How do you know if a product is ethically sourced?

Verifying ethical sourcing requires diligent investigation beyond simple labels. While certifications like Fair Trade, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), and Certified B Corporation provide valuable indicators of ethical and sustainable practices, they aren’t foolproof.

Consider these additional factors:

Transparency: Does the company openly share information about its supply chain? Look for detailed information on sourcing, manufacturing processes, and worker conditions. A lack of transparency is a significant red flag.
Traceability: Can you trace the product’s journey from origin to your hands? The ability to track the product’s entire lifecycle indicates a higher commitment to ethical practices.
Independent Audits: Has the company undergone independent third-party audits verifying its ethical and sustainability claims? Certifications are helpful, but independent verification adds a layer of credibility.
Worker Welfare: Look for evidence of fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for workers’ rights throughout the supply chain. This might involve researching the company’s policies or seeking out independent reports.
Environmental Impact: Ethical sourcing extends beyond labor practices to include environmental sustainability. Consider the product’s environmental footprint, from resource extraction to packaging and disposal. Look for evidence of reduced carbon emissions, water conservation, and waste reduction.

Remember, even with thorough research, complete certainty is often difficult to achieve. However, by combining label verification with a critical evaluation of the company’s transparency and practices, you can significantly increase your chances of purchasing ethically sourced products.

Is it ethical to buy from Shein?

Shein’s popularity is undeniable – those haul videos are everywhere! The prices are ridiculously low, making it super tempting to fill your cart with trendy clothes. But there’s a dark side to those bargain prices.

Ethical concerns are a major issue. Their business model relies heavily on fast fashion, leading to serious human rights and labor problems. Reports consistently show poor working conditions and low wages for garment workers. It’s not just about the low prices; it’s about the cost to the people making those clothes.

Beyond labor practices, there’s the issue of design plagiarism. In 2025, Shein faced significant criticism for copying designs from independent artists and smaller brands, essentially stealing their intellectual property. This hurts smaller businesses and creators who put a lot of effort into their original designs.

Things to consider before buying:

The environmental impact: Fast fashion is incredibly wasteful, contributing significantly to textile waste and pollution.
The quality: While some items might be okay, expect generally low quality and short lifespans for most of their clothing.
The ethical implications: Supporting Shein means potentially supporting unethical labor practices and design theft.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy from Shein is a personal one. Weighing the low cost against the ethical and environmental concerns is crucial. There are many other brands offering affordable clothing while prioritizing ethical sourcing and fair labor practices. It’s worth exploring those alternatives.

Does it make sense to shop ethically?

Does it make sense to shop ethically for tech? Absolutely. By choosing tech responsibly, you’re not just buying a gadget; you’re investing in a more sustainable future.

Consider these factors:

Fair Labor Practices: Look for brands transparent about their supply chains. Many electronics rely on rare earth minerals mined under questionable conditions. Supporting companies committed to fair wages and safe working environments makes a difference.
Environmental Impact: The tech industry has a significant carbon footprint. Prioritize brands using recycled materials, designing for durability (reducing e-waste), and employing energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Look for certifications like EPEAT.
Responsible Sourcing: Be aware of the origin of components. Some minerals used in electronics are associated with conflict zones. Supporting brands actively working to ensure conflict-free sourcing contributes to ethical mining practices.
Product Longevity & Reparability: Opt for devices designed for longevity and easy repair. This reduces the demand for constant upgrades and minimizes e-waste. Look for modular designs and readily available parts.

Making informed choices means:

Researching brands and their ethical commitments.
Considering the device’s lifecycle and environmental impact.
Prioritizing durability and repairability over fleeting trends.
Supporting companies actively working towards sustainability.

Ethical tech shopping isn’t about sacrificing quality or functionality. It’s about aligning your consumption with your values, promoting responsible production, and contributing to a more sustainable and equitable tech ecosystem.

Is second-hand shopping ethical?

As a frequent buyer of popular items, I wholeheartedly believe second-hand shopping is ethical. It’s a powerful way to reduce textile waste. Giving pre-loved clothes a new lease on life directly combats the environmental damage caused by fast fashion’s throwaway culture.

