Yeti coffee tumblers, like the Rambler, are double walled and vacuum insulated. This is a big win, according to Erin Doern, coffee expert and Head of Product Development at Free Rein Coffee. When choosing a coffee tumbler, look for one with a vacuum-insulated, double-wall exterior to maintain your coffees temperature longer,” she says. Because of the Rambler’s heavy-duty construction, it’s clear that it talks the talk when it comes to keeping beverages steamy. But does it walk the walk when compared to other best-loved coffee tumblers out there?

To determine whether this pricey pick is actually worth the splurge, our Product Testing Team tried the Yeti Rambler 20-ounce coffee tumbler alongside 20 other coffee tumblers. We evaluated factors like heat retention, leakproof capabilities and overall performance. After analyzing our results, here’s how Yeti stands up to the competition.

What Is the Yeti Rambler Coffee Tumbler?

Yeti offers dozens of different drinkware options for every type of beverage lover, from wine tumblers to water bottles. The Yeti Rambler is arguably their best seller. It touts itself as the quintessential coffee tumbler for on-the-go sipping. It’s such a hit that Yeti has come out with a number of add-ons and accessories for it, including a cocktail shaker lid, additional MagSlider magnetsfor the lid and a straw lid for cold drinks.

Available in 10 seasonal colors and eight core shades, the Yeti Rambler is a good-looking travel cup that’s worthy of the best organic coffees. Shoppers can even customize their tumbler with their own designs, monograms and text. They can also select one of the many pre-made designs available in the customization gallery for an additional fee. The Rambler comes in a wide strata of sizes, including modest 10-ounce, medium 20-ounce and oversized 30-ounce options.

Best of all, Yeti claims that its double-wall insulation works for more than just hot beverages. According to the website, even chilly drinks like iced coffee and water stay temperature regulated for several hours. Bring on the iced coffee concentrates! While Yeti doesn’t claim the Rambler drinkware to be leakproof, it does claim that it has “fallen off of trucks, down rocky hillsides and even been kicked by a horse and lived to tell the tale.” In short, these are some seriously durable tumblers.

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Yeti Rambler Coffee Tumbler

The Yeti Rambler coffee tumbler is stylish, insulated and rugged enough for every outdoor adventure.

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How We Testedthe Yeti Rambler Coffee Tumbler

Our search for the best coffee tumblers took our expert Product Testing Team into uncharted territory. We tested more than 20 tumblers from popular brands and more nichealbeit well-reviewedshops. Product Tester (and caffeine fiend) Sheri Kaz created rigid standards and subjected each travel coffee mug to the same 11 tests to see which performed the best overall. Sheri collected over 730 data points and spent an estimated 50 hours on the test. This includes the time it took to research, source, intake and test the products.

To thoroughly evaluate each option, Sheri conducted tests in the following categories:

• Temperature Retention
• Drinking Experience
• Ergonomics/Handling
• Leakproof Capabilities
• Durability
• Specs
• Cleaning
• Lead Detection

From there, we used this data to compare options and write this Yeti Rambler review.

Testing Team Evaluation

When it comes to drinking experience, the Yeti Rambler is one of our top picks. The tumbler is made of stainless steel with a double-walled, vacuum-insulated interior. The splash-resistant MagSlider lid is slim and comfortable for drinking. Our tester found the rounded edges don’t bump or poke your mouth during sips.

There is a sizable tab to help lift the clear plastic lid off the cup. It easily glides on and off without an issue, which is a plus in terms of user friendliness (yet a minus when it comes to securitymore on that in a minute). The sliding mechanism works better than expected. It’s always either open or closed without any chance of an accidental half-open mishap. While not leakproof (and it doesn’t tout itself to be), the lid stayed on surprisingly well when we shook the cup upside down.

That said, there are a few areas where the tumbler doesn’t meet our expectations. The biggest disappointment of the Rambler is its poor performance in the thermal retention tests. While it kept hot coffee fairly warm at around 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit after six hours, it measured in at 39.5 degrees Fahrenheit with no ice left after four hours during our cold water test. After six hours, it measured at 44.5 degrees Fahrenheitnot very impressive.

Despite touting itself as cupholder-friendly, the 20-ounce size is too large for small cupholders and doesn’t fit securely in Sheri’s large cupholder, either. Additionally, the smooth, wider profile doesn’t quite feel secure in hand and seems easy to drop. However, if you drop it, rest assured that it really only sustains minimal damage to the body. Trust uswe hurled the thing. That said, the top doesn’t screw on, so expect to lose your lid (and thus your latte) in case of a mishap.

Final Verdict

While it didn’t make the final cut in our list of the top eight coffee tumblers, the Yeti Rambler coffee tumbler still offers a solid sipping experience. It also by no means performed the worst out of the 21 options we tested. If you’re looking for a stylish tumbler to carry around your coveted Cometeer coffee and you’re not super concerned about drops, this pick will do the trick.

