12 Products for People Who Are Obsessed With Their Pets

There’s no denying it: Our pets are legit members of our families. Some of us may go so far as to describe them as our “fur babies.” We feed them, clean them, and take care of their every need. But most of all, we love them unconditionally. For those of us who would rather stay in cuddling with our dog, cat, bunny, hamster, or bird than do practically anything else, there are lots of products out there for us, our homes, and our beloved animals that will only feed our pet obsession even more. Keep scrolling to see what they are.

Gifting is hard in itself, no matter who you're shopping for. Landing on the right product that'll tug at the recipient's heart strings and serve a practical purpose isn't always easy! This task is especially arduous for someone like your mother-in-law. My best advice is to snag her something that you would gift your own mom, and ensure it communicates your gratitude for her, no matter what stage your relationship is currently in.

I've rounded up 19 unique mother-in-law gifts that'll show her you care. They also happen to serve a practical use in her everyday life. Every mom deserves something special this Mother's Day (and beyond), so scroll on to find the perfect gift for your amazing MIL!

Glocusent Rechargeable Book Light

Every nocturnal book worm knows how crucial book lights are for flipping through chapter after chapter! This $16 model boasts a sturdy clamp, three different light levels and hues, and a long battery life to help your MIL reach her reading goals without disturbing the peace. It's super light, making it easy portable, plus it comes in 4 other fun colors!

Stagg EKG Electric Kettle

If you're searching for mother-in-law gifts that are a bit more elevated, this design-forward kettle (far superior to a traditional stovetop kettle) is sure to please any coffee or tea-loving gal. It can hold nearly 1 liter of liquid, though the most impressive feature is its ability to heat up to a specific temperature that you can set yourself. Once it's heated through, the base can keep the kettle contents steadily hot for up to 60 minutes.

The Stagg EKG Electric Kettle is currently available in 10 different colors for $195.

W&P Porter Bowl Lunch Container

For the mother-in-law who's always on the go – whether she's commuting to the office or embarking on a new hiking trail – this $17 lidded bowl from W&P will outshine every piece in her current Tupperware collection. It's made entirely free from BPA, has a roomy 1-liter capacity, and stylishly secures on top with a durable silicone strap.

The microwave- and dishwasher-safe plastic Porter Bowl comes in 6 colors, but you can also shop it in a ceramic material.

Laneige Peach Lip Glowy Balm

A lip balm restock is never unwelcome, and this tube from Laneige is nothing but a total treat for the lips! It's formulated with a rich mix of murumuru and shea butters that lock in moisture all day long, adding a cute, subtle orange tint with each application.

Smartwool Everyday Popcorn Cable Crew Socks

These Merino wool crew socks feel like slipping your feet into two soft, tiny little sweaters – the perfect gesture of care and comfort to gift your mother-in-law. This $27 pair boasts a moderate thickness, with the most cushion surrounding the soles, so they feel just as comfy without shoes as they do with 'em on. They come in 7 other colors, so you can find one that best fits your MIL's vibe.

Vacation Classic Sunscreen Spray SPF 30

She'll get a kick of nostalgia with this vintage-inspired sunscreen! It coats the skin evenly with broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, leaving zero white cast behind. This spray's signature summery scent was crafted with the help of expert perfumers – it highlights natural notes like coconut, banana, pineapple, orange blossom, but also incorporates unique aromas such as pool water, pool toys, and swimsuit lycra to create a pleasurable SPF experience every time.

The Vacation Classic Sunscreen Spray is currently $19 at Free People. They also sell more SPF goodies like face mists, bronzing lotions, and tubes of mineral sunscreen.

Mejuri Puffy Charlotte Hoops

These timeless earrings will match practically any outfit! They boast the curved shape you'd expect from hoops, but with a bold "puffy" design. This $98 pair is crafted with a thick layer of 18K solid gold on top of some sterling silver (as opposed to traditional gold plating), extending its life. You can also snag 'em in pure sterling silver for $78.

Kitsch Satin Pillowcase for Hair & Skin

This soft pillowcase entirely redefines beauty sleep. Because it's made from soft, durable satin, it helps combat frizzy hair, dry skin, wrinkles, and blemishes all at once, while you're getting in some good shut-eye. Your MIL won't want to go back to a regular pillowcase ever again!

