Sarah23
Member Since: February 23, 2014Reviews
Tru Earth Laundry Detergent Sheets
I recently got to try Tru Earth Laundry Detergent Strips for free, and I was genuinely curious to see how they would compare to the liquid detergent I’ve always used. The idea of replacing bulky plastic bottles with thin, pre-measured strips... +
I recently got to try Tru Earth Laundry Detergent Strips for free, and I was genuinely curious to see how they would compare to the liquid detergent I’ve always used. The idea of replacing bulky plastic bottles with thin, pre-measured strips seemed almost too good to be true at first, but after using them for a few loads of laundry, I can honestly say I’m impressed.
The packaging is compact and lightweight, which already felt like a win before I even did any laundry. No plastic jugs, no spills, and no measuring. Using the strips was incredibly straightforward, I just tore one off, tossed it directly into the drum with my clothes, and started the cycle. The strip dissolved completely, even in cold water, and didn’t leave any residue behind. My clothes came out clean, soft, and fresh-smelling, but not in an overpowering way. I’m pretty sensitive to strong scents, so I appreciated how subtle and natural the fragrance was.
One of the things I really liked was how little effort it took. There was no mess, no guesswork, and no heavy containers to lift or store. It’s a simple switch that feels surprisingly impactful. Knowing that the product is made with a focus on reducing waste and cutting out harsh ingredients gave me even more confidence in what I was using, especially for laundry that includes towels and sheets that stay close to the skin.
While I’m still early in using them, my first impressions are very positive. I love how space-saving and efficient the whole system is, and the fact that it's more environmentally friendly is a major plus. It’s rare to find a product that actually lives up to both the convenience and sustainability it promises, but so far, Tru Earth has done just that.
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NOW Health B-12 Chewable Vitamins
I just got my bottle of NOW Health B-12 Chewable Vitamins and started trying them for free, and so far I’m really impressed with the experience. Even though it’s early days, the first thing I noticed was how pleasant the taste is mild and easy... +
I just got my bottle of NOW Health B-12 Chewable Vitamins and started trying them for free, and so far I’m really impressed with the experience. Even though it’s early days, the first thing I noticed was how pleasant the taste is mild and easy to take, without any of the chalky aftertaste some chewable supplements have. I’m looking forward to seeing how they help with my energy and focus, especially since B-12 is one of those vitamins that can make a real difference when you’re not getting enough through food alone.
What really stands out to me is the brand behind the product. NOW has been supporting Canadians since 2000, and learning that 70% of their products sold in Canada are actually made and packaged right in Guelph, Ontario, makes me feel even better about giving them a try. It’s not just a supplement it’s a product with roots in Canadian communities, employing people across the country and investing in quality at every level.
They also perform over 31,000 quality tests every month, which honestly gives me a lot of confidence in what I’m taking. Even though I’ve only just started using the B-12 chewables, I can already tell that this is a company that takes its mission seriously. I’m excited to keep using them and see how they fit into my daily routine.
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Hereward Farms - Lavish Infused Lavender Face Serum
I recently started using the Lavish Infused Lavender Face Serum from Hereward Farms, and I’ve been genuinely impressed by how it’s transformed my skin. Right from the first use, I noticed how rich and silky the texture felt. It absorbed... +
I recently started using the Lavish Infused Lavender Face Serum from Hereward Farms, and I’ve been genuinely impressed by how it’s transformed my skin. Right from the first use, I noticed how rich and silky the texture felt. It absorbed beautifully without feeling heavy or greasy, and my skin instantly felt more hydrated and nourished. I have dry patches that tend to flare up with weather changes, and within a few days, those areas felt much softer and looked healthier overall.
What I really love about this serum is the blend of lavender-infused almond and sunflower oils. It feels like my skin is actually being fed something it needs. The hydration lasts all day, and over time I’ve noticed a subtle but steady improvement in my complexion there’s more of a natural glow now, and my skin tone looks more even. The scent is also worth mentioning. It’s not overpowering, just a light, calming lavender that turns my skincare routine into a bit of a ritual. Especially in the evening, it’s the perfect way to wind down.
