The best mattress sales happening in July 2021 – including deals on DreamCloud, Leesa, and Casper

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Purchasing a mattress is a tough process. Doing so while balancing a budget can make things even more difficult.

Mattress companies are no strangers to discounts – popular brands like Casper, Helix, Leesa, and Purple are offering price cuts that are hard to pass up, along with freebies to seal the deal. The summer months are some of the best times to shop for mattresses as brands offer big discounts.

The Fourth of July is another great opportunity for extensive mattress discounts. Throughout the holiday weekend, many retailers are offering competitive discounts across mattresses.

We’ve also arranged exclusive discounts for readers with several retailers, including Leesa, Casper, and Tempur-Pedic. We put together a list of some of the biggest bargains currently available and included links to relevant mattress reviews.

Exclusive mattress sales for Insider readers:

  • Casper: Use code INSIDER to save $100 on the Original mattress or $200 on the Nova or Wave mattresses
  • Cocoon by Sealy: Use code INSIDER36 for 36% off sitewide
  • DreamCloud: Get $200 off a mattress and $399 in free accessories with code INSIDER
  • Leesa: Save an additional 20% off Hybrid and Legend mattresses with code INSIDER
  • Nectar: Use code INSIDER to save (discount increases with mattress size)
  • Tempur-Pedic: Use code BI30 to get 30% off Tempur-Cloud mattresses

The best mattress sales happening right now:

  • Allswell: 15% off mattresses with code JULY4TH
  • Avocado: Save $250 on the Organic Luxury Plush Mattress with code LIBERTY, Save $100 on Latex Mattresses with code SLEEPFREE, save $100 on Green and Vegan Hybrid Mattresses with code SLEEPFREE
  • Awara: $300 off mattresses + $499 in free accessories
  • Bear: 25% off sitewide and $250 free gift set with code CHILL
  • Big Fig Mattress:$300 off The Big Fig Mattress with code JULY4
  • Birch: Up to $400 off mattresses + 2 free pillows with code JULY400
  • Brooklyn Bedding: 25% off sitewide with code INDEPENDENCE25
  • Casper: Up to 30% off mattress bundles, 15% off mattresses, pillows, and sheets
  • Cocoon by Sealy: 35% off chill mattresses + free pillows and sheets with every purchase
  • DreamCloud: $200 off mattresses + $399 in free accessories
  • Eight Sleep: $200 off the Pod mattress
  • Emma: Up to 45% off all mattresses
  • GhostBed: 30% of mattresses + 2 free pillows
  • Helix: Save $200 on orders of $1,750 or more with code JULY4200, $150 off orders of $1,250 or more with code JULY4150, or $100 off orders of $600 or more with code JULY4100, + 2 free pillows
  • Leesa: Up to $500 off mattresses + 2 free pillows
  • Nectar: $399 of accessories with every mattress purchase
  • Nolah: Up to $800 off mattresses + 2 free pillows
  • Purple: Up to $350 off mattress bundles
  • Saatva: $200 off mattress purchases of $985 or more
  • Sleep Number: Save up to $1,000 on select Sleep Number 360 smart beds
  • Tempur-Pedic: Save $500 on TEMPUR-breeze mattresses, save 30% on the TEMPUR-cloud mattress
  • Tuft & Needle: Up to 20% off sitewide
  • Wayfair: Mattresses starting at $130 with sales on big names like Sealy, Casper, Serta, and Simmons

The best sales on mattresses we recommend:

Save up to $200 of DreamCloud Premier Hybrid: Our pick for best mattress overall

Premier Hybrid Mattress (small)

The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid is highly recommended for all sleepers in our guide to the best mattresses due to its strong support, average firmness, and its fair price point. DreamCloud also offers an impressive lifetime warranty on all mattresses and a 365-night sleep trial period. 

Save $360 on the Leesa Hybrid Mattress: Our pick for best mattress for back pain

Hybrid Mattress (Queen) (small, Preferred: Leesa)

If you suffer from back pain due to an uncomfortable mattress, the Leesa Hybrid Mattress will likely solve your problems. The mattress offers five layers of foam and coil support, motion isolation if you’re sharing the bed with a partner, and gentle pressure relief. In our review of the Leesa Hybrid mattress, we also noted its comfortability and other special features. It also takes home the title of “best for back pain” in our best mattress and best mattress for side sleepers guides.

Save $200 on the Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress: Our pick for best mattress for side sleepers

Nova Hybrid Mattress (Queen) (small)

For those of us that prefer to sleep on our side, the Casper Nova Hybrid mattress is our top pick for side sleepers. It took home the aforementioned title in our guide to the best mattresses, and also was named “best overall” in our side-sleeper specific guide. The mattress stood out when compared to other Casper mattresses for its softness, heat dissipation, and edge support.

Save up to $400 on the Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed: Our pick for best adjustable mattress

360 i8 Smart Bed (Queen) (small)

If you’re looking for a mattress that allows you to customize and adjust your sleep every night, the Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed should be your top choice. In our review of the mattress, we noted its standout features which include, multiple firmness levels, and an adjustable air feature that adjusts to your sleeping position while you sleep. We also named it the best adjustable option in our guides to the best mattress and best mattress for side sleepers.

Save up to $700 on the Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress: Our pick for best foam mattress

Cloud Mattress (Queen) (small)

Our well-seasoned home and kitchen reporter James Brains called the Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress the most comfortable he’d ever slept on in his review of the mattress, and also named it the best foam mattress in our guides to the best mattress and best mattress for side sleepers. The Cloud Mattress contours to your body’s shape, making it a great option regardless of your preferred sleeping position. The mattress also has outstanding motion isolation, a layered foam design, and relaxing pressure relief.

Save $200 on the Birch Mattress by Helix: Our pick for best latex mattress and best mattress for heavy people

Natural Mattress (Queen) (small, Preferred: Birch)

The Birch Mattress by Helix is our best pick for heavier individuals as it offers firm support and great motion isolation. If you typically sink into your mattress instead of sitting on top of it, The Birch Mattress will offer you supportive relief.

Save $300 on Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress: Our pick for best latex mattress for stomach sleepers

Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress (small)

Eco-concious brand Awara’s Organic Luxury Hybrid mattress took home the spot of “best mattress for stomach sleepers” in our guide. It’s soft, yet supportive and made of eco-friendly materials. We don’t often see discounts on this brand, so this is a rare deal. 

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The 14 best bathtubs in 2021

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A closeup of a tub in a tiled shower with the water falling from the showerhead
  • When shopping for a bathtub, consider the size of your bathroom and how you intend to use your tub.
  • The best bathtubs come from brands like Delta, Kohler, and Rejuvenation.
  • Consider calling a professional to install your new tub since it can involve tricky plumbing.

Table of Contents: Masthead Sticky

Whether you enjoy an occasional deep soak or regularly treat yourself to bubble baths, a comfortable and well-built bathtub is an essential fixture of your home. It’s a big investment, so it’s important to carefully weigh how you intend to use it, your budget, and the amount of available space.

The most common kind of bathtub is an alcove tub, which is surrounded by walls on three sides. You can add a showerhead to an alcove tub to maximize space and utility. Other types of bathtubs include drop-in, corner, freestanding, and walk-in tubs.

The best bathtub for you depends on many factors. The biggest things to consider are the size of your bathroom and where you’d like to place the tub. Certain materials, like cast iron, are heavy and you may need to reinforce your floor. The location of your plumbing and the size of your water heater may also impact what type of tub you buy. Finally, you’ll want to consider whether you want certain features, including massage jets or accessibility options such as grab bars or seating. Learn more about the differences among bathtub types, factors and features to consider, how to install a bathtub, and other bathtub FAQs.

For each type of bathtub, we included a few options so you can find the best one for your needs, budget, and style. Alex Rennie contributed previous reporting to this piece.

