Sarah Madaus

There’s no denying the satisfaction you feel after a seriously good fitness class. When the sweat is dripping, your heart is still pumping, and you just know that you absolutely crushed it—you get it. Peloton has done an excellent job at recreating that feeling at home, but it comes at a relatively high price point that a lot of folks can’t justify: say, roughly $1,445 for the original Peloton Bike, and $44 per month for the Peloton All-Access Membership. The best Peloton alternatives offer an at-home cardio boost with many of the same features—and costs less than the real deal.When we say “Peloton alternative,” we’re not talking about any standard indoor exercise bike. The Peloton alternative bikes we selected offer a group fitness or coaching experience from the comfort of home, either through a built-in screen or a connected app that you can stream from your phone, tablet, or laptop. Ahead, we tapped a handful of certified cycling instructors for their advice when you’re ready to saddle up.What are the benefits of using a Peloton alternative?Opting for a Peloton alternative versus a standard indoor bike will give you more of a community-driven workout experience than a bike without a screen or connected app. Why’s that so important? “Research shows there are multiple possible benefits from working out in a group, like sparking motivation, improving workout performance, and increasing intensity,” Charlie Meredith, NASM-CPT, chief curriculum lead for Barry’s RIDE, tells SELF. Having a certified instructor leading you in a ride is probably a safer alternative to buying an indoor bike and winging it—especially if you have little cycling experience. And if you choose to use the attached screen to coast along to your favorite show on Netflix or take a virtual scenic ride, it might distract you from how tough those intervals are feeling.A benefit of opting for a non-smart bike that has a tablet or laptop stand is that you can try out a bunch of different workout apps, like Peloton, JRNY, Zwift, or Equinox+ instead of being tied to the one that comes with a smart bike. “I highly recommend testing the water out,” Amanda Margusity, a Spinning-certified lead instructor at Cyclebar in Stamford, Connecticut, tells SELF. “Do some research, sign up for a free trial, and ask friends what they like. The most important piece of your fitness journey is that you are excited to show up for it.”What should you look for in a Peloton alternative indoor bike?Like we mentioned before, the mark of a true Peloton alternative is that there’s some way to take fitness classes, via an attached screen or a tablet holder. Beyond that, Jordan Reichert, NASM-CPT, lead instructor at Cyclebar in Kansas City, Missouri notes that “the key features are those that lend to the bike’s accessibility: Adjustable settings to accommodate a range of bodies and potential injuries, and adjustable resistance for riders of all levels.” That said, check the bike’s weight capacity to make sure you’ll be supported both in and out of the saddle. You’ll also want to ensure that the bike can be adjusted to your height. According to our experts, most bikes they’ve come across cater to folks between 4’10” and 6’10,” but always double check on the brand’s site.

If your nails are anything like mine, they become flimsy and papery after a gel or acrylic manicure: They peel, tear, and fold over themselves when I do so much as clasp a necklace. It seems that in order to have nice-looking nails, I might as well get a mani every week—but I don’t have the disposable funds for that.Recently my inbox has flooded with beauty brands touting the benefits of their new topical nail strengtheners. According to Ivy Lee-Keltner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director of Direct Dermatology, most nail strengtheners create a protective, hydrating film on top of the nail, which should make it less likely to peel, break, or split. But are these products worth the hype—and your money? Dr. Lee says there isn’t significant scientific evidence that proves the efficacy of over-the-counter nail strengtheners (most of it is anecdotal). However, anything that hydrates or protects your nails probably won’t hurt—just avoid any topical products that are formulated with formaldehyde, she says, as the chemical can cause serious irritation in some people. In my quest for hand-model-worthy nails, I learned that there’s an inexpensive, more versatile alternative to these products that I already had in my medicine cabinet: Aquaphor. “Applying an ointment like Aquaphor or Vaseline to the cuticles can help seal the cuticle and promote healthy nails,” Fatima Fahs, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Dermy Doc Box, tells SELF. Apparently, TikTokers called this “nail slugging” in 2022, but this is one “trend” that likely won’t go away. Dr. Lee notes that she also recommends products like Aquaphor or Vaseline to her patients who are concerned about brittle nails. “In my clinical experience, I have had patients self-report improved durability of their nails when they hydrate the nail fold with a moisturizing ointment,” she says. How does petrolatum strengthen your nails?The main ingredient in ointments like Aquaphor and Vaseline is hydrated petrolatum (a.k.a. petroleum jelly). “[It’s] an occlusive moisturizer, which forms a barrier that seals water in,” Dr. Lee says. “Applying this to the proximal nail fold and cuticle helps hydrate the area where the nail plate starts to grow. This results in a smoother and more durable nail plate.” (The proximal nail fold is the skin bordering the lower end of the nail; this is where your cuticle grows over the nail. The nail plate, often just called the nail, is the part you paint with polish.)Petrolatum-based ointments can help your cuticles hold onto moisture, which is key for overall nail health. “Open, irritated, or ragged cuticles can contribute to weak nails and a weak nail bed,” Dr. Fahs says. Your first instinct might be to grab the cuticle nippers and snip extremely dry skin around the nail or push the cuticles back, but your best move is to keep them moisturized and otherwise leave them alone. “The cuticle is essential to protecting the nail from bacteria and other germs entering the body [that can] cause infections,” Nada Elbuluk, MD, a clinical associate professor of dermatology at the University of Southern California, previously told SELF.