Thanks to its vast array of shades and sizes, it’s the quintessential cup if you want to look cool during your commute. It also boasts a five-year warranty, bolstering its slightly higher price point. It doesn’t retain the chill as well with iced or cold brew coffee as some of the other tumblers we tested. However, there’s no danger of it splashing everywhere as you walk around. Just don’t expect zero drips or dribbles if it bounces around in a backpack.

Tester Sheri sums it up well: “The Yeti was a bit of a disappointment compared to others, but ultimately, it works as a commuter tumbler.”

Pros

• Nice color options
• Pleasant drinking experience
• Made by a trusted brand
• Five-year warranty
• Dishwasher safe

Cons

• Leaky
• Not cupholder compatible

Why You Should Trust Us

The Product Testing Team has a combined decade of experience testing and evaluating products, especially from popular brands like Yeti. We use fair and honest testing practices under controlled conditions for each test. Our team has thoroughly evaluated everything from food processorstoceramic cookwarein our dedicated Testing Lab. We also put every product through a thoroughtesting processthat ensures accurate, quality results.

FAQ

Are Yetis dishwasher safe?

Not only do Yeti tumblers offer a wide mouth for easy access to the interior, they’re also dishwasher safe, making cleaning a breeze.

Do Yeti cups contain lead?

During our tests, we swabbed each tumbler with a home lead testing kit. According to our results, Yeti cups do not contain lead in any traceable amount that ever comes into contact with the body.

Where is Yeti made?

Though Yeti is based in Austin, Texas, it manufactures its products in facilities in Iowa, Wisconsin and the Philippines. Its tumblers are manufactured in a facility in China.

Where to Buy the Yeti Rambler Coffee Tumbler

Those looking to lug around the spoils from their coffee subscriptions or keep their coffee steamy on the go can find the Yeti Rambler at a number of retailers. These include the Yeti website, Amazon, REI and L.L.Bean. It retails for around $35. While this is a bit pricey compared to other coffee tumblers, it’s worth it for those who are seeking a solid option for both commuting and communing with nature.

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The post Yeti Rambler Coffee Tumbler Review: Does It Live Up to the Hype? appeared first on Taste of Home.

The beauty of single-serve coffee makers is that you get a near-instant cup that’s ready to grab on the way out the door in the morning. But when it comes time to take your fresh brew on the go, you need a travel coffee tumbler that keeps the heat (or chill) inside. This is especially important on brisk winter mornings or sweltering summer afternoons.

When choosing a tumbler, look for one with a vacuum-insulated, double-wall exterior to maintain your coffees temperature longer, says Erin Doern, coffee expert and Head of Product Development at Free Rein Coffee. After all, nothing is worse than taking a sip of your iced brew only to be met with a watery, room-temperature coffee.

As for the best coffee tumblers, two brands are almost always at the forefront of the discussion: YETI and Hydro Flask. While both offer an impressive line-up of travel-friendly options, the Hydro Flask vs. YETI debate goes a lot deeper than that. Our Product Testing Team compared each brand’s most popular coffee tumblers to determine which one is the best.

Whats the Difference Between Hydro Flask and YETI?

When looking at all the items each brand offers, it’s easy to see why the Hydro Flask vs. YETI debate is so heated. Both brands boast an array of outdoor gear, mainly focused on drinkware like coffee thermoses and wine tumblers. Both have a loyal following, and both offer generous warranties on most items. Collectively, the two brands also have some of the best coolers, camping supplies and outdoor cookware.

One of the big differences between Hydro Flask and YETI is the price point of their products. The 20-ounce Hydro Flask tumblers cost around $27 compared to the 20-ounce YETIs, which are $35. While this isn’t a big gap, it’s sizable enough to make you wonder which is a better option. The price difference is even more pronounced with their soft coolers. While Hydro Flask’s cooler tote rings up at an affordable $65, the YETI counterpart comes in at a staggering $300. That’s pretty substantial.

All About Hydro Flask

Travis Rosbach and Cindy Weber established Steel Technology, LLC in 2009. The brand, which later became Hydro Flask, was based in the mountainous and lush region of Bend, Oregon. Hydro Flask began selling water bottles at local farmers markets, where they quickly grew a following in the outdoor community. In 2012, the company started producing a wider variety of products in Europe as well as the United States. Now, Hydro Flask sells over 100 different products, including drinkware, coolers, kitchenware and outdoorsy accessories.

How We Tested Hydro Flask

Our expert Product Testing Team tested 20 coffee tumblers using the same 11 tests. They collected over 730 data points and spent an estimated 50 hours on the tests, including the time it took to research, source, intake and test the products. To keep things fair for the Hydro Flask vs. YETI comparison, we compared the two most closely related products from each brand. For Hydro Flask, we conducted tests on the All Around Tumbler.