The serum feels clean and gentle, which is important to me, and knowing the lavender is grown organically on a Canadian farm gives the whole experience a personal and authentic touch. I’ve tried a lot of face oils and serums, but this one stands out for how balanced it is hydrating, soothing, and restorative all at once. I’ll definitely be keeping it in my routine moving forward.
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Hatch Coffee - Maple Oatado Flavor
I recently had the opportunity to try the Maple Oatado by Hatch, and it completely exceeded my expectations. This ready-to-drink coffee is not just convenient, it’s genuinely delicious in a way that feels carefully considered and crafted. Made... +
I recently had the opportunity to try the Maple Oatado by Hatch, and it completely exceeded my expectations. This ready-to-drink coffee is not just convenient, it’s genuinely delicious in a way that feels carefully considered and crafted. Made with smooth oat milk and lightly sweetened with real maple, it manages to strike that elusive balance between richness and subtlety. From the first sip, I could tell this wasn’t a rushed blend or a generic plant-based drink. Instead, it felt intentional, layered, and full of character. The base is Hatch’s Blackout coffee, a bold medium-dark roast that brings real depth and structure to the drink. The coffee flavour is strong and present, with a roasted warmth that lingers without veering into bitterness or acidity. It holds everything together, giving the Maple Oatado a grounded, full-bodied feel that you rarely find in shelf-stable coffee drinks.
The oat milk is wonderfully smooth, adding a creamy, slightly nutty backdrop that pairs beautifully with the boldness of the roast. It doesn’t thin out the drink or make it taste watery, which can often happen with plant-based milks in canned lattes. Instead, it adds to the texture and body, creating a soft, velvety mouthfeel that makes each sip feel satisfying and complete. Then there’s the maple, gently sweet, natural-tasting, and perfectly restrained. It’s not cloying or overpowering, but it’s definitely there, lending a cozy, familiar note that complements both the oat and the espresso. Together, the three elements, coffee, oat, and maple, create a flavour that’s rich, warm, and just indulgent enough. It really does taste like a maple oat latte you might get at your favourite café, but with the added benefit of being ready whenever you are.
One of the things I appreciated most about the Maple Oatado was its balance. Too often, canned or bottled coffee drinks lean heavily into sugar or artificial flavours to cover weak coffee, but Hatch clearly respects the coffee itself. They let it lead the experience, rather than masking it, and the result is a drink that feels both sophisticated and comforting. It’s the kind of beverage you can sip slowly and savour, or grab on your way out the door and still feel like you’re treating yourself to something thoughtful. Whether you're someone who drinks coffee daily or just likes to have a reliable plant-based option in the fridge, the Maple Oatado is an easy recommendation. It delivers quality, flavour, and convenience all in one, and it stands out as one of the best ready-to-drink oat milk coffees I’ve come across. Hatch has really elevated what a canned latte can be, and I’ll definitely be picking up more in the future.
