Mental Floss
@mental_floss
Home for all things curious, including surprising facts; answers to life's big questions; and untold stories from history, science, pop culture, and beyond.
Napping offers many benefits, but getting the most out of a midday snooze isn’t always easy. Fortunately, these expert-backed tips can help, and keep you feeling refreshed after the fact, too. trib.al/nGXsndF
We’ve gathered a few tips to ensure you’re following the proper food etiquette when traveling to various countries. trib.al/0BzqQXg
People really regretted spending their time and money at these attractions. trib.al/pRK6UhV
Baby viewing windows were once a staple of hospital maternity wards across the country, but now they feel like a relic from a bygone era. Read on to learn about their history—and the real reasons why they vanished. trib.al/mooAIKf
Whether you’re into stalactite symphonies, prehistoric shelters, or just love your trails dark and damp, these 10 U.S. underground wonders have you covered. trib.al/1LJJfNK
They haven’t been mandated by the EPA since 2012, but California has kept them around. trib.al/cjCZyYQ
The riddle below dates back to 1598—can you figure it out? Answer here: trib.al/kjoZj4R

From the accident that led to its creation to the real people who inspired key characters. trib.al/Cw1KLd2
For much of the 20th century, all-inclusive Jewish resorts dotted the landscape of upstate New York. And yes, there was plenty of dancing. trib.al/65o6wpy
Residents of Washington, D.C., have no governor, no voting representation in Congress, and only limited local authority. The reason is simple: D.C. isn’t a state. Let’s break down the history and future of D.C. statehood. trib.al/JNcHE7w
Firefly populations have been declining, but there may be light at the end of the tunnel for the glowing bugs. trib.al/6z2mhNI
Snacking on a raw potato like it’s an apple is socially unacceptable. But is it a hazard to your health? trib.al/ltZJx1v
This banana art has been eaten, replaced, and sold for millions. trib.al/YYJUkrD
Over the years, a number of TV series have removed specific episodes from their rerun schedules. Some eventually return to the airwaves, while others may be serving a lifetime ban. trib.al/iLZempr
When it comes to ‘80s toys, wrestling figures from the WWF (now the WWE) were all the rage—and here‘s the history behind their creation. trib.al/pirOc9n
Here’s how scientists and other credible sources pronounce the planet Uranus’s name. trib.al/dFs21px
Christmas in July seems like a Hallmark Channel invention. But it actually has its roots in a pretty surprising source. trib.al/fJTqeX9
All five answers to the questions below have something in common. Can you figure it out? trib.al/2W7oPUN
Laughing at a silly airplane safety video? You might not be retaining much safety information. trib.al/1wdeUlB
Everyone hates something. And there’s probably a word for that. trib.al/w4pwyrL