Here are the best bathtubs of 2021

Our testing methodology

white freestanding bathtub in front of a tiled wall testing methodology for best bathtubs in 2021

We consulted Kerrie Kelly, National Board Chair of the American Society of Interior Designers, and Tricia Fraser, a merchant and bathtub expert at The Home Depot, for insights into the bathtub-buying process.

Taking their advice and our own research and experience into account, we chose two to three options covering a variety of materials, budgets, and styles for each category. We also looked at whether the retailer offered home installation and other services that make it easier to buy a bathtub.

The best alcove bathtub

closeup of white alcove bathtub with bath products lining the wall the best alcove bathtubs in 2021

You’re probably most familiar with the ubiquitous alcove bathtub. There are plenty of options to choose from, and we love them because they’re usually pretty affordable.

Classic Rectangular Alcove Bathtub (medium)Aloha Rectangular Alcove Bathtub (medium)Villager Rectangular Alcove Bathtub (medium)
The best drop-in bathtub

american standard drop-in bathtub in front of a window the best drop-in bathtubs in 2021

A drop-in tub requires a little more space than an alcove tub because it doesn’t touch your walls. It has a slightly more sleek look and tends to be more expensive.

Evolution Bathtub (medium)Devonshire Drop-In Bathtub (medium)
The best corner bathtub

the ariel right drain corner whirlpool bathtub in a bathroom the best corner bathtub in 2021

Corner bathtubs make the most of limited space. These days, they commonly have built-in jets so you can enjoy a bath and massage without going to the spa. Extra features like jets or lights do make corner tubs more expensive.

Eureka Corner Whirlpool Bathtub (medium)Right Drain Corner Whirlpool Bathtub (medium)Dual Corner Bathtub (medium)
The best freestanding soaking bathtub

curved red clawfoot soaking bathtub with white trim the best freestanding bathtubs in 2021

Freestanding bathtub styles range from vintage and elaborate to modern and minimalist. Whatever your personal style is, keep in mind that freestanding tubs take up a lot of space and can be heavy since many tend to be made from cast iron.

Arseni Clawfoot Soaking Bathtub (medium)Rebecca Flatbottom Bathtub (medium)Bordeaux Flatbottom Bathtub (medium)West Slope Cast Iron Tub (medium)
The best walk-in bathtub

universal tubs quick fill walk-in bathtub the best walk-in bathtub in 2021

Walk-in tubs are designed with accessibility and ergonomics in mind, so you don’t need to lift your leg over a ledge. Not only are they easier to enter, they often feature comfortable benches, a grab bar, and other add-ons to enhance your bathing experience.

Quick Fill Walk-In Bathtub (medium)Walk-In Jetted Tub (medium)

What are the different kinds of bathtubs? How do I know which one is best for my bathroom?

Alcove bathtub: An alcove tub is surrounded on three sides by walls, so you get in on the exposed side. It’s usually the most affordable and space-efficient. 

Drop-in bathtub: A drop-in tub is “framed by materials like cabinetry, tile, or solid surface slabs and ‘drop-in’ to a deck,” said Kerrie Kelly, National Board Chair of the American Society of Interior Designers. Although it might be surrounded by walls like an alcove tub, its sides do not actually touch the walls directly. 

Corner bathtub: A corner tub is often three-sided or heart-shaped, with two of the sides in the corner of your space. It’s best for small spaces. 

Freestanding bathtub: A freestanding tub can be placed anywhere in the room and is often the focal point. It can stand directly on the floor, on a low pedestal, or on claw feet. It takes up a lot of space and tends to be heavy, so you might need to reinforce your floor, but it has the most eye-catching and elegant look of all the tub types. Both Kelly and Tricia Fraser, a merchant and bathtub expert at The Home Depot say freestanding tubs are growing in popularity and the biggest trend in bathroom design recently. 

Walk-in bathtub: A walk-in tub is for people who can’t step into a regular tub. It has a watertight door and “typically has safety features, like a grab bar, slip-resistant textured flooring, and ADA-compliant seating. These tubs can also offer a therapeutic massage experience with features like jetted whirlpool or jetted air,” said Fraser.


What to consider when buying a bathtub 

The main factors to consider as you decide which bathtub to buy are: 

Bathroom size: Take measurements of your bathroom and doorway. Depending on the amount of space available, you may only be able to buy certain tub styles. 

Plumbing location: The location of your plumbing rough-in limits where you can place your tub. The drain location needs to work with your tub’s design. 

Water heater size: “Confirm that your water heater can handle the size of tub you are looking to fill. Make sure your water heater is large enough to fill about 2/3 of your tub with warm water,” said Kelly. This is especially important if you opt for a deeper soaking tub. 

Material: Material affects the price, feel, and longevity of your tub. The most common bathtub materials are acrylic, fiberglass, porcelain-enameled steel, and porcelain-enameled cast iron. Acrylic is long-lasting, lightweight, affordable, and widely available in many colors and styles. Fiberglass is the most affordable but not as durable. Both enameled cast iron and steel are very durable and resistant to scratches and stains, but cast iron has even greater heat retention, keeping your bath water hot for a longer period of time. 

Weight capacity of your floor: If your tub is going on the second floor, you might need to reinforce the floor based on what materials you choose. Acrylic tubs are lighter in weight, while cast iron tubs are a lot heavier. 

Extra features: Features like whirlpool jets, grab bars, and seating will bring the price of your tub up but add to the overall experience of your bath.


What are the standard measurements for a bathtub? 

According to Fraser, a standard tub measures 60″ x 30″. The average water depth is 16 inches. Corner, freestanding, and walk-in baths tend to be deeper. As you look at different sizes, consider the heights of anyone who will use the tub, how many people will usually be in the tub at once, and if you prefer to curl up or splay out in the water. If you’re in a physical store or showroom, it always helps to climb into the tub to test the ergonomics and feel out the size for yourself.


How much does a bathtub cost? 

It all depends on the materials and features, but a bathtub usually starts at $200 and averages around $300 to $500. Corner, freestanding, and walk-in tubs tend to be more expensive and can cost thousands of dollars.


Should I install a bathtub by myself or call a professional? 

We love a DIY project, but it’s best to call a professional for this one. Because bathtub installation involves plumbing and tiling expertise, “incorrect installation can result in water damage or an unleveled tub,” said Fraser. 

If you do have prior plumbing experience, Fraser’s advice is “to double check the door width to make sure you can move the tub into the bathroom, be knowledgeable on basic plumbing and framing, and know your existing flooring and plumbing’s condition.”

Check out our other home renovation guides

Bath mats thumbnail image
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Casper pioneered the bed in a box format, and its Original mattress is just as good as ever

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  • A high-quality mattress is ideal for a broad range of sleeping styles and body types.
  • I like Casper’s Original Mattress because it sleeps cool, offers impressive motion isolation, and keeps my spine aligned.
  • It comes with a 10-year limited warranty and is available to try risk-free for 100 nights.
  • You can save up to 30% off bundles, 15% off mattresses and pillows, 10% off everything else until July 5th.

A Casper mattress in a dark bedroom

Table of Contents: Masthead StickyOriginal Mattress (Queen) (small)

Casper remains one of our favorite bed-in-a-box brands, even as the industry continues to attract new competitors. Over the past few years, Casper has continued to up its game by improving the construction of its flagship mattress, introducing new models, and even adding bed frames, pillows, and accessories to its repertoire.

While Casper now makes a host of hybrid mattresses, its OG foam mattress is still around, and better than ever. A bit ago, Casper updated its best-selling all-foam Original Mattress with a more eco-friendly (yet comfortable) cover. The company also combined foam layers for a simpler construction that still offers all of the same pressure-relieving and heat-dissipating benefits. Casper sent me the updated Original Mattress to test for free. Here is my experience with it.

