living room Archives

Science says these are the best things to have in your video background

A wacky background might get a chuckle on Zoom or any other video call, but it’s not doing any favors for your first impression. In fact, most of the frame in a video call is all about your backdrop — not just your spiffy outfit or new haircut.

Paddy Ross from Durham University in the U.K. says, “Your background speaks volumes. Beyond how you present yourself, it’s also about what surrounds you.”

Ross and his team took 72 snaps of 36 folks, split evenly between men and women, showcasing their best grins or a poker face. These faces were then digitally placed onto six different settings: A cozy living room, the same room but blurred, a scholarly bookcase, plants neatly arranged, a plain ol’ wall, and — for some fun — that walrus scene.

Well, 167 participants then had to rate the trustworthiness and know-how of the people in these snapshots, ranking them from one (not so hot) to seven (super trustworthy and competent). It’s like real-life reality TV!

The verdict

Those framed by books or plants earned top marks. Meanwhile, our walrus pals and living room settings didn’t fare so well. Somewhere in the middle were the blurred room and basic wall.

Interestingly, ladies in the unblurred living room were seen as competent as if they were with the plants or books. Men? Not so much. Ross believes more digging is needed to unravel why gents might get the short end of the stick in certain setups.

Oh, and if you’re wondering whether to smile or stay serious, go with the grin. Gents and ladies who smiled seemed more competent and trustworthy. Probably because, as Ross suggests, it oozes self-assurance.

😀 So, next time you’re on cam, remember: Backdrop and big smiles, folks!

Add a little ambiance to your home with these 13 upgrades

When you look around your home, does it make you feel relaxed? Comfortable? Maybe you’ve finally reached a point where you’re living in the lap of luxury.

No? Well, saddle up because all it takes is a new set of curtains here and an area rug there to make your home look radiant.

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Ways to stay cool

Oh, joy, there’s an excessive heat warning in Phoenix this week. If it’s hot where you are, too, I’ve got your back.

I’m a fan: Tower fans keep the air circulating. Pop one next to your bed, in your office, in the living room — wherever. This powerful model is only $38.
Bring out the big guns: I can’t sleep without AC. This BLACK+DECKER rolling portable unit cools up to 700 square feet — or gets your bedroom chilly.
Hot and bothered: Upgrade your pillows to these fluffy ones that always have that other-side-of-the-pillow coolness. They’re only $26, a whopping 78% off.
Don’t forget a summer blanket: This pretty waffle blanket comes in lots of colors and is 28% off right now.
For your desk: The strong, little USB-powered fan is only $6. Heck yeah.

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Summer essentials: 9 home gadgets under $25 on Amazon

This summer is the perfect time to invest in home gadgets. Get some smart tech, upgrade your office setup, improve your TV viewing experience and get the most from your essential oils.

Worried about the cost? Don’t be. You can get all the cool gadgets you need to improve your office, kitchen, living room, bathroom and even your garden, all for less than $25.

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Google's new augmented reality tool transports you to the other side of the Earth

Have you ever wondered where you would end up if you dug a hole straight through Earth? Standing in your backyard, shoveling directly down until you reach the other side, where would you be? Tap or click here to see how Google Maps’ new feature takes navigation to the next level (literally).

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Air purifiers for every room

It’s spring, which means it’s allergy season (and no, I’m not pollen your leg). Here are five great air purifiers to keep what you’re breathing in fresh and clean.

Great budget purifier for smaller spaces, like your home office.
A highly rated model for bedrooms of all sizes.
This Coway model is considered top-of-the-line for larger or open-plan spaces.
This Clorox-brand purifier is perfect for a bigger living room or even a whole floor if you have multiple stories.
Even your car can get a refresh with this portable option (20% off!).

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Build or decorate your dream home with this app

Anyone who owns a home understands that it is never actually finished, whether you build it from the ground up or buy an older home. There is always some project to work on, be it a remodeling of a kitchen or bathroom or maybe a simple redecoration.

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