Amanda Blum
Freelance writer
Amanda writes about smart home technology and gardening.
MORE BY Amanda
The Best Ways to Set Up a Seed-Starting Station in Your Home
If you're serious about growing your own seedling starts this year, here's the setup I've come to rely on.
What to Know Before You Start Your Own Plants From Seed
Starting your garden from seed instead of buying nursery starts is not for the faint of heart.
How to Reset Any Alexa Device
Alexa devices are easy to reset, once you know how to do it.
The $3,000 Samsung 8K QN900C Is Worth the Splurge
With a host of features and spectacular picture quality, this is one truly smart TV.
The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum Is Expensive but Worth It
Finally, a robot vacuum and mop that's less "needy houseguest" and more "autonomous housecleaner."
Eufy Dual Cams Are Worth Your Money
The macro and micro lens give you sweeping views and insane detail—with no subscription fees.
It's Time to Cold Stratify Your Seeds
Some flower and vegetable seeds need to experience a cold, moist winter in order to germinate properly—but you can fake the process indoors.
You Don’t Need a Smart Home Middleman
Home Depot and OliverIQ want to make getting into smart technology less painful—but can they live up to that promise?
CES 2024: The Coolest Smart Kitchen Tech We Saw
Appliances want to cook everything at light speed for you, but are we losing the connection to our food in the process?
CES 2024: Smart Tech Aims to Be Number One in Your Bathroom
From speaking toilet seats to AI-enabled air vents, CES had a lot to offer in the bathroom.
CES 2024: Samsung Is Going All-In on SmartThings
After a number of years in the background, Samsung resurrects the OG smart hub with a slate of truly aspirational innovations
How to Create the Best Alexa Set-up for Your Home
Creating a house full of voice-assistive interaction means choosing which Amazon Alexa Echo devices best fit your space and your needs.
CES 2024: Lawnbots Are the New Robot Vacuums
This year's Consumer Electronics Show is showing us the rise of the robot lawnmower.
How to Set Up Amazon Alexa for the First Time
Alexa, Amazon's voice assistant, has become a major player—and it's easy to set up.
CES 2024: LG's New Smart Home Hub Is a Cute Little Robot
Look out, Rosey the robot: Your days are numbered.
You Can Create a Smart Home ‘Cinema Mode’ Automation
With one command, you can create a cinema experience using all your smart home devices.
How to Use Smart Tech to Save on Your Light Bill
No more fighting with your family about turning lights off as they leave a room.
The Switchbot K10+ Is a Small but Powerful Robot Vacuum
At just nine inches, this tiny vacuum can get into smaller spaces and do a better job cleaning than larger bots.
All the Ways Smart Tech Can Keep Your Pets From Escaping
Tracking down an escape point and deterring future breakouts is easier with an assist from smart devices.