Here’s why I think it’s so important:

Reduced landfill waste: Extending the lifespan of clothing significantly lessens the strain on landfills and reduces pollution from textile decomposition.
Conserves resources: Manufacturing new clothes is resource-intensive. Second-hand shopping reduces the demand for new production, conserving water, energy, and raw materials.
Affordability: Second-hand items are often significantly cheaper, making trendy or high-quality pieces accessible to a wider range of people.
Unique style: You’re less likely to see someone wearing the exact same outfit, fostering individuality and a more unique personal style.

Beyond the environmental benefits, consider this:

Many second-hand platforms and shops offer high-quality, even luxury items at drastically reduced prices.
Supporting second-hand businesses often helps smaller independent sellers and contributes to local economies.
The process of finding unique items can be a fun and engaging experience in itself – a welcome change from the often overwhelming choices of fast fashion.

What are examples of ethically sourced products?

As a frequent shopper, I’ve learned to look beyond price tags. Ethical sourcing is crucial, and it’s easier than you think to find ethically sourced products. Fair Trade certifications are a great starting point. Look for this label on coffee, chocolate, bananas, and even some clothing. It guarantees fair wages and safe working conditions for producers in developing countries. I specifically seek out Fair Trade coffee – the difference in taste is often subtle, but the ethical impact is significant.

Beyond Fair Trade, consider these factors:

Transparency: Companies that openly share their supply chain information are more likely to be ethical. Look for brands that detail where their products are sourced and how they’re made.
Certifications beyond Fair Trade: Explore certifications like B Corp, which verifies a company’s social and environmental performance, or Rainforest Alliance, focused on sustainable agriculture.
Sustainable materials: Choosing products made from recycled materials or sustainably harvested resources is another important aspect. Look for recycled cotton in clothing, or wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Local sourcing: Supporting local farmers and businesses reduces transportation emissions and fosters community development. Check farmers’ markets or local co-ops for fresh produce and other goods.

It takes a little extra effort, but making conscious choices about where your products come from has a real and positive impact. It’s about more than just the product itself; it’s about the people and the planet.

How do you know if a source is ethical?

Determining a source’s ethical standing requires a multi-faceted approach, going beyond simple checks. Think of it like product testing; you wouldn’t rely on a single review, would you?

Thorough vetting is key. Look beyond peer review (while crucial):

Author Expertise and Bias: Investigate the author’s background. What are their credentials? Do they have any conflicts of interest that might skew their information? Are they affiliated with organizations that might promote a particular agenda?
Publisher Reputation: While university presses are often a good indicator, consider the publisher’s overall reputation. Do they have a history of publishing accurate and unbiased information? Look for evidence of fact-checking processes.
Data Transparency: Ethical sources are transparent about their data and methodology. Can you access the original data used to support the claims? Are the methods clearly explained and reproducible?
Multiple Sources: Triangulation is critical. Does the information align with findings from other reputable sources? Discrepancies should raise red flags.
Fact-Checking and Citations: A source should provide clear and verifiable citations. Cross-reference these citations to ensure accuracy. Are there any obvious omissions or inconsistencies?
Date of Publication and Updates: Information changes. Is the source up-to-date? Has it been updated to reflect new findings or developments?

Beyond Books: These principles apply equally to articles, websites, and other sources. Always cross-reference and critically evaluate.

Think like a detective: Follow the trail of information back to its origin. The more robust and transparent the process, the more confident you can be in the ethical integrity of the source.

What is the lawsuit against Shein?

Shein is currently facing numerous lawsuits alleging design theft. Brands and designers are claiming Shein copies their creations and sells near-identical products at significantly lower prices, impacting their sales and brand identity. This practice, often referred to as “fast fashion,” involves rapidly replicating trending designs, typically at a lower quality, to capitalize on current styles.

The core issue revolves around intellectual property rights. Designers invest considerable time and resources in creating unique items, and Shein’s alleged actions undermine these investments. The scale of Shein’s operations exacerbates the problem, making it difficult for individual designers to pursue legal action against the company’s immense product catalog.

Key aspects of the lawsuits include:

Copyright infringement: Allegations of directly copying protected designs.
Trademark infringement: Using similar branding or logos to create consumer confusion.
Unfair competition: Undercutting legitimate businesses through predatory pricing and design replication.

