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He rented a home on a tree-lined street full of Spanish bungalows that’s not too far from his favorite places, which was ideal considering he planned on hosting loved ones from out of town often. “I live here with my dog Satie, my boyfriend Joey, who also has his own place down the street, and normally a guest or two,” he says. His small bedroom was a blank slate, and it also happened to be exactly what he was hoping for: It was compact enough to not be overwhelming, considering the cabin had been a large undertaking, and it didn’t require construction....

And nothing crazy, either—all it takes is waking about one hour earlier to decrease one’s depression risk, suggests the comprehensive genetic study, conducted by researchers at University of Colorado Boulder, the Broad Institute of MIT, and Harvard and published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry. Scientists were able to gain new insights into concrete ways that individuals can actively change their sleep habits—or rather, their wakeup habits—in order to positively impact their own mental health....

However, choosing the best mineral sunscreen can prove overwhelming due to the broad selection on the market today. To find the best mineral sunscreens, we reviewed, tested, and researched a variety of mineral sunscreens, considering factors such as ingredients, SPF, size, and value. For expert tips on choosing the right mineral sunscreen, we tapped board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Y. Claire Chang of Union Square Laser Dermatology in Manhattan. “I recommend looking for mineral sunscreens that have SPF of at least 30 or greater, and that are labeled water-resistant, as well as broad spectrum,” says Chang....

To determine the best paint brands, we researched both name-brand and direct-to-consumer businesses and considered factors like paint types, certifications, color options, and more. We also tapped Bailey Carson, a home care expert at Angi, to provide a few tips on how to shop for paint. “High-quality paints have a higher percentage of solids, pigments, and resins which increases paint performance,” says Carson. “Even though these paints are more expensive, they give more coverage and a better application than cheaper paints....

To come up with this list of the best welcome mats, we researched dozens of doormats on the market and evaluated them based on durability, functionality, and style. We also considered factors like design, size, and material when narrowing down our recommendations. After all, a quality welcome mat should look nice and prevent debris from entering your home. Here are the best welcome mats for every style. Who it isn’t for: People who want a more colorful welcome mat....

“Be sure to keep her interests as the focus of your shopping,” says Smith. Pick gifts that match her personality, interests, hobbies, and don’t overlook experiences. “A spa day together, an overnight to the big city for dinner and a show, or taking a class together are all ways to celebrate your sister while creating memories,” says Smith. We did the research and found the very best gifts for sisters, whether she’s a foodie, traveler, wine aficionado, or all of the above....

In addition to talking with Riedel, we also sought the advice of Andrew Fortgang, sommelier and co-owner and wine director of two Portland restaurants, Le Pigeon and Canard. We also did hands-on testing of 14 decanters in our Lab, evaluating them on ease of use, design, ease of cleaning, performance, and value. Our top pick is the Onearf Wine Decanter for its excellent aeration abilities and convenient included accessories, including cleaning tools and a hands-free pouring mechanism....

To find the best white noise machines, we thoroughly researched the various models available and considered factors like size, sound settings, and portability when coming up with our recommendations. We also spoke to Dr. Lindsay Browning, neuroscientist, psychologist, and sleep expert, for tips on how to pick a sound machine that suits your needs. One of the most important things you should look for in a good white noise machine is the ability to control the volume....

The Bagsmart toiletry bag is a bestseller, and shoppers are flocking to the bag because of its many features. One of the most important is its large size: It has four zippered compartments for you to fill. Plus, the bag rolls closed to take up the least amount of space inside your suitcase, and you can hang it on the back of a door with the bag’s rotating hook once you reach your destination....

Price at time of publish: $80 Price at time of publish: $20 Price at time of publish: $29 Price at time of publish: $17 Price at time of publish: $65 Price at time of publish: $49 Price at time of publish: $6 Price at time of publish: $15

I started with the skincare category on the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale homepage. There were so many great finds, but I narrowed my list down to this Tata Harper set with some of the brand’s best-selling formulations like Resurfacing Mask, which contains BHAs that refine pores and restore the skin’s glow. Next, I had to add the Sisley Paris Black Rose Skin Infusion Set to my cart. The set also includes a full size of the Black Rose Skin Infusion Cream, a cream that hydrates and plumps the skin and has a rich texture that melts into the skin....

To buy: $28; amazon.com. Despite the mention of “yoga” in the brand’s name, these athletic leggings function for all kinds of workouts thanks to their four-way stretch, stay-put waistband, and squat-proof material. They’re also a bit thicker than other options and they come with some supportive compression, ensuring I feel comfortable while squatting, running, dancing, lifting, and hiking. “These are the closest fit, comfort, quality to Lulu[lemon] than I have ever found,” one reviewer wrote....

So, for this Mother’s Day, we asked Real Simple editors to share the life advice from their moms that has stuck with them most over the years. Between lessons on how to treat others, skincare reminders, and home project advice, we can all learn a thing or two from these motherly musings. —Lily Gray, Home E-commerce Writer —Jenna Helwig, Food Director —Heather Muir, Beauty Director —Lauren Iannotti, Editor in Chief —Lizzy Briskin, Food Editor —Rachel Center, Product Reviews Writer —Erin Johnson, Senior Product Reviews Writer I’ll never forget the moment when the garbage man came to collect the trash and asked us why there was so much garbage this week....

The steaming cleaner heats up within 30 seconds and removes messes with just water from the tap. You read that right: That means no harmful substances or chemicals will ever touch your floors, giving you a streak-free clean every time. Plus, the steam is so hot that it will actually sanitize your surfaces, which is especially important now more than ever. To buy: $60 (was $70); amazon.com. In addition to its impressive steam power, the Shark mop uses a microfiber pad that slides right on to the head to scrub off hard-to-clean substances lingering on your tile, hardwood, or laminate floors....

Podcasts—true crime or otherwise—continue to be a powerful platform when it comes to content consumption, with research indicating an increase in people tuning in and the number of podcasts they’re listening to regularly. And one podcast genre that continues to dominate the scene? True crime, with groundbreaking series such as Serial (now in its third season) garnering cult followings, media attention, awards, and even laying the groundwork for mainstream specials and documentary series....