The Kitsch Satin Pillowcase goes for $16 for a queen size or $19 for a king size on Amazon. Use code SatinCover10 for 10% off!

Grace & Stella Dead Sea Mud Mask

Help your mother-in-law take her next at-home spa night up a notch with this soothing $20 mud mask! It's a rockstar at drawing out impurities and oil from pores quickly, creating a clearer complexion with regular use. The formulation is vegan, paraben-, and sulfate-free, using only the gentlest of ingredients to treat the skin.

Smoosh Silicone Body Scrubber + Bar Soap

Regular loofahs are a thing of the past with this unique body scrubber made from anti-microbial silicone – much more hygienic than your traditional sponge. The flower-shaped paddle boasts an embedded soap bar, helping eliminate waste. The scrubber itself is dishwasher-safe for when your MIL feels like it needs a good clean, plus once it's ran out of juice, she can easily send it back for recycling and earn a $5 gift card to spend on a new one!

The Smoosh Body Scrubber is $39 and comes ready to use with two uniquely-scented soap bars of your choosing.

Colorblock Glass Carafe & Cup Set

This space-saving carafe and cup set simply belongs on your mother-in-law's nightstand! The contrasting blue and green stacking pieces make for a super stylish decor piece that's also quite practical for holding water to sip on before bedtime. She can also serve juices, cocktails, and other bevs from this dynamic duo if she pleases.

The 2-piece set is $65 from the MoMA Design Store. It also comes in an amber and cobalt blue colorway for the same price.

Crocs Brooklyn Buckle Sandals

The thick platforms on these Crocs sandals are deceptively lightweight, filling each and every step with unbelievable comfort. The double straps are adjustable using an easy-to-use notch system (so much better than figuring out a real buckle) to help your MIL find her perfect fit. The soles are wonderfully cushy and foamy. These will become her go-to sandals for just about every occasion!

The Brooklyn Buckle Sandals also come in a light brown color for $60 and shoe sizes 4-11.

Brightland The Couplet Raw Honey Duo

Whether your mother-in-law is already putting honey in her coffee, tea, or on crispy toast, these specially-crafted honeys from Brightland will instantly help her elevate her morning ritual! This $42 duo comes with 9 oz glass jars of a citrusy California Orange Blossom Honey and a more floral Kauai Wildflower Honey, both sourced from small, family-run farms in the US.

Recess Optimist Pickleball Paddle

For the pickleballer MIL, any paddle from Recess is gonna make her smile! This grinning pick in particular feels fit for summertime games, but there are over fifty colorways and patterns to choose from. The paddle is made from a super-condensed foam and has a faux-leather grip on the handle that'll withstand heavy use and weathering with ease.

The Optimist Pickleball Paddle is $86, and a portion of the proceeds from each one sold will go to Project Healthy Minds, "a tech non-profit that is committed to destigmatizing mental health and expanding access to resources through a free digital marketplace of mental health services."

Madewell The Essential Mini Bucket Tote

Bucket bags are one of my fave trending purses at the moment, and they're a great bag to gift your mother-in-law (or any purse-head, TBH) since they're not very bulky, but can fit a lot of stuff thanks to their depth. This $138 black leather design from Madewell will quickly earn a spot on her shoulder every day! It features a secure magnetic closure, gold hardware, interior pockets, and an adjustable strap for personalized fit.

Bole Colorblock Glass Candlestick Holder

These gorgeous, color-drenched candle holders make a statement even if your mother-in-law is just using them as decor. They're equally awesome for setting the table ahead of dinner parties and family game nights! They're made in several different colorways and heights for mixing and matching to foster visual interest. The small size is $45, the medium size is $49, and the large size is $65. Just one or two will do for a stunning decorative gift!

Sonix Apple Watch Band

For the active mother-in-law, this $30 stretchy Apple Watch band will be a godsend. No fussing with buckles or clips here! It's made from a lightweight, breathable knit material that's ribbed for added style. It comes in several other colors like green, blue, and rose pink and is compatible with Apple Watch Series 1 through 7 (fits 38mm, 40mm and 41mm styles).