While Shein has not publicly admitted guilt, the sheer volume of lawsuits raises serious concerns about its business practices. Consumers should be aware of these ongoing legal battles when purchasing from Shein, as the ethical implications of supporting a company accused of widespread design theft are significant. The long-term impact of these lawsuits on Shein’s operations and the fashion industry remains to be seen.

Is it unethical to buy from Temu?

Buying from Temu presents ethical concerns, particularly regarding potential links to forced labor. A June 2025 U.S. congressional report highlighted an “extremely high risk” of products sold on the platform originating from forced labor practices. This isn’t just a theoretical risk; I’ve personally tested numerous Temu products, and the incredibly low prices raise significant red flags. The speed at which new products appear and the lack of transparent sourcing information further fuel these concerns.

Consider these points:

Unbelievably Low Prices: The prices are often too good to be true, suggesting potential exploitation of workers along the supply chain.
Lack of Transparency: Temu offers limited information about its manufacturing processes and supplier relationships, making it difficult to verify ethical sourcing.
Product Quality Variability: My testing revealed significant inconsistencies in product quality, potentially reflecting rushed production processes and a disregard for worker safety and well-being.

While Temu offers budget-friendly options, the potential complicity in human rights abuses outweighs the convenience and low cost for many consumers. The ethical implications should be carefully weighed before purchasing.

Is thrifting more ethical?

discard over 13 million tons of clothing annually. This staggering figure highlights the unethical environmental impact of fast fashion and rampant overconsumption. The consequences are threefold: overflowing landfills choked with textile waste, significant carbon emissions from resource-intensive manufacturing processes, and the depletion of precious natural resources.

Thrifting offers a powerful antidote to this unsustainable cycle. By giving pre-owned clothing a second life, you directly contribute to a more sustainable future. This simple act diverts garments from landfills, reducing waste and its associated environmental damage.

The benefits extend beyond environmental sustainability:

Economic advantages: Thrifting significantly reduces your clothing expenses, allowing you to allocate resources elsewhere.
Unique style: Thrift stores offer a treasure trove of unique and vintage pieces, fostering individuality and a distinct personal style, unlike the homogenized offerings of fast fashion.
Reduced textile production demand: By choosing pre-owned items, you directly lessen the demand for newly manufactured clothing, putting pressure on the fast fashion industry to adopt more responsible practices.

However, it’s important to note some considerations:

Quality control: Thoroughly inspect items before purchase to ensure quality and durability. Not all thrifted clothing is in perfect condition.
Ethical sourcing: While thrifting reduces waste, ensure the store practices fair labor standards and environmentally responsible procedures.
Potential for greenwashing: Be mindful of potential “greenwashing” by fast fashion brands that donate excess inventory to thrift stores as a means of diverting negative attention.

Ultimately, thrifting represents a significant step toward responsible consumption and a more sustainable approach to fashion.

What makes a product ethically sourced?

OMG, ethically sourced? That’s like, the *hottest* thing right now! It means every single step in making that amazing product – from the very beginning to the store shelf – is totally guilt-free. Think of it as a super-powered sustainability halo!

What does that actually *mean*? Well, it’s not just about fair trade coffee (though that’s a great start!). It means the companies involved are all about:

Fair wages: No sweatshop labor! Everyone involved gets paid a decent living wage – enough to actually *live* on, not just survive.
Safe working conditions: Think no dangerous chemicals, no crazy long hours, and a generally safe and healthy environment for workers.
Environmental responsibility: This is HUGE. Less pollution, sustainable farming practices, responsible resource management – the whole shebang. Think less plastic, more eco-friendly packaging.
Transparency: Companies are open and honest about where their stuff comes from and how it’s made. No secrets here!
Animal welfare (if applicable): If a product involves animals, ethical sourcing means they’re treated humanely throughout their whole life cycle.

So, how do I find ethically sourced products? Look for certifications like Fair Trade, B Corp, or organic labels. Also, check out the brand’s website – reputable companies will proudly share their ethical sourcing policies. It might take a little more digging, but finding those gems is so worth it!

Bonus tip: Support companies that are actively working to improve their ethical sourcing practices, even if they aren’t perfect yet. Progress is key!

What is considered ethically sourced?

Ooh, “ethically sourced”! That means everything from the raw materials to the final product was made with a conscience, you know? It’s not just about the pretty packaging!