Design

Graphic of Casper all-foam original mattress showing layers of foam

The Casper Original Mattress is a 2020 update to the company’s flagship bed. The price remains the same, but the main difference is that the new mattress has three layers of foam (versus the four layers of the previous model). The new layers are:

  • “Airscape” perforated breathable foam – This top layer is designed to increase airflow for a cooler sleep and offer pressure relief.
  • Zoned support memory foam – The middle layer provides more relief and helps align your spine with three ergonomic zones that are softer under the shoulders and firmer around the lower back, waist, and hips.
  • Durable base foam – The thickest layer offers support by preventing sagging and sinking.

The mattress also has a more modern cover made of recycled polyester, recycled bottles, and upcycled cotton, rayon, and lycra. Appearance-wise, the covers are fairly consistent across Casper models.

Setup process

A casper mattress on a grey bed frame with a Casper box in the foreground

The Casper Original Mattress arrives at your door in a box that’s maybe a little larger than a mini-fridge and – in the case of the Queen – weighs about 85 pounds. Unless you run a CrossFit gym, you’ll want to get a friend to help you move it around. I had my teenager, who’s always looking to show off how strong he is, drag it up to our third-floor test bedroom. Casper also offers in-home setup for a fee.

The unboxing process is simple and intuitive. You open the box, remove the wrapped mattress, place it on your bed foundation, unwrap the outer plastic layer, carefully tear or cut open the inner layer of plastic, and give the bed time to expand.

The mattress is meant to work on just about any foundation, though since it’s an all-foam mattress, you’ll want to make sure it has as much direct support under it as possible. I slept on the same Zinus frame I use for all of my testings.

The mattress has the usual “new bed smell” so I’d recommend unboxing it in the morning and allowing it to air out before you put sheets on it. This will also give the mattress time to expand.

What makes the mattress stand out

woman sleeping on a Casper mattress that shows the interior layers

Sleeping on a mattress is the only way to find out for sure that it’s right for you. That’s why Casper offers a 100-night, risk-free trial. If you try the mattress and find it isn’t right for you, contact Casper, and they will work to have a local charity or recycling center pick it up. You then get your refund within two weeks, and there are no shipping fees or hidden restocking fees removed from the refund.

The new Casper Original is closer to average firmness than the previous model, which was on the firmer side. Though I preferred to sleep on my stomach to take pressure off my back, this mattress was also comfortable when I was on my side, and my back-sleeping wife found it suited her style.

Like its first incarnation, the 2020 Casper Original stays nice and cool through the night. This was a relief since I tend to be a hot sleeper and memory foam usually traps heat. The breathable top layer allowed for good airflow.

As with the previous Casper Original, the motion isolation is great. The mattress passed my motion transfer test with flying colors. I placed a 12-ounce soda can in the center of the bed and dropped a 15-pound bowling ball so it landing 12 inches away. The can stayed upright each time. A good approximation of what it might be like to have a partner in bed tossing and turning. You’re unlikely to be disturbed with this mattress.

The Casper Original is backed by a 10-year limited warranty that covers major indentations, manufacturing defects, physical flaws, and deterioration that may occur despite using a supportive foundation, proper handling, and normal usage.

Cons to consider

A woman's hand pressing into a Casper mattress

The edge support of the updated Casper Original is not as good as the previous version. When I sat on the edge of the bed, it sagged significantly. And, when I rolled onto the very edge of the bed, I quickly fell off.

One morning while testing the mattress, I woke up with back pain despite feeling fine when I went to bed. This is an intermittent problem for me, and I’m hesitant to blame the mattress. My back gradually improved as I continued to sleep on the mattress. That said, the mattress probably isn’t perfect for back pain sufferers.

What are your alternatives?

Aside from the ultra-soft Nova Hybrid and the over-priced Wave Hybrid, the other Casper mattresses are fairly similar. So, if you are looking to save money, you might consider the low-end Casper Element. The pressure relief isn’t as impressive as the Original, but unless you have specific aches and pains, you may not notice the difference.

If Casper doesn’t interest you, take a look at our guide to the best mattresses, which features my favorite mattresses based on the rigorous testing of dozens of models.

The bottom line

Overall, I enjoy the Casper Original Mattress. My favorite parts are the average firmness that works for my sleeping positions as well as the breathable, open-cell memory foam that kept me cool at night.

You’ll have a hard time finding a better all-foam mattress than the Casper Original. It works for a broad range of sleepers and is designed to offer supportive pressure relief. Though several mattress brands are more affordable, Casper has the benefit of being a juggernaut in the industry. This means that they will likely be around to honor the 10-year warranty that comes with the mattress.

Taking all of these factors into consideration, we recommend buying the Casper Original if you’re looking for an excellent, reliable mattress that will last you for a decade or more.

Pros: Works well for a broad range of sleeping styles, made of eco-friendly materials, excellent airflow for a cool sleep, great motion isolation, 100-night sleep trial

Cons: Poor edge support

Original Mattress (Queen) (button)

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The best Amazon Prime Day 2021 deals on robot vacuums, cordless vacuums, and upright vacuums

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Table of Contents: Masthead Sticky

prime day 2021 best corded cordless robot vacuum deals
Cordless vacuums from brands like Shark and Hoover always go on sale during Prime Day.

Amazon Prime Day 2021 has begun, which means if you’re in the market for a vacuum, today is the perfect time to find one on sale.

Every year, Prime Day features significant deals on robot vacuums, upright vacuums, cordless stick vacuums, and handheld vacuums. Right now, there are discounts on robot vacuums from Shark, Bissell, and Roborock, as well as cordless vacuums from Tineco.

Several of our top picks from our best vacuum guides are on sale:

  • The best robot vacuum overall: Roborock S6 is down to an all-time low price of $380 at Walmart (originally $650)
  • The best robot vacuum on a budget: Moosoo MT-720 is down to an all-time low price of $109 at Walmart (originally $160)
  • The best robot vacuum for pet hair: Bissell SpinWave is down to an all-time low price of $200 (originally $400)
  • The best robot vacuum for carpet: iRobot Roomba i3+ is $160 off, bringing it to $440 (originally $600)
  • The best cordless vacuum for pet hair: Tineco Pure One X is down to an all-time low price of $183.20 (originally $229)
  • The best cordless vacuum for carpet: Hoover OnePWR HEPA+ is $50 off, bringing it to $250 (originally $300)

If you haven’t figured out what vacuum you need yet, check our guides to the best vacuum cleaners, robot vacuums, cordless vacuums, and budget vacuum cleaners to help narrow down your search. Each of them has been recently updated with our latest fully tested picks and guidance on how to shop for the best vacuum for your needs.

To shop Prime Day deals, you’ll need to be a member. Sign up for a free 30-day trial to gain access to all of the deals and many other perks.

The best Prime deals on robot vacuums

Robot vacuums, after some initial set-up, are mostly hands-off and do all the cleaning work for you. Keep in mind they can’t climb stairs (yet) so they’re best for one-story homes. We’ll be on the lookout for deals from iRobot, Eufy, Roborock, Ecovacs, Moosoo, and more.

S6 Robot Vacuum (medium, Preferred: Walmart)SpinWave Robot Vacuum (medium, Preferred: Amazon)S6 MaxV Robot Vacuum (medium)MT-720 Robotic Vacuum (medium, Preferred: Walmart)Roomba i3+ (3550) Robot Vacuum (medium, Preferred: Amazon)BoostIQ RoboVac 11S (medium, Preferred: Amazon)

The best Prime deals on cordless vacuums

Cordless vacuums are very convenient and usually lighter and more compact than corded vacuums. The downside is you might need to charge them often depending on the size of your space. Dyson cordless vacuums are notoriously expensive, but a few models are usually on sale during Prime Day. You’ll also see deals on cordless vacuums that are already pretty affordable, like those from Tineco and Hoover.

