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I have to confess, I’m a little bit obsessed with mid century modern design. But then, I know I’m in good company.

The distinctive style which emerged just after the first world war grew in popularity to such a degree, it went on to define 1950s America.

Design principles pioneered by architects, interior designers, product, and graphic designers produced a collective style that has subsequently been acknowledged as a “significant design movement” by museums and design critics.

While other trends have become resigned to the past, mid century modern, (a term coined by Cara Greenberg in her book Mid-Century Modern: Furniture of the 1950s), has seen an ever-growing resurgence in popularity that isn’t going away any time soon.

And that’s simply because it’s good design.

In architecture, mid-century modern (MCM) denotes open and informal living spaces with large full-length windows that bring nature in.

Interiors are simple if not minimalist in style. Natural textures such as wood, mix and contrast with modern materials like plywood, glass, metal, plastic, and plexiglass.

One of the most distinguishing aspects of the movement is its bold palette of rich, earthy tones that both complement and contrast plain areas of gray, black, or taupe.

Space-age inspired geometric patterns lighten the tone but are confined to accessories, drapes, rugs or throw pillows.

MCM is the perfect way to design a room. You don’t need to go all out, just choose your furniture well and add one or two elements to enhance the look if you wish.

Amazon has a wonderful selection of mid-century furniture and accessories, including the famous Vitra Eames House Bird (if you want to keep things authentic) but more affordable replicas are also available or you could always make your own.

Note:

If you’d like free printable mid century modern wall art, to complete your look, you are welcome to download some from my printable page – all my printables are free, and no sign-up is required.

Ok so let’s get started, we’ll now take a look at a selection of the best affordable mid-century modern furniture out there.

Our Guide to Best Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Click below to jump to each topic in this guide.

• The Best Mid-Century Modern Sofas
• The Best Mid-Century Modern Chairs
• The Best Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables
• Frequently Asked Questions

The Best Mid-Century Modern Sofas

There’s nothing bean bag chair slouchy about a mid-century modern sofa – they’re not designed for you to sink in to. They are, firm – but that doesn’t mean they’re not comfortable.

They’re also very supportive for your back as they encourage you to sit with a good posture.

Here are top picks.

Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Upholstered Fabric Sofa or Loveseat

The Engage is the perfect blend of mid century modern style with contemporary design. You can see elements of Edward Wormley’s curved sofas, though this isn’t a direct copy of any of them.

This sofa will suit all tastes. With twelve fabric color options to choose from, you can go bold with atomic red, citrus, teal or wheatgrass or choose one of the more grounded foundation colors like gray, beige or oatmeal to contrast and complement the accessories you add.

We particularly love the chunky cherrywood-finished legs and frame which provide a sturdy base for the 6-inch-high polyester upholstered cushions.

The sofa is available as a love seat, full-size sofa, or armchair ( which we’ve featured below) and ottoman.

Key Features:

• Wide Choice of Color Options and Sizes | Twelve fabric color options to choose from. There’s basically a color to suit every taste.
• Sturdy wooden frame | The frame and legs are particularly sturdy with a nice cherrywood-finish – in keeping with the MCM style.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Modway Engage range on Amazon.

Modway Remark Mid-Century Modern Sofa

How gorgeous is this? We are completely in love with the colored buttons on this curvy tufted sofa. It’s the perfect way to inject some color into a living room without the need for accessories.

There’s a matching armchair for this sofa or if space is limited, you could go for the smaller loveseat.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Modway Remark Mid-Century Modern Sofa on Amazon.

Rivet Aiden Mid-Century Sofa

This sofa has that authentic first edition vibe going on – it certainly looks like a mint condition vintage piece from the 1950s MCM era.

It’s sophisticated and arty and either the fabric version, shown above, or the beautiful velvet option would nicely complement a Barcelona chair replica.

Though the seat cushions are attached, the back seat cushions are removable for easy cleaning and they’re reversible too.

The low-profile sofa comes in a range of sizes right up to 86.6 inches long.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Rivet Aiden Mid-Century Sofa on Amazon.

Rivet Cove Mid-Century Modern Tufted Sofa

We couldn’t show you a selection of MCM sofas without a Florence Knoll inspired couch. Florence Knoll was an important American architect, interior designer, and furniture designer of the mid-century modern movement.

This, very recognizable, sofa style is a copy of or inspired by, the Knoll sofa.

The back is a little higher than our last choice which may suit some people better. It’s also a little less firm to sit on too.

It’s well-made with a sturdy hardwood frame and solid beech wood legs. It comes either as a full-size sofa, or a love-seat and there is also a matching armchair.

Key Features:

• Higher Back | Many MCM sofas tend to have low profiles. This style has a back that is a little higher than most in the style.
• Sturdy Hardwood Frame | With solid beech wood legs.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Rivet Cove Mid-Century Modern Tufted Sofa on Amazon.

Stone & Beam Hillman Mid-Century Sofa

MCM sofas tend to be structured in form. The curvy appearance being part of the frame’s design, rather than anything to do with the cushioning itself.

If you want a sofa that has softer cushions but is still in keeping with the midcentury modern look, this is the sofa you should choose.

Key Features:

• Solid Hardwood Frame | With the on-trend tapered wood legs.
• Removable and Reversible Back Cushions | Made from 85% polyester and 15% acrylic.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Stone & Beam Hillman Mid-Century Sounds fa on Amazon.

The Best Mid-Century Modern Chairs

A great interior design trick is to add an accent chair – but one that isn’t just the armchair that matches the couch. There are a few exceptions. The Modway Remark with its colored buttons is one – a contrasting style with this sofa could risk giving you a jumbled look.

Generally speaking, however, to really make a statement, you should change things up a bit. This is your opportunity to give your room its personality, and if you’re brave enough, to add a bright splash of color too.

Another good reason to mix things up is that you can easily overemphasize a design. For example, imagine a perfectly lovely but, quite boxily designed, sofa. Add in a matching chair and the whole room would start to look a little …well, boxy.

By adding a contrasting accent chair you can soften the look and you’ll be taking a leaf out of the best interior designers’ handbook.

Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Accent Arm

This is the armchair that matches our top sofa pick. Though generally speaking, you should choose a different accent chair to your sofa, this one would work well as a set.

The reason being it’s has a simple, soft curvy design that isn’t boxy or out there in any way. That means the overall look isn’t something that will overpower your room.

And for a different style of sofa, this would make a great accent chair.

Key Features:

• Wide Choice of Color Options and Sizes | Again, this chair comes in a choice of twelve different fabric color options. There’s basically a color to suit every taste and it’s the perfect way to contrast a gray sofa with a splash of color.
• Sturdy wooden frame | The frame and legs are particularly sturdy with a nice cherrywood-finish – in keeping with the MCM style.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Accent Arm on Amazon.

Zenvida Mid Century Modern Accent Armchair

You might be forgiven for thinking this a just modern-day take on the MCM style. It has a Scandinavian vibe mixed with mid-century modern design.

Although not an exact replica of the classic 1956 Hans J Wegner Lounge chair for Getama (GE-270), it is very close to the original design.

Scandinavian mid-century modern was an important and parallel design movement that overlapped MCM in many ways. While some designs of the period were definitely one style and not the other, vintage Scandinavian MCM collectibles command a much higher price tag than non-MCM Scandinavian pieces alone.

This chair is most definitely Scandinavian Mid Century Modern.

It’s available in either the soft velvety green you see here or a gorgeous shade of velvet pale blue. It has a rubberwood frame with a dark brown finish.

Key Features:

• Based on a 1950s Design | Though the chair is not original, it is based on an actual 1950s design.
• Sturdy Wooden Frame | It has a well-made rubberwood frame with a dark brown finish.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Zenvida Mid Century Modern Accent Armchair on Amazon.

Rocket – Mid Century Modern Accent Lounge Arm Chair

This replica of the famous 1950s Z chair is another prime example of Scandinavian MCM design. The Z chair is attributed to the somewhat mysterious designer, Poul Jensen (there is virtually no information about him). The chair, however, remains as iconic as it ever was.

The Rocket’s Z-style frame is crafted from solid rubberwood and the fabric is a vibrant mix of texture and color that, in the version above, gives the chair an overall orangy hew.

Though there is a matching sofa, I think this one is all the better for being showcased alone.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Rocket – Mid Century Modern Accent Lounge Arm Chair on Amazon.

Amazon Brand – Rivet Farr Lotus Accent Chair

This soft curvy accent chair is a great way to complement a boxy sofa. It’s both arty and informal in style, and it’s one of the few MCM chairs that doesn’t have arms.

If like me, you’re into crafting, you could sit with your feet up, beading loom on your knee, or weave, knit or just chill.

Click to check the current price for the Amazon Brand – Rivet Farr Lotus Accent Chair on Amazon.

Fat June Tristan Accent Chair

This channel-tufted high-quality Pu leather lounge chair is reminiscent of the 1956 Hans J Wegner Lounge chair for Getama (GE-270).

It ticks all the right boxes combining a structured solid (walnut-stained) wood frame with the soft contours of the overstuffed, natural leather (look) cushioning.

It’s the perfect combination of form and function.

Click to check the current price for the Fat June Tristan Accent Chair on Amazon.

Mid Century Plywood Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Urban Furnishing

Along with the Barcelona chair, we’ll be looking at next, perhaps the most famous and recognizable mid-century modern chair is the Eames chair and ottoman. This is an exceptionally high-quality replica of the Eames chair which was officially titled Eames Lounge (670) and Ottoman (671).

Designed in 1956, the original chair and ottoman now reside in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

If you like this style of chair you should hop over to my replica Eames chair guide for a more detailed look at the design.

Or click to check the current price and other color options for the Mid Century Plywood Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Urban Furnishing.

eMod – Modern Pavilion Barcelona Chair Replica

Another great icon of MCM furniture design is the Barcelona chair.

Designed in 1929, it’s one of the earliest pieces of the MCM era and its designer, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, was one of the pioneering architects who helped define the movement.

I have this chair or rather this replica chair. I love the cool contemporary look, and being a bit of a geek, I love the heritage behind a chair that was originally designed in 1929.

The Barcelona replica chair featured above was our top pick in our Barcelona chair replica review. If you like the design of this chair, hop over to our review of the best replicas.

Or click to check the current price and other color options for the eMod – Modern Pavilion Barcelona Chair Replica on Amazon.

The Best Mid-Century Modern Coffee Tables

Adding a mid-century modern coffee, or side table is an easy way to accentuate the theme. Let’s take a look at some designs which are typical of the mid-century modern style.

Rimdoc Triangle Glass Coffee Table

Designed in 1944 by the Japanese designer Isamu Noguchi, the iconic Noguchi coffee table, of which this is an excellent replica, consists of just three parts: a curved triangular glass top and two interlocking wood pieces for the base.

This mid-century modern replica is made from tempered glass and has a solid wood frame.

You can choose from a range of stained finishes to match with your MCM splayed wooden, sofa or accent chair legs. Color options include dark walnut, walnut, cherry, wood (light) or black.

Click to check the current price and other color options for the Rimdoc Triangle Glass Coffee Table on Amazon.

Christopher Knight Home Caspar Walnut Wood Coffee Table

This curvy egg-shaped coffee table is typical of the organic shapes that are so prominent in MCM design.

