, has more than 20 miles of downhill terrain. The park even offers a high-speed quad lift for easy access to the slopes.

If the match is in Los Angeles: Newport Beach, California

Distance: 40 to 50 miles; about an hour drive, depending on traffic

There’s little that’s as frustrating as Los Angeles traffic, so any day trip needs to take travel time into account. Enter Newport Beach, a miles-long stretch of pristine coastline just south of Los Angeles in Orange County. The area is home to one of America’s largest recreational harbors, and the Balboa Peninsula, a long strip of land separating the Pacific Ocean from Newport Bay, is where you’ll find most of the action.

The historic Balboa Fun Zone has classic boardwalk rides and a nostalgic yesteryear vibe, while the Newport Beach Harbor is the launching point for rentable Duffy boats. These small, battery-powered vessels are ideal for slowly cruising the calm bay waters in this part of California.

During L.A.’s games, which run from mid-June through early July, Newport Beach also offers a wide range of special seasonal events. There’s the Live on the Lawn Jazz Series on June 13, 20 and 27; the 20-chef Noble Wine & Dine Festival from June 26 to June 28; and Tunes at the Dunes beachfront entertainment series at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina from July 3 to July 5.

If the match is in Miami: Orlando, Florida

Distance: 235 miles; about a 3.5-hour Brightline train ride

Orlando is a high-speed rail adventure or overnight detour from Miami, but rather than mingling with even more crowds, head to Grande Lakes Orlando. Home to both the Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott Hotel, the property is still in the heart of Orlando, but its 500 acres at the headwaters of the Florida Everglades keeps it from feeling suffocating.

The focus is relaxation at Grande Lakes Orlando, so stadium seating is swapped for wellness and spa treatments. (The Ritz-Carlton Spa clocks in at an impressive 40,000 square feet, so there’s plenty of room to de-stress.)

This year, the resort is also debuting Summer by the Lake, an array of experiences offered now through Sept. 6. Every Friday and Saturday through Aug. 15, for example, guests can reserve tickets to attend the American Cookout Classic. Work your way through barbecue classics while sipping Russell’s Reserve bourbon, then check out the nighttime lights with everything from fireworks displays to fire dancers.

If the match is in New York/New Jersey: Saratoga Springs, New York

Distance: 180 miles; about a 3.5-hour drive or Amtrak ride

Every summer, I try to head to Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs. Watching the horses blaze around the track to the sounds of spectators cheering—and occasional jeering—is a rush from the grandstand or the boxes. I tend to place my bets somewhat randomly, usually on horses whose clever names I like, which is probably why I rarely walk away a big winner. Still, I always have a lot of fun for the day.

Fresh off hosting the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, the track, also home to the Travers Stakes, officially kicks off its season over the July 4th weekend, so it’s an ideal trip for those taking in the final World Cup matches scheduled for the month farther south in New Jersey.

If the arts are more your thing, there’s a wealth of things to do in Saratoga Springs beyond racing. The Saratoga Performing Arts Center, or SPAC, is in full summer swing, with resident companies including the New York City Ballet, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and the Saratoga Jazz Festival. Its large, open-air amphitheater replaces New York City as the state’s finest high-culture hub.

If the match is in Philadelphia: Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Distance: 135 miles; about a 2.5-hour drive

The World Cup takes place during America’s 250th anniversary year, and what better excuse for soccer fans who are also history buffs to book a day trip to Gettysburg. Steeped in Civil War history, the 6,000-acre Gettysburg National Military Park was the site of one of the most pivotal battles of the war between the North and the South. It’s also where President Abraham Lincoln famously delivered the Gettysburg Address, declaring that the new nation was “conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.”

There’s plenty happening in Gettysburg this summer during Philly’s six FIFA World Cup matches, which run from June 14 to July 4. To commemorate Juneteenth, for example, the Gettysburg Juneteenth Committee is hosting a series of free events, such as an evening celebration of 250 years of Black music at the Majestic Theater featuring local artists and jazz musician Allan Harris. And between July 3 and July 5, visitors can experience living history at the Daniel Lady Farm, where as many as 1,000 re-enactors stage daily full-scale Civil War battle demos.

If the match is in the San Francisco Bay Area: Napa Valley, California

Distance: 40 to 80 miles; a one- to two-hour drive, depending on where you go

Napa Valley is a perennial favorite add-on for visitors to the San Francisco Bay area. The last time I was in the region, I organized a private tour and tasting at Fantesca Estate & Winery. The bottles I ordered are long gone, but it’s an experience I still often think about.

