Table of contents for August 2024 in Consumer Reports

EVERY DAY we navigate obstacles that can undermine our personal health. At CR, we’re determined to shine a light on the threats that are easy to miss—because they can literally be microscopic. One example is the almost invisible danger that invades our homes in the form of dust. This issue’s cover story highlights the toxic chemicals and harmful microplastics in our dust and how they can hurt us. You can also learn a number of ways to clean up dust—and create less of it—to reduce your risk. Similarly, there are problems hidden in our cars. A recent study by Green Science Policy Institute and Duke University researchers found that flame retardants—some of which are known to be carcinogenic—can be found in a car’s cabin air. Manufacturers add these chemicals to…

Portable Grills WE TESTED: 27 models WE TEST FOR: How quickly a model preheats, how evenly it cooks food, how wide the temperature range is, and more. ABOUT THE SCORES: Median: 62 Range: 41-74 BEST PERFORMANCE (BUT REQUIRES A 20-LB. FUEL TANK) Broil King Porta-Chef 320 952654 $380 74 OVERALL SCORE SPEEDY PREHEATING Coleman RoadTrip 285 $300 71 OVERALL SCORE LARGE COOKING SURFACE Weber Traveler 9010001 $400 70 OVERALL SCORE Innerspring Mattresses WE TESTED: 172 models WE TEST FOR: A model’s support for large/tall, average, and petite side sleepers and back sleepers; durability; stability; firmness; and more. ABOUT THE SCORES: Median: 70 Range: 45-84 FIRM, AND TOP PICK OVERALL Avocado Green $1,800 84 OVERALL SCORE SOFTER, WITH COOL COMFORT Denver Mattress Doctor’s Choice Plush $800 82 OVERALL SCORE MEDIUM-FIRM AND COOLEST Parachute Eco $2,400 81 OVERALL SCORE Portable…

“Whole grains, like wild or brown rice and barley, are packed with a lot of fiber and other nutrients, but they can take up to an hour to cook on the stove,” says Amy Keating, RD, a CR nutritionist. Thankfully, there’s a faster way: Microwavable pouches containing precooked grains are typically ready in just 90 seconds. And, these days, with different grain blends, flavorful seasonings, veggies, and beans mixed in, they’re far from boring. One caveat: Some of these instant grain mixes can be high in sodium. In our nutritional evaluation of over 25 products, some had more than 500 mg of sodium in just 1 cup. For our favorite grain mixes that are lower in sodium, see the picks below. (Nutrition information is for a 1-cup serving.) EXPERT TIP To…

HONDA RIDGELINE PICKUP TRUCKS Honda is recalling 187,290 2020-2024 Ridgeline pickup trucks because of a potential problem with the wiring harness in the tailgate. Road salt and water could damage the tailgate. If this happens, repeated opening and closing of the tailgate could cause the harness to break over time, and the backup camera image would no longer display. What to do: Dealers will replace the backup camera tailgate harness with an improved part that has more durable wiring. Owners can call Honda at 888-234-2138. The NHTSA campaign number for this recall is 24V-321, and Honda’s recall number is Y17. JOHNSON HEALTH TECH NORTH AMERICA TREADMILLS In January 2022 Johnson Health Tech North America recalled about 19,900 treadmills. Now the company is recalling an additional 9,700 treadmills because the power…

THE WINNER: AIR FRYER GOURMIA GAF414 AIR FRYER $50 76 OVERALL SCORE METHOD: 400° F for 12 minutes, shaken halfway through cooking. RESULTS: The fries crisped up thoroughly and surprisingly evenly. In addition to the crisp exterior, each fry was tender inside, providing a nice contrast of textures. They remained firm, if not quite crisp, even after they cooled for 10 minutes. BREVILLE THE SMART OVEN AIR FRYER PRO $400 70 OVERALL SCORE METHOD: 400° F for 16 minutes on the air-fryer setting, turned halfway through cooking. RESULTS: The fries got crispy but not very evenly. They browned quickly at the ends and edges. But even after 16 minutes of cooking, the midsection of each fry was still fairly soft and the fries were visibly oily. They turned even softer once they cooled…

