wonderwhatif
Member Since: January 26, 2015Reviews
Canada Dry Premium Ginger Ale
I’ve always enjoyed Ginger Ale once in a while, but I’d never describe it as my favourite drink. I find the idea of a Premium drink a little amusing, but actually after trying it, you can consider me a convert. This tastes so much better than... +
I’ve always enjoyed Ginger Ale once in a while, but I’d never describe it as my favourite drink. I find the idea of a Premium drink a little amusing, but actually after trying it, you can consider me a convert. This tastes so much better than regular Ginger Ale that it’s insane. I’m not often a fan of overly sweet things and this is made with real Cane sugar, but it doesn’t taste teeth-achingly sweet. The sugar combines with the ginger flavour and creates a lovely smooth, sweet (but not overly so) taste that’s really delicious.
It comes in a really cute, expensive feeling and looking glass bottle with a proper metal cap, adding to the premium feel.
If you have the spare budget, or are having an event, this would be a brilliant thing to have and I can’t praise the taste enough.
The only negative to watch out for is the sugar level. As a diabetic, it’s the kind of thing I would buy as a treat and it’s not suitable to drink all the time on a low-sugar lifestyle. I think it’s worth the extra sugar to get a delicious taste like this though, just don’t overdo it!
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Royale Velour Ultra Plush
Whether or not you like this toilet paper depends on the angle you're coming from. I buy warehouse brand TP because value and roll size is important to me. So even when a big brand like this advertises 'triple' rolls, I'm shocked at how small they... +
Whether or not you like this toilet paper depends on the angle you're coming from. I buy warehouse brand TP because value and roll size is important to me. So even when a big brand like this advertises 'triple' rolls, I'm shocked at how small they are. If they were 3-ply, I'd be happier to pay a premium and rate them higher, but at 2-ply I just feel the value is low for me.
What I can and will praise them on is the thickness. While these 'plush' tissues are not crazy soft or quilted compared to my usual brand, they are definitely thicker. Though the squares are quite small, I find I use a lot less squares because of that plushness. It also means you never get the dreaded 'finger-through' issue.
Overall, if you buy regular TP, you'll enjoy the plushness and roll size, but if budget and size is your biggest issue, you'll be disappointed.
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One Touch Advanced Hand Sanitizer Gel with Aloe Vera
This version of the bottle has a pump top, designed to be used straight from the bottle in high traffic areas (or just if you prefer). If you need one with a non-pump top, that's also available here on Amazon! The first thing I checked on this hand... +
This version of the bottle has a pump top, designed to be used straight from the bottle in high traffic areas (or just if you prefer). If you need one with a non-pump top, that's also available here on Amazon!
The first thing I checked on this hand sanitiser was if it was on Health Canada's approved list as it's the most important thing. One Touch Hand Sanitiser Gel IS on there. You won't find it by name search, but if you look up the DIN (drug identification number) as recommended by Health Canada you'll find it. Often when searching databases it's better to go by numbers as names can be off for any number of reasons (hyphens, capitalisation etc.) depending on how the database was made.
I'm thrilled that this is on the list of approved sanitisers, which means you can 100 percent trust it.
If you're looking for a Sanitiser that's effective against COVID and other illness causing germs, being on the list means it's appropriate for that.
Another thing I like about it is that it is unscented. The only thing you smell is the alcohol. The aloe also feels like it doesn't harm my hands as much and adds a nice element for those who are using sanitiser more often (as we all are in this climate).
It's effective, scent-free and comfortable to use I would definitely buy it in the future!
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Cuisinart 11-pc Stainless Steel Nesting Cookware Set
Cuisinart is lauded for their quality in pots and pans and when you get a set like this, you realise why. Comparing them to cheapie pots is like chalk and cheese. Some people may prefer non-stick, but there's been a lot of push back against... +
Cuisinart is lauded for their quality in pots and pans and when you get a set like this, you realise why. Comparing them to cheapie pots is like chalk and cheese. Some people may prefer non-stick, but there's been a lot of push back against non-stick recently, since they can be dangerous when they get worn over time. Most professionals use stainless steel and even if it gets scratched a set like this will last you and work well for a long time.
The downside, of course, is that things can stick to the pans. Make sure you do some research on cooking with stainless steel and change your habits if this is the type of cookware you want. I find the heat is really even and it cooks a lot better at lower temps than non-stick.