Dieux Auracle Eye Serum + Forever Eye Mask

Single-use eye patcheswho?! The Forever Eye Mask ($25) from Dieux eliminates the need for your MIL to ever buy another pair. They're made from a super lightweight material that holds skincare products close to the skin for maximum absorption. I recommend pairing the eye mask with the Auracle Eye Serum ($44) to help target the appearance of dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and under eye puffiness.

Jot Spring Seasonal Coffee

This bottled coffee concentrate highlights a subtle sweetness alongside notes of stone fruits and florals for the ultimate morning (or mid-day) cup. Served hot or iced, it doesn't matter – Jot is one of those coffee brands that makes sipping so easy since there's no brewing involved. One $26 bottle supplies 14 servings!

Jot also comes in different flavors like Vanilla, Caramel, and Chocolate Hazelnut for the same price. You can also opt to gift your MIL a monthly subscription to save 25%.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

What you eat can greatly affect your skin, causing different side effects, both good and bad. Luckily, there are so many foods that can revitalize your skin and get it back to feeling radiant and looking glowy from the inside out — and just in time for summer! If you don't know where to start, we've got you covered with expert advice on all the best foods for your skin, plus all those bites you might wanna avoid.

Best Foods For Your Skin

Photo by Olena Bohovyk/Unsplash

Grapes, Strawberries, Blood Oranges, and Watermelon

Elina Fedotova of Elina Organics, says that colorful fruit are key to achieving good skin! She says, "Colorful fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, and healthy fats like butter or plant oils help improve skin immunity and protect against environmental UV damage. Liquid collagen is popular as a skin-rejuvenating food or supplement, but when you do that, make sure you are making the smoothie with collagen peptides. The collagen is broken into small pieces called peptides which absorb much better and signal your body to regenerate collagen." So clearly, collagen is vital if you want to have glowy skin.

Elina also says, "It is a scientifically proven fact that people who eat very high levels of antioxidant-rich diets with fruits and vegetables and anthocyanosides — they can stay in the sun without any protection much longer because their body can protect them naturally from UV damage." Her three rules for healthy skin?

  1. No processed foods.
  2. Eat tons of antioxidants.
  3. Use an SPF — preferably one that is a mineral Zinc Oxide based — alongside protective hats in the sun.

So not only can certain foods make your skin look radiant, they can also protecting you from the sun with proper precautions! We love to hear that!

Photo by Dose Juice/Unsplash

Leafy Greens, Broccoli, Asparagus, and Edamame

Leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, and edamame are some of our favorite foods to eat that will give you that inside-out glow. Nutritionist and wellness expert Jessica Green says, "Silica rich foods are a great place to start — these include celery, asparagus, banana, cucumber, green beans to name my favorite. When you juice some of these, they can become more bio-available. Celery juice for instance is excellent at giving your skin a beautiful natural glow. Collagen rich foods can help improve skin elasticity — bone broth is my absolute favorite for not only its skin benefit but bone broth is also very calming for the gut."

Skin elasticity can easily be improved through these foods and can make you look 10 years younger! I definitely notice a significant difference in my skin when I regularly eat collagen-rich foods than when I don't!

Photo by Thought Catalog/Unsplash

Avocado and Olive Oil

Avocados and olive oil are really going to up your skin game, and giving you that gorgeous glow for summer we're really looking for. Kristen White, RDN, CLT, says, "Clean fats like olive oil, avocados, coconut oil, and tallow in our diet help replenish needed vitamins and fatty acids to help skin look its vibrant best." That's exactly what we want!

In regards to olive oil, it really is the must-have when it comes to achieving a glowy complexion. Jenny Jiles, a holistic nutritionist says, "Olive oil is the GOAT. We know why all of those women in the Mediterranean look so vibrant and sexy as they age, because olive oil is such a staple in their diet. Don’t be afraid of this healthy fat, it’s filled with antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids which help protect your skin from free radicals to reduce those fine lines and help you glow from the inside out. Add olive oil to any and all of your meals, savory or sweet (yes, trust me on that)." So I guess the key to looking like an Italian goddess this summer (and always) is olive oil!