It’s simple, elegant and minimalist, and there are no sharp corners to take your shins out when you walk past.

It’s made from rubberwood, which is a medium-density tropical hardwood with a walnut stain.

Click to check the current price for the Christopher Knight Home Caspar Walnut Wood Coffee Table on Amazon.

Safavieh Home Collection Olida

A much more à la mode version of a nest of tables is this set of two occasional tables. They work, well grouped together to make a coffee table and the great thing about them is that they can be separated and moved easily if you have company.

The smaller of the two nestles neatly under the larger one, and if you need more table surface you can easily pull it out a little – a bit like a draw.

The rounded corners are great for softening a boxy couch and the light color will lighten a darker room.

Click to check the current price for the Safavieh Home Collection Olida on Amazon.

WE Furniture Mid Century Modern Hairpin Coffee Table Set

And lastly, how about this simple, elegant mid-century modern hairpin legged coffee table set?

Today hairpin legs are bang-on-trend, but they actually date back to 1941.

They were commonly used in mid-century design. The mix of natural wood with modern industrial materials was one of the founding principles behind the movement.

These tables are not fully nestable, but that said, they would look aesthetically less pleasing if they were.

Click to check the current price for the WE Furniture Mid Century Modern Hairpin Coffee Table Set on Amazon.

For more inspiration and mid century modern interior design ideas, hop over to our reading room.

There are some stunning reproduction trees out there to grace any room or outside space in your home. In this guide, we will be reviewing the best artificial trees for indoors to help you choose the right one.

Reviews of Our Top Picks for the Best Artificial Trees

Editor’s Award	Brand	Product
Our Top Pick / Best Value	Nearly Natural 6ft. Ficus Artificial Tree
Best for Contemporary Look	Fopamtri 6ft. Artificial Bird of Paradise Plant
Best Alternative Contemporary Look	Nearly Natural 4ft. Fiddle Leaf Fig Artificial Tree
Best Flowering Option	Aveyas 5ft. Artificial Canna Violet Tree with Purple Flowers
Best Japanese Style	Vert Lifestyle 5.4ft. Luxury 5.4ft. Japanese Fruticosa Tree
Best Bamboo Option	Nearly Natural 7ft. Big Bamboo
Best Alternative Bamboo Option	Pure Garden 5ft. 50-10015Japanese Bamboo
Best for Tropical Look	Nearly Natural 6.5ft. 5289 Golden Cane Palm
Best Outdoor Option	Northwood Calliger 4.6ft. Artificial Topiary Triple Ball Boxwood Trees
Best budget Outdoor Option	TWO Pre-potted 4ft. Spiral Boxwood Artificial Topiary Trees

You may also like to check out our artificial outdoor plant guide for more choices.

Click below to jump to each topic in this guide.

• Our Top Pick / Best Value
• Best for Contemporary Look
• Best Alternative Contemporary Look
• Best Flowering Option
• Best Japanese Style
• Best Bamboo Option
• Best Alternative Bamboo Option
• Best for Tropical Look
• Best Outdoor Option
• Best Alternative Outdoor Option
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Other Artificial Trees We’ve reviewed

Our Top Pick / Best Value: Nearly Natural 6ft. Ficus Artificial Tree

It’s manufactured from synthetic materials, including polyester material and plastic and comes in a small black nursery pot measuring 5.5″ wide by 5″ high.

This allows you to add a pot of your own choice which you can dress with some pebbles or moss for a soft natural look.

This faux tree would brighten any dark or bare corner. It’s perfect for a hallway, living room, dining room or sunroom and unlike the real thing, you won’t have to deal with any leaf drop problems.

What We Like:

• Realistically Twined Branches | They are authentically twisted for that extra touch of realism.
• 1008 individual leaves | The density of leaves, color variation, and vein details, set this one apart from a cheap fake tree.

Check the latest price for the Nearly Natural 6ft. Ficus Artificial Tree on Amazon.

Best for Contemporary Look: Fopamtri 6ft. Artificial Bird of Paradise Plant

It comes in two sizes, the one we have featured is 6ft. tall but there’s a smaller 5 ft. tall version too.

This 6ft. tall version features 13 separate leaves with wire interior stems that can be bent to arch out gracefully. The softly feathered leaves are made from premium polyester material and the plant comes in a 7.1″ diameter by 6.3″ high black pot, which is weighted with cement and ready to be potted into a container or your choice.

What We Like:

• Feathered and Textured Leaves | The feathering and 3d vein detailing on the leaves adds to its realism and sets this artificial tree apart from others.
• Can Be Shaped | This is a good option if you need one you can shape. You can place this plant in a narrow space or bend to arch out the leaves, to fill a corner.

Check the latest price of the Fopamtri 6ft. Artificial Bird of Paradise Plant on Amazon.

Best Alternative Contemporary Look: Nearly Natural 4ft Fiddle Leaf Fig Artificial Tree

Faded leaves, turned nearly blue in the sunlight are a big giveaway and never a good look on an artificial plant. This plant, however, is fully UV resistant, so you can put it in full sun either indoors or out, and your tree will retain its rich dark green leaves indefinitely.

If you prefer one with more foliage or more height, there is a beautiful 6ft tall version of the Nearly Natural Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree that you can see in the photo.

This 6ft. tall version features several realistic stems/trunks and 270 large leaves. It comes with a 5.75 inch tall by 6.75-inch wide black pot ready to be styled with your own planter and moss.

What We Like:

• Choice of Plant Styles | This is the same plant species made by the same company but you can choose whether you’d like a single stem or multiple stems for a fuller look.
• Uv Protected Textured Leaves | You can place this plant in direct sunlight without the risk of it fading.

Check the latest price and color options for the Nearly Natural 4ft. 5448 4ft on Amazon.

Check the latest price and color options for the Nearly Natural 6ft Fiddle Leaf Fig Artificial Tree on Amazon.

Best Flowering Option: Aveyas 5ft Artificial Canna Violet Tree with Purple Flowers

This plant has leaves that can be arched out to add authenticity – they have metal wires inside so they can be adjusted to any position and they’re strong enough to support mini lights.

What We Like:

• Purple Blooms | The flowers are a delicate touch and will add elegance to any dining room, living room, bedroom, bathroom or office area.
• Movable Leaves | They have an internal wire that allows the leaves to be positions to your liking.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Just so you know this one isn’t UV resistant so it’s best placed indoors away from direct sunlight.

Check the latest price for the Aveyas 5ft Artificial Canna Violet Tree on Amazon.

Best Japanese Style: Vert Lifestyle 5.4ft. Luxury Japanese Fruticosa Tree

It’s available in a choice of green or red leaves and you can choose between a flowering and a non-flowering version.

It comes in a 7-inch black nursery pot which you can place in a pot to suit your own taste.

What We Like:

• Real Bark | It’s made with 100% real twisted bark for an authentic look.
• Hand Made | No two are the same.

Check the latest price for the Vert Lifestyle 5.4ft. Luxury Japanese Fruticosa Tree on Amazon.

Check the price for the flowering version on Amazon.

Best Bamboo Option: Nearly Natural 7′ Big Bamboo

It comes in a wide choice of sizes, from 3ft. right up to a dramatic 8ft. tall version.

The one we have featured is the 7ft tall option. On its own, it’s the perfect statement piece and will add height color to brighten your living space. Group a few together, and it’s a great way to create a screen from overlooking neighbors.

What We Like:

• Thousands of Leaves | For a dense foliage look.
• Available in a Wide Choice of Sizes | It’s available from 3ft. up to 8 ft. in one-foot increments so you can tailor-make the bamboo for your space.

Buying Factors to Consider:

There is an alternative style, featured below which has the look of a younger bamboo plant. it’s only available as a 5ft. version though so if you want more (or less) height this one is your better option.

Check the latest price and sizes for the Nearly Natural 7′ Big Bamboo on Amazon.

Best Alternative Bamboo Option: Pure Garden 50-10015 5 ft. Japanese Bamboo

It can be placed indoors or out, though if it’s intended for outdoor use, our opinion is that it would be best suited to a covered porch.

What We Like:

• Graceful and Elegant | It’s feathery and delicate and would make a beautiful standalone piece.
• Black Stems | It’s a copy of one of the most sort after varieties of bamboo.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This one is only available as a 5ft. version.

Check the latest price for the Pure Garden 50-10015 5ft. Japanese Bamboo on Amazon.

Best for Tropical Look: Nearly Natural 5289 6.5ft Golden Cane Palm

This 6.5ft. the tree, which is measured from the bottom of the base pot to the tallest palm leaf, has rich, deep green, dense foliage and it comes in a 10 inch high by 8.5-inch black nursery pot.

What We Like:

• Good for Screening | The rich, dense foliage of this cane palm makes it an ideal choice as a screen, though it’s equally good as a statement piece.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Just remember to take into account that the tree is measured from the base of the pot rather than the plant itself.

Check the latest price for the Nearly Natural 5289 6.5ft Golden Cane Palm on Amazon.

Best Outdoor Option: Northwood Calliger 4.6’ Artificial Topiary Triple Ball Boxwood Trees

They have multiple layers of dense green leaves made from durable plastic so they are built to last having been specially designed for outdoor use.

They can withstand adverse weather conditions such as wind, and rain and, because we all know, faded blue leaves are never a good look in an artificial plant, these Buxus trees are colorfast having been infused with an advanced UV inhibitor to protect them from fading in the sun.

They come with a 7″ wide by 5.9″ high pot ready for you to sink into a pot of your own choice.

Boxwood trees offer timeless elegance and are a great way to enhance the look of your property. While these do cost more than others we have looked at, they are much better value for money being built to last and virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.

What We Like:

• Highly Realistic | Whether you place them indoors or out, in direct sunlight or in artificial light they retain an authentic and natural look.

Buying Factors to Consider:

These do cost more than our next alternative option but they are highly realistic and natural-looking and they will last without fading. In our opinion, they are well worth paying that bit extra for.

Check the latest price for the Northwood Calliger 4.6’ Artificial Topiary Triple Ball Boxwood Trees on Amazon.

Best Budget Outdoor Option: TWO Pre-potted 4′ Spiral Boxwood Artificial Topiary Trees

The strong metal stem isn’t visible but standing at 4ft in height, they have 1221 individual leaves in varying shades of dark green.

The leaves themselves are plastic, so they can withstand wind, rain, and snow.

What We Like:

• Dense Realistic foliage | With over 1220 naturally shaped leaves.
• Good Value for Money | You get a lot for your money with this option. There’s nothing cheap looking about them.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Unlike our previous choice these trees aren’t specifically, UV protected so they may not last as long as our top outdoor choice. However, as long as they aren’t in direct sunlight for several hours every day, they should last well.

Check the latest price for the TWO Pre-potted 4′ Spiral Boxwood Artificial Topiary Trees on Amazon.

Other Ones We’ve Reviewed:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Transforming an old item of furniture, such as a thrift or antique store find into a stunning piece that would cost a small fortune to buy, is so much easier than you’d think, as long as you have the right equipment for the job.

If like me, you’re a weekend warrior with a bit of a passion for interior design, you’ll have no doubt at some point tried spray painting a few pieces such as mirrors, tables, and chairs, etc with one of those hobby aerosol spray cans.