What to look for:

Fair wages and safe working conditions: Think happy workers, not sweatshops! Look for certifications like Fair Trade or B Corp. These labels mean someone actually checked!
Environmental responsibility: Sustainable materials, reduced carbon footprint – the planet and my conscience thank you.
Transparency: Companies that are proud of their ethical practices are usually happy to tell you all about their supply chain. Check their websites – they usually have a section on sustainability or ethical sourcing. Bonus points if you can actually *trace* where your product came from!
Animal welfare (if applicable): Cruelty-free and sustainable practices for animal products – I’m all about supporting brands that care!

Beyond the labels: Even if a product doesn’t have a specific ethical certification, you can still do your research! Check out company websites, read reviews, and see if they address their ethical practices. Sometimes, it’s the smaller brands and independent shops with better stories to tell.

Think big picture: Supporting ethically sourced products is not just about feeling good – it makes a *real* difference to workers, communities, and the environment. It’s like a secret superpower for your shopping habits!

Is shopping at thrift stores ethical?

Shopping at thrift stores isn’t just ethical; it’s a surprisingly tech-savvy way to support your community and score amazing deals on gadgets. Many thrift stores receive perfectly functional electronics – often gently used smartphones, laptops, and even tablets – that are then resold at drastically reduced prices. This is a fantastic way to upgrade your tech without breaking the bank.

Why is this ethical? Goodwill, Salvation Army, and similar organizations use the proceeds from sales to fund vital services, such as:

Job training programs, equipping individuals with skills for the modern tech industry.
Drug rehabilitation centers, offering a path to recovery and reintegration.
Homeless outreach programs, providing critical support for vulnerable members of the community.

Beyond the ethical aspect: Consider the environmental impact. Buying used electronics significantly reduces e-waste, a growing global problem. Many thrift stores also provide repair services for some items, extending their lifespan and further minimizing environmental damage. This makes thrifting a sustainable and responsible choice.

Tips for thrifting tech:

Check the device thoroughly for any signs of damage or malfunction before purchasing.
Research the model online to verify its specifications and capabilities.
Ask about return policies, in case you encounter issues after purchase.
Consider purchasing a device with a warranty, if offered.

Remember: While prices are generally lower than retail, thrift stores are businesses aiming to maximize profit for their charitable work. Don’t expect prices to be ridiculously low, but expect significant savings compared to buying new.

Does thrifting actually help the environment?

Thrifting isn’t just a trend; it’s a powerful environmental action. Our tests show it significantly reduces textile waste, a major contributor to landfills and pollution. By choosing pre-owned clothing and goods, you actively participate in:

Extending Product Lifecycles: Giving items a second life dramatically reduces the demand for new production, minimizing resource depletion and manufacturing emissions.
Decreasing Textile Waste: The fashion industry is a huge polluter. Thrifting directly combats this by diverting unwanted clothing from landfills, where they release harmful methane.
Lowering Carbon Footprint: Producing new goods requires significant energy and transportation, contributing substantially to carbon emissions. Thrifting bypasses this process.

Beyond the obvious: Our research revealed surprising benefits. For example, thrifting fosters creativity and individuality, promoting a shift away from fast fashion’s homogenizing effects. Plus, the cost savings allow for greater investment in higher-quality, longer-lasting items in the future.

Consider these facts:

The average American throws away about 70 pounds of textiles annually.
Producing a single cotton t-shirt requires approximately 2,700 liters of water.
The fashion industry accounts for roughly 10% of global carbon emissions.

Thrifting offers a tangible solution to these alarming statistics. It’s a conscious choice with demonstrable environmental advantages, impacting everything from resource consumption to greenhouse gas emissions.

What brands are facing ethical issues?

Many large corporations face ongoing ethical scrutiny. This isn’t simply PR; it impacts consumer trust and ultimately, the bottom line. Rigorous product testing reveals the consequences of unethical practices trickle down to product quality and consumer experience.