One way to get a sense of what’s floating in your home’s air is by using an air quality monitor. These usually detect pollutants such as carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds. But some can also measure particulates—aka dust. To find a monitor that detects dust, look for one labeled PM2.5 or PM10. That means it can identify particles that are 2.5 or 10 micrometers in diameter, respectively. Two such monitors that do well in CR’s tests are shown below. For best results, place the monitor where you’re most concerned about air quality. And consider buying multiple monitors to put in rooms that you use heavily, such as your bedroom, kitchen, and home office. AIR MONITORS 78 OVERALL SCORE Temtop Air Quality Monitor M100-US $230 75 OVERALL SCORE Inkbird 6 in 1…

FORTY-FIVE PERCENT of Americans use a dust spray or furniture polish, according to a 2024 nationally representative CR survey of 2,042 adults. On hard surfaces, a spray or polish can help pick up dust while leaving a shine behind. But a slightly damp cloth (followed, on wood, with a swipe with a dry one) does a good job. Plus, ingredients in some products may pose health or environmental concerns, so you may prefer to play it safe and avoid them, says Christopher M. Reddy, PhD, who studies sustainable products at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts. For a product with fewer concerning ingredients, consider one certified by Made Safe, an organization that screens household products (see right). Or try this DIY recipe: Mix 1⁄2 cup of lemon juice with a…

It’s important to put your end-of-life plans in an advance directive, a legal document of your healthcare and other wishes. You can fill out this state-specific form yourself and give copies to key family members or friends. Or consider creating a “when I die” file and sharing it with loved ones. Online repositories such as Prisidio and Everplans will make your advance directive and other essential information—such as life insurance account passwords—available to a trusted person or two when they’re needed. Documents aside, it’s also a good idea to talk with family members about your end-of-life preferences so that you can work through any questions or concerns. Need a hand getting the conversation started? Tips on the Conversation Project website will help pave the way. Scan this QR code to…

COMPACT SUVs $35,000-$45,000 Honda CR-V 85 OVERALL SCORE 80 COMFORT SCORE RIDE NOISE DRIVING POSITION USABILITY FRONT-SEAT COMFORT REAR-SEAT COMFORT FRONT ACCESS REAR ACCESS With this CR-V’s 2023 redesign, a good SUV got even better. It scores well for its tall door openings and hip-height seats, both of which make it easy to step over the narrow doorsill and slide right in. The cabin is roomy, with hardly any intrusion from the center console into the driver’s or passenger’s knee space, and there is a ton of headroom. Most testers find that the driver’s seat holds them in place through turns, offers good back and underleg support, and has enough adjustments so that you can fine-tune a comfortable position. The 60/40-split rear seat can recline and is roomy, with generous foot space…

SMALL HATCHBACKS BUICK ENVISTA $22,400-$28,600 65 KAI SOUL $20,190-$24,490 73 THE LOWDOWN THE ALL-NEW BUICK ENVISTA is a stylish, efficient subcompact that offers luxury-brand appeal at a lower price. However, its hesitant powertrain, uncomfortable front seats, and low-end interior details detract from the driving experience. For less money, the Kia Soul is a smart alternative. Like the Buick, it’s brimming with convenience features and generous passenger room. Pick the S trim, $22,690, for added comfort, a power driver’s seat, a larger center screen, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic warning. FULL-SIZED BLENDERS VITAMIX ASCENT SERIES A3500 $700 77 NINJA PROFESSIONAL PLUS KITCHEN SYSTEM BN801 $220 82 THE LOWDOWN BOTH OF THESE powerful blenders stood out in our tests for making smoothies, puréeing, crushing ice, and more. The Vitamix has higher…