If you work out regularly or live your life in athleisure, you know that leggings and sports bras aren’t built to last forever. Luckily the Lululemon sale section, found under the We Made Too Much banner, is positively brimming with clothing deals that won’t just refresh your activewear collection, but downright upgrade it. You’ll find big price drops on top-rated (and SELF-loved) Align leggings, yoga pants, and shorts,base layers perfect for transitional temperatures, and versatile pieces that work as well for the gym as they do for running errands or relaxing on the couch. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best activewear items at Lululemon’s sale (while sizes last) to bolster your next at-home, in-studio, or outdoor workout. And, while you’re there, we highly recommend adding a pair of Lululemon’s very own running shoes to your cart. BottomsLululemonAlign High-Rise Pant 28″Lululemon’s best-selling, supersoft Align leggings are constructed with fewer seams, so you don’t even have to think about your leggings during your workout. They keep the extra features to a minimum, and are built for low-impact workouts like barre, Pilates, and yoga.
Currently available in sizes 0 to 6 and 10 to 14, but other sizes may be available in different lengths.

One of the core pillars of health and wellness is a good night’s sleep. The right products will help you perfect your pre-sleep routine, so you can easily wind down, snuggle up, and get some actual rest. The SELF staff takes bedtime pretty seriously, so we decided to round up all the tried-and-true products our team can’t sleep without. From white noise machines to pillowy sleep masks to breathable pajamas, these are the things we all personally swear by and recommend to everyone we know. These picks can really help transform your space into a dreamy oasis. Happy snoozing!All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you haven’t heard of toothpaste tablets, we probably don’t have the same TikTok algorithm. Toothpaste tablets are a buzzy alternative to traditional toothpaste in tubes; they usually contain similar active ingredients that clean your teeth but have a solid formula (versus your typical gel toothpaste). All you need to do to “activate” the tablets is chew them, and then brush your teeth. They’ll start to foam up in seconds once mixed with saliva or water.Sounds kinda fun, right? Toothpaste tablets are trendy, but are they as good for your teeth as plain old toothpaste in a tube? We asked oral care experts to weigh in—and rounded up a few products for you to consider, too.What are the benefits of toothpaste tablets?From an oral care standpoint, many toothpaste tablets include ingredients that traditional tubes of toothpaste rely on to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy.According to Michael Wei, DDS, a New York City-based general and cosmetic dentist, you should look for toothpaste tablets that contain calcium carbonate (an ingredient that helps remove plaque build-up), silica (an abrasive that helps polish teeth and breaks down stains), sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda, which help can whiten teeth), and, of course, fluoride. “Fluoride, which is a mineral that helps strengthen the enamel on teeth, is very important,” Dianne Sefo, RDH, MEd, a clinical associate professor and the chair of dental hygiene and dental assisting at NYU College of Dentistry, tells SELF. “It makes teeth less susceptible to cavities and less likely to wear down from acidic foods and drinks.”There are also fluoride-free tablets that often rely on the mineral nano-hydroxyapatite (N-HA); some studies—which analyzed the ingredient in traditional toothpaste, not tablets—show it can help strengthen enamel. While the dental experts SELF spoke with noted that fluoride is really important, the fluoride-free options are helpful for people who are sensitive or allergic to the ingredient; for example, some toothpastes with fluoride can trigger perioral dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin around the mouth, in people who are susceptible.Given their solid formula, toothpaste tabs are also a lot less messy than their squeezing, squirting alternatives, Dr. Wei tells SELF. What’s more, the little tabs can be more travel-friendly than toothpaste, since you can pop however many you’ll need in a tin and not worry about TSA regulations. The tablets are usually housed in glass, aluminum, or paper packaging, so you’ll likely reduce your plastic waste, too. (Every little bit counts, folks!)Are there any downsides to consider before you try toothpaste tablets?We mentioned the importance of fluoride for your teeth above, so it’s also key to note that there are currently very few toothpaste tablets on the market that contain fluoride. Unless you’re sensitive or allergic to fluoride, both Sefo and Dr. Wei strongly encourage using toothpaste that’s formulated with it. (Sefo also notes that no toothpaste tablets currently on the market have the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance; however, the ADA only approves toothpaste formulas fortified with fluoride and because these tablets are fairly new, more data is likely needed.)

