Note: Summer in America requires serious preparation for yard care and outdoor days. These two products became essential parts of my summer routine.
1. Electric Lawn Mower: The Gas Era Is Over
Most American homes have a front yard. If you have a weekly mowing responsibility, should you get a gas mower or electric? In recent years, the electric option has matured seriously.
EGO Power+ vs Greenworks: Two Popular Choices
Corded or battery-powered electric lawn mowers are now a strong competitor to gas alternatives for small to medium yards. EGO Power+ and Greenworks are the two most popular brands in this category.
- EGO Power+ (56V): The most powerful battery model. About 45-60 min run time, self-propelled option available. Around $350-500. Preferred for larger yards.
- Greenworks (40V or 60V): More affordable (~$200-350), sufficient for small to medium yards. Battery platform is compatible with other Greenworks tools. Same battery works for hedger, trimmer.
- Advantages (general): Easy maintenance (no fuel, oil, spark plug), quiet operation (good for neighbor relations), starts instantly.
- Disadvantages: Battery charge time can be limiting, may not last a full mow for very large yards. 45 minutes to 1 hour run time is typical for cordless models.
- Who is it for: People with medium-sized yards who want convenience and are tired of gas smell and maintenance.
View on Amazon: EGO Power+ Electric Lawn Mower →
View on Amazon: Greenworks Electric Lawn Mower →
Gas vs. Electric? Quick Decision Guide:
- Yard under 1/4 acre (about 1000 m2): Electric is enough
- Yard between 1/4 and 1/2 acre: Good battery electric (EGO 56V) or gas
- Yard over 1/2 acre: Gas or ride-on model
HOA Warning: In many American neighborhoods, HOA (homeowners association) rules are strict about grass length. During the seasons when you need to mow weekly (spring-summer), your mower needs to be in working condition.
2. Sunscreen: A Daily Necessity in America
In Turkey, we usually bought sunscreen only for vacation. In America, especially in sunny states like Florida, California, and Texas, sunscreen becomes a daily routine. Which SPF, which format, which brand?
Sunscreen Picks: Specific Recommendations
There are hundreds of sunscreen options on Amazon. Here are some of the most recommended brands:
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 100 (daily): Lightweight, no white residue, good for face and body. One of the best-selling American sunscreens. ~$12-15.
- EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 (sensitive skin/face): Dermatologist recommended, mineral-based, for acne-prone and sensitive skin. ~$38-42. Expensive but the quality difference is noticeable.
- Coppertone Sport SPF 50 (sports/beach): Waterproof, good sweat resistance, for long sun exposure. ~$10. Fits everyone's budget, reliable. View on Amazon →
- For daily use: SPF 30-50, lightweight texture, no white cast.
- For beach/sports: SPF 50+, waterproof, long-lasting protection.
- For face: Mineral-based (zinc oxide) or lightweight chemical formula, does not sting eyes.
View on Amazon: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen →
View on Amazon: EltaMD UV Clear (Sensitive Skin) →
Common Myths About SPF:
- SPF 100 does not provide double the protection of SPF 50. The difference is much smaller than you think
- Applying once is not enough: Reapply every 2 hours, and immediately after swimming or sweating
- UV rays pass through clouds at about 80% strength on cloudy days too
- You need sunscreen even inside the car (UVA can pass through glass)
| Use | Recommended SPF | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Daily (office/outdoor transitions) | SPF 30 | Lightweight, no white cast |
| Active outdoor | SPF 50 | Sweat/water resistance |
| Beach/pool | SPF 50+ | Waterproof, long-lasting |
| Sensitive or children's skin | SPF 30-50 mineral | Zinc oxide, no irritation |
Summer Prep: Quick Checklist
- Is your lawn mower working? Battery charged, any issues?
- Do you have enough sunscreen? (A family can easily go through a tube per month)
- Re-read your HOA rules before summer
- Check your garden hose and sprinkler system
Disclaimer: Some Amazon links in this article are affiliate links. Your price doesn't change. I only recommend products I actually use or have personally tested.
