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Governments are hacking people with ‘zero-click’ spyware by showing them online ads
‘Nightmare Scenario’: Zero-Click Spyware Is Infecting Phones via Targeted Ads
AI Is Getting Really Good at Messing With Cybercriminals
How to Remove Heat Stains From Wood (Yes, Really)
As fun as it is to be the go-to spot for dinner parties and weekend brunches, all that foot traffic can leave behind more than just fond memories—your furniture may take a hit, too. Think: wine spills, dropped platters, and one of the more stubborn surprises—heat stains on wood. These hazy white rings or blotches often show up after a steaming dish or piping-hot mug gets placed directly on your table without a trivet. Even a tablecloth won’t always save you if it’s too thin. The result? Marks that look like crop circles and feel nearly impossible to fix.
But don’t panic. These stains might look dramatic, but they’re often totally fixable with a few household items. Below, we’ve gathered some of the most effective ways to remove heat stains from wood—and added tips on how to prevent them in the future, when to act fast, and what common DIY fixes to be cautious with.
The Best Vanilla Extract Substitute Is Probably Hiding in Your Kitchen
Vanilla extract is one of those pantry staples we don’t think much about—until we suddenly need it. Whether you're halfway through a cookie recipe or baking a birthday cake and realize you're out, don't stress. There are plenty of vanilla extract substitutes out there, and chances are, you already have a few of them on hand. From dark liquors like rum and bourbon to pantry sweeteners like maple syrup and even almond extract, these easy swaps can add warmth, depth, and just the right touch of something special to your favorite bakes. Ahead, we’re breaking down the best alternatives to vanilla extract—and exactly how to use them.
Why You Can (and Should) Sometimes Skip the Vanilla
By now, you’ve probably been told once or twice to make your own vanilla extract. (One of those times may or may not have been by us.) Recipes tell you how easy-breezy it is to DIY the solution, which is essentially just vanilla pods soaked in alcohol. Just buy vanilla beans, split down the center, stuff in a jar, drown in booze (most people use vodka; bourbon is fair game, too).