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Chapman's Super Premium Plus Ice Cream Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
I got to try Chapman's Super Premium Plus Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream for free, and it genuinely surprised me. I’ve had cookie dough ice cream from a lot of brands over the years, and I usually expect a decent vanilla base with some... +
I got to try Chapman's Super Premium Plus Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream for free, and it genuinely surprised me. I’ve had cookie dough ice cream from a lot of brands over the years, and I usually expect a decent vanilla base with some frozen chunks of dough scattered throughout, but this one really raised the bar. Right away, the texture stood out. It was incredibly smooth and dense, with that rich, creamy consistency that you only get from high-butterfat ice cream. It didn’t melt too quickly or leave that airy, whipped feeling in your mouth. Instead, it felt substantial and indulgent, like a real dessert, not just a treat from the freezer aisle. The vanilla base was excellent on its own, flavourful and fragrant, not too sweet or artificial tasting. But the real star was the cookie dough itself. The chunks were soft, chewy, and generously sized, with a real homemade taste. They weren’t overly grainy or sugary like some other brands, and they blended perfectly into the ice cream without hardening into little rocks. There were also rich bits of chocolate throughout, and they tasted like actual chocolate chips, not waxy filler. What I loved most about it was the balance, every bite had just the right mix of creamy vanilla, sweet dough, and a bit of chocolate. It didn’t feel overloaded, and nothing dominated the experience. You could tell this wasn’t just a quick spin-off product. It was clearly developed with care, and it shows. The fact that it’s Canadian-made only adds to the appeal. I’ve always respected Chapman’s for its values and consistency, but this new Super Premium Plus line feels like a true evolution, something that can stand up to the expensive boutique brands and hold its own. I honestly wasn’t expecting to be this impressed, but now that I’ve had it, I’ll definitely be reaching for it again. This is cookie dough ice cream done right. -
OGX® Bond Protein Repair Shampoo
I got to try the OGX® Bond Protein Repair Shampoo for free, and from the first wash, I could already tell this was different from most shampoos I’ve used in the past. I’ve always struggled to find that perfect balance in a shampoo, something... +
I got to try the OGX® Bond Protein Repair Shampoo for free, and from the first wash, I could already tell this was different from most shampoos I’ve used in the past. I’ve always struggled to find that perfect balance in a shampoo, something that cleanses thoroughly without stripping my hair, that leaves it soft but not weighed down, and that actually contributes to the health of my hair rather than just the appearance. Somehow, this shampoo manages to do all of that and more.
The texture right out of the bottle is creamy and smooth, but still lightweight. It lathers gently, not with the kind of harsh foam you get from sulfated formulas, but with a soft, almost cushiony feel as you work it through your hair. Despite the fact that it’s free of sulfated surfactants and parabens, it cleans surprisingly well. I have straight hair that can sometimes get oily at the roots but dry and fragile at the ends, so a lot of shampoos either leave my scalp squeaky and stripped or my hair too heavy and flat. This shampoo struck the perfect middle ground. It left my hair feeling clean, fresh, and light, but never dry or stiff. It rinsed out easily and didn’t leave behind any residue or film.
The scent is fresh and subtle. It has that clean, slightly floral scent that OGX is known for pleasant without being overpowering. What I appreciated most is that it didn’t linger too strongly once my hair dried, just left a soft, clean fragrance that made my hair feel even more refreshed.
After drying my hair, I noticed an immediate difference. My strands felt smoother to the touch, less tangled, and more manageable overall. My hair had a natural shine to it that didn’t look greasy or forced it just looked healthy. And that’s really the best word I can use to describe the results: healthy. There was a softness and movement to my hair that I usually only get after a salon treatment. My scalp felt calm and balanced, not tight or irritated, and the ends of my hair didn’t feel brittle like they often do after a deep cleanse.
The most impressive part, though, is how it feels like this shampoo is actually contributing to the strength of my hair over time. According to the product description, it helps protect the lipid and protein barrier in your hair, which sounded technical at first but now makes perfect sense. After continued use, my hair has become noticeably stronger. It’s shedding less when I brush it, the ends aren’t snapping off as easily, and even after styling with heat tools, I feel like my hair holds its shape better and feels less fragile. That’s something I’ve never really experienced from a shampoo before.
It’s also worth noting how gentle it feels. This formula has such a light touch no harsh stripping, no artificial slickness, just a genuine sense of balance. It does its job quietly and effectively, and it leaves your hair in a better state than it found it. For someone like me who washes their hair regularly and doesn’t want to compromise on cleanliness or care, that’s a huge win.
Using this shampoo has felt like pressing a reset button on my hair. It’s no longer just about washing away the dirt or oil of the day it’s about starting fresh with each wash, knowing that I’m supporting the long-term health of my hair instead of gradually wearing it down. Every time I use it, I feel like I’m giving my hair a little extra care, a little extra reinforcement, without having to do anything beyond my normal routine. That’s something I deeply appreciate.
To sum it all up, this shampoo has earned a permanent place in my shower. It’s gentle, effective, beautifully balanced, and actually helps my hair feel and look stronger, smoother, and healthier with every use. If you’re someone who wants a shampoo that does more than just clean and especially if you’re mindful about ingredients and avoiding sulfates and parabens, this is absolutely worth trying. It’s one of the rare haircare products that feels simple to use but delivers results that are anything but ordinary.