The handles here don't get too hot, but you can always use a glove or handle cover. It's a great selection of sizes and types, with each pot or pan having a branded 'lip' on the side that allows them to stack inside each other. The three pans stack together and the three pots stack together. The lids can go in a handily provided lid rack. I like that the lid rack is compact and neat, the perfect size for the lids that come with the set, it doesn't take up excess room.
If you keep your pots and pans in a cupboard, like I do, the nesting is really a great way to keep them neat. Otherwise, you'll enjoy the quality, beautiful look and performance of this Nesting Cookware Set.
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PAWZ Road Multi-Level Floor to Ceiling Cat Tree
I've used a number of Pawz Road Cat Trees and while I find the durability and life length is about average compared to other cat trees (and better in some cases), the value, price-point and great designs are really what I enjoy about them. This is... +
I've used a number of Pawz Road Cat Trees and while I find the durability and life length is about average compared to other cat trees (and better in some cases), the value, price-point and great designs are really what I enjoy about them. This is the cat tree for those who want something mammoth. It's taller than I am and goes only a couple of inches short of my admittedly low ceilings.
The design has lots of clever spots, the first thing I noticed is that my cats absolutely adore jumping to the top and scratching that upper post and even the other two. With many scratching posts in the past they only scratch the lower posts and you end up with uneven wear, I'm seeing a lot more even use here. I wonder if it's because the top pole makes it feel more steady and they feel comfortable scratching at any height.
Two parts of the tree that my cats don't use, but yours might, is the hammock bed and the bowl. I left the bowl out as they are on a timed feeder. You can use the bowl for treats, but my cats equally enjoy playing through the hole were the bowl used to be.
I was really happy about the brush on the lower level. I've had a lot of 'self-petting' cat toys and mine usually ignore then, but my old guy took to the lower brush right away. He loves to rub his cheeks on it and sometimes tug the bristles. I've never seen him do that with any of the plastic designs, so the bristles really seemed to agree with him.
All three cats love the nooks and houses, but never seem to use the round bed. My boys and girl are quite big, so maybe it's just a tad small for them. I feel they get enough use out of this tree that I'm happy, they sleep and play there a lot and often use it for scratching. Even once the novelty of the 'higher than me' perch wore off a little, they are still found up there quite often. As the design is very square, it works best in a corner, just make sure you have enough room there or somewhere else, it's a big cat tower.
Assembly-wise, it's very simple and clearly laid out. All assembly can by done with the provided Allen key and it took my partner and I around thirty minutes (at a slow pace). If you're short you might need a step-stool or tall friend to help out on the upper sections. Another thing of note is that if you have low ceilings (mine are on the high-side of low, but still lower than normal folks), the spring-loaded tension rod might be too long. It was an easy issue to solve by lopping the end off with a jigsaw, but most mid-high ceilings shouldn't have any issue whatsoever.
I expect it will last a year plus before showing signifigant wear, given my past experience with cat trees and towers and this brand. I have three cats, so it can go a little quickly, but what I really like about Pawz Road is that they wear at the same rate as more expensive cat trees (they all go pretty fast), but also don't have any chemical smells or flaws. They are pretty well-made and I would recommend this one for those that need a large scale tree!
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ALINK Airtight Food Storage Containers
I was really excited about these Alink airtight storage containers. When I received them they seemed perfect. I really liked how the airtight lid was easy to work, just turning the handle like a big switch and they pushed in easily. After checking... +
I was really excited about these Alink airtight storage containers. When I received them they seemed perfect. I really liked how the airtight lid was easy to work, just turning the handle like a big switch and they pushed in easily. After checking that they were dishwasher safe (both on the listing and the dishwasher symbol on the containers themselves), my love affair with these storage containers ended.
After dishwashing the first thing I noticed was the lid issue (also mentioned by Jason R). Water gets stuck inside the lids and is difficult to drain, leading to mold concerns. This wasn't the worst of it though. One of the containers was completely warped in shape and no longer square, so the lid wouldn't fit. Ok, I thought, just let everyone know not to dishwash them, but they are still usable.
The next day I decided to fill them. When opening the lid, the parts of the lid flew outwards, almost breaking my glass jars on the counter. Luckily it hadn't been pointed at my face. You see, the lid mechanism is basically a spring inside attached to the flip handles. My hypothesis is that the dishwasher weakened the plastic tabs holding these panels on, so the spring pressure simply snapped them and the while lid flew apart.