Pure One X Cordless Vacuum (medium, Preferred: Amazon)OnePWR HEPA+ Vacuum (medium, Preferred: Amazon)

The best Prime deals on corded upright vacuums

Corded upright vacuums are good for large homes and long cleaning sessions where you don’t want to worry about battery life. They tend to be powerful and have large dustbins to collect lots of dust and particles. They’re also more affordable than cordless and robot vacuums. Shark, Bissell, and Hoover often discount their corded upright vacuums on Prime Day.

Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner (medium)

You can read more about the different types of vacuums and their pros and cons in these buying guides:

What vacuum deals to expect during Amazon Prime Day

There will be deals on all kinds of vacuums, whether you’re looking for a traditional upright vacuum, lightweight cordless vacuum, or time-saving robot vacuum.

We’re expecting (and already seeing) vacuum deals from most major vacuum brands, including iRobot, Shark, Hoover, Dyson, Eufy, and Bissell. Amazon already confirmed there will be deals on the Shark and Bissell brands.

The brand Tineco, the maker of one of our favorite cordless vacuums, has also confirmed with Insider Reviews that it’s offering up to 30% off its vacuums. Discounted models will include the Tineco A11 Hero Cordless Vacuum and the Tineco Floor One S3 Vacuum.

How we vet deals on vacuums on Amazon Prime Day

We see deals on vacuums all year long, but the discounts are the most significant on Prime Day and Cyber Weekend. We use historical price data to compare how the newest deals compare to those of past years. We’ll recommend the deal if the new deal is the same or better than in previous years.

In addition, we like to recommend deals on the best products from our buying guides. At their normal price, they already provide great value and top performance. We want to help you get even more value out of these high-quality products by highlighting any applicable Prime Day deals.

For vacuums specifically, we also take into account whether the deal includes additional attachments or bundled offerings that aren’t ordinarily included.

Learn more about how we vet deals and terms like “MSRP” and “street price” you might see in our deals roundups.

Where to shop more vacuum deals on Prime Day

Retailers like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy will also have competing vacuum deals that are comparable if not better than Amazon’s deals. Here’s when you can shop their sales:

We’ll be covering these competing sales on Prime Day as well. And no, you don’t need a special membership for these retailers’ deals – just for Amazon Prime.

Other Prime Day FAQs

What is Amazon Prime Day?

Prime Day is Amazon’s annual sales event, featuring millions of deals across all categories from fashion to tech. During the event, prices drop to all-time lows, often beating out prices we see over Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

When is Amazon Prime Day?

Prime Day starts at midnight PDT on June 21 and ends at 11:59 pm PDT on June 22. Some deals are only available on one of the two days, while others are available during the entire event.

Do I need to be a Prime Member?

Yes, deals are exclusive to Prime members. If you’re already a Prime member, there’s nothing additional you need to do. If you’re not a member, you can sign up for a 30-day trial to access Prime Day. You can activate your trial now in time to shop for Prime Day deals.

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The best Amazon Prime Day 2021 kitchen deals, from Instant Pots to Anova sous vide machines

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Table of Contents: Masthead Sticky

Amazon Prime Day 2021 Best Kitchen Deals Amazon Prime day 2x1

Amazon Prime Day 2021, which runs from midnight PDT on June 21 through June 22, is quickly approaching, and with it are many discounts on cookware, countertop appliances, and kitchen essentials. Early deals have started dropping, and we are updating this post regularly with the best kitchen deals available.

Competing retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, and Target have also announced they will offer steep discounts or price matching to coincide with Prime Day, so there will be plenty of opportunities to snag a bargain, even if you aren’t a Prime member. We’ll be here in the lead-up to Prime Day, helping you shop the best kitchen and cookware discounts online.

While Amazon hasn’t released much information about what kitchen deals to expect, we’ve been covering the event for years and typically see sales on hot-button items like Le Creuset cookware, Instant Pot multicookers, and Nespresso machines. Some deals are already live – we’re showing you the best early deals below.

Early Prime Day kitchen deals happening now

Here are the best kitchen deals from Amazon you can shop now. We’ll be updating this list as more deals become available.

Foodi Deluxe XL Cooker & Air Fryer (medium, Preferred: Amazon)Duo Plus 6-Quart (medium, Preferred: Amazon)MilkBoss Milk Frother (small)Air Frying Lid, 6 Quarts (small)Deluxe Electric Air Fryer (DFAF455GBAQ01) (small)Smart Cooker (small)Precision Cooker Nano (small)All Metal Sous Vide Precision Cooker Pro (medium, Preferred: Amazon)

What kitchen deals should I expect?

Amazon recently teased that SodaStream Fizzi Sparkling Water Maker bundles, Stasher reusable storage bags, and Dash immersion hand blenders will be on sale, in addition to 40% off AmazonBasics kitchen products.

There should also be top deals on Cuisinart, Instant Pot, Le Creuset, and Nespresso, among other kitchen tools and small appliances.

What’s the best Instant Pot to buy?

We tested 10 Instant Pots and electric pressure cookers and found the Crock-Pot Express Crock XL Multicooker to be the best, based on ease of setup, cooking, and cleanup. For a budget option, the Instant Pot DUO is comparable, while the Chef iQ Smart Cooker is another great option for modern, smart features.

If you’re interested in getting the most multi-use appliance you can, we really love the Instant Pot Duo Crisp, which was not only named a pick in our guide to the best Instant Pots and electric pressure cookers, but also our guides to the best sous vide machines and the best air fryers.

What’s the best Nespresso machine to buy?

For at-home, cafe-style coffee, you can’t go wrong with Nespresso. The Nespresso Pixie by Breville is our favorite coffee and espresso pod machine and was also named a pick in our comprehensive guide to the best espresso machine.

For a machine that comes with a separate milk frother and pod sampler, the Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine is perfect for whipped-up brews.

What are the best Le Creuset products to buy?

Le Creuset is a leading kitchen brand, namely for its enameled cast iron cookware and Dutch ovens (which we love). Some products to watch out for this Amazon Prime Day include its classic mugs, kettle, frying pan, and casserole dish.

Other Amazon Prime Day FAQs

What is Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day is a perk exclusively for Prime members, so we suggest signing up for a free 30-day trial if you’re looking to shop.

When is Prime Day?

This year, Prime Day 2021 runs from June 21 to June 22. The savings will kick off at midnight PDT on the 21st. Be sure to sign up for Amazon Prime to take advantage of the big savings.

Though Prime Day began as a one-day event, it has been extended to a two-day sale in recent years. And, to help you score the best deals the internet has to offer, we’ll also be covering competitor sales, like Target’s and Walmart’s.

Do I have to be a Prime member?

Yes, you have to be a Prime member to qualify for the event. Be sure to sign up below for your 30-day free trial.

Prime 30-Day Free Trial (small)

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I once bought a 6-month supply of toilet paper on Prime Day, and it’s still one of the best decisions I’ve ever made

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Table of Contents: Masthead Sticky

best toilet paper Prime Day 2021 Deals
Prime Day is a great time to stock up on toilet paper.

After many years of covering all the best sales and deals on Prime Day, I’ve come to know what products consistently see great bargains during the shopping event. Sure, there are great TVs, laptops, phones, and speakers on sale, but for me, a sleeper hit on Prime Day are major discounts on bulk toilet paper.

I get it; toilet paper is the last thing on people’s minds when Prime Day rolls around. But this is your opportunity to buy once and not have to think about it again until months and months later.

I understand many are starved for storage space, but if I can figure out where to hold six months worth of toilet paper in my small Brooklyn apartment, so can you. Put the rolls inside of your suitcases. Add a roll holder in your bathroom. Whatever space you can make, I highly recommend that you make it – you’ll be thanking me the next 40-something times your roll runs out.

I suggest bookmarking your favorite toilet paper now and checking back over Prime Day to see if it goes on sale. We’ll update this article with the best deals we can find when the time comes, but in the meantime, you may want to make sure your Prime membership is up-to-date so you can take advantage of the deals.