So forget everything you know about spray painting with a can or for that matter, painting with a traditional brush. There is simply no comparison when you use a professional spray gun.

They are so versatile too, with the right material and the right spray gun you can use them to paint just about anything, from walls to whole buildings, cabinets and other items of furniture, to table lamps and plant pots.

But trust me, if you have, you’ll know what I mean when I say they’re so disappointing. They give you patchy, poor coverage, and splatter when the can starts to run out, not to mention cheapen the look of the piece you’ve spent all that time trying to transform.

In fact, these days with the right spray gun you can spray makeup, body paint, spray tan or even spray food coloring for cakes.

With so many different types of spray guns now available, choosing the best paint sprayer for the job can be a little confusing.

Two types, in particular, are usually seen mixed together in the same category as each other when looking for a paint sprayer. So which one is better? Should you go for an airless paint sprayer or an HVLP paint sprayer, after all, don’t they look like they do the same thing?

Well, they do to a certain degree and neither is better but each does have its own area of expertise.

Airless Paint Sprayers

If you want to cover large flat areas, fast, like walls, ceilings or outdoor stuff such as fences, sheds, or barns, etc., you’ll need a good airless paint sprayer.

If you’d like more detailed information, we have a full guide to them here at Comfy Zen.

But in brief, they use a piston to pressurize and spray most materials including both high and low viscosity mediums at high pressure most often straight from the can.

They’re perfect for the job but do lack the control, precision and softer finer spray pattern coupled with the superior coverage that you’d need to get the highest quality finish on a beautiful piece of painted furniture.

HVLP Paint Sprayers

That’s where a good HVLP Paint Sprayer comes in. HVLP stands for high-volume, low-pressure. By definition, they spray at low PSIs of 10 or less and generally run on turbine motors rather than the now less common high-pressure air compressor systems that regular paint guns use.

HVLP sprayers are your ideal choice to paint and/or varnish furniture of all shapes and sizes being especially suitable due to the quality of finish, you get from the finer and more uniform shaped particles of paint that they produce.

Another great advantage of using an HVLP spray gun is the dramatically reduced amount of overspray and rebound airborne paint that they give out.

So whether you have just a few small pieces of furniture in mind that you’d like to spray, you’re a serious hobbyist or you’re looking for the best HVLP spray gun for your start-up business. We have picked the very best ones out there to help you choose the best one for you.

Editor’s Award	Brand
Best for Serious Hobbyists	Fuji 2202 Semi-PRO 2 HVLP Spray System
Best for Weekend Warriors	Wagner 0529021 FLEXiO 890 Stationary HVLP Paint Sprayer
Best for Beginners	Wagner Spraytech 0518080 Control Spray Max HVLP Paint or Stain Sprayer
Best Budget Option	REXBETI Ultimate-750 Paint Sprayer
Best Budget Alternative Option	HomeRight C800766, C900076 Finish Max HVLP Paint Sprayer

To read our full reviews, click the links below to scroll to each section.

• Our Top Picks for the Best Paint Sprayer for Furniture
  • Best for Serious Hobbyists
  • Best for Weekend Warriors
  • Best for Beginners
  • Best Budget Option
  • Best Budget Alternative Option
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Other HVLP Paint Sprayers We’ve Reviewed

Reviews of Our Top Picks for the Best Paint Sprayer for Furniture

Best for Serious Hobbyists: Fuji 2202 Semi-PRO 2

You see cheaper spray guns generally have a motor built into the back of the spray gun itself. This, added to the weight of the paint itself, makes them heavier and a little awkward to operate.

Additionally, the motors aren’t generally as durable or powerful, because if they were, they’d be too heavy to be practical and unfortunately this tends to leave them underpowered, reducing the fan quality of the spray and|or lowering the viscosity of the materials you can use.

Fuji’s Semi PRO2 and indeed the Hobby PRO2 which differs only in that it has a larger 1.8mm size tip, feature a super-powerful 1400 watt 2-stage bypass motor that can handle any type of coating. The motor sits on the floor allowing you to spray with ease and without feeling weighed down by the weight of the turbine.

The quality of the spray pattern produced by this machine is unbeatable. The spray gun is non-bleed and has a fully adjustable fan control knob from a 1″ small circular to a wide 12″ ova including all the increments in between.

We have featured the bottom feed spray gun here. I recommend bottom or bottle-feed spray guns as they are a little more adaptable to spraying at different angles than the gravity feed cup spray guns.

The feed tube inside the bottle of a bottom feed version can be turned so that it sits in the paint even if you are spraying from directly overhead as you would for a tabletop for example, or equally directly from underneath as for painting a ceiling. They can, of course, be turned sideways just as easily.

If you prefer a gravity feed PRO2 however, you can choose that one instead. Either way, the machine is easily adaptable from gravity feed to bottle feed so your decision isn’t set in stone.

The PRO2 cames with a 1.3mm air cap but can take additional air cap sizes from .8mm – 2.0mm.

You can take a closer look at the PRO2 in the video below.

What We Like:

Buying Factors to Consider:

Given that it’s not the cheapest of options, its price makes it more of a considered option unless you will be using it regularly. You may prefer to save yourself some bucks and choose one of the options coming up below.

If however, you’re looking for a professional high-quality HVLP paint sprayer then look no further. The PRO2 gives you real bang for your buck.

Check the latest price for the Fuji 2202 Semi-PRO 2 HVLP Spray System on Amazon.

You may also want to consider the Hobby PRO2 version with a wider 1.8mm size tip or the Gravity Feed Semi-PRO2 also from Amazon.

Best for Weekend Warriors: Wagner 0529021 FLEXiO 890 Stationary HVLP Paint Sprayer

Its design is similar to our top choice in that it too has a motor that sits on the floor, keeping all the weight out of your hands and firmly on the floor. As we’ve already mentioned, being lighter in your hand makes it much easier to control and that’s what sets this one apart from others out there.

A larger motor size than those with the motor built-in to the spray gun itself can be achieved by having the motor on the floor and this is another advantage of the stationary design and although this one is not as powerful as the PRO2 we’ve looked at, (this is reflected in its lower price tag) the FLEXiO 890‘s 600-watt turbine is more powerful than most. This means it can spray a wider range of paints, stains, and varnishes straight from the can including primers, latex and oil enamels.

Another great feature making it handy for storage is its unique toolbox style design. When you’ve finished spraying all your attachments including the 11.5-foot hose fit neatly into the integrated storage box.

You can see it in detail in the video below.

What We Like:

• Adjustable Settings | The level of air pressure is adjustable and you can also turn the material flow control to increase or decrease your paint flow.
• Comes with Two Nozzles | Making it a versatile option and suitable for wider areas or larger projects as well as being ideal for smaller or finer detailed work.
• Easy Storage | The integrated storage box complete with convenient carry handle makes it both portable and easy to store away neatly. That means keeping everything together in one place so you won’t end up having the attachments hanging around in a plastic bag.
• Stationary HVLP Paint Sprayer | That means you don’t have the additional weight of the turbine in your hand. The weight is all on the floor.

Buying Factors to Consider:

It’s not going to give you quite the same high-quality spray that the PRO2 will give you so if you’re considering spraying something ambitious like a dining table and chairs or you might want to invest in the higher-end machine.

That said it’s great for home use, for room and furniture makeovers as well as outdoor applications such as garden furniture, fences, and pergolas, etc.

Check the latest price for the Wagner 0529021 FLEXiO 890 Stationary HVLP Paint Sprayer on Amazon.

Best for Beginners: Wagner Spraytech 0518080 Control Spray Max HVLP Paint or Stain Sprayer

The two-stage 570 watts motor is not quite as powerful as the Wagner FLEXiO 890 we’ve looked at above, but that’s reflected in the lower price tag. Its power is more in line with those you’d find in the handheld HVLP paint sprayers that have the turbine built into the air gun.

In real terms that means that you would be able to paint a wall within a shorter time with the more powerful Wagner 890 model than you would with this model, but only by a few minutes.

With the Wagner 0518080 model, you do get a super long, 20 feet air hose which is almost as long as the 25 feet one that you get with our high-end choice, the SemiPRO2. It also comes complete with two air filters that protect the paint finish from dust, two cups, one professional metal 1 qt. cup and one large 1 ½ qt. plastic cup.

This model is great for beginners. You can easily customize your paint flow with the pressure control dial which is adjustable between 1.50 to 2.63 psi reducing the amount of overspray, and in particular, it includes a handy viscosity cup with which you can measure the density of the material you’re using and adjust the spray pattern accordingly.

There’s also a material flow adjuster allowing you to paint with a wide range of materials from higher viscosity latex paints to thinner materials like stains with ease to a high standard of finish.

What We Like:

• Material Flow Adjuster | This greatly reduces overspray on lower viscosity stains and varnishes.
• Great for Beginners | Includes a viscosity cup to measure the density of the material you’re using so that you adjust the spray pattern accordingly.
• Comes with Two Cups | One large plastic 1 ½ qt. cup size for larger projects such as walls and fences etc and one smaller metal 1 qt. cup. for small pieces of furniture etc.
• Stationery Design | You aren’t holding the weight of the motor in your hand while you are spraying, it sits on the floor.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Its the cheapest model we’ve looked at so far but if you’re only going to be using it for a couple of projects or very infrequently you might just want to save a few more dollars and go for our budget option next.

Check the latest price of the Wagner Spraytech 0518080 on Amazon.

This one is great for occasional use, for furniture, fences, and walls as well as hobbies and crafts.

It comes with 3-size different size nozzles a 2.0mm, for lower viscosity mediums such as varnishes and seals, a medium 2.5mm, and a larger 3.0mm for latex and chalk paints and each has an adjustable spray pattern, horizontal, vertical or circular.

You can regulate the paint flow with the flow control knob and there’s a generous 6.6-foot power cord to give you an easy reach.

What We Like:

• Low Price | This is a great option for those not ready to invest in a top of the range professional HVLP paint sprayer.
• Easy to Clean | The model assembles and dismantles very easily and comes with its own cleaning attachments.
• Includes 3 Different Sized Nozzles | For spraying different materials with minimal overspray.

Buying Factors to Consider:

As a first HVLP paint sprayer, you can’t really go wrong at this price. There is an alternative pick that you should check out below that has a couple of variations to this one that you may prefer.

Check the latest price of the REXBETI Ultimate-750 Paint Sprayer on Amazon.

Best Budget Alternative Option: HomeRight C800766, C900076 Finish Max HVLP Paint Sprayer

That said, the nozzle and tip are made from higher quality brass instead of plastic for a finer more precise finish. Brass nozzles are also more temperature resistant to warping and generally longer lasting.

It’s lighter too weighing just 2.76 lbs but the trade-off is the fact that motor is not as powerful on this one, being 400 watts instead of 500 watts.

What We Like:

• Higher Quality Brass Nozzle and Tip | Longer lasting and temperature resistant to warping.
• Low Price | This is another great option for those not ready to invest in a pricey HVLP paint sprayer.
• Easy to Clean | The model assembles and dismantles very easily and it also comes with its own cleaning attachments.

Check the latest price for the HomeRight C800766, C900076 Finish Max HVLP Paint Sprayer on Amazon.