Out of seven containers, I have three left with usable lids, even though it's only been a day. I'm aware that they could break at any moment, forcing me to transfer the contents to something else. So these are actually NOT dishwasher safe. It makes me worry about what else is a lie. It's possible if you don't wash them they will be just fine, but given the high price point, shoddy quality and straight up lies printed on the package, listing and actual product, I would not trust these to hold a single grain of rice.
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ReaLemon Flavour Infusions - Garlic
This lemon juice with added garlic flavour is exactly what it sounds like: your traditional ReaLemon lemon juice with a splash of garlic oil for a stronger flavour. I was surprised at just how strong the garlic flavour was, so I would definitely use... +
This lemon juice with added garlic flavour is exactly what it sounds like: your traditional ReaLemon lemon juice with a splash of garlic oil for a stronger flavour. I was surprised at just how strong the garlic flavour was, so I would definitely use this in small doses. I tried it in a stir fry where it brought out a very nice flavour in the recipe, with just a hint of garlic and lemon by the time everything was done cooking.
I've also used it in salad dressings and curries. It's perfect for adding more of a flavour to healthier foods and making them delicious, keeping you on track of your plans to improve your health! Since there's no added sugars and stuff, you don't need to worry about impacting your family's health either.
The bottle itself is quite small but the top of the bottle does not have any kind of special nozzle to prevent you from pouring a lot of the lemon juice out, so be careful when pouring.
One aspect of the bottle’s design that I thought was really smart is the small strip on the front which has been left transparent. This allows you to see clearly how much liquid is left in the bottle, and they’ve even made little marks to show you when it’s 3/4 full, half full, and then almost done. This way you never have to guess how much is left in the bottle. There’s even a helpful suggestion for when to buy more so you don’t run out.
Overall I think this ReaLemon Flavour Infusion is a good addition to your fridge. It’s not a replacement for keeping normal lemon juice on hand, as the garlic flavour is a bit too strong for some things, but you can add it to any recipe to give a zingy garlic flavour that was popular with my whole family.
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Mifold Hifold
The Hifold Adjustable Booster seat by Mifold is a great example of something that seems complicated, but once you use it it’s very simple and clear. If this is your first booster seat, you’ll want to dedicate some time alone to figure out how to... +
The Hifold Adjustable Booster seat by Mifold is a great example of something that seems complicated, but once you use it it’s very simple and clear. If this is your first booster seat, you’ll want to dedicate some time alone to figure out how to adjust it, outside of the car, but there’s a huge benefit to Hifold over other booster seats and that’s the fact that it is so adjustable.
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Design
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The Hifold Booster seat design is exceedingly clever. Each of the sections can be expanded, folded or unfolded or widened in some way, which allows it to be made bigger as your child grows. Which means, you only need to buy this one booster seat for all the required ages (depending on local law). It also doesn’t LOOK like a baby seat. So older kids won’t be as annoyed at having to sit in it.
This cool racer red design is actually similar to the style of popular Gaming Chair, so if they’re at the age where they don’t want to sit in a booster anymore, but it’s still required by law, it’s going to be easier to convince them with the look of the Hifold.
It’s a bit tricky to figure out how to use it at first and while the guide is clear, I feel it is still a bit confusing. Just take it slowly and try one adjustment at a time and once you’ve done it once, you’ll easily remember how as it’s actually quite intuitive, once you notice the guides for the straps and the levers to pull.
Another thing I liked is that they’ve thought of everything, there’s space under the seat cushion for the instruction booklet, so you’ll never be stuck and confused. As well as that, the fact that it folds up and becomes transportable is a big boon to parents on the go. If you don’t have your own car, or frequently need to take ubers or lifts from friends, the Hifold Booster Seat can come with you. It’s not super light, but it’s not unbearably heavy either, it weighs about as much as a laptop bag with the laptop inside or a heavy bag of groceries.
It’s a shame that it isn’t rated for air travel or Australia (there’s been delays on the certification there), but being allowed in most other countries and situations means that Hifold travels really well.
