• Outside their usual testing, our reviewers have turned up some unexpected gems from cordless vacuum mops to whimsical candles that could pass for fresh produce.

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When you review products for a living, you’re never really “off-duty”. While our writers and editors formally test dozens of products for The Filter every month, from blenders to augmented-reality glasses, we’re also testing when we’re out there just living life: fixing our hair, making our morning coffee, and even when we’re going to sleep.

In What We’re Loving, a monthly glimpse behind the scenes into the life of a reviewer, the Filter staff will share the outstanding products that make a difference in our lives, and that we’d recommend for yours. From fashion and beauty to outdoors and fitness to home and tech, and pretty much everything in between, here’s the best stuff we used this October.