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1.
An Amazon Fire TV Stick, because after a year of stay-at-home, we could all use a TV upgrade. Specifically, a smart TV device that’s super easy to install (even for low tech folks), has Alexa voice commands, and will let you do way more than just watch TV.
Amazon
You can use the Alexa commands to check the weather, stream music, or connect to other compatible cameras in your home. The device itself is made from 50% post-consumer recycled plastics and simply plugs into the HDMI port of your TV, meaning you can easily take it with you and switch it around between TVs. The setup is so easy and the package even comes with remote batteries, so you can start binge-watching within minutes of unboxing it!
Promising review: “This is a great product, easy to use and install. I have been an avid Apple fan and have been reluctant to part from their ecosystem. This comes with an Apple TV app that actually works better than an Apple TV itself, plus it has more free content — you can buy almost four of these for a basic version of Apple TV. No contest — if the price were reversed I would still recommend Amazon Fire hands-down. Netflix app works much better, as does YouTube (haven’t tried much else yet). If you purchase the USB power option, this entire unit hides behind the TV so you do not need to hide a power cord or HDMA cord which is great, especially if your TV is mounted on a wall. I cannot believe I waited so long to try this. I am throwing away my other Apple TVs and replacing them with Amazon Fire. I am extremely pleased (and surprised).” —XByron
Get it from Amazon for $39.99.
Amazon
You can use the Alexa commands to check the weather, stream music, or connect to other compatible cameras in your home. The device itself is made from 50% post-consumer recycled plastics and simply plugs into the HDMI port of your TV, meaning you can easily take it with you and switch it around between TVs. The setup is so easy and the package even comes with remote batteries, so you can start binge-watching within minutes of unboxing it!
Promising review: “This is a great product, easy to use and install. I have been an avid Apple fan and have been reluctant to part from their ecosystem. This comes with an Apple TV app that actually works better than an Apple TV itself, plus it has more free content — you can buy almost four of these for a basic version of Apple TV. No contest — if the price were reversed I would still recommend Amazon Fire hands-down. Netflix app works much better, as does YouTube (haven’t tried much else yet). If you purchase the USB power option, this entire unit hides behind the TV so you do not need to hide a power cord or HDMA cord which is great, especially if your TV is mounted on a wall. I cannot believe I waited so long to try this. I am throwing away my other Apple TVs and replacing them with Amazon Fire. I am extremely pleased (and surprised).” —XByron
Get it from Amazon for $39.99.
2.
Surprisingly affordable bike shorts, which, like any of the trusty pairs you’ve been living in lately, are great for wearing for workouts, while chillaxing, or under dresses. What makes these babies must-haves? POCKETS and over 4,000 (!!!) positive reviews.
Promising review: “They fit great, look great, and cover my thighs so they don’t rub, which is a lifesaver walking around in the desert! They also have pockets that go down the leg and hold a phone no problem!” —Kali W.
Get them from Amazon for $19.59+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and in 39 colors and styles, including different lengths).
Promising review: “They fit great, look great, and cover my thighs so they don’t rub, which is a lifesaver walking around in the desert! They also have pockets that go down the leg and hold a phone no problem!” —Kali W.
Get them from Amazon for $19.59+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and in 39 colors and styles, including different lengths).
3.
A paws-itively amazing rubber pet hair broom with a built-in squeegee designed to sweep up all that shedding (and even liquids!) like no other.
Promising review: “LIFE-CHANGER. We have two very floofy cats and I have long, thick hair, so needless to say there is a lot of shedding in our house. I could tell our vacuum wasn’t quite doing the trick and I happened to stumble upon this item that looked to be the solution. WOW. First of all, it’s a bit of a workout if you’ve got a medium-pile carpet like I do. I use short, firm strokes with the squeegee side and it pulls the hair up instantly. It’s tedious work to do a whole room, but the satisfaction you get when you see all the hair makes it so worth it. Then you’ll do a second pass in high-traffic areas and see how much MORE hair there is and wonder how you ever lived like that. Once you’ve got a nice pile, you can pick the clump of fur up by hand. I like to give it a quick vacuum after to get the dust and dirt that comes up. I haven’t used it on our laminate flooring, but I’m sure that will blow me away too. This item is a complete must-have for anyone who owns a furry pet. This broom will absolutely outshine any expensive ‘pet-rated’ vacuum cleaner out there.” —Leanna G
Get it from Amazon for $12.44+ (also available in a collapsible version).