YOUR PASSPORT If you already have a U.S. passport, check its expiration date. An adult passport lasts 10 years—but many countries require that it be valid at least six months past the date of your trip. To renew (or get one for the first time), go to travel.state.gov. How fast can you get it? Processing can take six to eight weeks when you submit an application or renewal by mail. To get yours processed in two to three weeks, you can pay a $60 “expedite fee” on top of the $130 passport cost. If you need to travel abroad within 14 days, go to passportappointment.travel.state.gov to book an in-person appointment. You’ll need to bring printed proof of your travel date, such as an airline ticket receipt, and pay a $60…

AMPLE CAPACITY WITH A LARGE WINDOW Kenmore KKAF8Q $120 72 OVERALL SCORE TOP-RATED (FOR A NICE PRICE) Dash Tasti-Crisp DCAF260 $60 81 OVERALL SCORE MOST VERSATILE SETTINGS Instant Vortex Plus 140-3089-01 $130 79 OVERALL SCORE HOME COOKS love air fryers, and for good reason: You can fry food to crispy perfection with little to no oil, cook a full meal in a matter of minutes, and reheat leftovers without compromising the texture. Their popularity has only grown since the first models were introduced in 2010, and it’s led to more choices and a broader range of features and functions. Even other appliances, like toaster ovens and microwaves, have begun incorporating an “air fryer” setting to mimic what air fryers do. Our love of air fryers hasn’t only driven innovation in the appliances themselves.…

Under Furniture That includes below the bed or couch, behind the toilet, and in the backs of closets. TO CLEAN: Use a wet/dry microfiber mop or an extendable duster. On Blinds and Air Vents Dust loves to hide in the slats. TO CLEAN: Close slats, wipe with a damp cloth, then reverse the slats and wipe again. If they’re still dirty, wash gently in a bathtub of warm, soapy water. In High Places Think the tops of doors, windows, bookshelves, and picture frames.. TO CLEAN: Use a microfiber towel dampened with water or an all-purpose cleaner. If you can’t reach, use a duster on an extension pole. Under Range Hoods Steam and vaporized oil make dust stick there, and to kitchen cabinets and fans.. TO CLEAN: Spray with a degreaser…

Aldi has over 2,000 stores in 39 states and plans to open 800 more by the end of 2028. Based in Germany, the store is bare-bones–you’ll generally find no pharmacy or café–nor does it issue or honor coupons. But you’ll find low prices on the products that are Aldi-exclusive, which 90 percent of the offerings are. Make sure to bring a quarter because you’ll need it as a deposit for a shopping cart. Costco’s rotisserie chickens have become a national obsession and are now roasting at over 600 locations across 47 states. The warehouse club derives revenue from membership fees ($60 to $120 a year), which helps keep the markups on the products it sells—most in bulk sizes—low. While typical supermarkets stock about 30,000 products, Costco has just around 4,000. Its…

SIX YEARS AGO, Kelly Avery and Kristin Harper, sisters from Birmingham, Ala., gathered their families by the sky-blue ocean waters of Destin, Fla., to memorialize their mother, Barbara Harper. They shared funny stories and music, and shed some tears as they spread their mother’s ashes from the deck of a large boat. The captain played the Beach Boys’ “Barbara Ann” over the public address system in her honor. The experience not only gave the family a meaningful way to pay tribute to Barbara but also got the sisters thinking about their own memorials. When it’s her time to go, Kelly says, “I would also want a party filled with laughter and fond memories.” Like Kelly and Kristin, many people are embracing a new model for saying goodbye to family members…

Cremation, which has outstripped burial in recent years by 60.5 percent vs. 34.5 percent, according to the NFDA, typically involves using heat and flames to reduce human remains to tiny bone fragments commonly called ashes but more accurately referred to as “cremains.” Beyond the basics, you’ve got several options. The least expensive and most straightforward is direct cremation, where the body goes to a crematorium without a viewing or service. While costs vary, the NFDA lists a national average price of $3,290, and Cremation.com quotes an average of $2,000. You may also find much lower prices. For instance, some ads for direct cremation in New York State cite starting fees of $595; services like transporting the body may increase costs. If you instead choose a funeral home viewing, with embalming…