The Product Testing Team has a combined decade of experience testing and evaluating products, especially from popular brands. We use fair and honest testing practices under controlled conditions for each test. Our team has thoroughly evaluated everything from food processorstoceramic cookwarein our dedicated Testing Lab. We also put every product through a thoroughtesting processthat ensures accurate, quality results.

Criteria

• Temperature Retention:Testers place 140-degree Fahrenheit water in each tumbler, then measure the temperature after four hours to see how much it fell. All tumblers are left in the refrigerator to simulate a near-freezing day. Testers then fill each tumbler halfway with ice and add 60-degree Fahrenheit water until full. They measure the temperature after another four hours to see how much it rose and if any ice remains. All tumblers are left outside in the sun.
• Drinking Experience:Testers drink liquid from the tumbler. They evaluate the pleasantness and ease of the drinking experience, monitoring things like lip thickness, opening placement and flow.
• Ergonomics and Handling: Testers attempt to place the tumbler in a standard car cupholder to see if it fits. If the tumbler has a pop top, testers open the lid five times in rapid succession to gauge how cumbersome it is to open and close and how tiring it is on the hand. Testers then carry each filled tumbler around for five minutes to assess its weight and circumference and how comfortable it is to hold.
• Leakproof Capabilities: Testers shake each tumbler upside down for 15 seconds to see if and how much the cup leaks.
• Durability:Testers push the tumbler from a hip-height ledge onto the pavement to see if it scratches, spills, dents or pops open.
• Specs:Testers weigh each empty tumbler and note any additional features.
• Cleaning:Testers wash each tumbler in the dishwasher up to three times, noting its appearance and cleanliness after the fact. They turn off the heat for all of these cycles to preserve the silicone and plastic parts.
• Lead Detection:Testers swab the inside of each tumbler and test for the presence of lead with a rapid lead test kit.

Pros

• Dishwasher-safe
• Lifetime warranty
• Budget-friendly
• Pleasant drinking experience
• Lots of fun colors and shades
• Free of any lead

Cons

• Leaky
• Not cupholder compatible
• Subpar thermal capabilities

Temperature Retention

As with the rest of the coffee tumblers we tested, we used cold tap water on ice for our iced coffee test. After four hours in direct sunlight, the “coffee” measured at 40.1 degrees Fahrenheit, and all the ice was melted. After six hours, the beverage measured in at 46.5 degrees Fahrenheit. While the melted ice is a bit of a bummer, folks can easily circumvent this by adding refrigerated water rather than cold tap water. This should make the ice last longer.

For the hot coffee test, the coffee temperature fell to 94.6 degrees Fahrenheit after six hoursstill pretty impressive, albeit much lower than the original temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Drinking Experience

The Hydro Flask All Around Tumbler has a BPA-free plastic push-on lid. The tab on the lid is very small and harder to push up or down than some others, but it also seals quite wellmore on that in a minute. It has a sliding spout to easily open and close the lid. This makes the overall drinking experience very smooth, with no rough or squared-off edges anywhere. The rim is stainless, which feels nice on the lips.

Ergonomics and Handling

The exterior of the Hydro Flask has a little texture for added gripa feature that put its score above the YETI for handling. It’s not as wide or slick as the YETI, so it feels more comfortable to hold, but it’s still pretty fat and difficult for smaller hands to grip. For those who prefer something that they can hold for hours at a time, this is a slightly better option.

It is mostly cupholder-friendly. While it’s too wide for smaller cupholders, it fits larger ones flawlessly. Those who plan on commuting and are worried about the fit can invest in a handy cup holder expander to ensure a secure fit.

Leakproof Capabilities

Despite the tight-fitting lid, this tumbler is very, very leaky. When it is held upside down, a consistent stream spills out. As a result, it’s not a great option for backpacks and bumpy bus rides.

Durability

While this pick performed decently in the drop test, it received a small dent near the bottom and the stainless ridge on the top. However, the lid stayed on and there were no other visible scratches.

Cleaning

A wide mouth makes it easy to clean the interior, and the tumbler and lid are both dishwasher-safe.

Specs

The All Around Tumbler from Hydro Flask comes in four sizes: 12, 16, 20, and 28 ounces. A 20-ounce option with a straw lid instead of the standard sliding lid is also available, along with a larger 40-ounce tumbler with a handle for easier travel.The 20-ounce option we tested weighed in at around 0.65 pounds. It’s made from BPA-free materials, including stainless steel.

Each size comes in a variety of color options, including green, grey, black, lilac, blue, teal, dark green, red, dark blue, pink and white. Hydro Flask also comes out with limited edition colors and patterns on a rolling basis throughout the year. Similar to how Stanley has a bunch of cup accessories, Hydro Flask offers a bevy of bottle accessories on the site. These include bottle boots, straw sets and alternative lids.