Other HVLP Paint Sprayers We’ve Reviewed:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Before you get yourself another paint roller and brush set and prepare to hole yourself up in a room for a couple of days while you paint with an increasingly aching shoulder, you should get yourself the best airless paint sprayer.

Airless paint sprayers are suitable for any application that you’d use a roller for. They are perfect for walls, ceilings, windows, doors and door jambs, casings, trims, and baseboards as well as all manner of outdoor painting applications. They use high pressure to spray high- as well as low-viscosity paints, stains, and varnishes including both water and solvent-based media.

Understandably, it can be a little confusing to know which one to pick and it’s kinda hard to tell which are airless.

With that in mind, we’ve picked the very best airless paint sprayers out there. So whether you are a weekend warrior, a DIY enthusiast or a painting professional this guide will help you choose the right one.

If you want to paint furniture or smaller pieces they can do that too although an airless paint sprayer may not your best choice if you need a lighter, softer spray. For that, you’ll need an HVLP paint sprayer.

Reviews of Our Top Picks for the Best Airless Paint Sprayer

Editor’s Award	Brand	Click Image to Read Review
Best Overall Airless Paint Sprayer	Graco Magnum 262800 X5 Stand Airless Paint Sprayer
Best Airless Paint Sprayer for Interior Walls	Wagner Airless ControlPro 250
Best Cart Airless Paint Sprayer	Graco Magnum 262805 X7
Best Handheld Airless Paint Sprayer	Wagner Spraytech
Best Professional Airless Paint Sprayer	Graco 17G180 Magnum ProX19 Cart Paint Sprayer

Click below to jump to each topic in this guide.

• Best Overall Airless Paint Sprayer
• Best Airless Paint Sprayer for Interior Walls
• Best Cart Airless Paint Sprayer
• Best Handheld Airless Paint Sprayer
• Best Professional Airless Paint Sprayer
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Other Airless Paint Sprayers We’ve Reviewed

Best Overall Airless Paint Sprayer: Graco Magnum 262800 X5 Stand Airless Paint Sprayer

The paint sprayer operates via a powerful 1/2 horsepower stainless steel piston pump that lets you spray thinned and unthinned water-based, and solvent-based paints including emulsions and latex paints, enamels, vinyl, gloss paints, stains and more at high pressure, directly from a one or five-gallon paint bucket.

It comes with 25 feet of paint hose as standard but can take a hose up to 75 feet, which is great if you need to extend your reach further, such as, for example, if you have a really long fence you want to paint or if you need to reach the second story of a building. Also great for garden and yard projects that don’t have a power supply nearby.

It offers a fast and consistent spray pattern which is adjustable all the way up to 3000 psi, giving you maximum control to suit whatever project you are working on.

It’s very easy to clean too. You can attach it to your regular garden hose to flush it out.

It also features a useful reverse-a-clean spray tip that easily clears any clogged paint. You simply reverse the tip with a twist and you can keep on spraying.

The parts included are a metal spray gun with a .015 tip, 25 feet of paint hose, pump armor storage fluid (which helps protect your airless paint sprayer pump against freezing and corrosion when not in use), a power flush adapter, a quick start guide, and a user manual.

What We Like:

• Excellent Durability | It’s a high-quality US-made machine with an annual use recommendation of up to a whopping 125 gallons per year. That means it’s suitable for handymen, DIY enthusiasts, remodeling contractors, and painting professionals and well as regular home improvement and decorating hobbyists.
• Good Value for Money | It has a very affordable price tag making it both a money-saver as well as a great time saver.

Buying Factors to Consider:

If you need more portability, for example, if you’re working outside, painting a fence where you need to keep moving you may prefer the cart version of this model. In which case the Graco Magnum 262805 X7 we’ll be looking at shortly, maybe your better option.

Check the latest price of the Graco Magnum 262800 X5 on Amazon.

Best Airless Paint Sprayer for Interior Walls: Wagner Airless ControlPro 250 M Paint Sprayer for Wall & Ceiling

Like or top pick, it can spray all manner of high and low-viscosity liquids including both water and solvent-based media such as emulsions, and latex paints, varnishes, acrylic paints, wood preservatives, stains, primers, undercoats and more.

It also uses direct intake from a paint bucket making it easy to keep going without having to refill or decant the machine.

We particularly like the carrying handle design which makes it easier to grab and move around than the Graco we looked at above.

The unit comes with 29.5 feet of air hose, and a hybrid spray gun filter tip set consisting of a 517 tip, perfect for emulsion, and a 311 tip, ideal for lacquers, etc.

What We Like:

• High-Efficiency Air Technology (HEA) | It’s capable of delivering the same paint flow rate as a regular airless paint sprayer but at reduced pressure. Thereby reducing overspray by up to 55%.

Buying Factors to Consider:

It does cost more than our top pick. So it’s more of a considered purchase for the home DIY enthusiast.

Check the latest price for the Wagner Airless ControlPro 250 M on Amazon.

Best Cart Airless Paint Sprayer: Graco Magnum 262805 X7 Cart Airless Paint Sprayer

Although it is similar to our first choice in most respects, there are a couple of distinctions between this one and our top pick, apart from the ability to give you an extra-long reach, which makes this model more suitable for larger projects.

Firstly, it has a slightly more powerful 5/8 horsepower motor and it also comes with a 0.017 instead of a 0.015 tip for one-pass superior spray coverage.

What We Like:

• Affordable Price | This one costs less than the Wagner model and considering its capability of accommodating a long reach hose, and its sturdy cart construction it’s good value for the price.
• Cart Design | The wheels make it easy to pull around and being off the floor, it’s within easy reach to turn off or adjust without having to bend down.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This one is great for mid-size projects around the home. If you need to paint a larger house you may wish to opt for the Graco 17G180 Magnum that we’ll be looking at shortly.

Check the latest price for the Graco Magnum 262805 X7 on Amazon.

Best Handheld Airless Paint Sprayer: Wagner 0525027 Power Painter Plus Airless Paint Sprayer Spray Gun

Unlike our other picks, this one doesn’t directly draw paint from a bucket so, with this one, it works more like a regular single-action gravity-feed airbrush but on a large scale, so you will need to refill the 1-quart sized paint caddy (bottle) when you run out of paint.

It does, however, feature an exclusive EZ tilt flexible suction tube which will allow you to spray at any angle you need to without any loss of coverage.

It also features Wagner’s Optimus dual atomizer tip. This helps to create a wider spray pattern and gives you more coverage with each pass.

This airless paint sprayer can be used with stains, sealers, and oils as well as latex-based paints and can be adjusted to match the material you are using. Simply turn the material select lever to paint for thicker coats or stain for spraying thinner coats.

What We Like:

• Good for Smaller Projects | It’ll also take up less storage room in between painting projects.
• Budget Price | It’s the most affordable airless paint sprayer of all the ones we’ve looked at so far.

Buying Factors to Consider:

You will just need to keep the paint from drying and clogging the tip. But that’s not a fault with this particular spray gun it would still be true for any small handheld spray guns.

Check the latest price of the Wagner 0525027 Power Painter Plus on Amazon.

Best Professional Airless Paint Sprayer: Graco 17G180 Magnum ProX19 Cart Paint Sprayer

It has a super-powerful 7/8 horsepower motor which will support up to 150 feet of paint hose (it comes with 50 feet as standard). It also has a larger 0.019 tip capable of spraying much heavier latex paints than the lighter models in the range, so with this model, it’s possible to paint multi-stories, large constructions, or indeed any projects that would otherwise be too far away from a power source.

Another stand out feature of this model is its ProXChange pump replacement system which is useful for cleaning and maintenance. It allows you to easily replace the pump with no tools, mid-project.

Like Graco’s other models, the pressure is adjustable allowing for maximum paint control over whatever the project, large or small.

It’s also easy to clean connecting to a regular garden hose to flush the paint out.

What We Like:

• Cart Design | For maximum portability on larger or further afield projects. It also means you don’t need to stoop down to adjust or turn the machine off.
• Professional, Commercial Standard Machine | Great for large scale new house constructions or regular DIY garden projects and it’s especially suitable for self-employed painting and decorating professionals.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Unless you are going to be using an airless paint sprayer on a regular and frequent basis or need one that will take on large painting tasks this one will be more than you’d need.

It’s powerful so you will need to prep any indoor living spaces well to avoid any airborne particles of paint from landing where they shouldn’t.

It is, however, an amazing tool for the trade. With this machine, you have the means to make a living as a professional painter. Maintain it well and clean the pump after every use and you’ll be rewarded with a quality machine that will last you for years.

Check the latest price for the Graco 17G180 Magnum ProX19 on Amazon.

Other Airless Paint Sprayers We’ve Reviewed:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

So this is just a simple tip for making the colors on your illustrations very easy to change should you want or need to change them.

Seriously, this could save you hours of color editing if, for example, you have produced a highly detailed illustration and your client just wants you to adjust or even slightly tweak a color tone or two that you have used multiple times throughout your work.

I create all my illustrations in CMYK, you can see an example of my work above, but this will work just as well for RGB.

How to Use Global Colors

Step One

Ok so if you start with a new page in illustrator just for practice, you will easily get the hang of this…

Select a color from the existing swatch palette and double-click.

In the options menu select ‘Global’. Click ‘OK’. You will notice a little white corner triangle appears on the swatch. You now have a ‘Global’ color.

Now try selecting ‘Duplicate Swatch’ from the drop-down menu in the top right corner of the swatch pallet, and you have two matching ‘Global’ colors.

If you double-click on the new swatch you can adjust the sliders to create a new complementary color swatch.

Draw a couple of boxes and assign one of your newly created ‘Global’ Color to each.

Step Two

Re-coloring your illustration.

Double-click on the ‘Global’ swatch color you want to change first and with the ‘Preview’ button selected, adjust the sliders. You can see your color for that swatch updating in real-time on your actual illustration. When you are happy with the new color click ‘OK’.

Now you can try the other one and you will have completely recolored your box shapes.

This little easy trick will make your illustrations, especially if they are quite detailed, so easy to adjust color-wise.

Remember

Just find any color you want to change in the swatches palette, adjust the sliders and watch the color, wherever it appears in your illustration, change in front of your eyes.

I know you’ll be with me when I say this, our poochies are more than pets to us, they’re part of the family. So outdoor adventures and trips just wouldn’t feel the same if we had to leave them behind.

Fortunately, they don’t have to miss out on all the fun just because they can’t always keep up. There are some amazing and some not so amazing doggie backpacks to choose from out there.

Deciding which one is best for you is easier than you think. You know your furry friend best.

So are they up for more vigorous adventures like hiking, biking, and other outdoor sports or would they prefer a gentle stroll in the park?

For a small dog that would prefer a gentle stroll or a trip somewhere fun, I’d recommend one of our first two picks below.

The PetAmi we’ll be looking at first, is suitable for little dogs. It’s a comfortable, strong, and secure backpack and it’ll be a good little transporter for them.

We’ll then follow up with the One for Pets Backpack, which is the absolute best doggie backpack out there for small or small-medium dogs who want to come along for a walk and feel like they’re still joining in with all the fun, even if they can’t really keep up. The One for Pets Backpack is featured in our top image and you can scroll straight down to the full review here.