Photo by Maddi Bazzocco/Unsplash

Chia, Flax Seeds, and Sunflower Seeds

Many seeds and grains are going to be crucial in giving you radiant skin. Plus, they have so many healing properties that can help reduce redness and inflammation in the skin. Christine Glaser, CEO of DIY Skincare Business, says, "Chia and flax seeds are also helpful for all skin types and can aid in toxin removal." And sunflower seeds actually have antibacterial properties too that help get rid of toxins in order to keep your skin looking fresh and clear; thus the radiant skin we're trying to achieve here!

Photo by María Sainz Cabezalí/Unsplash

Red Bell Peppers, Carrot, and Tomatoes

You always want to have a variety of colors when eating fruits and vegetables because this will help you get the most out of your diet and achieve maximum radiance. A health expert and dietician, Chrissy Arsenault of Kori, says, "Eat lots of fruits and veggies. Choose 2-3 colors of fruits and veggies at every meal – fruits and veggies are rich in antioxidants (vitamins A, C, E) that protect your skin from damage." And tomatoes, carrots, and bell peppers are very rich in color so they will give you so many great nutritional benefits that will assist in giving you a perfect inside-out glow!

What foods should I avoid for my skin?

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If you want radiant, clear, acne-free skin then you definitely want to avoid foods high in dairy or sugar. Jessica Green says, "When it comes to foods to avoid for radiant skin, sugar and dairy float to the top. Both are inflammatory. Sugar causes glycation which damages the skin's elasticity. Dairy (cow dairy specifically) tends to be one of the most common foods that cause reactions for people including acne and puffiness." I'm definitely taking note to try and cut our these foods now!

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Everyone knowsdogs are (wo)man’s best friend, and we want to make sure we’re being good friends (and owners) to them in return. This meansshowing them love in the appropriate manner, making sure they’re getting enough exercise, and, perhaps most importantly, checking that their breed is compatible with your lifestyle before adopting or purchasing them. The research team at Furbo Dog Camera helped us identify which type of pooch is right you, whether you have a hectic sched, a practically empty planner, or anything in between.

Dog Breeds For Busy People

Photo via Pexels/Simona Kidrič

If you’re in the office 24/7, yes, you can still have a fur baby — just not one that requires a lot of attention, exercise, and stimulation. Although these pets might not pounce on you as soon as you walk through the door, they’ll love you just as much as their more rambunctious counterparts. And they’re equally as cute — promise.

1. Bullmastiffs: With a tough-looking exterior, these pups are really softies and extremely loyal to their owners. They only need a couple of short walks and bathrooms breaks to get by because they’re far less energetic than other large breeds.

2.Basset Hounds: These adorably droopy doggos are super laid-back and easygoing. Because of this, they don’t get anxious or stressed when their humans aren’t around, even for hours at a time.

3. Pugs: It’s no secret that pugs aren’t sporting dogs. In fact, they love lounging on the couch (or bed if they’re allowed) and long naps. Even when you’re away, they’ll likely be curled up, waiting to cuddle upon your arrival.

4. Bull Terriers: This independent breed likes to keep busy, but that doesn’t mean they need constant attention. Toss ’em a toy, and they’ll be entertained for hours while you’re in and out of the house.

5. Chow Chows: Chow chows are known for that cat-like personality, which is what’s to thank for their ability to be left alone for a good portion of the day. They’re quiet, meaning they tend not to bark, and did we mention they’re totally cute?

6. Beagles: Take your beagle for a generous walk before and after work, and they’ll be set for the rest of the day. They’re intelligent and energetic, so, much like bull terriers, a toy will keep them preoccupied — and quiet — during the hours alone.

7. Peekapoos: Expect to be lavished with love and affection while you’re home (Peekapoos love their human time), but they are perfectly content being by themselves, too, especially when they have a toy to play with.

8. Lhasa Apsos: Unlike many other small breeds, the Lhasa Apso is stress-free. Tiny but mighty, these furry little friends are hard workers who will keep busy by quietly protecting your house during the day.