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OGX® Bond Protein Repair Sealing Serum
I got to try the OGX® Bond Protein Repair Sealing Serum for free, and from the very first use, I was genuinely surprised by how much I liked it. I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect going in, but this serum quickly proved itself to be one of... +
I got to try the OGX® Bond Protein Repair Sealing Serum for free, and from the very first use, I was genuinely surprised by how much I liked it. I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect going in, but this serum quickly proved itself to be one of those rare products that not only delivers on its promises, but actually improves the way your hair feels day after day. I have naturally straight hair, and while it’s generally easy to manage, it’s also delicate, prone to breakage, and easily affected by the weather or heat styling. I’ve tried a lot of serums over the years, some too heavy, some too greasy, some that made my hair feel sticky or flat, but this one got it just right.
The consistency of the serum is one of the first things that stood out to me. It has a lightweight, gel-like texture that spreads easily through damp hair without clumping or creating that oily film that I’ve come to dread from other products. It feels smooth and fresh in the hand, and when applied to the hair, it sinks in almost immediately. I used one or two pumps, running it through the mid-lengths and ends of my hair, and it felt like it coated the strands just enough to add a protective layer without leaving behind any residue or buildup. Straight hair can get greasy fast with the wrong kind of product, but this serum left my hair feeling clean and light, which was a huge plus right from the start.
After drying, the difference was instantly noticeable. My hair felt softer to the touch, like it had been moisturized from within, not just smoothed over on the surface. There was a silkiness and movement that felt effortless, and it didn’t take any extra styling to achieve it. The shine was subtle and natural, not overly glossy or fake-looking, just healthy, well-maintained hair that looked and felt stronger. What surprised me even more was how this effect seemed to build over time. With regular use, my hair didn’t just feel softer, it started behaving better overall. Fewer tangles, fewer split ends, less breakage when brushing or styling. There’s a quiet confidence that comes from knowing your hair isn’t just styled to look good for the day, it’s actually healthier underneath.
One of the most impressive things about this serum is how targeted it feels. It doesn’t coat the hair in a generic way, it actually seems to find the areas that need extra help, like the ends, and seals them in a way that smooths without flattening. There’s something incredibly satisfying about running your fingers through your hair and not feeling the usual dryness or damage. It feels as if each strand has been gently repaired and sealed, creating a more even texture from root to tip.
The scent is light and pleasant, which is something I always appreciate. It has a clean, almost airy fragrance that lingers just enough without overwhelming. It leaves your hair smelling fresh throughout the day, and I’ve had a few compliments on it already, even though it’s not a strong or perfumy scent. It just smells like your hair is clean and cared for, which in my opinion is the ideal outcome.
What I appreciate most about this serum is how easy it is to incorporate into a regular routine. It doesn’t require a complicated regimen or any special instructions. You can apply it to damp hair before styling, and it does the rest. I’ve also tried using a tiny bit on dry hair to tame flyaways or give the ends a bit of a refresh, and it works beautifully without making anything look oily or weighed down. It’s incredibly versatile and forgiving, even if you’re someone who doesn’t usually use styling products.
After several weeks of consistent use, I can confidently say that my hair feels noticeably stronger. There’s a kind of resilience to it now that I didn’t have before. It’s not just about appearance, though my hair definitely looks shinier and smoother, it’s about how it holds up to the wear and tear of daily life. Whether I’m brushing it, pulling it back, or blow-drying it, it feels like it has more elasticity, more strength. The serum has helped restore a sense of vitality that I didn’t realize my hair was missing until I experienced the change.
All in all, I’m genuinely impressed with what this serum has done for my hair. It’s one of the few products I’ve used that makes a real difference without requiring a major lifestyle change or hours in front of the mirror. It fits seamlessly into my day, and each time I use it, my hair feels a little better than the day before. For anyone with straight hair that’s in need of a little extra strength and smoothness, this serum is absolutely worth a try. It’s lightweight, effective, and above all, it delivers a kind of quiet confidence that comes from having hair that looks and feels truly healthy.