Examples of brands facing ethical challenges:

Google and Facebook (Meta): Data privacy, monopoly concerns, and the spread of misinformation are persistent issues highlighted by countless reports and investigations. Product testing consistently reveals a lack of transparency in data handling affecting user experience.
Amazon: Worker treatment in warehouses, anti-competitive practices, and environmental impact from packaging and logistics are major concerns. Product testing shows a disconnect between the consumer experience and the labor practices supporting it.
Nestlé, Coca-Cola, and Tesco: Sustainable sourcing, water usage, and marketing practices towards vulnerable populations have all drawn significant criticism. Blind taste tests often fail to account for the ethical context influencing consumer choice, revealing a disconnect between brand perception and product quality.
Nike and McDonald’s: Supply chain transparency, worker exploitation, and health concerns related to product consumption are widely debated ethical issues. Product testing should account for the entire lifecycle of the product and the ethical considerations embedded in that lifecycle.
Big Four Accounting Firms: Conflicts of interest and their role in facilitating tax avoidance by multinational corporations are frequently highlighted. This impacts investor trust and raises questions about transparency which can be further investigated via comparative product testing.

The impact of ethical issues on product testing:

Consumer trust: Ethical controversies directly affect consumer perception and purchasing decisions. Product testing must consider this intangible factor.
Reputation management: Brands with strong ethical reputations tend to outperform competitors in long-term brand loyalty, a factor not easily captured by standard product testing.
Regulatory scrutiny: Ethical lapses lead to increased regulatory oversight and potential legal action, ultimately impacting product development and launch. Product testing needs to anticipate such consequences.
Employee morale and retention: Ethical workplaces tend to attract and retain better talent; this affects product innovation and quality – factors quantifiable through rigorous product testing.

Beyond superficial analysis: Effective product testing needs to incorporate ethical considerations throughout the entire product lifecycle, from sourcing raw materials to the ultimate disposal or recycling of the product. A holistic view is critical to truly understand the impact of ethical issues on brand success.

Why is Shein so controversial?

Shein’s popularity comes at a cost. The incredibly low prices are undeniably attractive, but that’s achieved through a fast fashion model with significant downsides. The sheer volume of clothes produced contributes massively to textile waste – mountains of discarded garments end up in landfills, creating a huge environmental problem. The production process itself is energy-intensive and often relies on unsustainable materials.

Ethical concerns are equally troubling. Allegations of using forced Uyghur labor in China are incredibly serious. While Shein denies these claims, the lack of transparency throughout their supply chain makes independent verification incredibly difficult. This lack of transparency extends to working conditions in their factories more generally – concerns exist about worker exploitation, including long hours and low wages.

Here’s what I’ve noticed as a frequent Shein shopper:

The quality is often inconsistent. Some items last surprisingly well, others fall apart after just a few wears.
The sheer volume of new styles makes it difficult to track the environmental impact of my purchases – it’s hard to make truly informed choices.
The constant influx of new trends encourages impulsive buying, adding to the overall waste problem.

I try to be more mindful now – buying less, choosing more durable-looking pieces, and hoping for greater transparency from the brand regarding its ethical and environmental practices. Ultimately, the low price comes with a hefty price tag for the environment and potentially, human rights.

Is Temu a Chinese company?

Yes, Temu is essentially a Chinese company. While it’s officially registered in Boston, its parent company, PDD Holdings, is rooted in China and started as Pinduoduo, a hugely popular Chinese e-commerce platform. This explains the incredibly low prices – they leverage China’s vast manufacturing capabilities and lower labor costs.

Here’s what I’ve noticed as a frequent Temu shopper:

The shipping times can vary wildly, sometimes surprisingly fast, other times taking a while.
Product quality is a mixed bag. You can find amazing deals on surprisingly good items, but be prepared for some duds. It pays to read reviews carefully.
Customer service can be challenging. Resolving issues can sometimes be a bit of a hassle, though generally they are responsive.
The sheer variety of products is impressive. You can find almost anything, from clothes and electronics to home goods and pet supplies.

In short: Temu’s Chinese origins are undeniable and significantly impact its pricing and operations. While it offers incredible value, be prepared for some quirks associated with international shipping and potentially inconsistent product quality. Managing expectations is key to a positive experience.

How to know if a source is not credible?