9. Golden Retrievers: Somewhat surprisingly, despite how much they love their humans, Goldens are pretty good at hanging solo. They’re highly trainable, so if you give them a task (say, guarding the house), they’ll be happy to do it when home alone.

10. Greyhounds: These racing dogs really love lazing. They spend a good deal of their time sleeping on the couch, so leaving them home during the day really just gives them the chance to do what they enjoy most

Dog Breeds For Flexible People

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If you’re a stay-at-home parent, a freelancer, or simply in a profession that allows you to be at your house or apartment frequently, then these people-loving pups are a safe option for you. The smart, social, and active doggos in the following list would make a fun and vibrant addition to your day-to-day.

1. Labrador Retrievers: Unlike their golden counterparts, labs — the most popular dogs for families — require pretty constant companionship. Because of how social they are, they tend to struggle when left alone too long.

2.Border Collies: Border Collies are a brainy bunch. Their intelligence level means they become quickly bored without much mental stimulation. They are also high energy, so expect to reach for that leash pretty frequently.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: As companion dogs, this breed lives up to their purpose. They enjoy spending lots of time with people and even experience anxiety when they’re apart from their owners too long.

4. Jack Russell Terriers: This dog needs a human that’s as much of a bundle of energy as they are. To be happiest, this breed needs a lot of entertainment and physical activity. In fact, they often get into trouble without their owner around and keeping them engaged.

5. German Shepherds: This beautiful, noble pet is really a baby at heart. German Shepherds become distressed when left alone and bored. Because they were bred to be working dogs, they thrive in mentally and physically stimulating environments.

6. Australian Shepherds: If not entertained, these dogs will, quite literally, be left running circles around you. Due to their herding background, they need an owner who will enable them to be active and engaged.

7. Bichon Frises: Bichon Frises do best when they have their human buddy around. Like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, this pint-sized companion dog can become easily bored and even distressed in their owner’s absence.

8. Vizslas: Vizslas were bred to be hunters, an activity they did with humans, so, unsurprisingly, to this day, they love hanging out with humans. These short-haired sweeties experience anxiety when away from their people.

9. German Shorthaired Pointers: Equally as active and social as Vizslas, this hunting pooch has a similar response to being alone too. If they’re not getting their paws dirty, they’re known to become bored and/or anxious.

10. Toy Poodle: This teeny tiny pet is as gentle and loving as you’d expect. Because of this, they crave attention and affection from their human families. And without it, they can suffer significant separation anxiety.


RELATED: Discover the Doggo For You Based on Your Zodiac Sign

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This post has been updated.

If there are two things you can count on, it's that I'm always thinking about Gilmore Girls and I'm always listening to Taylor Swift. As soon as I pressed play on The Tortured Poets Department, I could tell this album would resonate with so many experiences I had a child and a teenager. I've always been imaginative (and, admittedly, a bit spacey), and to this day, I never leave home without a book.

I've built thousands of imaginary worlds and crafted endless stories, but have always had difficulty keeping up with real-world relationships. So, needless to say, when I listened to Taylor Swift's new album and heard "I Hate It Here" and "The Bolter," I felt seen. I also realized these two songs would speak to Rory Gilmore in the same way!

Rory Gilmore Would Love "I Hate It Here" By Taylor Swift...

Image via Warner Bros. TV

"I Hate It Here" totally showcases Taylor Swift's ability to express raw emotions, and it also perfectly captures Rory Gilmore's struggles during certain periods of her life. The lyrics reflect frustration and dissatisfaction we can all feel sometimes (I know I've definitely felt them), and while Rory and Taylor's dreams in and of themselves are different, they both want to leave their small towns to achieve them. Whether it's feeling overwhelmed by expectations or facing setbacks in her career in Gilmore Girls season 5, Rory has moments throughout the series where she feels a bit trapped.

But even more than the physical meaning of the song is the imaginary one. Taylor sings about creating worlds in her mind and diving into books to escape the mundane. Rory reads more than any fictional character I've ever seen before because she also craves that escapism! The lyrics of "I Hate It Here" resonate with Rory when she wants to live different lives, and it encapsulates the moments when she struggles or questions her decisions — relatable!