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OGX® Bond Protein Repair Conditioner
I received the OGX® Bond Protein Repair Conditioner for free to try, and I’m honestly so glad I did because I might not have picked it up on my own otherwise, and now I can’t imagine my shower routine without it. To start, a little... +
I received the OGX® Bond Protein Repair Conditioner for free to try, and I’m honestly so glad I did because I might not have picked it up on my own otherwise, and now I can’t imagine my shower routine without it.
To start, a little background: I have naturally straight hair that’s fine to medium in texture, and while it’s not overly damaged, it is prone to dryness, tangles, and dullness, especially after frequent heat styling and the occasional color treatment. I’m always on the hunt for products that can repair without weighing my hair down or leaving behind a greasy residue. That’s a pretty tall order… but OGX® Bond Protein Repair Conditioner completely exceeded my expectations.
Right out of the bottle, I noticed how smooth and creamy the texture was. It has a rich consistency, but it’s not heavy or waxy like some deep conditioners. It glides effortlessly through my hair, and it’s easy to work it evenly from mid-length to ends without overdoing it. The scent is another win. Clean, fresh, and softly floral without being overpowering. It lingers just enough to make your hair smell amazing throughout the day, but it won’t clash with your perfume or body lotion.
The real magic happened after I rinsed it out. Even before drying, my hair felt significantly smoother, like it had been infused with moisture, but somehow stayed light and bouncy. Once dry (I blow-dried as usual), I couldn’t believe how soft, shiny, and silky it looked. I actually kept touching it just because it felt that good. And let me say: as someone with straight hair, it can be a challenge to find that balance between moisture and volume. Most repairing conditioners leave my hair looking flat or oily by the next day, but not this one. It gave me the strength and softness I wanted without any buildup or heaviness.
OGX claims this conditioner helps protect the hair’s lipid and protein barrier, and that definitely tracks with what I’ve seen. Over the past couple of weeks, my hair has become noticeably stronger and healthier-looking. I’ve had fewer tangles (which means less breakage from brushing), and my ends feel far less brittle than they did before. The formula is also free from parabens and sulfated surfactants, which is a major plus if you’re trying to be more conscious of what you put on your body and into the environment.
One of the boldest claims on the bottle is that you’ll notice a difference in one wash, and I did. But I think what impressed me even more is how the benefits build over time. My hair keeps improving with each use. It feels like this conditioner is not just a quick fix but actually helping to rebuild and protect my hair’s inner structure. That’s something I rarely find in drugstore products at this price point.
Another thing I appreciate is how easy it is to integrate into a normal routine. You don’t have to leave it on for 10 minutes or follow it with a separate mask or serum. It’s one step, and it works.
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Everist The Shampoo Concentrate Travel Mini
I got to try this for free and I’ve always assumed that shampoo is shampoo maybe with some minor differences in ingredients or scent, but generally the same across the board. Everist completely changed that assumption. This isn’t just a more... +
I got to try this for free and I’ve always assumed that shampoo is shampoo maybe with some minor differences in ingredients or scent, but generally the same across the board. Everist completely changed that assumption. This isn’t just a more sustainable product (though the reusable mini tin and plastic-free packaging are a huge win). It’s genuinely different in how it feels, how it performs, and how it leaves my hair.
At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The texture is more like a thick cream than a typical liquid shampoo. You scoop out a small amount about the size of a large marble and lather it between your wet hands to activate it. It doesn't foam up the way traditional shampoos do right away, but once it mixes with water and hits your hair, it builds into a surprisingly rich, creamy lather. The first time I used it, I underestimated how much water you need to really get that lather going, but once I figured it out, the experience was honestly luxurious.
I’ve started doing a double cleanse like they recommend just a tiny bit for the first round to break up oil and buildup, and then my usual amount to really lather and clean. My hair feels cleaner than it has in a long time, but not stripped. That’s the thing that stood out most to me: it’s powerful without being harsh. No tight, squeaky feeling on my scalp, no dryness. Just clean, soft hair that doesn’t get oily as quickly afterward. My scalp even feels calmer somehow less itchy and irritated by the end of the day.