Back when I was a naive teen, I made fun of my mom for taking frequent baths, but now I deeply understand the therapeutic joys of a good soak. As a part-time fitness instructor and full-time stressed-out city dweller, I go to my bathtub multiple times a week as some go to their yoga mats: humble, sore, and in search of emotional and physical relief.Being a Bath Person is a lifestyle, and I’m here to guide you on your bath journey. In addition to the classic bath products—candles, soaks, body care products, yada yada—I’m inviting you to consider adding a few more unexpected products to your collection, because bathing should be an experience. Ahead, find all of the bath products I can’t stop recommending, whether you want your tub time to feel like a rave, a writing (or book) club, a cinema, or a Turkish bathhouse.All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Maybe you’re having some general aches and pains. Maybe your new workout regimen is leaving you sore AF. Or maybe you just desire that warm-to-your-core feeling that no blanket can offer. Whatever’s making you uncomfortable, a heating pad might be just the thing to help you find some much-needed physical—and maybe emotional—relief. Regardless of the season, heat can feel therapeutic, and heat therapy has real mind and body benefits, so it’s no wonder folks have turned to it for centuries. Now, if all you have lying around is your mom’s hot water bottle circa 1982 (which is a great tool, thank you very much) and you want something that has more features, customization, and longer-lasting heat, a heating pad is a worthwhile wellness investment.What are the benefits of using heat therapy?From a wellness perspective, adding heat therapy to your routine can help with a number of issues, including sleep, menstrual cramps, and sore muscles. To understand the benefits of a heating pad, it’s key to understand what’s going on underneath the surface. “Heat causes some level of vasodilation, which is the expansion of blood vessels and thus increases the blood flow going to the muscle,” Sekhar Upadhyayula, MD, a New York City–based pain management clinician and CEO at Pain Solutions, tells SELF. “So that relaxes some of the muscle fibers and helps it stretch out.” That’s part of the reason why we “warm up” before workouts and often use the time immediately following a workout—when the body is still warm—to stretch.For acute and chronic back and neck pain, Dr. Upadhyayula often recommends heat therapy to his patients. “Heat is heavily used in my practice because it’s not a major financial burden on the patient, and there aren’t many risks,” he says. “It’s something that they can employ themselves in a safe manner, and though it doesn’t provide long-lasting relief, it does help with the symptoms temporarily.” Despite heat being a temporary fix, we know that warming up your muscles does make them easier to stretch out, so if you’re managing muscle pain or soreness, a post-heat stretch could be part of a long-term pain management solution.When thinking about period care, heat can help ease the pain associated with cramps. “For most people, the cause of menstrual cramps is the release of chemicals called prostaglandins by the lining of the uterus,” Mary Jane Minkin, MD, a gynecologist and professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at the Yale School of Medicine, tells SELF. “I’m an advocate of using heat because, anecdotally, it helps and it’s safe. It’s not going to stop the production of those prostaglandins like, say, [pain-relieving and inflammation-reducing] NSAIDs like ibuprofen will, but it does temporarily relax muscles and make life a little more comfortable.”But as it turns out, heat can do even more than help you manage pain. Say you’re feeling just dandy physically, but you’re perpetually wired or you struggle with sleeping well. While you may be able to mitigate some of that with good sleep-hygiene practices—like reducing evening screen time, practicing mindfulness, and abstaining from alcohol close to bedtime—you may also want to consider adding heat therapy to your wind-down routine.