...And She'd Feel Attacked By "The Bolter" By Taylor Swift

Image via Warner Bros. TV

TBH, I'm half convinced "The Bolter" is referencing Amy March (after all, Amy has been "reviled" by readers for hundreds of years, and she "almost drowned...in frigid water" like Taylor sings), which is just another literary reference Rory would pick up on.

In "The Bolter," Taylor Swift captures the essence of a woman constantly seeking adventure and change, just like Rory Gilmore, and it's all about the idea of a restless spirit. While the lyrics can be taken from a hypothetical standpoint (feeling trapped by relationships or other people's expectations), we can also talk about it literally considering Rory physically runs away from Jess.

Rory might desire love, but the idea of it also scares her — two facts that don't cancel each other out! Just like Taylor Swift, I think Rory's thrilled by the idea of escape simply because she's so risk averse in other areas of her life. Once again, I say, relatable!!

"The Bolter" and "I Hate It Here" are both incredibly engaging songs because they highlight just how complex we are as humans — both in the ways we relate to ourselves and other people. And they're just two Taylor Swift songs Rory would definitely add to her playlist.

Which Taylor Swift and Rory Gilmore parallels do you see? Follow us on Facebook for more pop culture musings!

Lead image via Warner Bros. TV

Bathroom decor is having a moment, becoming more than just a place to wipe and wash. Instead, they're turning into what some are calling spathrooms with big bathtubs, open showers, saunas, and spa-like amenities, according to 2024 design trend report by Cosentino. One trend putting the "room" in bathroom is the bathroom library, which fits right into the vintage, grandmillennial and cottagecore trends, with built-in shelves above vanities, around commodes, and front and center to warm up a bathroom vibe. Here's the skinny on these neat nooks and how you can make one yourself!

Design: De Rosee Salon | Photo: Astrid Templier

But some of us at here aren't so sure. What do you think? For me, I'm a bath lover and reader, so the combo is definitely appealing. However, I definitely would worry about moisture ruining my precious novels, or guests lingering in the bathroom too long, wrapped up in a good book. But those cons aside, I dig the idea of a book nook in my bathroom, especially for my kiddo who loves when I read to her in the bath, and is even now a voracious reader herself.

Photo by Levi T./Unsplash

If you're into the idea and want to start with a small library vs. splurging on some fancy built-ins, then here are some shelving ideas that are perfect for books in a bathroom.

Shop Book Nook Bathroom Decor Ideas Here!

Mason Curio Cabinet

Display your favorite books, trinkets and towels in this arc-shaped cabinet with glass door and five adjustable shelves.

Mayfair Wall Cabinet

This bathroom-rated cabinet is perfect for hiding literary treasures. Love the green stain inside!

Camylle Bookcase

Add a pop of pink to your paperbacks with this mid-century piece, perfect for larger baths.

PB Haven Arched Bookcase

Create a little book caddy with this arched bookcase made of mango wood.

IKEA Billy Bookcase

This is IKEA's best-selling cabinet and for good reason: glass doors keep your book collection dust-free but still visible and the sleek design is space-saving.

Ederra Accent Shelf

Hang this shelf vertically or horizontally and showcase your best reads to reflect your good taste in books and design.

Crate And Barrel White Oak Reversible Shelf Set

Make the most of your bathroom wall space with this modular piece that allows you to attach three shelves to a mounted panel — one flat and two reversibles that can be hung on top or underneath to give you lots of storage options.

Hefling Metal Wall Bathroom Cabinet

This vintage-inspired cabinet would look charming above a sink instead of a mirror.

Ajax Narrow Ladder Bookcase

Save space with this vertical stainless steel bookcase available in several eye-catching colors. Once filled, the floating shelves vanish, keeping your tower of literature clean and organized.

Etsy The Curious Shelf

Have fun with your library with these whimsical shelves available in mustard, sage, white, lilac and pink.

Babyletto Spruce Tree Bookcase

Encourage future bibliophiles with a little bathroom library of their favorite books. Each shelf on this pine wood tree holds 12 to15 books.

Oscar Bee Scalloped Shelves (set of 2)

Love the scallop design here. Mount a set of these near your bathtub so a great read is always within reach.

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Main Photo by Vlada Karpovich