Consumer Reports

Pets can sometimes carry harmful germs that can make us sick even when the pet appears to be just fine. Consumer Reports has some tips to help you and your furry family stay healthy.

If you’re looking for a way to get some shut-eye, maybe you’re considering a weighted blanket. Some say it’s an insomnia reliever, and it’s growing in popularity. Lots of people swear by them, but are they right for you?

Peak under the pillow case and chances are it looks a little dingy, smells a little funky, and just needs some TLC.

Whether you suffer because of tree pollen, ragweed, or indoor dust, chances are you’re coughing, sneezing, or sniffling. And with the coronavirus still a concern, you might wonder if it’s more than just an allergy.

NBC 7’s Consumer Bob has some tips for steering clear of COVID-19 during allergy season.

The CARES Act, passed by Congress last March, allowed many consumers to defer payments on credit cards and certain federally backed mortgages and student loans. But some banks and credit card companies have erroneously reported those deferred payments as late, potentially making a tough financial situation even worse for those hit hardest by the pandemic.

Most home chefs know that you need a good nonstick pan in your collection of kitchen tools. They’re great for everything from eggs to pancakes to grilled cheese sandwiches. But they work only if the coating is in good shape.

Peer-to-peer payment apps like Venmo and Zelle make paying for things a breeze, but there’s a catch: Many of the apps don’t offer the same level of protection against fraud that most credit cards do, making them the perfect payment method for online predators to take advantage of.

About 20% of Americans have taken a genetic test, perhaps in the hopes of finding answers about their family origins or potential health problems. But as Consumer Reports explains, while the test might have been taken for fun, the results can be serious.

Even if your morning commute is now just a walk from the bedroom to your home office, a hot cup of coffee can make it a little easier.

Which travel mug will keep your coffee the steamiest the longest? NBC 7’s Consumer Bob shares the research.

The marketplace for used appliances is huge, with online selling platforms like eBay, Facebook and Craigslist making it easier than ever to shop around. But is it a good idea to buy used appliances?

UV technology isn’t new, but can it help fight the coronavirus? NBC 7’s Consumer Bob has the answer.

You may be noticing ultraviolet technology for sale. That’s because UV light kills germs, bacteria, and viruses—and that may include the coronavirus.

Millions of Kidde fire extinguishers were recalled in 2017 due to serious defects. Now a Consumer Reports investigation reveals new findings about how Kidde, a brand name synonymous with fire safety, allegedly failed to report information about problems with its fire extinguishers, putting consumers at risk for years.

The holidays have come and gone but there’s often a new year’s tradition you might not know about: an annual price hike on TV and internet fees from some of the biggest cable and satellite companies.

NBC 7’s Consumer Bob breaks down what you need to know about “buy now, pay later,” this holiday season.

As if we didn’t have enough to worry about this holiday season, November and December are also peak months for food poisoning from certain types of bacteria, such as Clostridium perfringens.

It’s likely that your holiday table may look different this year because of the pandemic. But even with fewer guests to entertain, it’s possible your tablecloth will still end up with a few stains.

NBC 7’s Consumer Bob has some tips for getting out those tough Thanksgiving meal stains.