Scent-wise, it’s subtle and fresh, not overpowering or perfumey, which I love. The ingredients list reads more like skincare than shampoo, and my hair and scalp are definitely benefitting from it. I also love that it’s glycerin-based and includes aloe and bond repair this is the first time I’ve actually noticed bond repair doing something, and I’ve tried some of the big name brands.
This travel size has come with me to the gym and on a weekend trip, and the tin is sturdy and leak-proof. It’s so much easier than lugging around a bulky plastic bottle, and it takes up almost no space in my bag. But honestly, even for regular use at home, I’d consider switching to the full size. There’s something satisfying about using a product that works really well and makes me feel better about what I’m putting down the drain.
If you’ve ever been let down by “clean” or zero-waste shampoos that felt like a compromise, this is different. It’s smarter, more effective, and genuinely luxurious to use. I didn’t expect a shampoo to become something I looked forward to using, but here we are.
- Product gifted by Everist Canada.
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Everist The Deep Conditioning Concentrate Travel Mini
I got to try this for free and I’ve tried a lot of hair products over the years: drugstore, salon, “clean” brands, you name it. My hair is fine but thick, gets oily quickly at the scalp, and the ends can get dry and tangled if I don’t keep... +
I got to try this for free and I’ve tried a lot of hair products over the years: drugstore, salon, “clean” brands, you name it. My hair is fine but thick, gets oily quickly at the scalp, and the ends can get dry and tangled if I don’t keep up with conditioning. So I’m always on the lookout for something that actually works without weighing everything down or making my scalp feel greasy. I came across Everist’s Deep Conditioning Concentrate when I was looking for more eco-friendly products, and it immediately caught my eye because of the packaging, it’s in this compact little metal tin, totally plastic-free, and I loved the idea of something so travel-friendly and sustainable.
But what actually impressed me was what was inside. This isn’t just your standard conditioner in a cute tin. It’s thick like, really thick, more like a rich hand cream or balm than any conditioner I’ve used before. At first I thought, no way this is going to spread through my hair, but the trick is to rub it between wet hands until it thins out, and then apply it to soaking wet hair. Once I figured that out, it was a total game changer. It glides through surprisingly well and you really don’t need a lot. I use about a marble-sized amount for my shoulder-length hair, and that’s plenty.
The results after the first wash honestly shocked me. My hair felt softer, smoother, and somehow lighter all at once. Usually when I use a deep conditioner, I can feel a bit of residue or extra weight, but not with this. My ends looked healthy and shiny, and even after air-drying, my hair didn’t have that fluffy, frizzy look it normally gets. It’s like it gave my hair a reset. And the best part? My scalp felt amazing. I struggle with mild irritation and flakiness from time to time especially in dry weather, but this actually seemed to soothe it. I read that it has over 20% aloe vera and a ton of glycerin, which makes sense because it really felt like skincare for my scalp.
After a couple weeks of using it, I also started using it as a deep treatment once a week, leaving it in for about 15 minutes before rinsing. That’s when I really noticed a difference in the manageability of my hair. Detangling is easier, I don’t get those weird dry knots at the nape of my neck anymore, and my hair just feels healthier overall less breakage, more shine. I’ve even had a few people comment on how nice my hair looks, which never used to happen.
Beyond the performance, I really respect what Everist is trying to do. Most conditioners are over 70% water and packed in single-use plastic. This product completely flips that on its head. It’s concentrated, made without water as the main ingredient, and feels like it’s made with purpose. The sustainability piece isn’t just a gimmick, it’s backed by serious formulation. I’ve used “green” products before that didn’t work or felt like a compromise. This doesn’t. It works better than most of the traditional brands I’ve tried.
I didn’t expect to get this excited about a conditioner, but here we are. I’ve already ordered the full size and plan to keep the mini for my gym bag. If you’re trying to simplify your routine, cut down on waste, or just want a conditioner that actually does what it promises, softens, strengthens, and soothes without the extra fluff, I’d highly recommend giving this one a try. It’s not cheap, but a little goes a long way, and honestly? My hair has never looked better.
- Product gifted by Everist Canada.
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