Fans wanting to swap out all those pricey stadium concessions for priceless vineyard views can get a convenient wine-country welcome at the Meritage Resort & Spa. Located at the gateway to Napa Valley, the property has on-site tasting rooms and vineyard walks, so it’s a relaxed alternative to having to spend the day driving around from winery to winery. As a bonus, right now the Meritage’s outdoor concert venue is presenting the Blue Note Napa Summer Sessions, a weekly series that will feature everyone from comedians, like Chris Tucker, to Diana Ross, Willie Nelson & Family and other musical legends.

If the match is in Seattle: Bellevue, Washington

Distance: 10 miles; about a 15- to 25-minute drive, or a 20-minute light rail ride

The recently opened light rail, Crosslake Connection, links the Seattle Stadium District with Bellevue, making the Eastside an easy escape for foodies arriving from the game with an appetite. The best way to get a tasty overview of what’s cooking in Bellevue is to follow the city’s Acclaimed Culinary Trail, a guide showcasing standout cuisine, from Pacific Northwest fare at James Beard winner Jason Wilson’s farm-to-table restaurant The Lakehouse to local twists on Peruvian dishes at Kaoru Chang’s La Mar Bellevue.

Other must-visit spots on the trail: Pan-Indian plates at Michelin-recognized Farzi Café, and the signature Peking duck at Baron’s Sino Kitchen & Bar (tip: order at least a day in advance since it requires 24 hours to prepare). Even Bellevue Brewing Company is getting in on the off-field action, sating soccer fans’ thirst by serving up the limited-edition Bellevue Baller, a brew containing ingredients from all three 2026 host countries: grain from Canada, corn from Mexico and hops from the U.S.

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Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing, and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

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And this summer, excitement is building around Olivia Rodrigo’s upcoming June 12 album, You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love. But while new music can make even a routine commute feel cinematic, researchers affiliated with Harvard Medical School and the National Bureau of Economic Research say that album-release days may come with a surprising downside.

No, it’s nothing about the looks you get at stoplights when you pull up singing “Vampire” at the top of your lungs. But before you start belting out her newest song’s bridge while navigating traffic on a bridge, read on to find out what the research revealed.

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When are traffic fatalities at their highest?

According to the report, fatal car crashes increased significantly on days when hugely popular albums debuted. Yes, really. Researchers looked at major releases from artists with massive streaming audiences and found that nationwide traffic deaths rose by nearly 15% compared with similar days without major releases, uncovering a pattern that suggests drivers may be more distracted after highly anticipated albums hit streaming platforms.

The spike was especially noticeable during the hours immediately following album releases, which often happen at midnight on Fridays. That timing means many drivers may be listening during late-night drives or busy weekend traffic. Researchers controlled for other factors that commonly affect crash rates, including the day of the week, holidays and seasonal driving trends, but the pattern remained.

The study did not suggest that music itself is dangerous. Instead, researchers pointed to behaviors surrounding new releases—like searching for songs, switching tracks, reading lyrics or interacting with streaming apps that make driving less safe.

How did the researchers determine this?

To investigate the connection, researchers analyzed U.S. traffic fatality data from 2017 through 2022 and compared it against the release dates of major albums from top-streaming artists. They then compared those release days with control dates—similar Fridays or calendar periods without blockbuster album launches—to see whether crash patterns changed.

The researchers also examined whether the increase could simply be explained by typical weekend driving behavior. But according to the analysis, the rise in fatalities appeared specifically linked to major album-release days rather than Fridays in general.

The study is still considered a working paper, meaning it has not yet completed the full peer-review process. Still, safety experts say the findings fit into a broader body of research showing how smartphones and in-car technology can contribute to distracted driving.

What makes album-release days so dangerous?

Listening to music while driving is hardly new. But streaming culture has changed how people interact with music in the car. Years ago, drivers might have turned on the radio or popped in a CD before pulling out of the driveway. Now, many people actively engage with music on their smartphones while driving—searching for albums, skipping songs, reading notifications, sharing tracks and checking social media reactions in real time.

That’s where distraction comes in: Even quick glances away from the road can dramatically increase crash risk. According to traffic-safety experts, distracted driving generally falls into three categories:

• Visual distraction: taking your eyes off the road
• Manual distraction: taking your hands off the wheel
• Cognitive distraction: taking your focus off driving

A major album release can involve all three at once. Drivers may unlock their phones to queue up the album, scroll to find a favorite track or replay a song everyone is discussing online. Others may become emotionally absorbed in the music itself—especially when listening to highly anticipated albums for the first time.

And while singing along probably isn’t as dangerous as texting, it can still affect attention, reaction times and driving behavior. Modern infotainment systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto may also create a false sense of safety. Drivers often assume hands-free technology eliminates distraction entirely, but research shows that interacting with screens and menus inside the car can still pull attention away from driving.