There’s a solid chance that some of your favorite memories involve food. After all, it evokes powerful emotions, strengthens (or sparks) connections, and, well, can taste pretty damn good. What’s a dinner party without an eclectic cheese-and-cracker plate? Imagine sharing a tub of spinach artichoke dip with your loved one without a salty, crisp pretzel or chip. Dare we ask what the point of a movie is if you don’t have a bowl of tender, light popcorn gently resting in your lap? That’s why we’re here recommending the best snacks—because what’s a life of joy without ’em? Below, you’ll find the 27 chips, crackers, popcorns, pretzels, nuts, bars, and other easy-to-love snacks that came out on top as part of SELF’s inaugural Pantry Awards.Our reviewers put these goods to the test, whipping up charcuterie boards, protein-filled pre-workout treats, and breakfasts worth getting out of bed for. You can definitely dress these snacks up or down: Try creating a Michelin-worthy concoction, or munch on them right out of the package. No matter how you choose to feast, savor every bite. Be sure to check out the rest of SELF’s 2023 Pantry Award winners, including sauces, spreads, and oils that add mouth-watering flavor and tinned, canned, and boxed goods perfect for any weeknight meal.The Best Yogurt Bar: Clio Snacks Original Greek Yogurt BarsGreek yogurt covered in dark chocolate? Say no more. Our testers appreciated the hefty amount of protein (9g) in each one of Clio’s creamy, mess-free bars, as well as the versatility of its flavor profile. With these in your fridge (or freezer—you can store them either way, depending on your preference), you’ll have no excuse to skip breakfast—or dessert.The Best Protein Snack: Frooze Balls Plant-Powered Energy BallsWhether you’re setting out on a hike or settling into your desk chair for a slog of a workday, you’re going to need snacks. Ideally, you’ll reach for something like these energy balls, which are decidedly more delightful to consume than a bar and packed with the sustenance you need to forge ahead. Made with nuts, seeds, fruit, and spices, they provide essential nutrients in flavors that are easy to love (like PB&J and chocolate-hazelnut). The Best Protein Bar: Fulfil Bars (Variety Pack)We’ll be blunt: There are so many protein bars to choose from, but surprisingly few that actually taste good. These from Fulfil are a part of that second select group, thanks to yummy flavors like chocolate-peanut-caramel and chocolate-salted-caramel. “With 15g of protein, these were a great in-between snack that kept me satiated and energized until my next meal,” wrote one of our testers. “I’m happy to have them in my pantry now for when I need a snack.”The Best Multigrain Cracker: Breton Multigrain CrackersFor your future charcuterie board needs, we’re going to let you in on a little secret: If you swap in these Breton multigrain crackers for the ones that crumble as soon as they meet soft cheese, your dinner guests will be impressed. They’re light and flavorful—a true crowd-pleaser that you really can’t go wrong with.The Best Crisps: Milton’s Craft Bakers Gluten-Free CrackersIf you don’t eat gluten, you know that finding truly satisfying snacks can be a Herculean task. Among a sea of bland, Eucharist-esque crisps, Milton’s GF crackers stand out as excellent alternatives. Our testers raved about flavors like everything bagel, fire-roasted veggie, and sea salt.The Best Seed Cracker: Mary’s Gone Super Seed CrackersSometimes, you want your cracker to be more than just a vessel for cheeses and dips. Mary’s Gone Crackers answers the call with a seed-packed cracker that’s substantial, flavorful, and nutritionally quite dense. Our testers noted that flavors like everything bagel, jalapeño, and rosemary mean these seed crisps need no accouterments, but a little hummus or cheese slice does take them to the next level.The Best Snack Pack: Pamela’s Gluten-Free Mini Graham Snack PacksWho says you need to ditch the snack packs when you become an adult? These grahams are crunchy, sweet and salty, and fun to munch on when your sweet tooth hits. Our testers got experimental, sprinkling them on top of pudding, using them as the crust of a gluten-free pie, and more—and loved the results.The Best Gluten-Free Cracker: Simple Mills Organic Seed Flour CrackersA base of seed flour (instead of almond or buckwheat) gives these gluten-free Simple Mills crackers a flavorful leg up on the competition. “I am simply in awe that science has brought us gluten-free products of this caliber,” wrote one of our testers. That’s when you know a snack is good, folks! The Best Bagged Popcorn: LesserEvil