Lead Detection

Hydro Flask is one of the only vacuum-insulated tumbler brands on the market that doesn’t contain lead as part of the sealing process. This differs from the industry standard, making it appealing to those who worry about lead exposure.

Our Favorite Hydro Flask Products

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Boasting a stainless steel rim and dozens of color options, the Hydro Flask All Around Tumbler is a stylish alternative to boring tumblers.

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Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler

Like the popular Stanley Quencher, the Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler has a straw lid and handle, making it a great option for outdoor excursions.

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FAQ

Why is a Hydro Flask so expensive?

Hydro Flask tumblers are durable and offer double-walled insulation. Hydro Flask is also one of the only tumbler brands to use non-lead sealing processes, which makes them a favorite among those who are looking for lead-free drinkware. Because of that, they’re a little priceybut we find them well worth the splurge.

All About YETI

Brothers Roy and Ryan Seiders founded YETI Coolers, LLC in 2006. As the name implies, YETI began its foray into outdoor gear as a cooler business focused on meeting the demands of fishermen in the Texas heat. The brand has since expanded into other categories, including coffee tumblers, outdoor blankets, pet items and even apparel. All of their offerings focus on durability and longevity, though they’ve also built a reputation for having some of the sleekest gear around.

How We Tested YETI

To keep things fair for the Hydro Flask vs. YETI comparison, we subjected the YETI coffee tumbler to the same 11 tests as the Hydro Flask tumbler. The Product Testing Team conducted tests on the YETI Rambler 20-ounce tumbler.

Temperature Retention

Similarly to the Hydro Flask tests, the YETI’s iced coffee test yielded decent results, though the tumbler didn’t succeed in retaining any ice after four hours in the sun. At four hours, the ice water in the YETI Rambler measured in at 39.5 degrees Fahrenheit against Hydro Flask’s 40.1 degrees Fahrenheit. The six-hour results were similar, with YETI’s 44.5 degrees Fahrenheit against Hydro Flask’s 46.5 degrees Fahrenheit.

The YETI fared a bit better in the hot coffee test, clocking in at 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit against Hydro Flask’s lukewarm 94.6 degrees Fahrenheit. In this part of the Hydro Flask vs. YETI test, YETI comes out on top by a minimal margin.

Drinking Experience

Like the Hydro Flask tumbler, the YETI Rambler boasts nice, rounded edges. The cup has a stainless rim that meets the lips. The lid is slim and comfortable to drink from, and the clear plastic slide-on lid includes a sliding spout. There is a sizable tab to help lift the lid off the cup. It easily glides on and off without an issue. The sliding mechanism works better than expected because it’s either open or closed without an in-between half-open mishap.

Ergonomics and Handling

This is one area where the YETI doesn’t outperform the Hydro Flask. The tumbler has a wide profile, which is visually appealing, but our testing team is not a fan. It’s a bit difficult to fit into smaller hands. Additionally, the exterior is very smooth, making it easier to drop than others we tested. Fortunately, there’s some texture on the tumbler that helps a little with grip.

Despite being touted as cupholder friendly, it doesn’t fit securely in a large cupholder and doesn’t fit in a small one at all. That’s a definite con for commuters, as even a cupholder expander won’t help in this regard.

Leakproof Capabilities

While it’s definitely not leakproof, the lid stays on while shaking it upside down. That’s a good thing in case you take this tumbler to the backwoods trails and don’t want to lose your lid.

Durability

YETI prides itself on being one of the most rugged, durable outdoor brands. During our drop test, we found the Rambler lived up to the brand’s reputation. While the lid popped off upon contact with concrete, it only received minor damage to the bottom rim. That’s pretty impressive!

Cleaning

This is on par with the Hydro Flask. It’s dishwasher-safe and it offers a wide mouth for easy hand washing.

Specs

The YETI Rambler is a handsome cup available in 10-, 20- and 30-ounce sizes. The team tested the 20-ounce version, which weighs around 0.85 poundsjust a hair heavier than Hydro Flask’s tumbler. It comes in a fleet of core shades, including pink, navy, red, black, grey, white, teal and stainless. There are also quite a few seasonal shades: fuchsia, yellow, green, blue, green teal, orange, light pink, lilac and dark green.

A coffee tumbler has become something of a fashion accessory in and of itself, and YETI offers additional accouterments to make each cup your own. Tumbler accessories include everything from replacement mag sliders and straw lids to bottle slings and cocktail shaker attachments.

Lead Detection

While the risk of contamination is low, YETI confirms their vacuum-insulated tumblers contain a small amount of lead inside the bottom of the cup, similar to Stanley. That said, the lead doesn’t come into contact with any exposed surfaces, and our at-home lead detection kit didn’t pick up any trace of lead.

Pros

• Nice color options
• Pleasant drinking experience
• Made by a trusted brand
• Five-year warranty
• Dishwasher-safe

Cons

• Leaky
• Not compatible with cupholders

Our Favorite YETI Products

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YETI Rambler Coffee Tumbler

The YETI Rambler coffee tumbler is a colorful, attractive option for those who want to take their coffee with them in style.

