Spring Cottage Life Show: Our top picks from exhibitors

Fendock Vinyl Dock Bumper

“It’s at the show where you can find inspiration for improving your cottage dock, such as these vinyl dock bumpers from Fendock. We have a set of these at the cottage, and they’ve saved me on a few occasions when docking the boat goes awry.”—Megan McPhaden, Managing Editor

Floating 2-Layer Water Mat, 15-ft

“Floater mats are an investment, but they’re an awesome thing to have around the dock. You can hang off the side, chill on top, or run across it in any matter of water games. In my experience, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!”—Alysha Vandertogt, Senior Editor

Fraktals Chocolate

“Here’s an insider secret: Fraktals are the fuel of CL staffers at the show, and they have been for years. They are addicting in their perfect combination of sweet chocolate and salty, crunchy nuts and toffee. And they get extra love from me for being gluten-free!”—Alysha Vandertogt, Senior Editor

Green Metal Raised Garden Planter

“Home Hardware is a great place to get just about anything you need: tools, snacks, gifts—they have it all! If you’re an avid gardener, you’ll love this raised garden planter that’s a great space saver and ideal for herbs or flowers.”—Arisa Valyear, Associate Editor

MadeGood Granola Minis, Chocolate Banana

“This Canadian company makes delicious on-the-go snacks. Try any of their bars or minis (little granola balls). Yum! Did we mention they’re healthy and gluten free?”—Arisa Valyear, Associate Editor

Napoleon Cedar Grill Scraper

“At the cottage, I really get behind outdoor cooking. Now that we’ve moved away from using wire bristled brushes (for health reasons), these wooden grill scrapers are a safer alternative. Napoleon offers a cedar version for under twenty dollars.”—Megan McPhaden, Managing Editor

Leather Better Conditioner for Furniture

“Leather Better really does make leather better! Their unique beeswax and tallow formula polishes leather and other fabrics like a dream, with just a hint of lemon for a citrusy scent to your leather goods. I bought some at the Fall 2023 Cottage Life show and I still use it to clean my boots, my car, and a whole lot more.”—Leyland Rochester, Publishing Coordinator

Sun-Mar Composting Non-Electric Toilet

“We have a Sun-Mar composting toilet at our cottage and it’s been great. You do have to take care of it and clean it properly, as with any alternative toilet. But my whole family would recommend it. Available in both electric and non-electric models.”—Jackie Davis, Senior Editor

Dragonfly Wingman Horse and Deer Fly Deterrent

“I like these bug-deterring, clip-on dragonfly decoys from Dragonfly Wingman. Most decoys don’t work, but we did an article in the magazine on ways to deter blackflies, and our entomologist expert approved this trick. You might look a little strange wearing this attached to your ball cap, but, hey, it’s the cottage.”—Jackie Davis, Senior Editor

Natural Teak Wood Adirondack Chair

“ARB Teak offers a wide range of simple yet elegant furniture that is perfect for both the home and cottage. They sell chairs, end tables, caddies, mats, and stools. Their foldable designs make for easy storage and transport, and they’re sleek and modern enough to match any space. This deck chair rivals even the best Muskoka chairs.”—Leyland Rochester, Publishing Coordinator