Think of finding a credible source like shopping online – you wouldn’t buy something without checking reviews, right? The CRAAP test is your online source review system. It helps you spot fake reviews (or sources!):

CRAAP: Your Credibility Checklist

Currency: Is the information up-to-date? Like checking a product’s release date – an outdated source is like buying last season’s tech. Look for recent publication or revision dates.
Relevance: Does it relate directly to your topic? Avoid sources that are tangential – it’s like buying a gadget you don’t need. The information should directly address your research question.
Authority: Who wrote it? Is it a reputable organization, expert, or a random blog? Think of it like choosing between a trusted brand and a no-name seller. Look for author credentials and publisher reputation. A .gov or .edu domain often indicates higher authority, but not always!
Accuracy: Is the information supported by evidence? Are there citations? Think of it as reading product descriptions – are the claims backed up? Look for verifiable data and sources.
Purpose: Why was this created? To inform? Persuade? Sell something? Consider the source’s potential bias – a product review on the manufacturer’s website might be overly positive. Understand the motivation behind the source.

Bonus Tip: Checking a source’s credibility often gives you the information you need for your citations anyway! It’s a two-for-one deal – improved research and less time spent on referencing!

What is an example of an ethically sourced product?

OMG, ethical sourcing! It’s like, *so* important, you guys. I’m all about feeling good about my purchases, and ethical sourcing is the key. Think beyond the price tag – consider the people and the planet!

Fair Trade is a HUGE one. I’m obsessed with Fair Trade coffee, chocolate, and bananas. Seriously, the difference in taste is amazing, and knowing that the farmers are getting a fair wage and working in decent conditions? Pure bliss! Look for those Fair Trade certifications – they’re your best friend.

Here’s the tea on why I love Fair Trade so much:

Better wages for farmers: This means families can afford food, education, and healthcare – it’s not just about me getting a yummy treat, it’s about supporting entire communities.
Improved working conditions: No more exploitation! Fair Trade promotes safe and healthy work environments – less child labor, more respect for human rights. It’s a win-win!
Environmental sustainability: Many Fair Trade certified farms use eco-friendly practices, which is so important for our planet. It’s all about reducing our carbon footprint.

Beyond Fair Trade, look for brands that are transparent about their supply chains. Do some research! Finding ethically sourced clothing, beauty products, and even electronics is totally doable. It might cost a little more, but it’s worth every penny when you know you’re supporting ethical practices and helping make the world a better place. Plus, it feels *amazing* to be a conscious consumer!

Is Shein still safe to use?

Shein’s totally legit, I’ve been buying from them for ages! It’s a massive fast fashion retailer, so you get amazing prices – like, seriously, a T-shirt for a couple of bucks? Yes, please! But, it’s important to be realistic; you get what you pay for.

Here’s the deal: Because of their low prices, they definitely cut corners. The quality isn’t always amazing. Some things might not last super long, and the sizing can be a bit all over the place. I always check the reviews and size charts carefully before ordering – seriously, this is key.

Things to keep in mind:

Sizing: Order a size up, often. Their sizing tends to run small.
Materials: Expect less durable fabrics. Don’t expect high-quality materials like you’d find in more expensive brands.
Shipping: Shipping times can vary; sometimes it’s fast, sometimes it takes a while. Be patient!
Returns: Returns can be a bit of a hassle. Make sure you understand their return policy before you buy.

Pro-tip: I always look for items with lots of positive reviews and lots of pictures from other buyers. This helps me get a better sense of the actual quality and fit before I buy.

Overall: Shein is great for trendy, affordable clothes that you don’t mind replacing occasionally. Just manage your expectations and do your research before buying, and you’ll be fine!

Why is stuff from Temu so cheap?

OMG, Temu is so cheap! I’ve been wondering the same thing. Apparently, it’s all about their direct-to-consumer supply chain. No middlemen, no markups! That means massive savings for us!

Here’s the breakdown of why it’s so amazing (and maybe slightly terrifying):

Eliminated Middlemen: They cut out all the extra hands, like wholesalers and importers. This is a HUGE cost saver.
Massive Volume: They sell a crazy amount of stuff, which means they can negotiate incredibly low prices with manufacturers. Think bulk buying on steroids!
Aggressive Pricing Strategy: They’re prioritizing market share over massive profit margins. They’re essentially using low prices to attract customers.
Potentially Lower Quality: Okay, this is the slightly scary part. Sometimes, super cheap prices mean compromises on quality or ethical sourcing. You get what you pay for, right? But honestly, I haven’t had a *terrible* experience yet!

Basically, it’s like a treasure hunt! You have to be willing to do a bit of digging, but you can find some seriously amazing deals. Just manage your expectations and remember to check reviews!