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Quality
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The quality is impressive, it’s not just good looks, but great functionality as well! The Hifold Booster Seat is quite sturdy, especially given its adaptability. The covers are all well-made and look fantastic. They are thick and rough enough that I don’t foresee a problem with durability and I’m thrilled that the covers are machine washable, given the amount of spillages (and sometimes puke related issues) that happen in a car.
The only thing I didn’t love was the carrying strap, which I felt was a bit cheap and rubbish feeling compared to the otherwise high quality of the rest of the seat.
It gives the impression and feel of a product from a professional company and I’m not surprised that Mifold has received a lot of praise about the Hifold Booster Seat. I’m happy to add to that praise with the positive experience I’m having with it.
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Value
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While the price point of $199.99 (at time of review) is higher than some booster seats, it’s lower than others that aren’t adjustable. I’m impressed with the value, given that it is so versatile, great quality and functionally works really well. Tons of the value lies in the portability of the Hifold, but I also can’t discount how valuable it is to have something that will last through the years. On top of that, the design being more stylish and less child-like really appeals to kids of a certain age.
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Summary
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The Mifold Hifold (It’s a bit of a mouthful!) Adjustable Booster Seat has it all. It can travel from vehicle to vehicle and even country to country, it looks cool, it’s durable and it’s safe. The negatives are incredibly minor and given the reasonable price point and high value, it’s the best Booster seat I’ve tried so far!
Pros:
+ Extremely portable (move from car to car, travel with it etc.)
+ Not too heavy (Laptop bag or heavy grocery bag is comparable.
+ Cool designs that don’t look as ‘babyish’ for older kids.
+ Easy to use once you know the trick.
+ Manual is good (but could also be dumbed down a lot for ease of use).
+ Storage for the manual under the seat cushion.
+ Adjustable and can ‘grow’ with your children.
+ Washable covers.
Cons:
- Not yet rated in Australia.
- Can’t use on planes.
- Shoulder strap feels a little cheap.
Recommended: Yes! If a Booster seat can have it all, the Hifold is it.
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INSTACHEW Rover Travel Bottle
I loved a different Instachew product and was really excited about the Rover Travel bottle, but I was shocked at just how ineffective it was, especially given the higher price point. The quality was very good, but that's probably the only positive... +
I loved a different Instachew product and was really excited about the Rover Travel bottle, but I was shocked at just how ineffective it was, especially given the higher price point. The quality was very good, but that's probably the only positive for me. When trying to get the water to come out, it comes out so slowly in a trickle that it's difficult to fill the bowl. You have to tip it all the way up to get the water to start flowing and then it will spill out quickly before it's even part way full. On top of that, when it's locked water still drips out when the bottle is tipped.
I loved the idea of dual compartments because I wanted to use it fully for water, but because each compartment is separate there's no way to get the second water section without taking a section out and attaching the second directly to the bowl. It's annoying and you risk spilling it instead of a simple channel system like from the bowl to the first compartment. It won't matter if you're using it for kibble, but for more water, it doesn't work well.
Thirdly, the hole for putting the carry strap through is tiny, so the carry strap doesn't fit. When forced, the wire came out of the carry strap and couldn't be put back in.
The designs needs a rethink to match the quality and look of the product, because with an item like this, function is the most important thing.
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Three Farmer's Pea Pops
At some point in the last few years I have started to notice that roasted peas are becoming a much more popular snack option as an alternative to potato chips. I’d never tried them until now, and I find that they have a great crunch and a very... +
At some point in the last few years I have started to notice that roasted peas are becoming a much more popular snack option as an alternative to potato chips. I’d never tried them until now, and I find that they have a great crunch and a very nice taste. I tried the ranch-flavoured Pea Pops and was initially a little worried about the ranch flavour being too strong, but it turns out the flavouring is light and not at all overwhelming.
Roasted peas are light and crunchy with very little flavour on their own. They don’t really taste like peas, and they’re not too hard, so you don’t feel like you’re crunching on something really tough. They’re a great snack because they’re filling but not heavy on the stomach. Because they're not greasy or coated you can eat them while doing something else or watching TV without getting your hands dirty. Each pack of pea pops is a small snack-size portion of 28g, not quite enough to keep you full between meals but an easy snack to have when you feel just a little peckish.
Nutrition-wise there’s just 100 calories in each pack, with 18g of carbohydrates (4 of fiber and 1 of sugar). One pack has about 9% of your daily sodium and 6g of protein, and they’re vegan and GMO-free.
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