Toyota Camry The redesigned Camry sedan will come only as a hybrid, with all-wheel drive available on every trim level along with tons of standard features, including blind spot warning and wireless phone charging. Toyota says fuel economy will be between 44 mpg and 51 mpg combined. CR’S TAKE: The updated hybrid powertrain is smooth and quiet, and offers power when needed. An attractive interior and absorbent suspension move this mainstream model closer to being a luxury car than its price suggests. BASE PRICE RANGE $28,400-$36,125 DESTINATION CHARGE $1,095  PRICE AS DRIVEN $34,295 ASK OUR EXPERTS Will I not be able to buy a gas car in 10 years? Though social media posts claim otherwise, the Biden administration’s rule that automakers amp up electric vehicle production, starting in 2027, doesn’t…

Finding cleansers that will actually remove mold, mildew, and dirt from your tiles and grout isn’t easy, and it can be pricey, too. Some bottles cost as much as $20. “I’ve tried cleansers that did next to nothing,” says CR reporter Pang-Chieh Ho. “Even with scrubbing, the grout stains wouldn’t budge.” So we set out to find products that actually work—and we uncovered a few. Our top picks, shown here, whitened grout and cleaned tiles with minimal scrubbing. Before you use any cleanser, though, read the label carefully: Some can’t be used on stone or on certain types of grout. EDITOR’S CHOICE Goo Gone Grout and Tile Cleaner $8 (shown at right) This foaming spray whitened grout and cleaned tiles in about 2 minutes—at half the price of many others…

It Can Let Loved Ones Know You're Okay Want to make sure a family member or friend knows you got home safely? The Google Pixel Watch 2 has a Safety Check feature, which you can turn on before a long drive or hike, for example. The feature sets a “check-in timer” that notifies your emergency contact if you don’t get to your planned destination by a certain preset time. The wearer also gets a reminder before the Safety Check timer is up so that you can confirm you're fine but just need more time. If you don't respond, the watch will automatically alert your designated contact and share your physical location with them. It Sounds the Alarm When You’re in Trouble Smartwatches are getting better at sensing when you need…

If you’ve had the same tired drill sitting in your toolbox for more than 10 years, now is a great time to replace it with a new model. (Even more so if your old one has a cord.) In the past decade, cordless drills have become more powerful, lighter, and more efficient, thanks to more powerful motors and advancements in lithium-ion battery technology. Here, our experts have curated a list of the best battery-powered models we’ve tested this year, organized by the size of the jobs they can tackle. EXPERT TIP If you already own other battery-powered tools, buy a drill made by the same brand because the batteries and chargers they use are often interchangeable. You'll pay about one-third less if you buy only the tool, without the battery and…

Cakes, muffins, and brownies: Using small cake pans, muffin tins, and rimmed sheet pans that fit inside your air fryer, you can bake sweet treats with perfectly moist interiors without the long preheating time of an oven. The tops of your baked goods may brown more quickly in an air fryer, so cover them with aluminum foil. Grilled cheese: The hot enclosed space of an air fryer can melt the cheese in the same time it takes to toast the bread to perfection, whereas in a pan on a stovetop, the bread is prone to browning too quickly. Spread a light layer of butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread and allow the sandwich to cook for a few minutes on each side. Lobster tails: Meredith Laurence, author…

About half of your household dust comes from inside your own home, Filippelli says, primarily from cooking, pets, people, and consumer products. The rest is tracked, carried, or blown into our homes from outside. Chemical analyses find that dust can contain a veritable catalog of toxic byproducts from nature and industry, says Tasha Stoiber, PhD, a senior scientist with the Environmental Working Group. That includes PFAS from carpets and other products coated with the chemicals to make them stain- and water-resistant, as well as flame retardants like PBDE from electronics and furniture. Other chemicals of concern are phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) from the plastic throughout our homes, volatile organic compounds that off-gas from furniture or paints, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which are byproducts of burning formed by cooking, smoking,…