How can you drive safely while jamming to your favorite new album?

Fortunately, you don’t need to swear off new music during your commute. Experts say a few simple habits can help reduce distraction while still letting you enjoy the soundtrack of summer.

• Queue up everything before you start driving. Pick the album, adjust the volume and connect your phone before you put the car in gear. Avoid searching for tracks or reading notifications once you’re on the road.
• Use voice controls when possible. If your vehicle supports voice commands, use them instead of reaching for your phone or tapping through menus.
• Resist the urge to “just check one thing.” Whether it’s a lyric explanation, a social media reaction or a surprise-feature rumor, wait until you’re parked.
• Keep the volume reasonable. Extremely loud music can make it harder to hear sirens, horns or other warning sounds.
• Be extra alert on big release days. Even if you’re not listening to the newest album yourself, other drivers may be distracted. Defensive driving matters even more when attention on the road could be lower than usual.

In other words: Enjoy that new Olivia Rodrigo album when it drops. Just don’t let Track 5 become the reason you miss the car stopping in front of you.

What albums are releasing soon?

Summer 2026 is packed with high-profile album releases that are likely to dominate playlists, TikTok feeds and car stereos alike. Here are some of the biggest upcoming drops:

• June 12: Olivia Rodrigo, You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love; Rick Ross, Set in Stone; Sublime, Until the Sun Explodes 
• June 26: Muse, The Wow! Signal; Pixies, Complete B-Sides 1988–97; The Strokes, Reality Awaits; The Pretty Reckless, Dear God
• July 3: Madonna, Confessions II 
• July 10: Adam Lambert, Adam; My Chemical Romance, Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys; Rolling Stones, Foreign Tongues
• July 24: Flo, Therapy at the Club; Shania Twain, Little Miss Twain; Tyla, A-Pop
• July 31: Ariana Grande, Petal; Shaboozey, The Outlaw Cherie Lee & Other Western Tales
• Aug. 14: Katseye, Wild

Whether you’re counting down the days or discovering the songs later, experts say the safest move is simple: Hit play before you hit the road.

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Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

• National Bureau of Economic Research: “Smartphones, Online Music Streaming, and Traffic Fatalities”
• Billboard: “Looking Ahead: A Release Calendar of Upcoming Albums in 2026”
• Pitchfork: “New Music Releases and Upcoming Albums in 2026”

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The post It’s Brutal Out There! Here’s Why Olivia Rodrigo’s Album Drop May Make Driving More Dangerous This Week appeared first on Reader's Digest.

In Pool House, a dysfunctional Hollywood duo finds themselves living in their own pool house while renting out their main home to stay afloat financially. “It’s about power and celebrity, and the corrosive effects of both and the erosion of both, which is inevitable,” she tells Reader’s Digest. The novel has already earned praise for its unflinching look at family dynamics, with some authors calling it an “unsparing mother-daughter story.”

For Choi, writing for an adult audience opened up a few new doors. “It was really fascinating,” she says. “Sometimes when I talk about my adult book, it sounds really tawdry and smutty.” But beneath the sparks and sharp edges is the same emotional honesty that has made readers connect with her work for years.

Beyond her bestselling novels, Choi is a journalist and the host of the mental-health and career-focused podcasts Hey, Cool Job! and Hey, Cool Life! Raised in Hong Kong and Texas and now based in New York City, she’s built a career around asking thoughtful questions and telling stories that don’t shy away from life’s messier corners.

For this episode of The Reader’s Digest Escalator Interview, we caught up with Choi at Barnes & Noble in New York City to talk about Pool House, what’s currently sitting in her reading pile, the comfort genres she returns to again and again, surprising details about her writing process and plenty more.

Watch the exclusive interview below, and then scroll down to shop her books and reading recommendations!

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At Reader’s Digest, we’ve been sharing our favorite books for over 100 years. We’ve worked with bestselling authors including Susan Orlean, Janet Evanovich and Alex Haley, whose Pulitzer Prize–winning Roots grew out of a project funded by and originally published in the magazine. Through Fiction Favorites (formerly Select Editions and Condensed Books), Reader’s Digest has been publishing anthologies of abridged novels for decades. We’ve worked with some of the biggest names in fiction, including James Patterson, Ruth Ware, Kristin Hannah and more. The Reader’s Digest Book Club, helmed by Books Editor Tracey Neithercott, introduces readers to even more of today’s best fiction by upcoming, bestselling and award-winning authors. For this piece, Leigh Belz Ray interviewed author Mary H.K. Choi. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

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