Shop all toilet paper on Amazon.

Early Amazon Prime Day 2021 toilet paper deals

We’ll be adding deals as they become available. For now, here are the early Prime Day 2021 deals you can shop on toilet paper:

Ultra Strong Toilet Paper, 18 rolls (medium, Preferred: Amazon)Ultra Soft & Thick 3-Ply Toilet Paper (medium, Preferred: Amazon)Ultra Soft Toilet Paper, 24 rolls (medium, Preferred: Amazon)Ultra Professional Series, 20 rolls (medium, Preferred: Amazon)

Is toilet paper available from Amazon?

Yes, Amazon sells nearly every major brand of toilet paper, with most items available for free Prime two-day shipping. We’ve found the prices are often better than what you can get at the supermarket, since you can purchase in bulk quantities.

What types of toilet paper does Amazon sell?

Whether you’re looking for budget rolls, luxe TP, or eco-friendly options, you’re likely to find it on Amazon. We outline options for every category below.

What’s the best toilet paper to buy on Amazon?

Toilet paper preference is pretty subjective, but we really love Charmin Ultra Strong for its soft, quilted texture. You can read more about the best toilet paper you can buy in our comprehensive guide. No matter your preference, you’ll get the most savings if you buy in bulk.

Here are some of our favorite toilet paper products:

Ultra Strong Toilet Paper (24 rolls) (small)100% Recycled 2-Ply Toilet Paper (24 rolls) (small)1,000 Sheets Per Roll Toilet Paper (24 rolls) (small)Ultra Comfort Care Toilet Paper (24 rolls) (small)Premium Bamboo Toilet Paper (24 rolls) (small)

Will there be toilet paper deals on Amazon Prime Day 2021?

Every Prime Day we’ve seen great discounts on bulk toilet paper and 2021 should be no different. We won’t know the exact products that will be on sale until Prime Day officially starts, but we typically see markdowns on major brands like Charmin, Scott, and more.

Other Amazon Prime Day 2021 FAQs

What is Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day is the retailer’s own deals holiday and typically comes around once a year. We’ve been covering the event for years and usually see discounts on every product category Amazon offers: tech, beauty, home, kitchen, fashion, smart home, and more. During the event, you can expect to see prices drop to all-time lows, sometimes better than prices we see over Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

When is Amazon Prime Day 2021?

This year Prime Day will run for two days from June 21 to June 22. The savings will kick off at midnight PDT on June 21.

Do I have to be a Prime member?

Yes. Amazon Prime Day is an event exclusively for Prime members. If you’re not yet a Prime member, you can sign up for a 30-day free trial to take advantage of Prime Day discounts. Aside from access to Amazon’s own deal holiday, Prime membership comes with a whole host of other benefits like free shipping and access to movie and TV streaming.

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Brooklinen is having a 15% off sitewide sale right now as more retailers jump on the Prime Day bandwagon

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orange and white sheets from Brooklinen cover two pillows and a mattress

Brooklinen, an Insider Reviews-favorite place to buy bedding, towels, and loungewear online, is currently holding a surprise sales event to compete with Amazon Prime Day.

While Prime Day features two days of deals, Brooklinen’s sale runs for four days from June 20 through June 23. Right now, you can save 15% across the entire site (except for the Spaces collection).

Amazon offers tons of deals on various bed and bath products, but none are so highly vetted and loved by our team as Brooklinen’s.

We love its smooth Luxe sateen sheets, which are the brand’s original claim to fame and one of the best sheet sets we tested.

But many of Brooklinen’s other offerings are worth the buy, especially now that they’re 15% off. Brooklinen takes the top spots in several of our bed and bath guides, including the best down pillow, best weighted blanket, best comforter, and best bath mat. We also enjoy its fluffy bath towels and cozy loungewear and robes.

In short, you can’t really go wrong with any of the highly durable and comfortable products. If you’re having trouble deciding what to get, here are our recs:

The best Brooklinen deals to buy from the competing sale

Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle (Queen) (medium)Down Pillow (medium)Weighted Comforter (15 lb) (medium)All-Season Down Comforter (Queen) (medium)Bath Mat (medium)Ultralight Bath Towel (2-Pack) (medium)Bleecker Short (medium)

Shop all bed and bath deals at Brooklinen through June 23

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The best robot vacuum deals for Walmart Deals for Days 2021

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irobot robot vacuum 1

While Amazon Prime Day is the headline event in deals this week, Walmart’s Deals for Days sale is offering its own incredible savings on big brands. The sales event kicked off today and there are a number of excellent deals on robotic vacuums from the top names in the industry. The sales run through June 23, and are constantly updated, so come back often to find the latest discounts. We’ll also be tracking Amazon’s robot deals when Prime Day kicks off tomorrow, June 21.

iRobot‘s Roomba is the most recognizable brand in the robot vacuum space for good reason. It’s the only brand to land two models in our guide to the best robot vacuums: the s9+ and i3+. However, there are several other manufacturers approaching iRobot’s innovation and quality. We also love models by Ecovacs, Roborock, Bissell, and more.

If you’ve been thinking about getting a robotic vacuum to automate your floor cleaning, Walmart’s Deals for Days event is the ideal time to shop around for an affordable option.

Walmart Roomba and robot vacuum deals right now

Here are the best Deals for Days sales currently available for Roombas and other robot vacuum brands:

S6 Robot Vacuum (medium, Preferred: Walmart)MT-720 Robotic Vacuum (small, Preferred: Walmart)

What’s the best robot vacuum to buy?

These days, you can get a solid robot vacuum for $150. From there, the prices go up as you add high-end features, many of which are actually quite useful. Above, we’ve outlined deals on our favorite models, all of which have great suction and a variety of helpful features.

Roomba is still considered a premier robotic vacuum brand, but the Roborock S6 is our top overall pick. It performed well in our carpeting and hardwood tests, allows you to set virtual no-go zones, and mops. During the Deals for Days event, the Roborock S6 is marked down to $379.99 – $270 off its regular price of $650.

As for Roombas, we’re specifically a fan of the models that have a self-emptying docking station. This feature automatically empties your Roomba’s dustbin so you don’t have to – you just toss the disposable dirtbag in the trash every month or so. A good rule of thumb in recognizing the self-emptying Roombas is that they all have a + in their model number.

If you mainly have hardwood floors and are looking for a “set it and forget it” vacuum, consider the Roomba s9+. This is iRobot’s fanciest Roomba with a unique D-shaped design that allows it to get deep into corners. It has the aforementioned self-emptying dock, and the vac maps your house so you can set no-go zones or choose to clean one room at a time. It’s not currently on sale, but we’ll update this story if we find any noteworthy Roomba deals.

For more detailed recommendations, check out our guide to the best robot vacuums.

Which is better: robot vacuums or regular vacuums?

Unlike your average vacuum, robotic vacuums are virtually autonomous. They clean your home on the schedule you set and return to the charging dock when done. All you have to do is empty the dustbin, clean the filter, and perform other routine maintenance tasks.

Yet, since they have to fit a strong battery and self-propulsion system into a small footprint, robot vacuums have a smaller dustbin size and weaker suction compared to traditional vacuums. Plus, they cost hundreds of dollars more.

So, most upright vacuums outperform even the best robot vacuums. You’ll still have a difficult time beating a Roomba when it comes to automating your floor cleaning and Walmart’s Deals for Days event is the perfect time to get a deal on one.

Other Walmart Deals for Days FAQs

Will Walmart hold a sale during Amazon Prime Day 2021?

Walmart is holding its Deals for Days event now through Wednesday, June 23, an extra day before and after Amazon Prime Day 2021.

If this sounds familiar, Walmart did the same thing last year. Walmart’s Big Save Event in 2020 ran from October 13 through 15 – a full day longer than Prime Day. The event featured a wide variety of deals available around the clock, with many going out of stock well before the sale ended, so it’s smart to shop early to take advantage of the discounts.