Organic PopcornAir-popped and flavored with ingredients like ghee, coconut oil, Himalayan pink salt, habanero-pepper powder, cane sugar, and strawberries, Lesser Evil’s array of bagged popcorn is expansive and delicious. “Anytime we have people over, I’d put a bag [of this popcorn] into a bowl, and it was emptied by the time they left,” one tester wrote. “We also loved the flavor varieties, which don’t taste chemical-y and artificial like a lot of popcorns do.”The Best DIY Popcorn: Quinn Family Farmed Pop-at-Home Popcorn KernelsSometimes, homemade is truly better. (I mean, there’s nothing better than fresh, hot popcorn.) Quinn’s got you covered with these crafty kernels, which you can pop in a microwave popcorn bowl (like this one), in a popcorn maker, or on the stovetop. Tender, customized popcorn awaits! You homesteader, you.The Best Vegan Popcorn: BjornQorn ClassicMeet your new movie night BFF. BjornQorn’s adorably packaged vegan popcorn is a delight to the tastebuds, whether or not you’re actually vegan. Nutritional yeast adds a “cheesy” and zesty flavor, plus, there’s a surprising amount of protein and healthy fat in each serving, which may help keep you satiated.The Best Classic Pretzel: Snyder’s of Hanover Traditional PretzelsChances are you’ve noshed on these perfect little pretzels before. While they aren’t new, we firmly believe in the “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” way of living—and that definitely includes the classic Snyder’s pretzels. These grocery store titans are salty, crisp, and endlessly versatile. In short, your pantry should never be without them.The Best Snack Mix: Catalina Crunch Crunch MixesRoad trips, park dates, and hours-long outdoor adventures just got an upgrade thanks to these mixes from Catalina Crunch. Nuts, cereal, legumes, cheese crisps, spices, and more create a zesty blend of textures that are both fun and satisfying to eat. “Honestly, it’s an easy 10,” one tester wrote. “Catalina Crunch’s original flavor is strong and delicious. My dad and I both agreed this is the kind of snack you could eat a whole bag of in one sitting. I like that there are nuts in it too.” The Best Pretzel Sticks: Zapp’s Seasoned Voodoo Pretzel Stixs If you like spice but could do without the heat, allow us to introduce you to these treasures from Zapp’s. “I thought these would be superhot, but instead, they just had a nice, seasoned kick,” one tester said. The strong and bold seasoning blend gives these pretzel sticks a boost of flavor without setting your mouth on fire. The Best Potato Chips: Siete Foods Kettle-Cooked Potato Chips What makes a kettle chip especially good? It should be substantial enough for dipping, supremely crunchy, and hold onto its oil flavor. If you couldn’t tell, I’m describing these Siete Foods chips, which come in flavors like chile-lime, queso, and chipotle BBQ. They’re good for in-between meal snacking, a sandwich companion, or an “Oh, my God, I forgot to bring crackers to the family Christmas dinner” alternative (all scenarios our testers cited).The Best Tortilla Chips: Mi Rancho 7th Street Tortilla ChipsPour these tortilla chips into a basket and you’ll have everyone at your table knowing they’re about to have a seriously good Mexican meal. Our testers note that these are the Goldilocks of tortilla chips: They’re the perfect heft, have a just-right amount of salt, and are packed with traditional corn flavor.The Best Plantain Chips: Artisan Tropic Plantain and Cassava StripsThese plantain chips from Artisan Tropics are delightfully salty and a little bit sweet, with a thickness that can handle the weight of any homemade guacamole. The nice thing about these chips is that they don’t try too hard—they’re simple, and that’s their superpower.The Best Chickpea Snack: Saffron Road Crunchy ChickpeasOne of our testers said they carried these crunchy morsels around “like a baby blanket,” noting that they have plenty of protein, make an excellent pre-workout snack, and are a fun and satisfying treat next to your desk. Flavors like falafel, Korean BBQ, and Bombay spice really took them to the next level.The Best Grain-Alternative Tortilla Chips: Real Food From the Ground Up Cauliflower Tortilla ChipsMay we all have the glow-up that cauliflower did. You’d never know these chips are cauliflower based; they have the texture of a Dorito (in the best way possible) and a dusting of yeasty, salty flavor. This tester put it best: “I loved the taste, crunch, and texture of these chips, so much so that I continued to eat, and eat, and eat….”The Best Puffs: Spudsy Sweet Potato PuffsMove over, cheese curls. Actually, don’t. We need and