For those sized extra small up to large who are up for a real adventure, I’d recommend K9 Sport Series. A full review of the Air Plus from the range is featured below. You can scroll straight down to the full review here.

And for larger or extra-large doggies, there’s a K9 Rover backpack. So if your Doggie is large and up for adventures in the great outdoors, you can just jump to the full review here.

For a large or extra-large pooch that’s not so much outdoorsy, a large stroller maybe the batter way to go.

We’ll now take a look at the best backpacks for all doggies according to their size. There are sizing guides to help you throughout.

This guide is dedicated to my own sweet border terrier baby girl, Jessica. She didn’t leave my side for almost 16 years. I will love her eternally.

Reviews of Our Top Picks for the Best Dog Backpack Carriers

Quick Links:

Editor’s Pick	Brand
Best for Carrying X-Small to Small Breeds	PetAmi Pet Carrier Backpack
Best for Longer Walks with Small to Medium Breeds	One for Pets The EVA Backpack
Best Overall for Both Walking and Hiking	The K9 Sport Sack Air Plus
Best for Carrying Large X-Large to Breeds	The K9 Sport Sack Rover

Click below to jump to full reviews:

• Best for Carrying X-Small to Small Breeds
• Best for Longer Walks with Small to Medium Breeds
• Best Overall for both Walking and Hiking
• Best for Carrying Large X-Large Breeds
• Other Ones We’ve Reviewed

Best for Carrying X-Small to Small Breeds: PetAmi Pet Carrier Backpack

If you have a little dog, you can choose between a body-hugging backpack or a sling or you can choose a box-shaped one like this one. For large dogs, this just isn’t practical.

But a smaller lighter dog doesn’t have to be strapped in so close unless you’re planning on hiking, biking or other more vigorous outdoor adventures.

For standard walks or trip out it’s so much better for them to have a little legroom.

But that’s not what makes this one stand out from the rest.

The reason why it’s our top pick for little dogs comes down to how secure it is for your pet.

You see other box-style ones have a zipper that runs around the base. For example, you may have seen other reviewers saying the Petsfit one is a good choice – I don’t agree.

Just the weight of your pet can start to work the zipper open, there’s no locking clasp, and the absolute last thing you want is for your dog to slip out from the bottom.

The PetAmi has no zipper running around the bottom to start with and every zipper that it does have has a secure locking clasp. You can see what I mean in the photo to the left.

There’s also an interior leash that attaches to your dog’s collar for extra security.

It has four openings, one on each side, a top opening, (which you can see in the top photo) and a front opening, (which you can see in the photo to the left below).

The doggie backpack also has another extra attention to detail that others don’t have, in that it has a little furry bed inside that isn’t just flat.

This one has sides that come up higher than others out there so you don’t have to worry that your dog’s feet or nails will get caught in the seems.

It’s removable and washable too.

The construction is strong and durable – the pack is made from 600D high-grade polyester (600D just means it’s a heavier-weight durable fabric). There’s plenty of netting window-space and ventilation in this backpack and there are some handy storage pockets too.

Other details worthy of mention which, while not essential, are nice to have are the 7 different color options to choose from, a pet name label which is sewn onto the front pocket, and a free collapsible clip-on pet bowl. 

So that’s your doggies comfort sorted. Now, how’s it going to feel for you?

The backpack is sturdy. The shoulder straps are padded and thick, and the floor pad is firm. There are also waist and chest straps for added stability. For extra comfort against your back, the back of the backpack is padded.

That being said, this one isn’t built for carrying dogs at the very upper weight limit for long periods of time. Wearing it on your front will make you feel more comfortable – plus you’ll get extra cuddles with your best buddy.

For general use and smaller dogs, this is an all-round excellent choice.

The table below will give you an idea of common dogs that are in this weight range:

What We Like:

• Box Shape – For everyday walking and transport this box shape is so much better for older dogs in particular, providing him/her with the freedom to move and sit comfortably.
• Secure – Unlike other brands, the PetAmi has no zipper running around the bottom so there’s no chance of one coming undone and your pooch falling through. Every zipper that it does have has a secure locking clasp.
• Extras – There’s a nice choice of color options with this backpack, it’s also got a pet name label sewn onto the front pocket, and of course, a free collapsible clip-on pet bowl. 

Things to Consider:

Having the freedom to move is so much better for your dog – providing you don’t have one that might panic or one that you know just wouldn’t settle. If you do have a panicky dog you may be much better opting for the body-hugging K9 Air. However, if your dog is only little and isn’t likely to freak out by being carried, this style is by far your best choice.

If you’re planning on hiking, biking or other more vigorous adventures, you should go for the body-hugging K9 Air instead.

Dimensions: 12.5″ x 10.2″ x 16.3″ (L x W x H)

Weight:

• Doggies up to 18 lbs
• Backpack approx 4 lbs

Check the latest price and color options for the Petsfit Soft Pet Backpack Carrier on Amazon.

Best for Longer Walks with Small to Medium Breeds: One for Pets The EVA Backpack

It’s also a prime example of what pure simple good design should be. This one has been designed from your dog’s perspective and that’s to give them the absolute best ride experience.

While others are only built to carry small doggies, this one can comfortably hold medium-sized doggies.

Of course, with a larger heavier dog you’d need to carry your pooch close to your body for more efficient weight distribution.

But a smaller lighter dog doesn’t have to be strapped in so close unless you’re planning on hiking or other more vigorous outdoor adventures.

For standard walks or trip out it’s so much better for them to have a little legroom.

And that’s precisely why this One for Pets backpack is such a good choice. With this boxy design, your doggie will be able to find it’s own comfortable position to settle into. But also there’ll be room to shuffle around and get comfy if necessary.

And getting comfortable is so important, especially for those pooches who are elderly and not so flexible as they used to be.

Now let’s get to that simple but brilliant design.

The main difference you’ll notice between this choice and the PetAmi we’ve looked at above is just simply that it’s wider and shorter. Of course, that means there’ll certainly be more room to lie down if you are taking them somewhere.

But more significantly it also means your dog will have a completely different travel experience than the first one.

If you open the lid, on this shorter, wider design, your pooch will be able to get a better view of what’s actually going on by looking out of, or leaning over, the top. And it’s this that makes the One for Pets backpack so much more than just a convenient way of transporting your pooch from A to B.

Sure you’ll be able to enjoy walks with your dog when they otherwise may not have the stamina to keep up – but more importantly, they’ll feel they can join in with all the fun rather than feel they’re just being taken somewhere.

And that’s the thing, there is a two-part zippered lid to this backpack. The larger one will open the whole lid, while the smaller meshed, zipped inner-lid is great for letting them just pop their head out without leaning over the side – and just for added security, there’s an adjustable safety leash attached to the inside.

Next, there are a couple of features worth mentioning: First, the fluffy bed has a removable washable cover (always a must). There are also deep side storage pockets on each side and a smaller one concealed in the front, all handy for poop bags or treats, etc.

Now, this may be the biggest box-style backpack out there, but it’s also foldable. It even has its own storage bag which you can see in the photo on the left. This makes it handy for storing away if you’re planning on getting one of these to take your pooch on vacations. What’s more, the design makes it just low enough when you place it on its side to fit under most airline seats.

How comfortable is it for you?

Well actually, it’s pretty comfortable. It’s got those padded straps you can see in the photos above, and extra-thick padding for your back.

You can wear it on your front or back and this one even has a thick cross-body strap allowing you to swap positions if your pooch starts to feel too heavy.

You shouldn’t need any more convincing how good this choice is for your pooch but if you do, take a look at the short video below.

What We Like:

• Box Style – This backpack is such a good choice. With this boxy design, your doggie will be able to find it’s own comfortable position to settle into. But also there’ll be room to shuffle around and get comfy if necessary.
• Wider Shorter Design – With this shorter, wider backpack design, your pooch will be able to get a better view of what’s going on by looking out of or leaning over, the top and it’s this that makes this backpack so much more than just a convenient way of transporting your pooch from A to B.
• Foldable – It even comes with its own storage bag. Handy if you’re just planning on using this bag occasionally like for vacations etc.
• Cross-Body Strap – Handy for changing positions, if your pooch starts to feel a little heavy.

Things to Consider:

If you’re planning on hiking, biking or other more vigorous adventures, you should go for the body-hugging K9 Urban for smaller dogs or choose our next choice below instead.

Dimensions (W x H x D), Weight:

Check the latest price and color options for The EVA Backpack on Amazon.

Best Overall for Both Walking and Hiking: The K9 Sport Sack Air Plus

But these dog backpacks are built for adventure, they’re for sports like hiking, bikes, walking and other outdoor fun stuff, so it’s well worth having a little extra storage so that you can be hands-free.

Plus you’ll have somewhere put all those doggie essentials like a collapsible bowl, doggie bags, handy wipes and of course a few tasty Scooby snacks, etc, because at 14″ x 9,” that detachable little storage bag has plenty of room.

If you are wondering what that black velcro strip that you can the photo to the left is, it’s so that you can add a customized strip to your backpack to personalize it with your pooch’s name. How cute is that?

As for the style of this backpack, there’s a huge difference between this body-hugging backpack and the box-shaped ones.

And the difference is that your doggie will be wearing this backpack not sitting in it. It’s kinda like they’ll be wearing a sleeping bag but with armholes.

Your dog basically steps into the front armholes and you fasten him/her in securely with the zipper that runs all the way up the back. The zipper is secured at the collar so that it can’t become undone and there’s a D-ring for your doggies collar hook-up.

Then there are several straps to pull and buckles to fasten. But don’t think those straps are just arbitrarily placed. There’s a staggering amount of attention to detail here, worthy of a tailor-made suit!

You see this backpack is designed to fit perfectly, to make sure your pooch is completely comfortable with the maximum amount of support.

This means the sizing has to be a little more exact because you’ll need a good secure fit that’s not too big or too small. But don’t worry, their sizing guide is really helpful, as you can see below, it’s pretty easy to follow.

• There’s an X-Small size that will fit dogs with a length of 10-13 inches and a girth up to 23 inches, though this size is only available in the Air not, the Air Plus so doesn’t come with the extra storage bag.

• The Small will fit dogs with a length of 14-17 inches and a girth up to 27 inches.

• The medium size we have featured here will fit dogs with a length of 17-20 inches and a girth of up to 28 inches. But you can always buy a booster block if your dog comes up a little short, which will add an extra 3″ to your doggies height.

• Large will fit dogs with a length of 30-23 inches and a girth up to 31 inches

A few little features I need to mention are the strong 20mm thick bottom rest pad to give your dog a comfortable base to sit on.

And for hot days, as you can see in the photo above, the Air model also has breathable mesh sides to keep your doggie cool.

It’s even got elastic straps for your hanging accessories. You get some great color choices as you’d expect with such a well-designed backpack. In fact, it’s so well designed you’d kinda want one even if you didn’t have a dog.

All in all, this one is the king of all doggie backpacks for sporting activities on the market. But if you need any more convincing, just take a look at the video below.