Are Walmart’s Deals for Days worth buying?

Yes. If prior sales events are any indicator, many of Walmart’s Deals for Days deals will likely be worth buying. Many directly compete with the sales we see via Amazon and retailers like Target and Best Buy during the event. Some are even the best prices we’ve seen for certain products.

Do I need a Walmart Plus membership?

Though Walmart hasn’t mentioned any event-specific perks Walmart Plus members get during Deals for Days, they’re still able to reap the same benefits they do year-round when shopping the sale. That includes free same-day delivery, two-day shipping, next-day shipping, and the newly-added Rx for less.

If you’re interested in sampling the membership, Walmart offers a free 15-day trial for new members. If you sign up now, you’ll be covered during the Deals for Days event on June 20.

15-Day Free Trial (small)

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The best mattress sales happening in June 2021 – including deals on DreamCloud, Leesa, and Casper

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mattress deals 9

Purchasing a mattress is a tough process. Doing so while balancing a budget can make things even more difficult.

Mattress companies are no strangers to discounts – popular brands like Casper, Helix, Leesa, and Purple are offering price cuts that are hard to pass up, along with freebies to seal the deal. The summer months are some of the best times to shop for mattresses as brands offer big discounts.

Amazon’s Prime Day is running from June 21-22 and is another great opportunity for extensive mattress discounts. During Prime Day many retailers offer competitive discounts across mattresses. Check out our guide to the best Amazon Prime Day mattress sales to keep up with the best discounts.

We’ve also arranged exclusive discounts for readers with several retailers, including Leesa, Casper, and Tempur-Pedic. We put together a list of some of the biggest bargains currently available and included links to relevant mattress reviews.

Exclusive mattress sales for Insider readers:

  • Casper: Use code INSIDER to save $100 on the Original mattress or $200 on the Nova or Wave mattresses
  • Cocoon by Sealy: Use code INSIDER36 for 36% off sitewide
  • DreamCloud: Get $200 off a mattress and $399 in free accessories with code INSIDER
  • Leesa: Save an additional 20% off Hybrid and Legend mattresses with code INSIDER
  • Nectar: Use code INSIDER to save (discount increases with mattress size)
  • Tempur-Pedic: Use code BI30 to get 30% off Tempur-Cloud mattresses

The best mattress sales happening right now:

  • Avocado: Save $250 on the Organic Luxury Plush Mattress with code LIBERTY, Save $100 on Latex Mattresses with code SLEEPFREE, save $100 on Green and Vegan Hybrid Mattresses with code SLEEPFREE
  • Awara: $300 off mattresses + $499 in free accessories
  • Bear: 20% off all mattresses + $250 free gift set with code SUMMER
  • Big Fig Mattress: $200 off The Big Fig Mattress with code DADSDAY
  • Birch: $200 off mattresses + 2 free pillows with code MEMORIALDAY200
  • Brooklyn Bedding: 20% off mattresses with code SUMMER20
  • Casper: Up to 40% off select mattresses
  • Cocoon by Sealy: 35% off chill mattresses + free pillows and sheets with every purchase
  • DreamCloud: $200 off mattresses + $399 in free accessories
  • Eight Sleep: $100 off the Pod mattress
  • Emma: Up to 35% off all mattresses
  • GhostBed: 30% of mattresses + 2 free pillows
  • Helix: Save $200 off on orders of $1,750 or more with code MEMORIALDAY200, $150 off orders of $1,250 or more with code MEMORIALDAY150, or $100 off orders of $600 or more with code MEMORIALDAY100, + 2 free pillows
  • Leesa: Up to $400 off mattresses
  • Nectar: $399 of accessories with every mattress purchase
  • Nolah: Up to $800 off mattresses + 2 free pillows
  • Purple: Free sheets + pillow with select mattress purchases
  • Saatva: $200 off mattress purchases of $1000 or more
  • Sleep Number: Save up to $500 on select Sleep Number 360 smart beds,
  • Tempur-Pedic: $300 in free accessories with a mattress set purchase
  • Tuft & Needle: Up to 20% off sitewide
  • Wayfair: Mattresses starting at $130 with sales on big names like Sealy, Casper, Serta, and Simmons

The best sales on mattresses we recommend:

Save up to $200 of DreamCloud Premier Hybrid: Our pick for best mattress overall

Premier Hybrid Mattress (small)

The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid is highly recommended for all sleepers in our guide to the best mattresses due to its strong support, average firmness, and its fair price point. DreamCloud also offers an impressive lifetime warranty on all mattresses and a 365-night sleep trial period. 

Save $360 on the Leesa Hybrid Mattress: Our pick for best mattress for back pain

Hybrid Mattress (Queen) (small)

If you suffer from back pain due to an uncomfortable mattress, the Leesa Hybrid Mattress will likely solve your problems. The mattress offers five layers of foam and coil support, motion isolation if you’re sharing the bed with a partner, and gentle pressure relief. In our review of the Leesa Hybrid mattress, we also noted its comfortability and other special features. It also takes home the title of “best for back pain” in our best mattress and best mattress for side sleepers guides.

Save $300 on the Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress: Our pick for best mattress for side sleepers

Nova Hybrid Mattress (Queen) (small)

For those of us that prefer to sleep on our side, the Casper Nova Hybrid mattress is our top pick for side sleepers. It took home the aforementioned title in our guide to the best mattresses, and also was named “best overall” in our side-sleeper specific guide. The mattress stood out when compared to other Casper mattresses for its softness, heat dissipation, and edge support.

Save up to $400 on the Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed: Our pick for best adjustable mattress

360 i8 Smart Bed (Queen) (small)

If you’re looking for a mattress that allows you to customize and adjust your sleep every night, the Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed should be your top choice. In our review of the mattress, we noted its standout features which include, multiple firmness levels, and an adjustable air feature that adjusts to your sleeping position while you sleep. We also named it the best adjustable option in our guides to the best mattress and best mattress for side sleepers.

Save up to $700 on the Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress: Our pick for best foam mattress

Cloud Mattress (Queen) (small)

Our well-seasoned home and kitchen reporter James Brains called the Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress the most comfortable he’d ever slept on in his review of the mattress, and also named it the best foam mattress in our guides to the best mattress and best mattress for side sleepers. The Cloud Mattress contours to your body’s shape, making it a great option regardless of your preferred sleeping position. The mattress also has outstanding motion isolation, a layered foam design, and relaxing pressure relief.

Save $200 on the Birch Mattress by Helix: Our pick for best latex mattress and best mattress for heavy people

Natural Mattress (Queen) (small)

The Birch Mattress by Helix is our best pick for heavier individuals as it offers firm support and great motion isolation. If you typically sink into your mattress instead of sitting on top of it, The Birch Mattress will offer you supportive relief.

Save $300 on Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress: Our pick for best latex mattress for stomach sleepers

Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress (small)

Eco-concious brand Awara’s Organic Luxury Hybrid mattress took home the spot of “best mattress for stomach sleepers” in our guide. It’s soft, yet supportive and made of eco-friendly materials. We don’t often see discounts on this brand, so this is a rare deal. 

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The 6 best alarm clocks we tested in 2021

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  • An alarm clock should be loud enough to wake you up but not so abrupt that it’ll shock you out of bed.
  • These alarm clocks can help avoid morning grogginess so you can start your day in a better mood.
  • The features a two-phase alarm system for a gentler and healthier wake up experience.

Keeping a consistent sleep-wake schedule is an important factor in maintaining healthy sleep habits. A reliable alarm clock can help us wake up at the same time regularly. Traditional alarm clocks are intended to jolt us out of sleep with irritating noise, but waking up abruptly is unnatural and can even cause health issues; a recent study found a link between harsh alarm tones and increased levels of morning grogginess. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from a quality alarm clock; in fact, the same study found that melodic alarms could improve alertness in the morning.