love you. However, please make some room for these innovative sweet potato puffs. “The texture is a bit less crunchy than a traditional cheese puff, but they melt in your mouth like the classic version would,” one tester said. “As a mostly plant-based person who once survived almost exclusively on cheese, the cheddar flavor is on point too.” Another cool thing? The brand tackles food waste by upcycling “ugly” sweet potatoes to make these.The Best Veggie Straws: You Need This Ranch Veggie StrawsWho doesn’t love a veggie straw? Though you may not have nibbled on one since childhood (or if you have kids, or spend time around them, perhaps you’ve come across them more recently), let me inform you: They’re even better than you remember. Particularly these from You Need This, which are coated in a perfect pinch of ranch. “They’re superlight and crunchy and have tons of flavor without punching you in the face like a certain type of ranch-flavored tortilla chip might,” one tester said. “I couldn’t resist grabbing a few every time I passed by the bag. I love that they’re plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free, which makes them easy to serve to anyone.”The Best Dessert Nuts: SkinnyDipped Lemon Bliss AlmondsImagine lemon squares, but crunchy. And nutty. That’s how our testers described these. With a bright and sunny flavor, SkinnyDipped’s Lemon Bliss Almonds are a sweet, tart, and genuinely delicious snack. Plus, the resealable packaging keeps the almonds fresh for weeks—though we can’t promise you won’t finish them in 24 hours.The Best Bar Nuts: Matiz NutsThese delicate, impeccably flavored nuts from Matiz, a Spanish brand new to the US as of 2022, will upgrade your basic snack place. “All of the Matiz snacks felt like fancy cocktail treats a really nice bar would serve,” one tester said. “I would serve them at a party or to friends I was having over for snacks and drinks. I also really loved the packaging; the products all come in clear plastic containers with lids that fit on in a really satisfying way (think Tupperware). I will definitely be rebuying these products when I get through all of the samples.”  The Best Meat Sticks: The New Primal Meat SticksYou might think you don’t have many options when it comes to meat sticks (hello, gas station Slim Jims), but that actually isn’t the case. The New Primal’s sticks come in a variety of intriguing flavors—like Classic Beef, Spicy Beef, Lightly Peppered Turkey, Cilantro Lime Turkey, and Buffalo Chicken—and they make for a light pick-me-up before or after workouts. “I’m always trying to find non-gross, actually interesting ways to add protein to my diet, and these are a great solution,” one tester said.The Best Splurge Jerky: Cattaneo Bros. Free Range 100% Grass-Fed Beef JerkyOne pack of beef jerky for $40? Probably not going on your weekly grocery list. But if you’re a true jerky lover and feel like splurging on a treat, we highly recommend this one from Cattaneo Bros. Their beef jerky is perfectly chewy, flavorful without being too salty, and individually wrapped for mess-free snacking. Our testers note that even the flavored varieties are balanced and don’t have an artificial taste, like many jerkies do. Serve this one on a charcuterie board, and savor every single bite. The Best Classic Granola: Bob’s Red Mill Maple Sea Salt Homestyle GranolaA few years ago we hit Peak Granola—as in, there was an influx of bespoke granola brands priced at $11 per bag. We’re pleased to let you know, then, that the best granola is actually from pantry mainstay Bob’s Red Mill—and it’s on the affordable side too. The Maple Sea Salt flavor sits at the crux of sweet and salty, and its crunchy clusters are just as tasty on their own as they are on top of yogurt or ice cream.The Best Chunky Granola: Stellar Granola Golden Milk GranolaSometimes, you just need giant chunks of sweetened, crunchy oats and grain to satisfy that craving to munch down on something substantial. This concoction from Stellar Granola, inspired by golden lattes, is gently spiced with turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon. It’s chunky, it’s tasty, it’s perfect. •We can’t talk about food without talking about food access, which is why we put together this guide to redistributing food to the people in your community who need it. As part of the 2023 Pantry Awards, SELF has made a $2,500 donation to God’s Love We Deliver, a New York–based non-sectarian organization that prepares and delivers meals to people with HIV/AIDS, cancer, and other serious illnesses. We also donated the unopened items from our photoshoot for this project to New York Common Pantry.

