What we accept — and don't
- We do not accept payment, sponsorship, or 'placement fees' from any brand for editorial coverage or directory inclusion.
- We do not accept free product in exchange for a specific outcome. Samples requested for testing are disclosed and do not guarantee inclusion.
- We do not publish sponsored posts, advertorials, or 'native' content dressed as editorial.
- We do not allow brand relationships — including affiliate — to influence which products are recommended, ranked, or removed.
How affiliate income fits
Some outbound links to retailers are affiliate links. When a purchase is made through one, we may earn a small commission at no cost to the reader. Affiliate status has no bearing on inclusion — every product in the directory is chosen editorially first, and only then linked in whatever way most helps the reader.
Full details are on our Affiliate Disclosure page.
When independence is tested
If a brand offers exclusivity, gifting, exposure, or paid partnership in exchange for coverage — the answer is no. If a brand asks us to remove or soften an honest downgrade — the answer is no. These conversations are quiet and unremarkable, and they are the reason the directory can be trusted.