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YETI Tundra 45 Hard Cooler

The YETI cooler offers unparalleled ice retention and style. Use it as a camping ice chest for up to four folks or pop in drinks for a day on the water.

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FAQ

Why is the YETI so expensive?

YETI products come with a generous five-year warranty and offer rugged builds meant for the backwoods. Because of the high quality, expect to pay a bit more for YETI.

Is YETI or Stanley better?

Our Product Testing Team tried both the Stanley Aerolight travel tumbler and the YETI Rambler. Based on our 11 tests, the best option for traveling in extreme weather is Stanley. It offers the best insulation of the bunch, keeping the coffee temperature regulated for up to six hours. Plus, its leakproof lid makes it a top pick for travelers. That said, the YETI is by no means a bad option if you plan to enjoy your coffee right away.

How long will ice stay in a YETI tumbler?

According to our tests, ice doesn’t last very long in a YETI Rambler tumbler on a hot day. When we checked in our tumbler after four hours, the water measured 39.5 degrees Fahrenheit and had no ice left.

The Bottom Line: Hydro Flask vs. YETI

In terms of drinking experience, Hydro Flask and YETI are tied. Both offer a sliding spout lid that works flawlessly and feels comfortable and pleasant on the lips. However, the Hydro Flask’s lid is a bit harder to remove and drips continuously while held upside down. That said, we don’t recommend tossing either one into a bagthey’re both rather leaky.

While each brand performed similarly in temperature retention, YETI surpassed Hydro Flask by a minimal margin in both the cold and hot coffee tests. For those who plan on trekking through extreme temperatures, we recommend going with the YETI. However, if you’re planning a road trip, the Hydro Flask is the only tumbler that actually fits into cup holders.

When it comes down to the nitty-gritty of Hydro Flask vs. YETI, the best option ends up being the one that works best for you. Despite both brands performing very similarly, there are pros and cons for each. Consider your specific needs and what will fit your lifestyle.

The post Hydro Flask vs. YETI: Which Brand is Better? appeared first on Taste of Home.

Like any thrifter, I have a few holy grail finds I hope to snag someday. At the top of my list is the iconic Lenox Spice Village Set. This collection of adorable house-shaped spice jars, quaintly nestled on a rack, is the epitome of #cottagecore decor.

Thanks to a recent announcement on Lenox social media, I may not need to keep hunting. The brand is bringing back the iconic Spice Village in 2024! Heres what we know.

What is the Lenox Spice Village?

First introduced in 1989, the Lenox Spice Village was a monthly subscription series. First, you received the rack. Then, each month thereafter, a little 3-inch porcelain house for storing spices like dill, rosemary, oregano and nutmeg. Each of the 24 spice houses is decorated in pastel hues and features botanical accents.

As the collection grew in popularity, Lenox also released larger storage canisters, salt and pepper shakers and even dinnerware. The series waned and was officially discontinued in the early ’90s.

In recent years, the collection has seen a resurgence on social media in kitschy grand millennial design circles. Theyve become so popular that complete sets are selling for thousands of dollars on secondhand sites. And Lenox took notice.

Lenox Spice Village Set 2024

We dont have many details about the 2024 Lenox Spice Village Setyet. But the brand teased an announcement on its social media channels in early August.

@lenox1889 How do you build a village? With a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and the Spice Village 2ndEditionof course! Head to the link in bio and sign up to be the firstto know about all things Spice Village! #lenoxspicevillage #spicevillage #lovemylenox #lenox Summer Sun – Andrew Jordan

From what we can see, though, it looks like there’s a full 24-house set with the same darling color scheme as the originals. We’re eagerly awaiting information on whether the jars will be sold as a set, piece-by-piece or on a subscription modeland for how much. Collectors can sign up for Lenox emails to get all the latest information.

“We are so thrilled to announce the relaunch of our iconic Spice Village collection, which has been discontinued for nearly 35 years,” Jennifer DiBenedetti, Vice President of Marketing, told us via email. “The resurgence of nostalgic decor, which originally made Spice Village a social media sensation, has created the perfect moment to reintroduce this highly sought-after collectible. We can’t wait for both longtime fans and new admirers to experience the magic and joy it brings once again!”

Where to Buy the Lenox Spice Village Set

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If you cant wait for the 2024 Lenox Spice Village Set to drop, you can still find the retro set on sites like eBay and Etsyjust prepare to pay. The full collection with rack sells for up to $2,000, while individual spice jars run about $100.