Now let the adventures begin…

What We Like:

• Great for Outdoor Adventures – These dog backpacks are built for adventure, they’re great for sports like hiking, bikes, walking, and other outdoor fun stuff.
• Secure fit – There’s a staggering amount of attention to detail here, worthy of a tailor-made suit. This backpack is designed to fit perfectly to give your dog ultimate support and comfort.
• Detachable Storage Bag – This is great because you’ll have somewhere to put all those doggie essentials like a collapsible bowl, doggie bags, handy wipes and of course a few tasty Scooby snacks. And at 14″ x 9,” that detachable little storage bag is just the right size.

Things to Consider:

This won’t be good for dogs who have painful joints etc. You’d be better off going for our previous choice or a stroller.

Doggie Weight: Up to 30lbs

Check the latest price and color options for the K9 Sport Sack Air Plus on Amazon.

Best for Carrying Large to X-Large Breeds: The K9 Sport Sack Rover

In fact, it’s fully functional as a regular hiking backpack if your doggie lets you borrow it.

For large dogs, the only way to carry them is close to your body, for efficient weight distribution, so this backpack is a must, whether you’re planning a hike or a gentle stroll around town. So if you have a larger dog from 30lbs all the way up to 80lbs (don’t worry a more helpful size guide is coming up later), this is the backpack for you, and let me say, you’re in for a treat.

It’s not too dissimilar from the K9 Sport Sack Air Plus, in looks, but it’s not just bigger so that’s why it needs its own section.

So let’s start with the fabric. This is not just your standard stuff, it’s Outlast.

Outlast is a material that was originally developed for NASA. It’s more of a technology than a fabric and it’s extremely effective for regulating your dog’s body temperate. If it’s cold, this fabric will keep them warm, and on hot days it’ll help keep them cool. On top of that, you have zippers on each side which undo to reveal netting for additional ventilation.

Like the Air Plus model we’ve just looked at, this backpack works on the principle that your dog actually wears it rather than just sits in it – kinda like a sleeping bag with armholes.

You basically put your dog’s paws through the holes with the bag laid out flat on the floor and then fasten the zipper that runs all the way up the length of the back. There are several straps to pull and buckles to fasten to create a snug and secure fit.

But as I’ve said before, don’t think those straps are just arbitrarily placed. There’s a staggering amount of attention to detail here, worthy of a tailor-made suit!

The backpack is designed to fit perfectly so that your pooch is completely comfortable and supported.

This means the sizing obviously, has to be a little more exact. But don’t worry, their sizing guide is really helpful, as you can see below, it’s pretty easy to follow.

• The large size will fit dogs with a length of 20-23 inches and a girth up to 34 inches.

• X-Large will fit dogs with a length of 23-26 inches and a girth up to 37 inches.

• And, XX-Large will fit dogs with a length of 26-29 inches and a girth up to 40 inches. 

This model also comes with a detachable storage pack, and that’s great because you’ll need somewhere for essentials, so you can be hands-free.

There’s even a front pocket on it for your phone and the main bag’s handy for whatever else you need, it’s even got a hydro port on the top for water.

And that’s not all, the Rover model also has extra storage room, in the way of a handy zippered pocket on the bottom of the backpack for doggie essentials like wipes, doggie bags, and treats, etc.

For small items, there are two zippered hip pockets on the lap belt each with a strip of MOLLE webbing. If you’re not sure what that is, picture what you’d keep bullets in if you were in the army.

For your comfort, there’s padding on the back that allows for airflow and strong wide shoulder straps.

Oh and if you’re still wondering what the black strip you see on all of the K9 backpacks is for, it’s for attaching your own custom doggie name too.

…Cute overload.

If you need any more convincing, and you shouldn’t, take a quick look at the video below.

Doggie Weight:

• From 30lbs up to 80 lbs 

What We Like:

• Great for Outdoor Adventures – These dog backpacks are built for adventure, they’re great for sports like hiking, bikes, walking, and other outdoor fun stuff.
• Secure fit – As I’ve said before, there’s a staggering amount of attention to detail here, worthy of a tailor-made suit. This backpack is designed to fit perfectly to give your dog ultimate support and comfort.
• Detachable Storage Bag – This is great because you’ll have somewhere put all those doggie essentials. But there’s also additional storage on this model. You get a zippered bottom pocket and two handy lap strap pockets, there also several elastic handles for hanging essentials.

Things to Consider:

This won’t be good for dogs who have painful joints etc. You’d be better off going for a stroller.

Check the latest price and color options for the K9 Sport Sack Rover on Amazon.

Budget Option

There have been many well-documented scientific studies in recent years, showing that nighttime light exposure is detrimental to our health, increasing our risk for several types of diseases. Even dim light can interfere with our melatonin production. So if you find it hard to sleep unless it’s totally dark, that’s probably not a bad thing – it’s healthier to sleep in the dark. If your room isn’t dark enough, this can be easily fixed with a good high-quality comfortable sleep mask. What’s not so easy to fix is the inability to sleep caused by other factors such as stress, anxiety, or just by having a messed up circadian rhythm. We know we should try to relax and unwind before bed but with such busy lives, sometimes we forget how.

In the light of some promising, but small, studies indicating the usefulness of lavender to reduce anxiety and aid sleep, I have been looking at the best ways we can use lavender in our nighttime routine.

 

The Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask by LotFancy is No 5 on my list of “Five Ways to Reduce Anxiety and Help You Sleep” – it’s last but by no means least.

The Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask has a super soft polyester velvet casing which is filled with organic Flax seeds and natural Lavender flowers.

It is perfect for relieving headaches, muscle tension, and migraines. A 2012 study showed Lavender may be effective in easing symptoms of migraine headaches, but it’s also great for meditation, and yoga sessions.

Not only that but the Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask will block out all light and because it has an adjustable strap – a feature that most don’t have – it will fit all sizes and is comfortable enough to wear for the whole night.

The scent is that of fresh sweet lavender so it is natural and by no means overpowering. It may, however, be a little strong when first removed from the packing. A good tip is just to leave it to air for a little while, it will soon settle and give off a natural soft lavender scent.

Where the Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask by LotFancy goes beyond most, in my opinion – apart from the adjustable strap – is that the super soft casing has a concealed zipper. This means the inner contents can be removed to allow the outer casing to be machine-washed. Or you can remove the inner contents if you wish, and just use the sleep mask on its own. You may find the using the mask without the contents more practical for regular use.

At 8.6 x 4.3″ it is a generous size, is well made with neat seams, and the addition of the extra-wide, soft velvet sides will ensure that no light seeps through.

The Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask can be used at room temperature or can be heated or cooled.

The instructions for this are the same as those for the Lavender Eye Pillow. For a cooling treatment simply place the pillow in a plastic bag and freeze for 1 -2 hours. You can even keep it in a zipper bag in the freezer. That way it will always be cold and on hand when you need it. It will retain it all its suppleness – flax seed will chill but never bunch together and freeze. Cold therapy is fantastic for reducing bags under the eyes.

You can also heat the pillow for a warming therapy if you wish. First remove the inner contents, mist the inner pillow with water and microwave for 30 seconds. Be very careful that you don’t overheat it, though. My suggestion is to press the inner pillow over the back of your hand after heating it to check for any hot spots, before putting the inner part back into the mask for use anywhere near your eyes.

Whether you want to lie back, relax and let the stresses of the day melt away, or you want to be able to sleep undisturbed by the light, the Lavender Eye Pillow and Sleep Mask by LotFancy is your perfect solution for travel or home.

To view or buy, click here.

There’s no secret to the No.1 top beauty tip if you want to look your best the next day.

It’s not an expensive face cream or serum, and drinking excessive amounts of water isn’t going to do it – it’s just simply to get a good night’s sleep.

The problem is that the stresses and anxieties of our busy lives can mount up, making it hard for us to relax and unwind – sleep then becomes a nightly struggle.

Even if you only suffer from the occasional bout of insomnia, taking steps to help yourself relax and unwind can help to ensure that you don’t end up lying wide awake till 3 or 4 o’clock in the morning.

In the light of some promising, but small, studies indicating the usefulness of lavender to reduce anxiety and aid sleep, I have been looking at the best ways we can use lavender in our night-time routine.

I have chosen This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray to be in my top “Five Ways to Reduce Anxiety and Help You Sleep” because it smells divine, it is a quick and easy solution – making it ideal for travel, and above all, it really does help you to relax, unwind and fall asleep.

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

This Works, Pillow Spray is a heavenly blend of Lavender, Wild Chamomile, and Vetivert.

It actually puts me in mind of the fresh and relaxing aroma you get at a high-end Spa.

The top-note scent is that of sweet Lavender flowers, but Wild Chamomile and Vetivert below right also come through along with hints of Patchouli Oil and Ho Wood.

To reduce sleep associated anxiety and improve your sleep quality, you simply mist your pillow and let the soothing scent fill your senses while you drift off into a comfortable sleep.

Although by no means overpowering, the spray has good staying powers, so you will very likely be able to still get the benefits from the aroma if you wake up during the night.

‘This Works’ is a company that specializes in quality skincare products but they regard their Deep Sleep Pillow Spray as their ultimate beauty secret and the first step in any skincare routine.

They even put their Deep Sleep Pillow Spray to the test.

In an independent study of 200 subjects, aged 18 and over – including 100 ex-prescription users – 89% fell asleep faster than they normally would and 92% of users felt more refreshed in the morning when compared to a control group.

To me, the Deep Sleep Pillow Spray by This Works is a must-have to keep on your bedside table.

Even if you don’t need to use it every night, it’s so handy to have close by on those occasions when you need a little help to relax or relieve anxiety.

It’s also perfect for those occasions when you wake up in the early hours and just can’t get back to sleep.

The Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

is made using 100% pure essential oils, is free from phthalates, sulfates, synthetic colors and fragrance, parabens, GMOs, mineral oils, petrolatum, and propylene glycol.  

It is also not tested on animals and does not use any animal by-products or hormones.

So you really can rest assured!

Check the latest price for This Works, Deep Sleep Pillow Spray on Amazon.

Check the latest price for This Works, Deep Sleep Pillow Spray on Amazon UK.

Full List of Ingredients:
Aqua, Polysorbate 20, Parfum, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil, Cinnamomum Camphora (Ho Wood) Oil, Vetiveria Zizanoides (Vetivert) Oil, Ormenis Multicaulis (Wild Chamomile) Flower, Extract, Linalool, Diazolidinyl Urea, Geraniol, Limonene, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate. Made using 100% pure essential oil.

 

What better way to relax, and relieve tension and stresses of the day, than with this soothing eye pillow. Lie back, close your eyes and let the soft, sweet, natural scent of lavender fills your senses.
Lavender has been used for centuries to treat various ailments from wound healing to headaches and is well-known for its soothing and calming properties.

Recent small studies have shown that lavender may be effective in reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. A 2012 study showed that it may also be effective in easing symptoms of migraine headaches.

The Organic Flax Seed and Lavender Eye Pillow by Eye Pillow Vacation is filled with a combination of organic flax seeds and pure lavender flowers. It’s simply good design, softly contouring your face abd blocking out light, while the sweet smell of natural lavender fills your senses. Eye pillows are more comfortable than traditional eye masks and ideal for meditation, or for a soothing, cool or warm treatment. For a cooling treatment, simply place the pillow in a plastic bag and freeze for 1 -2 hours. You can even keep it in a zipper bag in the freezer. That way it will always be cold and on hand when you need it. It will retain all its suppleness and feel especially wonderful after a workout, to cool you down after a hot day or to soothe away tension headaches.