So you just took advantage of some early Presidents’ Day sales on home appliances or tech gadgets or perhaps a new mattress from the best Presidents’ Day mattress sales—now what? Thankfully, there are heaps of Presidents’ Day bedding deals cropping up too, from brands you know and love like Anthropologie, Tuft & Needle, Purple, Layla, and more. Retailers like Target, Amazon, and Nordstrom are also joining in on the markdowns. Whether you’re searching for the dreamiest set of percale bed sheets, a supportive pillow, or a sleep bundle to check off all your boxes, you’re almost guaranteed to find what you need on sale ahead of Presidents’ Day weekend. Below, we’ve highlighted the most notable bedding deals to keep tabs on. And remember—they won’t last long (insert “if you snooze you lose” pun here).Mattress and bedding brand Helix has a couple of tiered deals on its sleep products this weekend. Type in the code PDS20 to get 20% off sitewide plus two free pillows when you buy a mattress. The brand has excellent bedding basics to peruse, from a plush pillow-top mattress pad to a supportive wedge pillow. Looking for a weighted blanket for your room? Helix’s weighted blanket comes in 10, 15, or 20 lbs.HelixHelix Plush Mattress Topper (Queen Size)Read more: The Helix Plus Mattress Review is Made with Larger Bodies in MindYou can count on Amazon for the best deals year-round (especially for the best sheet sets), but this weekend, you’ll find deeper markdowns on bed basics like Lucid mattress pads, sateen sheet sets, and more. You’ll also find pillow deals and markdowns on duvet inserts.AmazonCGK Unlimited Sateen Cotton Sheet Set (Queen Size)AmazonLucid 2-Inch Mattress Topper, Queen SizeAmazonWeekender Gel Memory Foam Pillow, Queen SizeAmazonBedsure Queen Comforter Duvet InsertRead more: The Best Amazon MattressesAnthropologie’s home sale is stocked up ahead of the holiday weekend. You won’t want to miss deals on statement bedding, like an embroidered duvet and sham sets, floral sheets, plush throw pillows, and blankets you’ll want to wrap up in all season long.For the dreamiest bedding, turn to Tuft & Needle’s Presidents’ Day sale. The brand is offering up to 30% off all bedtime basics, like its pillows, duvet inserts, and mattress toppers through the holiday weekend. You can also get up to $625 off mattresses, too.Tuft & NeedleTuft & Needle Down Alternative Pillow Set (Standard Size)Right now, save big on select bedding at Target, from the pregnancy pillow we love, to plush mattress pads, to luxe linens—some of which are more than 50% off right now.TargetPharMeDoc Pregnancy PillowTargetDownlite Cloud Top Ultra Plush Pillow Top Feather BedTargetBecky Cameron Solid 6-Piece Sheet SetTargetPeace Nest Linen Duvet Cover and Pillow Sham SetLayla is slashing prices on nearly all of its stock, from memory foam pillows to bed frames. Select products like the Memory Foam Topper and Weighted Blanket are $100 off for the weekend and its bedding bundles are more than $100 off. You can also score lesser discounts on pretty much everything else, like $70 off Bamboo Sheets and $100 off its Down Alternative Comforter.LaylaLayla Bamboo Sheets (Queen Size)LaylaLayla Down Alternative Comforter (Full/Queen Size)Here at SELF, we love a good Nordstrom sale. While the retailer’s sale section is always overflowing with stellar steals and hidden gems, it just added plenty of bedding. You’ll find linen quilts from Parachute, top-rated down comforters, cashmere throw blankets from NAADAM, and more.Select colors and sizes of Saatva’s luxe and organic bedding options are on sale until the 21st. The brand is also running a tiered sale, going from $325 off purchases of $950 to $2,499 all the way to $500 off $4,000 or more. Take a gander at the linen sheets, or invest in a new cooling mattress pad. SaatvaSaatva Organic Mattress Pad (Queen Size)SaatvaSaatva Organic Sateen Sheet Set (Queen Size)Eco-conscious brand Nest Bedding has a range of offers to shop ahead of Presidents’ Day. Take more than 50% off pillows and bamboo sheets, plus lesser (but still great) markdowns on silk pillowcases, duvet sets, comforters, blankets, and more. If you’re in need of a bedroom overhaul, Nest is your one-stop shop if you want to buy everything on sale (and why wouldn’t you?).We gave Purple’s mattress the SELF Certified seal of approval, so you can bet we’re eyeing its Presidents’ Day sale on bedding and mattresses. Take 10% off Purple pillows, sheets, bedding, and the brand’s popular seat cushions through the holiday.PurplePurple Complete Comfort Sheet Set (Queen Size)Brooklyn Bedding is offering the best Presidents’ Day bedding deals we’ve seen so far. Take 25% off sitewide with the promo code PRESDAY25. The brand’s microfiber sheets are accessibly priced, and side sleepers will love its high-loft ventilated memory foam pillow.Though not an explicit Presidents’ Day sale, Cozy Earth is celebrating the season with Valentine’s Day markdowns of 20 to 25% sitewide. The popular fluffy comforters are on sale for breathability all year round, as are the smooth and silky bamboo sheets.Ahead of Presidents’ Day weekend, Flax Home—purveyors of luxe linen bedding—is celebrating Valentine’s Day with 20% off blush and terra cotta-colored bedding with the code LOVELINEN. Whether you’re looking for duvet covers or sheet sets, these linens stand the test of time.Related:

