All mySimon Home and Garden Shopping Picks

Backyard BBQs used to include a stack of paper plates that you threw away after each meal. These often flimsy disposables have led to more than one burger or slice of watermelon hitting the ground, which, let's face it, isn't fun. You may not want to bring the china out for dining al fresco, but these Olive Branch plastic plates are the perfect choice for adding a little class to the picnic table. They... more

We can't think of a better way to spend the Fourth of July than relaxing in a pool. This Swimways Spring Float Pool Recliner lets you do just that. The float comes with a backrest, headrest, and an ottoman to support your legs. There's even a cupholder for your favorite summer beverage. Just be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen because you're not going to want to leave the pool.

For years we had a grill so big that we only used it when we had friends over for a cookout. Then we decided there was no reason we should deprive ourselves of delicious roasted corn, grilled chicken and steamed vegetables and got the Smokey Joe Gold Charcoal Grill. It's the perfect size for two and it has the added benefit of being portable. Keep the heat out of the kitchen this summer and... more

Good dental hygiene isn't just for humans. Dogs need their teeth properly cared for too. But anyone who has tried to brush their dog's teeth knows that it's an impossible task. These Nylabone Nutri Dent Edible Dental Chews let your dog do the work. As your dog chews the brush-shaped treats, the chewing action cleans the teeth, removes plaque and tartar, and freshens your dog's breath. The chews are rich in nutrients, so they're... more

For anyone with pets and kids, mopping the floor is a daily task. But who wants to use harmful chemicals to get the job done? Steam cleaning doesn't require any chemicals to kill germs and remove grime. The Euro-Pro Shark Steam Mop is an electric 1500-watt steam mop that quickly produces steam across the floor, while the absorbent, micro-fiber pad wipes up any dirt in its path. Plus, it's lightweight, so you don't have... more

Even if you love the sun, when the temperature rises and the humidity soars, you may not want to sit directly under it. Make your own backyard shade with the Coolaroo Market Umbrella. This aluminum frame umbrella is 11 ft. wide and can be adjusted to three different angles to provide maximum protection from the sun. The umbrella fabric resists mold and mildew and takes nothing more than a garden hose and soap to... more

Bring a little bit of the outdoors into your home with a tank full of exotic fishes. With the Seaclear Rectangular Aquarium Combo you'll have the tank and lighting system to get you started. Then you can focus on the fun part of picking out the fish and decorating their new home. We like this aquarium because it's lightweight, so if you live in an apartment, you'll be able to transport it to your... more

Microbreweries have grown in popularity in recent years and even the giant companies are touting small-batch beers to compete. If you still haven't found the perfect beer, try making it at home. The Mr. Beer Premium Beer Brewing Kit has everything you need for your private-label brew, from the mix to the bottles. If you find you have a flair for being a brewmaster, you can experiment with the different refill kits, making pilsners,... more

There's no reason that a tool kit can't be functional and fun. The Diversitech Apollo Tool Kit proves the point with 135 pink-accented items neatly organized in their own carrying case. Our favorite is the hammer with a solid pink grip. It still hammers like the big boys, but is much more glamorous. All the basics are included here -- screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, and more -- so you can tackle the simple repair... more

Mold and insects. Two things you don't want in your home. Pull the excess moisture from the air and help keep those unwanted guests at bay. We like the DeLonghi DE400P Dehumidifier because you don't have to remember to empty the tray. It comes with a hose that will automatically drain water for you, saving you from having to remember to empty the dehumidifier every few days. Another plus for this appliance is its... more

Vitamix Turboblend 4500 2-Speed Blender Not all blenders are equal. And if you're going to splurge on one thing in the kitchen, this Vitamix TurboBlend 4500 2-Speed Blender is just the way to go. The 2-plus peak horsepower motor runs over 200 miles per hour to make the creamiest hummus and fruit smoothies in no time. The stainless steel enclosed blade assembly can even handle whole fruits and vegetables, stems and all... more

Summer means it's time to take the food outdoors. But there's nothing worse than swatting flies off of your potato salad. These pop-up mesh food tents can be placed over your food to keep out any pests. The small, medium, and large tents are tall and have a flat top so you don't have to worry about smashing the meringue on your pies. Plus, they can be folded away for easy storage.

Make your own delicious frozen concoctions this summer with a Cuisinart Ice Cream maker. What could be better than ice cream made with fresh strawberries or sorbet with just-ripe raspberries? There's even an all-in-one machine that makes and dispenses soft-serve ice cream and other cool treats. It has a place for cones and three dispensers for nuts, chocolate chips, or your add-in of choice. Most makers come with recipe books to get you... more

Plastic fans that sit on the floor may circulate the air, but they're not very attractive. It's surprisingly simple to install a beautiful ceiling fan instead. Craftmade International ceiling fans are made for every room and decor, indoors and on the patio. We particularly like the outdoor fans, which lend a Southern touch to evenings on the front porch, especially if you have a glass of real lemonade. And if you live in warmer... more

Gas prices may have come down since last summer, but if you want to keep a neatly-trimmed lawn without another thought about what's going on at the pumps, try the Scotts Classic Push Reel Mower. This multi-blade mower is height adjustable and there are no hassles with a pull-cord to get it started, so anyone in the family can take on lawn-care tasks. It's also quiet, so no hassles with the neighbors if you... more

Maybe you haven't packed away winter blankets or sweaters because there's no place to put them. If space is at a premium, these handcrafted trunks will double duty as a bench or coffee table. Store blankets or other items you don't need every day, but want quick access to. The look is rustic and the trunks are made the old-fashioned way. You won't find any laminate or particle board here.

Swing with your sweetie in Algoma's All Natural Double Hammock. The cotton rope hammock is 82 inches long and 58 inches wide, and is made to hang from the trees or on a custom stand. Take advantage of cool spring days to lounge around in the backyard, cocooned in a hammock reading the latest bestseller. When summer heats up, it's perfect for nighttime star gazing with your favorite amateur astronomer.

A heavy wool rug is perfect for keeping floors warm in the winter, but with temperatures rising, it's time for a change. We love these bamboo area rugs, not only because they look good, but because they're durable and have a non-skid backing. We know from experience that they don't slide around, even on hardwood or kitchen floors. They come in several shapes and sizes, and in lovely neutral shades or bold stripes and... more

How annoyed would you be if someone pulled on your neck to get you to turn or slow down? Your pet is not any happier about the traditional collar and leash set up. Use a harness instead, and take the pressure off of Spot's neck. You can still restrain him when he tries to dart after the neighbor's cat, but you won't run the risk of making him choke when you do it.

Making the perfect panini or grilled cheese sandwich is easy thanks to the Cuisinart G4 Indoor Grill. It sports an attractive stainless steel exterior, and comes with four griddle options. Use the grill side for burgers, chicken, and sandwiches. The flat griddle works well for pancakes and sausages. The cooking plates are nonstick and come out for easy cleanup. Rain or shine, you can have perfectly grilled sandwiches and veggies with this handy grill.