You can also heat the pillow for a warming therapy if you wish. Mist the eye pillow with water first, and microwave it for 30 seconds. Be very careful that you don’t overheat it, though. I suggest you press the pillow over the back of your hand after heating it to check for any hot spots, before putting the pillow anywhere near your eyes.

The Organic Flax Seed and Lavender Eye Pillow comes in a choice of either a silky soft fabric casing or a 100% organic cotton casing.  It is generous in size measuring 9″x 4.5″ and it comes in a fabulous selection of colors.

Is The Organic Flax Seed and Lavender Eye Pillow by Eye Pillow Vacation right for you?

A lavender eye pillow is perfect for relaxing, reducing stress and anxiety, for meditation, to cool you down or to soothe a migraine headache. If you are a back sleeper you will be able to comfortably fall asleep with it.
If you want to use an eye pillow for sleep in place of an eye mask, however, you would be better off with a comfortable lavender eye mask here. Unless you are a back sleeper, the eye pillow isn’t really designed for sleeping. However, it gives off a wonderfully relaxing scent and isn’t overpowering in any way, so taking it to bed with you and keeping it close by while you sleep will give you a gentle and relaxing aroma that will help you to sleep soundly. What’s more, if you tend to wake up in the night and can’t get back to sleep, you can prevent yourself from getting wound up in a tight knot of anxiety by simply placing the pillow over your eyes and allowing it’s soothing properties to take effect.

The only downsides to the eye pillow are that you can only spot clean it. However, it is well made (in the USA) and though the organic cotton casing option costs a few dollars more than the silky fabric casing option, they are both priced at under $18 so are very cost effective. If you find the scent a little too strong when you first remove it from its packing, a good tip is just to leave it to air for a little while and it will soon settle and give off a softer scent.

Eye Pillow Vacation even offer you a 100% Money Back Guarantee and Lifetime Warranty.

To me, these wonderful eye pillows are an absolute must. I can be calm cool (well maybe not cool) and collected in the daytime, but catch me past the witching hour, and there is absolutely no (zero) reasoning with my brain. These lavender eye pillows really help to calm the mind and send you off to sleep. The 100% organic cotton, Black, and the Ultra Silky Soft Satin, Aqua are my two favorites.

To view, click here.

One of the most effective ways to get the benefits from your essential oils is to buy a good diffuser. I will be covering ultrasonic and nebulizing diffusers here.

While there are some fundamental differences between the two, which I will cover, neither type will alter the molecular composition of your essential oils making them an ideal way to fill your room with the soothing sweet aroma of your favorite oils.

Ultrasonic Diffusers

Ultrasonic Diffusers use electronic frequencies to create vibrations which vaporize water along with your essential oil and disperse it into the air without the need for heat. This leaves the composition of your essential oils unaltered and creates a cool fine mist that fills your room with the aroma of your essential oils.

Don’t confuse a diffuser with a humidifier. Humidifiers increase the moisture in the air and are often used in areas of low humidity or dry climates. They can also be useful for relieving cold or flu symptoms, however, they are unsuitable for diffusing essential oils.

With a diffuser, the output of moisture is less than a humidifier. The aroma it produces is usually only enough to fill a room, not your whole house.

How Do Ultrasonic Diffusers Work?

Ultrasonic Diffusers have a reservoir that you fill with either tap, filtered or distilled water depending on the instructions. Most, on average, hold about 100ml. You then add a few drops of your essential oil to the water, press a button and voila! – instant mist with the wonderful aroma of your essential oils.

You should make sure you clean the tank out regularly as a stagnant tank of residue water will develop bacteria and the next time you use your device, this bacteria will also be dispersed into the air along with the mist!

Why Choose an Ultrasonic Diffuser?

They are very easy to use and will give you a gentle, natural aroma that won’t overpower the whole house.

The 2019 Model Zen Breeze, Essential Oil Diffuser by Zen Breeze

The Zen Breeze, Essential Oil Diffuser is a good choice if you a looking for an ultrasonic diffuser.

I chose this one because it’s super stylish and quite small at 4.75 x 6.6″ across so it will fit nicely onto a bedside table. It features 14 different color LED light settings which you can choose between, leave on the color-changing mode, or you can turn the lights off if you prefer.

It’s very simple to use: You add water using the measuring cup provided, and a few drops (try 3 -4 at first) of your essential oil, press the mist button and let the beautiful natural scent fill your senses.

You can set it to run for 1, 3 or 6 hours, or you can just set it to “on” and it will run until it runs out of water, at which point it will cleverly shut itself off automatically.

The Verdict

The only downsides, and to me, they aren’t really downsides but it should be noted that

• The instruction manual hasn’t been translated very well, it’s still better English than any second language I could speak and it is readable, just not very clear. This has no bearing on the quality of the diffuser, though.
• The beautiful wood you see in the photo is only a wood effect, not real wood, it is actually made from plastic.
• Once you have filled the unit with water and your oil/oils, don’t attempt to move it, as it will spill very easily.
• It’s quiet but not silent. I actually find it quite soothing but it may put those off who need total silence to sleep.
• The lid, which just sits on top of the base, can sometimes be a little tricky to lift off.

View the Zen Breeze Essential Oil Diffuser, here.

Nebulizing Diffusers

Nebulizers use only pure essential oils. Since you do not add any water to these devices, they create a powerful aroma that is usually emitted at intervals preventing them from becoming too overpowering. They will use a lot of essential oil relatively quickly.

How Do Nebulizing Diffusers Work?

Nebulizing Diffusers have two small glass tubes inside them. Basically, when you turn the device on, an air current is forced through one of the small tubes, creating a suction that causes the essential oils in the bottom of the glass chamber to rise up through a separate feeding tube.

A stream of pressurized air then hits the essential oil and causes it to atomize into microscopic particles that fill the glass chamber and disperse into the air.

You generally add around 20 -25 drops of your essential oil directly into the reservoir at bottom of the diffuser and then switch the device on.

Not all essential oils are suitable for Nebulizing Diffusers, Sandalwood, for example, has a thick viscosity and so would need to be blended with a thinner oil – you cannot use a pre-diluted oil or carrier oil to do this.

The 2019 Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser For Aromatherapy By Organic Aromas

This Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser is quality-made from real, solid plantation hardwood and hand-blown pyrex glass. It will fill your home with the wonderful aroma of pure essential oils up to 800 sq ft. But don’t worry if you think this would be a little too overpowering – you can limit the amount of essential oil emitted with a handy volume control button.

It measures approximately 7-10″ x 4-6 ” wide and has a durable, energy-efficient electric pump that is whisper quiet, but not silent.

This diffuser also features rainbow-carousel LED lighting that can be turned off if you prefer. It operates for 2 mins “On,” 1 min “Off,” for 2-hours then conveniently shuts itself off. The scent that it emits after shut-down, should last around one hour.

How to care for your Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser 

Organic Aromas suggest you keep a small bottle of rubbing alcohol so that you can regularly give your glass reservoir a clean.

If you don’t regularly do this, residue oil will harden and build up, clogging the tubes and preventing the pump from working properly. They provide you with pipettes for regular cleaning.

To clean the device once a week, or if you want to change oils and don’t want any of the previous essential oil to remain, add some plain rubbing alcohol to the reservoir using the dropper provided and turn on the diffuser for 5 – 10 minutes to diffuse the alcohol.

When the diffuser is dry the process is complete. Once a month you should give your diffuser a deep clean. Organic Aromas suggest you soak your glass in boiling hot water, with a tiny amount of dishwashing soap for about 30 minutes to remove any remaining residue. Full instructions are provided to guide you through this process, though.

The Verdict
On the plus side, the Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser comes complete with a one-year free parts and service warranty.

If you live in an area of high humidity and don’t want to add more moisture to your room, a nebulizing diffuser would be your best choice.

The device is made from ‘Plantation Hardwood’ or ‘Rubberwood,’ as it is sometimes known. It is eco-friendly in that it comes from plantation trees that have already served their useful purpose.

Some downsides are, that the aroma may be too intense for some when the scent is first emitted, but the fact that this model has a volume button will certainly help.

Being made from glass, the device is quite fragile. You will have to be careful when handling it. If you knock it, it may break.

However, if you do, all is not lost, fortunately, you can buy a Glass Cap Replacement for your Organic Aromas Essential Oil Diffuser.

Because nebulizing diffusers are more difficult to clean than ultrasonic diffusers, more maintenance time is required to look after them.

Organic Aromas are obviously very proud of their Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser and have taken steps to ensure a good relationship with their customers. They have taken the time to answer more of Amazon customer’s questions than most companies do. I have to say I am greatly impressed, and for this, they get a full 5 stars from me! 

To view the Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser, Click here.

Glass Cap Replacements for Organic Aromas Essential Oil Diffusers are available, Click here.

Yes it is, and here’s a handy guide to how you can use it if you’re struggling with anxiety or insomnia:

Top 5 Ways to Reduce Anxiety and Help You Sleep with Lavender

Make Your Own Lavender Massage Oil with This Easy Recipe To Reduce Anxiety and Help You Sleep

A great way to relax with a little ‘you’ time is to make your own natural lavender massage oil. This easy free recipe is wonderfully soothing and very easy to make yourself!

First, you will need a few drops of pure essential lavender oil. Tisserand is an excellent well known and trusted brand, but there are other high-quality brands out there too.

Choose an Essential Oil Diffuser

Use an Essential Oil Diffuser to fill the air around you with the sweet natural scent of Lavander.

Both the Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser by Zen Breeze and the Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser by Organic Aromas will ensure that the molecular structure of your favorite essential oils remains unaltered when you diffuse them.

However, they work in very different ways.

I will be taking a look at what each has to offer and including full reviews of the 2017 Models of the Essential Oil Diffuser by Zen Breeze, and the Raindrop 2.0 Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser by Organic Aromas.

• Continue to full reviews…

Vacation Organic Flax Seed Filled Lavender Eye Pillow by Eye Pillow Vacation

What better way to relax, and relieve the tension and stresses of the day, than with this soothing lavender eye pillow.

It’s like having a mini eye massage. Lie back, close your eyes and let the soft, sweet, natural scent of lavender fills your senses.

The Organic Flax Seed and Lavender Eye Pillow by Eye Pillow Vacation is filled with a combination of organic flax seeds and pure lavender flowers and is suitable for warming or cooling therapies.

You can choose from either a silky soft satin or a 100% organic cotton casing and it comes in a fabulous selection of colors.

Click below to view price and color choices on amazon:

The Organic Flax Seed and Lavender Eye Pillow by Eye Pillow Vacation

or continue to full review...

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

This Works is a company that specializes in quality skincare products but they regard their Deep Sleep Pillow Spray as their ultimate beauty secret. Why?

Because a good night’s sleep will do more for you than any face creams.

Made only with ingredients that are kind to you and your home.

This Pillow spray not only gives you a most heavenly scent, but it really does help to reduce anxiety and help you to relax and sleep.