Throw on your bathing suits, folks, because we’re going down the slip-n-slide to find the best anal lube for you. Going into anal sex without a lubricant is like going through your day without coffee: painful and almost always unsuccessful. On a more serious note, “using lube for anal play is crucial,” Jenn Mason, founder and owner of WinkWink, a Washington-based, women-owned sex shop, tells SELF. We spoke with experts to understand what to look for when shopping for anal lubes and why it’s beneficial for anal sex.Why should you use anal lube?“Unlike vaginas, [which provide natural lubrication], anuses do not self-lubricate,” board-certified ob-gyn Jacques Moritz, MD, previously told SELF. Anal penetration without adequate lubrication can cause the tissue in your anus to tear, SELF previously reported, which is both painful and dangerous. These tears in the anus area can make you more susceptible to sexually transmitted infections (or STIs), like gonorrhea and HIV, according to Dr. Moritz.What kinds of lube are safe for anal sex?According to sex educators, there are three main types of lube: silicone-, water-, and oil-based. Each is safe for anal play. However, they all come with callouts to be aware of before you dive in. Silicone-based lubricants are often recommended for anal sex because they last the longest and have a thicker, cushiony consistency. “Silicone lubes never dry up and feel velvety on the skin, making them perfect for anal play,” says Mason. “Just remember not to use silicone lubes with silicone sex toys or it can ruin the material.” Water-based lubricants are the most common; they’re the ones you’d typically find at your local drugstore. They’re thin, slippery, and quite easy to wash off after sex, making them a solid, affordable option. Water-based lubes are also easier to clean up. But because of its texture, you might need to reapply during anal play. “Some people notice that thinner water-based lubes can basically get ‘squeegeed’ off the penis, fingers, or toys during anal, because the anus can be so tight,” Carol Queen, PhD, staff expert at Good Vibrations, tells SELF.Oil-based lubricants are slippery and long-lasting, which is why sex experts like them. Coconut oil-based lubes especially have become popular in recent years. However, “oil-based lubes cannot be used with polyisoprene or latex condoms, as the lube can cause them to weaken and break,” says Mason. We do recommend using condoms for any kind of sex, so ensure that you find a compatible option (like lambskin, nitrile, or polyurethane condoms) should you opt for an oil-based lube.What to look for when shopping for anal lubeBeyond the base of the lubricant, there are other things to keep in mind when looking for a go-to option. Mason recommends a high-viscosity, long-lasting lube for extra comfort. Jojoba oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil, sunflower oil, or sweet almond oil are also good ingredients to look for, per the Cleveland Clinic. A fragrance-free lube is ideal for everyone, but if you have sensitive skin or you’ve been sensitive to lube in the past, it’s even more important to find an option that’s hypoallergenic and made without fragrances. “Use a high-quality lube, be patient, and take the time to really enjoy yourself and set time aside to get fully aroused for sex,” Gigi Engle, ACS, a certified sex educator and host of Internet Sex Therapy, tells SELF. “The more lube the better. I always say you shouldn’t be thinking there can be “too much” lube. You should want to be on a water slide. It just makes everything better. This applies for all kinds of sex—but is especially important during anal—because the anal doesn’t self-lubricate like a vagina.”What you should avoid in an anal lubeAll of the experts we spoke to discouraged the use of flavored or scented personal lubricants for anal, vaginal, and oral sex. What’s more, avoid glycerin in your lubes, as it contains sugar, and that can alter vaginal pH, SELF previously reported. Water-based lube is also the best lube for sensitive skin. According to Engle and Dr. Queen, you should also avoid petroleum-based lubricants, and anything with parabens or preservatives. Oh, and please don’t put Vaseline down there. If you use a lube with numbing agents that gives you “tingly” or desensitizing sensations for vaginal sex, Dr. Queen says to skip it for anal play. “Anal sex can be painful when it’s not done right, but you want to listen to those messages and respond accordingly,” she says. “Slow down, add lube, take a break, ask your partner to be more gentle, etc. You don’t want to ignore your body’s signals. If you’re numb, you won’t receive those signals clearly, which can put you at risk.”Most importantly, avoid any ingredients you’re sensitive to. While that might feel obvious, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by your choices and pick up the first lube you find, regardless of ingredients. “If you’ve used a lube for anal or vaginal play and experienced itching, redness, swelling, burning, or other discomforts—don’t use that lube again,” says Dr. Queen. “And take a minute to research what was in the lube that might have given you trouble so you can figure out what to avoid in the future.”The best anal lubesNow that you have the 411 on all things lube, let’s get down to business. Ahead, we’ve used the above criteria and asked our experts to share their top picks for the best anal lube for butt stuff—and everything else. You’ll find silicone-, water-, and oil-based lubes on this list, but just remember the guidelines above. Whether you’re a beginner getting ready for your first time, or you’ve dabbled in butt play for years, it’s never a bad idea to find new sexual health products that could take your next session up a notch.