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According to Jodi Jill, founder of National Puzzle Day and professional puzzle maker, a puzzle of the month club is a great way to explore the hobby without feeling overwhelmed. “Picking one jigsaw puzzle when at the store is sometimes hard, especially when you have a bunch you’d love to play,” she says. “Having a puzzle of the month club is a great way to budget your entertainment expenses (and reduce your temptations of buying too many jigsaw puzzles). A puzzle of the month club is also an awesome way to share your love of jigsaw puzzles with another puzzle enthusiast. I have given this gift in the past, and they call me every month to share their fun.”

With so many options available, our team of hobbyists tried three different options to see which puzzle of the month clubs are worth the splurge. While all were fun in their own right, one option completely blew us away: the Jiggy Puzzle Club.

What is a puzzle of the month club?

Puzzle of the month clubs, similar to gift of the month clubs, are essentially puzzle subscription boxes. Once you sign up for the service, a new puzzle automatically ships to you each month. Some puzzle subscriptions, like White Mountain, allow you to choose your own puzzles and deliver bi-monthly. Others, like Mary Maxim, offer two surprise puzzles each month.

When shopping for a puzzle of the month club, Jodi recommends keeping a few factors top of mind. “Art is the most important part of a puzzle,” she says. “If you think about it, when we solve a puzzle, it’s a relaxing emotional journey where you challenge yourself piece by piece. A great jigsaw puzzle starts with delightful art. When looking at options for a puzzle subscription, consider how the art feels to you. Do you like landscapes? Bright colors? Or subtle visions? The sky’s the limit as there are so many great puzzle companies that produce amazing images.”

What is Jiggy?

Jiggy is a puzzle company that rose to fame after appearing on Shark Tank in 2019. Growing substantially during the pivotal pandemic lockdown, Jiggy is now one of the biggest names in the world of jigsaw puzzles. This female-founded company specializes in artful, modern designs rather than classic works and compilations. Jiggy often partners with artists, collaborating on unique and gorgeous designs that are worthy of being framed and enjoyed throughout the years.

Jiggy’s art doesn’t just extend to artistic prints, either. Brands can collaborate with Jiggy to create their own jigsaw puzzles.Jiggy also offers apersonalization option for those who prefer to turn theirart or photos into jigsaw masterpieces.

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Jiggy Puzzle Club

The Jiggy Puzzle Club is a fuss-free way to enjoy the newest trends in puzzle art, delivered right to your door!

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Jiggy Puzzle Subscription Features

In addition to offering a la carte puzzles, Jiggy also offers the Jiggy Puzzle Club. Members get an exclusive 500-piece puzzle each month, plus VIP perks like early access to new products and opportunities to interact with Jiggy artists. Each puzzle also comes with a reusable drawstring bag.

Even better are the savings that come with being a subscriber. Members save up to 10% on puzzles by prepaying. A percentage of every sale also goes directly to the artist, meaning that it’s a great way to support creators. Additionally, you can skip or cancel your subscription easily at any time.

How We Tested It

We tested Jiggy’s puzzle club byhow else?trying it ourselves! As a puzzle hobbyist who completes at least one puzzle per quarter, Jiggy’s 500-piece puzzle club appealed to me. When it arrived, I was stunned by how giftable the box was once it was outside the confines of its cardboard exterior. Each puzzle comes in a sleek branded box wrapped with a paper sleeve. The sleeve has the artwork for the puzzle printed on ita cute preview of what’s inside.

Inside the box is a reusable pouch containing a sealed bag filled with pieces, plus a card with the puzzle art on one side and an in-depth description of the artist on the other. There’s also a handy QR code if you want to view the artist’s other pieces. My box contained artwork by Maggie Stephenson. I loved reading about her artwork and flipping through her digital profile to see what other pieces she created. It’s like receiving a little box of insight into an artist’s mind!

As for the puzzle itself, I found it an absolute joy to put together. While the experience differs depending on the artwork chosen, that’s the beauty of puzzle clubs. Given the bright colors and bold contrasts of Maggie’s work, I actually found this a bit less intimidating than other 500-piece puzzles I’ve put together. Each piece is accounted for, and by the end of the puzzle, I could definitely see why Jiggy prides itself on its frame-ready artwork. The final product is absolutely gorgeous!

Pros

• Gorgeous, frameable prints
• Exclusive puzzles
• Purchase supports artists
• Comes with a drawstring bag
• Early access to new products

Cons

• A bit pricey, but worth it
• No customization options

Why You Should Trust Me

I am an avid home cook and budding baker who has reviewed everything from baking subscription boxes to coffee machines. As Taste of Home’s resident food and drink review expert, I have ample experience researching for gift guides, comparing product features and breaking down mountains of data into easily digestible reviews. However, I’m not just all about that foodie lifestyle. I’m also a big-time board gamer and puzzle fanatic who has spent years perfecting my jigsaw game. I’ve written gift guides for the best horror board games and previously had a YouTube channel where I highlighted my favorite tabletop picks.