In Your Air Air Purifiers These devices draw in air that’s in your home, trap pollutants with filters that are in the devices, then send clean air back out. HEPA filters, the most common type found in air purifiers, are designed to capture at least 99.97 percent of particles 0.3 micrometer in diameter—the size of many dust particles. WHERE TO USE THEM: Air purifiers should be placed in the rooms where you spend the most time, and close to things—such as a fireplace, a wood stove, or your pet’s favorite resting place—that may create a lot of dust. They work best when they’re run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. That constant cleaning reduces particulate matter (aka dust) before it reaches your floor. But because the devices are on…

HOW WE TEST: Overall Score is based on the performance ratings combined with survey-based scores for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. We evaluate all vacuums on how well they clean medium-pile carpet and bare floors and how effectively they pick up pet hair. We also measure their noise levels. Our clean emissions score indicates how well the machines contain sucked-up debris. Uprights and canisters are scored for handling and hose suction, while cordless stick vacuums are scored on run time and how well they clean edges. A dash (–) indicates insufficient data.…

GREEN BURIALS You dig a grave by hand and cover the body with dirt. That’s a green burial, which generally uses no chemicals—such as embalming fluid—“and no outer burial container except those that are biodegradable,” says Edward Bixby, founder of the Global Green Burial Alliance. Instead of a headstone, you can save GPS coordinates to the plot. Green cemeteries (some located within traditional cemeteries) tend to look like nature preserves with paths. Check greenburialcouncil.org for providers who can work with you. Depending on factors like your location and the options you choose (will the body be wrapped in a cotton shroud or placed in a biodegradable casket?), these may range from $2,000 to $5,000. WATER CREMATION Considered more eco-friendly than regular high-heat cremation, alkaline hydrolysis uses water, chemicals, and heat to…

YOU MIGHT THINK that to be comfortable, a car just needs cushy seats and the ability to absorb bumps in the road. Those factors are important, but not the only ones that determine comfort. Others to take into consideration include how well the car muffles road and wind noise, how well your body fits in the driver’s seat, and how much effort it takes to get in and out of the car and reach and use the controls. It’s also a mistake to think that comfort is a luxury—nice to have but not necessary. “Comfort is an important element in driver safety,” says Alex Knizek, CR’s associate director of auto test development. “You can be more attentive to driving if you’re not distracted by a sore back or achy legs.…

WHAT TO DO WITH A CAR you don’t want anymore? You can trade it in for a new one, sell it to a dealer or to a private individual, or get a sight-unseen online offer for it. According to a recent survey of more than 14,000 Consumer Reports members, getting an instant cash offer online through a retailer such as CarMax or Carvana will get you the best price for your car and be the easiest overall experience. But each option has its pros and cons. If you’re buying a new car, a trade-in could be the quickest way to get rid of your old car and also offers a tax benefit in some states. Whatever you do, start by getting an idea of what your car is worth by…

LUXURY COMPACT PHEV SUVs Volvo XC60 PHEV Fast and Responsive but Not So Reliable 56 OVERALL SCORE THE PLUG-IN hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of Volvo’s XC60 elevates this luxury compact SUV considerably. It has the ability to drive on electric power for an EPA-estimated 35 miles, and the whopping 455 hp it has on tap provides super-quick acceleration. But like the rest of the XC60 line, it suffers from convoluted controls, a stiff ride, and below-average reliability. It has stronger electric-only power than most PHEVs we’ve tested and rarely requires assistance from the gas engine, even when accelerating with some vigor. Once the battery is depleted, the XC60 transitions into smooth and unobtrusive hybrid operation. Summon the full power it has onboard and the XC60 PHEV scoots from 0 to…