There are many options when it comes to alarm clocks, from the obnoxiously loud and dangerous to gentler and more practical options. Choosing an alarm clock depends on each individual’s sleep habits and needs. For this guide, we spoke with Alex Dimitriu, MD, founder of Menlo Park Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine who I also interviewed for our best sunrise alarm clocks guide. “Light sleepers may want as few distractions and artificial light as possible” said Dimitriu. “Deep sleepers may want an alarm that is loud, or gradually loud, possibly with light or a sunrise simulator to facilitate waking up from a deep slumber.”

As a certified sleep science consultant and sleep researcher, I always test products critically to see if they can improve sleep quality. For this guide, I tested eight alarm clocks for three days each. We evaluated them on how easy to use and reliable they were, and noted each alarms’ volume, quality, and any additional useful features. We learned that with the right alarm clock you can actually look forward to waking up.

Here are the best alarm clocks of 2021

Our testing methodology

Six alarm clocks sit in semi-darkness on a bedside table as part of testing for the best alarm clock in 2021

I spoke with sleep expert Dr. Alex Dimitriu, founder of Menlo Park Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine, and also relied on my own experience as a sleep researcher and certified sleep science consultant to write this guide. Prior to writing this guide, I authored our guide to the best sunrise alarm clocks. I’ve learned an alarm clock should be reliable in waking us up, but also gentle in doing so. For this guide, I tested eight different alarm clocks and evaluated them on the following criteria: 

Setup: For each alarm clock I noted how easy or difficult it was to set up the time and alarms, and also how helpful the instructions were. 

Performance: I used each alarm clock for a minimum of three consecutive days to get used to the routine and noted how effective they were in waking me up on time with the features I selected. 

Alarm sound: I carefully assessed each alarm’s volume and sound selection, and noted whether the alarm was a gradual melodic tune and loud enough to wake up heavy sleepers. 

Extra features: I tested out any additional features of each alarm clock including Bluetooth integration, sleep timers, accompanying mobile apps, projectors, and voice control features.

Durability: I tested and noted how durable and resistant each was by knocking them off my nightstand to see if they were easily damaged.

The best alarm clock overall

A hand touching the Loftie alarm clock on a bedside table in front of a lamp and a plant as part of testing for the best alarm clock in 2021

is constantly updating its firmware to provide a unique and healthy wake-up experience with a growing library of pleasant melodies. 

Pros: A two-phase alarm system, multiple alarms, an ever-growing library of content, Bluetooth speaker that can play music from your device

Cons: Relies on Wi-Fi for continuous system updates

The was engineered to break the bad habit of scrolling through our phones up until bedtime or as soon as we wake up. It’s easy to use with only three buttons at the top of the device and features a built-in dimmable amber nightlight. It works as a white noise machine, Bluetooth speaker, and sleep timer.

The alarm clock is set up in two simple steps: plug into a power outlet and download the Loftie app (available for iOS or Android). Configuring the device took longer than expected — approximately 15 minutes — as it needs time to sync to reliable Wi-Fi and to catch up on the latest system updates. Loftie is constantly making updates to its device with a growing library of sounds, alarms, and new features. The time sets automatically, and multiple alarms can be set through the app or directly from the device.

What’s unique about the is the two-phase alarm system, something I haven’t seen in any other alarm clock. The first alarm is a gentle tone that helped my body and mind to slowly awaken, the second is a louder melody that gets me out of bed. This method is effective in reducing sleep inertia (morning grogginess). The did a fantastic job at waking me up on time every single day to pleasant, gradually loud tunes.

I also like that the display dims automatically as the night progresses. The warm amber glow serves as a gentle nightlight that is easily adjustable with the larger button on top. Scrolling through social media right before bed can be replaced with the wellness content that the offers. I enjoyed the breathing techniques, sound baths, and bedtime stories to fall asleep.  

Even though everything is adjustable through the device itself, downloading the Loftie app is necessary to launch the alarm clock. It’s the only way to keep up with the latest updates. Overall, the exceeded my expectations, and I can’t wait to see what other updates it comes up with next.

The best alarm clock for a gentle wake up

Philips Smartsleep Connected alarm clock on a bedside table - Philips Smartsleep Connected Review

The Philips Smartsleep Connected creates a pleasant morning experience with a stunning sunrise simulation and melodic nature sounds.  

Pros: Fully customizable, uses light and sound to wake you up or help you fall asleep, built-in sensor that calculates bedroom conditions, AUX cable

Cons: Larger than most alarm clocks, not a Bluetooth speaker

The Philips Smartsleep Connected is a relatively large sunrise alarm clock that is controlled almost entirely from the SleepMapper app (available for iOS or Android). Instead of relying on harsh alarms, sunrise alarm clocks like the Philips Smartsleep use increasing light intensity and natural sounds to wake you up gradually. It features customizable “wind-down” and “wake-up” profiles, a USB port to charge your phone, and an AUX cord to play music from your device. Up to 16 alarms can be set and it has a backup battery to ensure you still wake up on time in case of power outages. 

The Philips Smartsleep was the top pick in our guide to the best sunrise alarm clocks because of its quality and unique functions. The alarm is a combination of a beautiful sunrise simulation and gradual melodic sounds that can reduce sleep inertia. The device calculates bedroom temperature, humidity, and brightness and makes recommendations for a better sleep environment. 

This alarm clock is built with many useful features but one thing it lacks is the ability to play music via Bluetooth. Although this device can’t wake you up to your favorite song, it will improve your morning routine. I’ve continued using this alarm clock since writing our sunrise alarm clock guide, and after months of waking up to its gradual sunrise and melodies, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in how I wake up. This sunrise alarm clock helps me wake up in a better mood, feeling productive and ready for the day.

Read our full review of the Philips Smartsleep Connected.

The best alarm clock for heavy sleepers

A hand touches the Emerson SmartSet alarm clock as it sits on a bedside table as part of testing for the best alarm clock in 2021

The Emerson SmartSet has the best digital LED time display with easy-to-read large numbers and a beautiful cyan nightlight.   

Pros: Large easy-to-read time display, Bluetooth capabilities, convenient USB port

Cons: Time display cannot be completely shut off

The Emerson SmartSet clock radio is designed with a lovely cyan LED time display that is large, clear, and easy to read. Two alarms can be programmed to operate on weekdays only, weekends only, or all seven days of the week. A soft, cyan nightlight is conveniently turned on and off at the touch of a button on top of the device. Other features include a USB charging port, Bluetooth speaker, and FM radio. 

The time and date are set automatically after selecting the correct time zone. The buzzer is a gradual beeping alarm sound that gets loud enough to wake up even heavy sleepers. You can also wake up to your favorite FM radio station that gradually increases in volume. While it includes a Bluetooth speaker, it unfortunately doesn’t have the option to wake up to your own music. 

The cyan nightlight glow is a nice addition to this alarm clock, and it looks great in the dark. I find that it sets a very relaxing mood in the bedroom. The device is easy to navigate with the buttons located at the top of the device and the sound quality is decent for an alarm clock. 

One issue that I had with this alarm clock is not being able to change the alarm settings while listening to music via Bluetooth. To set the alarms or adjust other settings users have to stop the radio or music first. Additionally, even though the nightlight can be fully turned on or off, the time display can only be dimmed and it doesn’t shut off completely. It’s recommended that light sleepers and people with insomnia maintain a dark bedroom throughout the night. 

Overall, the Emerson Smartset is still a great device for people who like a big-time display, a beautiful cyan glow, and reliable alarm clock.

The best projector alarm clock

The Magasonic projection alarm clock sits on a bedside table and projects the time onto a white wall as part of testing for the best alarm clock in 2021

The Magnasonic Projection-Temp-Connection alarm clock is a reliable time projector that will ensure you wake up promptly every morning. 

