Indoor Living

The spate of cooking shows on TV might tempt you to replace your tired pots and pans. But don't think the most expensive cookware is the best. Some chef-endorsed sets were among the highest-priced we tested, and they didn't do as well as brands that were far less expensive.

The price of a pillow isn't necessarily an indication of its quality. And given the wide-ranging variety of pillows on the market, personal preference--in firmness, fluffiness, size, and more--is probably the biggest factor in finding a pillow that will help you get a good night's sleep. Use our advice so you get a pillow that not only fits your budget but is also comfortable and durable.

Got the dropsies? Vinyl is still tops for resisting dings and dents. But our tests show that the best bamboo and oak flooring can fend off most other wear and tear for about the same price. Our tough tests revealed which types of flooring best resisted everyday wear, scuffs and scratches.

When it comes to slurping up spills, some paper towels really do "bring it," which is Bounty's challenge to the messy among us. Among the nearly two dozen products we tested, two Bounty products were best, but a third version absorbed less than its brand mates.

Wood decking has a warmth that synthetic decks lack. But you pay a price in maintenance: Wind, rain, summer sun, and winter snow can take a noticeable toll on its finish in only a few months. Some deck treatments can lighten your workload by lasting longer before they have to be reapplied.