I also spoke to Jodi Jill, a professional puzzle maker. Jodi Jill is the founder of National Puzzle Day. Her goal of sharing her joy of puzzles on this special day (and beyond) has spanned 30 years. Her accomplishments include a weekly syndicated column called Brain Baffler, which has been seen in newspapers nationwide for over 20 years.

FAQ

What happened to Jiggy Puzzles after Shark Tank?

After its appearance onShark Tank, Jiggy became something of a lockdown darling for those seeking a fun, indoor-focused hobby. To date, they’re still around and collaborating with brands like Anthropologie to create gorgeous, bespoke jigsaw puzzles.

Are Jiggy Puzzles worth it?

Those who enjoy framing their finished products will find Jiggy well worth the price. These modern art prints offer a quality that you can’t find anywhere else. Each puzzle comes with its own reusable drawstring bag, making it super easy to keep your pieces together throughout the process.

Are puzzle subscriptions worth it?

According to Jodi, puzzle subscriptions are a great investment for folks who enjoy the relaxing nature of the hobby. “A puzzle of the month club is a great way to remind yourself you need some self-care,” she says.”If you love jigsaw puzzles and your life is busy, knowing you have a jigsaw puzzle coming to your door means you need to schedule YOU time!”

Other Puzzle Subscriptions We Tested

In addition to Jiggy’s puzzle club, we also tried Mary Maxim‘s puzzle subscription and White Mountain‘s monthly puzzle subscription box. Of these options, Jiggy falls into the mid-price range, ringing up at around $35 per month next to White Mountain’s $40 per month subscription and Mary Maxim’s $17 per month option.

White Mountain

While we enjoyed the White Mountain puzzle subscription for its wide variety of options, we felt the price was steep. Additionally, this service sends two puzzles bimonthly rather than one or two puzzles per month, which may not work for everyone.

This is also a service where you choose your own puzzles from a preset pool of options rather than offering a surprise puzzle each month. There are no additional savings or any benefits included, either. Because of this, we felt that it differed very little from simply purchasing two puzzles each month.

Mary Maxim

Mary Maxim’s puzzle subscription is an amazing deal at around $17 monthly. Each month, members receive two surprise puzzles in their choice of 300-piece, 500-piece or 1000-piece options. Puzzles come from various brands, meaning that no two months are the same. We love the ability to customize each option based on skill level, and each subscription is the same price across the board.

For my one-month subscription, I received a train puzzle and a “love shack” beach puzzle, both of which are 500-piece puzzles. Personally, I enjoy the surprise aspectit feels like receiving a gift each month. While the art styles aren’t what I’d usually go for (and they’re not bespoke like Jiggy’s), it was fun putting together puzzles that fell a little outside of my comfort zone. For folks who go through a lot of puzzles, this is a great opportunity to save some money while enjoying your relaxing hobby. The ability to customize it to your skill level is a bonus!

Final Verdict

For those who enjoy traditional jigsaw puzzles with classic art, Jiggy may not be for you. But if you appreciate more modern prints and want to frame your puzzles after completion, Jiggy’s puzzle of the month club is an amazing deal. Each piece of art is gorgeous, colorful and a total joy to put together. The bonuses that come with the puzzle subscription are well worth the price, especially given that a percentage of each purchase goes directly to the artist. If you’re a hobbyist or want to find the perfect gift for the puzzle lover in your life, you can’t go wrong with a prepaid Jiggy puzzle subscription.

How to Sign Up for Jiggy Puzzle of the Month Club

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Jiggy Puzzle Club

The Jiggy Puzzle Club is a fuss-free way to enjoy the newest trends in puzzle art, delivered right to your door!

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Signing up for the Jiggy Puzzle Club is simple. Just head over to their puzzle subscription page, then add it to your cart and check out as normal. From there, your card will automatically be charged monthly, and a new puzzle will arrive right at your doorno difficult choices or pricing out puzzles required.

The post We Tested 3 Puzzle Subscriptions—This is the Best Puzzle of the Month Club appeared first on Taste of Home.

“According to the Department of Energy, 34% of American households have a second fridge or freezer. Auxiliary food storage space has always been sought after for large families and homes that like to entertainyet the pandemic popularized this trend and made it mainstream,” says Jessica Petrino, educator and appliance expert at AJ Madison. “An upright freezer is a great space-saving way to store more food. They’re perfect for small storage areas such as a pantry, garage or basement. Stock up on food at the store, buy protein in bulk, stash milk for a baby or flash freeze your favorite dinners, soup or sauces for later.”

Executive Culinary DirectorSarah Farmer, who tested six upright freezers to find the very best, agrees. Vertical freezers offer a more compact design while providing the same storage capacity as chest freezers, she explains. Here’s why our Test Kitchen recommends the Hamilton Beach freezer for garages, basements and other places with regular temperature fluctuations.

What isthe Hamilton Beach upright freezer?