Pros: Easy to use, convenient time and temperature projector, AUX audio input

Cons: No Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, only three brightness levels and one alarm sound option

The Magnasonic alarm clock is a sleek and easy to set up alarm clock with a projector for convenient viewing. It features a blue LCD display with a clear view of the time and indoor temperature. These stats can also be viewed via an adjustable projector that displays on wall or ceiling. When total darkness is needed, an auto dimmer feature turns off both the display and light projector. Two alarms can be set to wake to your favorite AM/FM radio station or the built-in buzzer. Other features include the sleep and nap functions, a backup battery, and AUX audio input to listen to your music (but you can’t wake up to AUX audio).

The time and date automatically set after the device is connected to a power outlet and the correct time zone is selected. You have the option to activate the alarms on Monday through Friday, the weekend only, or just one day. The sound is a gradual loud beeping tone that woke me up gently as the time projected on the ceiling. Looking at the time immediately after opening your eyes can be a good reminder to avoid hitting that snooze button. It encouraged me to get out of bed. 

I like that this alarm clock displays the time, indoor temperature, and day of the week; keeping track of bedroom conditions and adjusting accordingly can really impact the way we sleep. I also like that for a traditional alarm clock the sound is not abrupt and obnoxious. Instead, it’s a gradual sound that gets loud enough to wake up even heavy sleepers. For light sleepers like me, this alarm clock offers reliability without being too jarring.   

The Magnasonic alarm clock lacks some nice-to-have features compared to other alarm clocks, including more alarm sound options and Bluetooth connectivity. It would be nice if the display dimmer had more than three brightness levels. Overall, the Magnasonic is a reliable, easy to use and convenient device.

The best minimalist alarm clock

A close up of the JALL alarm clock as it sits on a bedside table as part of testing for the best alarm clock in 2021

This alarm clock’s minimalist design won’t take up much space on your nightstand, and even though it’s small, it’s loud enough to wake up heavy sleepers. 

Pros: Simple, elegant design; displays bedroom temperature and humidity levels

Cons: Alarm sound is not gradual

The Jall Digital alarm clock is modern piece that looks great on any bedside table. Its triangular wooden design and small size are perfect for individuals who want a simple yet effective alarm clock. In addition to its stylish design, this alarm clock also features a dimmable time display with humidity and temperature indicators. Up to three alarms can be set for different times of the day or week. The brightness of the display can be adjusted by turning the scroll wheel. 

Setup is fairly simple with the easy-to-follow instructions — besides setting the time, date, and alarms, there’s not much else to do. It’s always a bonus when an alarm clock can calculate bedroom conditions — this device detects humidity levels and temperature through an integrated sensor. Having that information at hand can encourage people to strive for the best bedroom conditions for optimal sleep.

I like the elegance and simplicity of this alarm clock. The sound sensitive mode is a unique function that makes the screen display disappear and reappear by tapping it or making noise, like clapping. This is a great feature for people with sleep anxiety or insomnia who should avoid looking at the time throughout the night. It also keeps the bedroom dark. 

That said, the alarm sound on this device is not gradual like most of the others I tested. It wasn’t a jarring, unpleasant alarm, but individuals who are looking for a more natural wake up experience might want to check out something different. Overall, the Jall digital alarm clock is a great option for minimalists — you can also purchase it in brown, black, white, or yellow to match your decor. It won’t take much space on your nightstand but it’s still loud enough to wake up heavy sleepers.

The best alarm clock for waking up to music

A hand touches the iHome iBT29BC alarm clock as it sits on a bedside table as part of testing for the best alarm clock in 2021

Wake up to your favorite song and a light show with the iHome iBT29BC Bluetooth Color Changing Dual Alarm Clock.

Pros: Wake up to a fun light show and favorite sounds or music, Bluetooth speaker, USB charging port 

Cons: Buttons are not easy to navigate in the dark 

The iHome BT is designed as an LED color changing sphere equipped with all the functions of an alarm clock and more. Up to two alarms can be set, it plays FM radio, and works as a Bluetooth speaker. Other features include an adjustable clock display that can be shut off for total darkness, a USB charging port, and voice control functions when paired to a smartphone. This is a great device for individuals who like to wake up to a light show and their favorite music. 

Setting up the unit was easy with the included instructions. I set the alarm to wake me up to a combination of the “sky” light mode (this mode matches the color of the sky at the current time of day) and my morning Spotify playlist. I also tested out the four different wake tones and the volume. The alarms are melodic tunes that are loud, but won’t shock you out of bed. The sleep timer feature is a nice-to-have for people who prefer to fall asleep to soothing sounds or relaxing music.

I enjoyed waking up to my favorite songs with this device; it makes getting up in the morning an easier transition. Being able to dim and completely shut off the time display is another great feature for light sleepers like me who prefer total darkness at night. The volume on this device gets loud, so it’s also a good option for heavy sleepers. 

That said, this alarm clock failed to wake me up to my music a couple times when my Wi-Fi got disconnected during the night. Fortunately, the backup battery still worked even when the device was unplugged; I just got the standard alarm sound instead of my playlist. Second, the control buttons are not easily visible in the dark and it’s hard to differentiate them. 

What else we tested

Two alarm clocks sit on a bedside table as part of testing for the best alarm clock in 2021

In addition to our top picks, we also tested several other alarm clocks that didn’t quite make the cut. 

What else we recommend and why:

iLuv Time Shaker: This alarm clock has many useful features including Bluetooth, a wireless charging platform, dual alarms, and more. The vibration shaker is supposed to be placed under the pillow to wake users without disturbing their partner (or for folks with hearing impairments who won’t wake up to an audio alarm). The shaker’s vibration level is very powerful and cannot be adjusted. It’s a very abrupt awakening when placed under the pillow. A gradual adjustable vibration option could make this device better. However, if you need an alarm that will physically alert you when it’s time to wake up, this is a decent option. 

What we don’t recommend and why:

Smartro: The Smartro alarm clock features an outdoor wireless remote sensor to calculate outdoor temperature and humidity, and a built-in sensor for indoor conditions. However, the device lacks some key features such as FM radio and Bluetooth connectivity. It’s lightweight and gets knocked over very easily when trying to hit the snooze button. The display is low quality, and the projection is only visible when directed to the ceiling (it appears upside down when directed to the wall). Overall, it was just not a practical device.

FAQs

What type of alarm clock is best for light sleepers?

One important aspect to consider when choosing an alarm clock is what type of sleeper you are. If you’re a light sleeper you might not need something very loud, and you’ll also want something with lights that can be dimmed and turned off during the night — light sleepers are typically very sensitive to ambient light in the bedroom. You may find the most benefit from a gentle alarm like a sunrise alarm clock.


What type of alarm clock is best for heavy sleepers?

Dr. Dimitriu recommends loud alarm clocks for heavy sleepers “which can be placed far from the bed stand — so they would require getting up and walking over to turn it off.” Like light sleepers, heavy sleepers can also benefit from an alarm clock that integrates light to help with the wake-up process.


Why can’t I just use my phone as an alarm?

If you’re trying to break the habit of being on your phone from the second you wake up to the moment you fall asleep, you should consider using a dedicated alarm clock. “Keeping a phone on a nightstand is a bit of a distraction and can negatively impact sleep,” said Dimitriu. “It can create too much excitement.” Similarly, if you experience sleep anxiety or insomnia, many modern alarm clocks like the Loftie or Philips Smartsleep offer meditation and slowly dimming lights to help you fall asleep faster.

Lastly, no matter what kind of sleeper you are, it’s better to wake up gently. Waking up to the blasting sound of a phone alarm is unnatural and unhealthy. “It’s important to wake up gradually, not to the sound of a four-alarm fire,” said Dimitriu. A good bedside alarm clock has an array of gentle, gradual sounds.

Check out more of our bedroom guides

smiling child laying on a mattress
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