Trained panelists at Consumer Reports tested cocoas from names like Ghirardelli and Godiva to classics like Hershey's and Swiss Miss and even an organic one from Dagoba.
"We looked at nutrition and calories. But really, if you're having it as a special treat, you'll want it to be full bodied and have a high-quality chocolate flavor, and this may mean more calories," said Amy Keating from Consumer Reports.
Testers determined the best by far, Godiva's Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa.
"It was full and flavorful, with an intense cocoa and chocolate flavor. It had roasted notes and even a slight vanilla note," said Keating.
Also very good and a bit less expensive, Hershey's Favorite Hot Cocoa Recipe, which has a mild chocolate and slight vanilla and malt flavors, or Swiss Miss Dark Chocolate Sensation Cocoa - for those who prefer a darker chocolate flavor.
Many people like using a humidifier during the winter months.
Alyson Gass has one in her sons' rooms.
"I like having the humidifier because it's good for their skin; it keeps them not as dry. It makes them breathe better," said Alyson Gass.
Sales of humidifiers triple during the winter months, and a humidifier can help with itchy eyes, sore throats, and stuffy noses.
Consumer Reports tested 13 portable ones ranging in price from about $30 to $180.
Testers checked how big an area the humidifiers claim to cover then tested each one in a special chamber to see if it creates enough humidity to cover that claimed area.
"We also checked each machine to see how loud it is, how easy it is fill the tank, how often you have to clean and disinfect the tank, and also how easy the controls are to read," said Dan DiClerico of Consumer Reports.
Consumer Reports gave a top-rating to the $170 Air-O-Swiss. It covers 650 square feet, so it's good for all but the biggest rooms.
To spend less, try the Ultrasonic 360 from Safety First. It also rates excellent. And while it doesn't have as many features, it's very quiet and costs just $30. Plus, it covers about 330 square feet; that's more than enough for most bedrooms.
The Safety First Ultrasonic 360 is sold in baby and kids' supply stores, or you can order it online at Target and Amazon.com.