If you’re unsure whether you want achest or upright freezer, the bells and whistles on theHamilton Beach freezer will almost certainlysway your opinion. A whopping 14 cubic feet of space is plenty of room for storing cookies, freezer organization products and frozen pizzas. This comes in the form of four removable tempered glass shelves, four shallow in-door shelves and a bottom slide-out bin. Do you need more fridge space? No worriesthis two-in-one option can convert to a fridge, too. Additionally, the Hamilton Beach upright freezer is garage-ready, meaning that it’s rated for fluctuations in temperatures between 0F and 110F.

It’s also self-defrosting, so you won’t have to worry about frost coating your shelves or freezer containers. This also makes it easy to clean your freezer. A handy temperature control panel sits on the door, so you can easily see how cool it is at a glance. This feature also eliminates the need to open the door to make adjustmentsbonus!Two adjustable legs allow for the freezer to sit level, and interior LED lights simplify making selections in low-light conditions.

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Hamilton Beach Upright Freezer

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How We Testedthe Hamilton Beach Upright Freezer

To find the best upright freezers for garages, basements and rec rooms, we identified top-selling models from the most popular brands, including Whirlpool, GE, Hotpoint, Hamilton Beach, Maytag and Gladiator. Our tester is Executive Culinary DirectorSarah Farmer, an appliance and kitchen expert.Sarah gathered six models to test, focusing on the best-reviewed picks.

During our evaluation, she looked at temperature settings, capacity and storage, noise level, durability, build quality and design. We also noted whether each pick is garage-ready and if there are any additional features, like self-defrost, reversible doors, alarms, interior lighting and adjustable leveling legs.

After thoroughly testing each potential inclusion and noting over 65 data points across all six freezers, our Test Kitchen pinpointed three top performers and two other solid options worth considering.

Test Kitchen Results

The Hamilton Beach upright freezer boasts a simple, handsome look. With a classic white finish and a single control panel in the center, it feels both modern and basic enough for most decor styles. The handle is recessed (making the door non-reversible), which also gives it a cleaner look.

The seal is very effectivealmost to the point where you need to give the freezer a good tug for it to open. Testers had to exert pressure, and it took about two tugs to open the door. In the event that it doesn’t seal closed, a three-minute alarm alerts you when the door remains open. The freezer features four preset temperature modes: Fridge, Subzero, Freeze and FastFreeze.

Both the shelves and lower freezer bin are solid and sturdy. However, the freezer door bins are somewhat lightweight (though not flimsy). Overall, Sarah feels that this is a perfect pick for families who want a little extra storage room for ice pops, frozen meals and bulk meats.

Why should you get a frost-free freezer?

According to Jessica, one popular trait in upright freezers is an automatic defrost. “For low maintenance, better efficiency and performance, look for a freezer that will defrost automatically,” she says. “Otherwise, you must remove all the food from the freezer a few times yearly, unplug the freezer, and let ice accumulation melt. Defrosting a freezer can be a messy and labor-intensive process. Skip the extra work and get one that will defrost automatically.”

What makes a freezer “garage-friendly”?

Jessica notes that if you plan to place your freezer in an area of the home that experiences seasonal changes, it’s important to spring for a garage-ready fridge or freezer. Sometimes, the garage-ready accessory is a part sold separately on select models, but freezers often offer this as a built-in feature.

“How do you know if you need it? To put it simply, if you place a refrigerator or freezer in an area where the temperature dips colder than the temperature setting inside the fridge, it will stop ‘refrigerating,'” she says. “Therefore, outdoor fridges, or ‘garage-ready’ units, have a special feature that tricks the appliance into thinking the outside air temperature is always warmer than the temp setting of the appliance. In short, if you live in a cold weather climate and plan to place a freezer in your garage, porch or shed, its recommended to seek a garage-friendly unit.”

Why You Should Trust Us

Sarah Farmeris the heart of theTaste of HomeTest Kitchen.On top of leading the culinary team, she develops, tests and styles recipes, balances budgets, connects with vendors and oversees the product testing processfor pantry foods and cooking gear. You might spot her in our videos on social media and TV, gushing about the latest food trends or must-have kitchen gadgets.

Sarah joinedTaste of Homein 2004 as a food stylist. Shes still head over heels for her job, and loves spending every day surrounded by people who share her enthusiasm for food, cooking and theTaste of Home community.

For this piece, we also spoke to Jessica Petrino, educator and appliance expert at AJMadison.

Where to Buy the Hamilton Beach Upright Freezer

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Hamilton Beach Upright Freezer

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The Hamilton Beach upright freezer is available from many online retailers, including Walmart, Wayfair, Home Depot and Amazon. It typically retails for well under $1,000, making it more budget-friendly than a number of the other upright freezers we tested. It’s also the only truly garage-friendly freezer on our listandthe only one that converts to a refrigerator,making it an excellent value!

The post Hamilton Beach Upright Freezer Review: The Best Option for Garages appeared first on Taste of Home.