Click below to view the price on amazon:

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

Or continue to full review…

Sensacare Lavender Eye Pillow  

Last, but by no means least, this brand new plush sleep mask is ideal for cooling and warming therapy – and what’s more – it blocks out light to help with melatonin production which aids sleep.

The super-soft cloud-like feel of its velvet casing will help to gently soothe and relax you, while the heavenly scent of Lavender flowers will send you off into a land of peaceful slumber.

Click below to view the price on amazon:

Sensacare Lavender Eye Pillow

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There is a very odd-looking pair of wool socks in the V & A Museum: Ankle socks with a split toe. What makes the socks so strange to look at, is the fact that they are old. Very old. In fact, 1,600 years old.

They do look old, yes, but not that old. In fact, they look barely worn at all.

What strikes you though, is that they are bright red. Really bright red. There’s something so satisfying to think that someone in Egypt some time between A.D. 250 and A.D. 420 was about to start work on a new pair of socks and thought, mmm let’s go for red.

So yes, socks have been around for a really long time, yet we barely take notice of them.

Considered the most boring of Christmas presents, they’re dismissed as just something to fiddle about with before you can get your shoes on and go.

They are most annoying when in their singular form; they hang around and keep offering themselves up to you when you are rooting about in a draw looking for a complete pair – you having hung onto one, in the vain hope that the other will eventually turn up.

Yet you only need to snuggle up in a comfy chair with a pair of warm, hand-knitted socks on a cold winter’s afternoon to appreciate them.

Being at home, drinking coffee with friends or family, and good conversation, or just relaxing with a good book or watching a black and white movie, will give you that feeling.

A feeling of contentment, inner peace; that sense of well-being. The Danes have a word for it, Hygge pronounced “heu-gah”.

I am sure you will have seen it everywhere, it’s the latest trend. But the feeling it describes is timeless and universal, something that dates back to the beginning of mankind.

If I could knit – and believe me I’ve tried – I’d knit a pair of warm socks. A special pair: ones reserved only for the pure joy of wearing them.

Socks that would warm my toes when the temperature outside has dropped and I can see frost beginning to form through the window.

Although I can’t knit – well, not anything that goes around corners – I am happy to say I do have such a pair: my favorite Riobamba Sofa Socks by Pachamama.

There is something special about these socks and it’s not just that they look so different from the standard mass-produced ones that you can pick up on any high street. They actually are special.

They have been skillfully hand-made by home-workers in Nepal, who supplement their farming incomes by knitting, working around their planting and harvest times.

Pachamama, the company, who employs them, either pays the knitters (above average) wages in advance or supplies them with their raw materials, ensuring that no one incurs any debt through their working relationship with the company.

Pachamama, meaning “Earth Mother” in Quechua, also places year-round orders despite the seasonal nature of their products, providing a much-needed steady income for the knitters throughout the whole year – and of course, they ensure that no children are exploited.

So you see, these are feel-good socks in every sense of the word. They come in an assortment of styles and patterns, all super cute and very chic, and they are just so cozy and comfortable to wear.

They also make fabulous bed socks for those frosty nights when your ice-cold toes make it hard to fall sleep.

They are the ultimate in comfortable attire when working from home or after exercise.

I love the stripy ones. I have two pairs. Mine are the ones in the top image. Some long Chamonix ones in “oat” below are on my Christmas wish list.

I mean what could be more hygge on a Christmas morning than coffee, mince pies, and warm, cute hand-knitted socks?

Of course, it can get just as chilly at just about every other time of year too, so you will always want to keep them close by.

The best thing about these socks is that unlike slippers, they are perfect for tucking your feet up on the sofa, but they are practical too because they are so hard-wearing.

This makes the longer ones ideal wellie socks, warming your toes on cold, rainy, or snowy days.

Don’t think these are just for the ladies, though, they are also available for men!

All Pachamama socks are made from 100% wool, are available in most sizes and because they are designed to be roomy, they can easily be worn over a normal pair of socks.

So what could be better than these cute warm sofa socks to help you relax at home, and when you fall in love with them – and you will – why not check out the hats?.

Click on any of the photos on this page, to view that style on Amazon.

Alternatively, click here to view the full range of socks and here for the full range of gloves and hats.

If you are reading this at 3 a.m. Then you are looking for answers and you have my sympathy.

Although acid reflux is a common condition, it’s not much of a consolation when you are propped up with every pillow in the vicinity hoping it will give enough relief to let you drop off.

Unfortunately, trying to sleep with all your pillows propped up is not only lumpy and uncomfortable but is likely to make you feel worse putting your head at an angle that can increase pressure on the stomach making your reflux worse.

Once acid reflux kick in, you will feel miserable, your heartburn or acid indigestion can last for hours and while over the counter medication is usually the first thing you will want to reach for, they can make you feel nauseated and often aren’t 100 percent effective.

Prevention is key

So what steps can you take to avoid acid reflux and get a good night’s sleep?

According to a study in the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology ‘Elevation of the upper body at night is generally recommended for all patients with GERD’ – ‘the height of the bed head elevation is critical and it must be at least 6–8 inches to be at least minimally effective to prevent reflux of gastric contents.’

So it’s a choice of either a full mattress elevator like the one shown below or opt for a foam wedge bed pillow.

Mattress Elevators

Full-length mattress elevators are the perfect solution – if you sleep alone or have a partner who would appreciate the benefits of a sloped mattress.

You won’t find yourself sliding off it as you might with a wedge pillow, but as we’ve said, they may not be practical in all circumstances.

Wedge Pillows

Wedge Pillows have the advantage of being easily portable, and you can easily just remove them if you find you don’t always need one.

They are more suitable if only one partner requires elevation, though you can find yourself sliding down in the night if the angle is too steep or too sudden.

But don’t worry we’ll take a look at those that will minimize the chances of this happening.

There are, of course, many other reasons you may need to sleep with your head elevated apart from acid reflux, if you have problems breathing, poor circulation, back or neck problems, are post-surgery or snore, for example, a mattress elevator or foam wedge bed pillow may help you enormously.

We’ll now take a look at the best ones out there.

Editor’s Award	Brand	Click Image to read review
Best Mattress Elevator – New Review	Avana Mattress Elevator
The Best 12″ Wedge Pillow	InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow
The Best 7.5″ Wedge Pillow	InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow

Also in this Guide:

• Is A Foam Wedge Bed Pillow Right For You?
• Best Bed wedge Pillow for the UK

Best Mattress Elevator: Avana Mattress Elevator

So you can basically sleep with your whole body completely flat (just not horizontal) in any position that feels comfortable for you – without rolling off, sliding down, or crunching over at the waist.

Made in the US at the Avana factory in Atlanta, by the same company who make Jaxx bean bags, this mattress elevator meets CertiPUR-US^® standards for content, emissions, and durability, and has been analyzed by independent, accredited testing laboratories.

What this actually means is that it is made without ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP (“Tris”) flame retardants, formaldehyde, phthalates, mercury, lead and other heavy metals and is regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The mattress elevator we have featured here is the 7-inch version which slopes down to a 1 – inch depth, – the perfect sweet spot between the 6 and 8 inches you need for the slope to be effective, but you can choose a gentler 5″ version if you prefer.

What We Like:

• Elevates the Whole Mattress | So you can sleep completely flat without being horizontal – in any position that feels comfortable for you.

Buying Factors to Consider:

If you have a partner to take into consideration, this may not be the most practical solution. You could go for the half mattress version or choose a bed wedge pillow – we’ll be looking at those next.

The Best 12″ Wedge Pillow: InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow

At 12″ in height, it more than meets the minimum inches required in height to be effective against acid reflux.

What makes this foam wedge stand out from most, though, is its 1″ memory foam top layer for added comfort.

However, it does have a firm base made from highly resilient polyurethane foam and so the wedge feels medium-firm to lie on. Don’t expect to sink right into it.

As with all wedge bed pillows, you should think of it more as an extension of your mattress and you should add a pillow for head support.

Another great feature of this wedge is that it has built-in channels between the top memory foam layer and the base foam to enhance air circulation and give you a cooler sleeping experience.

The only downside is that because the pillow is quite steep, you may find yourself sliding down it a little in the night, but the fact that it has 1″ of memory foam means this is less likely since it will mold around you, keeping you more supported and in place than an ordinary wedge pillow of the same dimensions.

The Best 7.5″ Wedge Pillow: InteVision Foam Wedge Bed Pillow

Either 12″ or the 7.5″ wedges can be used in a number of ways, they are suitable for raising the legs by simply placing the wedge at the bottom of the bed to provide relief from varicose veins or swollen ankles, etc. and both make a perfect backrest when placed in the upright position for reading, watching tv or just relaxing in bed.

Although both the wedge pillows come with a machine-washable white cover, an optional 400 thread count, 100% Egyptian cotton pillowcase is also available in both white and dark blue.

Dimensions:
12″ wedge pillow 25″ x 24″ x 12″
7.5″ wedge pillow 26″ x 25″ x 7.5″

Click to view price and accessories for the 12″ wedge pillow:

• InteVision 12″ Foam Wedge Bed Pillow
• Spare pillowcase for the 12″ wedge pillow

Click to view price and accessories for the 12″ wedge pillow:

• InteVision 7.5″ Foam Wedge Bed Pillow
• Spare pillow case for the 7.5″ wedge pillow

The Aidapt Foam Bed Wedge

Don’t expect to sink into the Aidapt like a large soft wedge-shaped pillow. You have to think of this wedge in terms of a mattress extension. Memory foam lets you sink in, high-density foam doesn’t and this bed wedge is medium/firm. You are going to need your pillow if you don’t want your head to roll over to one side or the other but if you like a firm mattress, this may be the one for you.

At almost nine and a half inches in height, this foam bed wedge is reasonably steep. It more than fulfills the minimum requirement of at least 6-8 inches required to be minimally effective’ so will keep your upper body elevated enough to keep acid reflux at bay. The light-weights amongst us, however, may find ourselves sliding down it a little in the night. If you feel this bed wedge might be a little too steep for you, please do check out the Flex Foam Bed Wedge.

The fact that the angle is substantial, does mean that the cushion may be used very effectively in the upright position, as a backrest while reading, etc. Another advantage is that unlike some wedges, spare washable covers are also available to buy separately.

View the Aidapt Foam Bed Wedge on Amazon UK.

View the spare pillowcase for the 9.45″ x 23.62″ x 2.44″ Aidapt wedge here.

Is A Foam Wedge Bed Pillow Right For You?

What if you never had to sleep on lumpy stacked up pillows that crick your neck and hunch you over, just to get enough relief from gastric reflux to let you sleep?

Remember, one ruined night’s sleep spoils the following day too so even if you are one of the many occasional sufferers of acid reflux, a foam bed wedge will make you so much more comfortable helping you and your stomach to relax.

A Note About Gassing Off

As with all new foam products, there is going to be some degree of ‘gassing off’ (that chemical smell that dissipates over a period of hours to days) and so it is advisable to let the wedge air, preferably outside on a dry day or at least in a ventilated area or room for at least 24 hours. The amount of odor seems to vary between different brands and even between the same brand. Some people are more sensitive to this than others but it is sensible not to spend several straight hours in close proximity to any new foam product without first airing it out.