Promising review: “LIFE-CHANGER. We have two very floofy cats and I have long, thick hair, so needless to say there is a lot of shedding in our house. I could tell our vacuum wasn’t quite doing the trick and I happened to stumble upon this item that looked to be the solution. WOW. First of all, it’s a bit of a workout if you’ve got a medium-pile carpet like I do. I use short, firm strokes with the squeegee side and it pulls the hair up instantly. It’s tedious work to do a whole room, but the satisfaction you get when you see all the hair makes it so worth it. Then you’ll do a second pass in high-traffic areas and see how much MORE hair there is and wonder how you ever lived like that. Once you’ve got a nice pile, you can pick the clump of fur up by hand. I like to give it a quick vacuum after to get the dust and dirt that comes up. I haven’t used it on our laminate flooring, but I’m sure that will blow me away too. This item is a complete must-have for anyone who owns a furry pet. This broom will absolutely outshine any expensive ‘pet-rated’ vacuum cleaner out there.” —Leanna G
Get it from Amazon for $12.44+ (also available in a collapsible version).
4.
A simple yet revolutionary habit calendar that just might be what you need to finally do all the stuff you keep saying you’re gonna do. It’s got 12 months’ worth of planning pages with space to track daily, weekly, and monthly habits and goals to help you be your most badass self.
Amazon, amazon.com
This bestselling wonder is by Free Period Press, a queer- and woman-owned business that makes adorable stickers and paper goods! It’s also made from recycled paper to help you achieve your resolution of living a lil’ more sustainably. There’s even an activity at the beginning to help you brainstorm habits to track, and each month starts with a themed page (for example, “sleep,” “gratitude,” and “finances”) with some words of wisdom and a suggested habit to try.
Promising review: “I wanted to reduce stress and nail down some habits, and I’ve always done better when I can see progress tangibly. I’d been eyeing this calendar for some time, but was unsure if it was worth the money. I decided to go for it. SO glad I did. It has some ‘homework’ pages at the beginning to help you focus in on your goals, but mostly it’s the cleanness and ready-to-go nature of the monthly calendar pages that have worked for me. It’s helped me be more disciplined AND narrow my focus so I’m not worrying about doing everything under the sun each day. I liked it so much that I bought a second one for a friend. Another friend saw me using it and also made a purchase. I’m really happy I made the leap.” —Flight of Stars
Get it from Amazon for $18.
Amazon, amazon.com
This bestselling wonder is by Free Period Press, a queer- and woman-owned business that makes adorable stickers and paper goods! It’s also made from recycled paper to help you achieve your resolution of living a lil’ more sustainably. There’s even an activity at the beginning to help you brainstorm habits to track, and each month starts with a themed page (for example, “sleep,” “gratitude,” and “finances”) with some words of wisdom and a suggested habit to try.
Promising review: “I wanted to reduce stress and nail down some habits, and I’ve always done better when I can see progress tangibly. I’d been eyeing this calendar for some time, but was unsure if it was worth the money. I decided to go for it. SO glad I did. It has some ‘homework’ pages at the beginning to help you focus in on your goals, but mostly it’s the cleanness and ready-to-go nature of the monthly calendar pages that have worked for me. It’s helped me be more disciplined AND narrow my focus so I’m not worrying about doing everything under the sun each day. I liked it so much that I bought a second one for a friend. Another friend saw me using it and also made a purchase. I’m really happy I made the leap.” —Flight of Stars
Get it from Amazon for $18.
5.
A fleece-lined hoodie/blanket/poncho thing, which would have been a fun impulse buy pre-quarantine but is now basically a necessity.
6.
A time-stamped glass water bottle, because you’ve said it many times, but this — THIS — is finally the moment you’re gonna start drinking more water.
7.
An unbelievably awww-worthy animal waffle maker that’ll make both kids and adults alike wonder why they’ve ever let breakfast be boring.
Amazon, amazon.com
It’s nonstick and can make seven different snack-size animals at once!
Promising review: “These waffles brought smiles and giggles to our breakfast table. Our kids are 10.5 and 12, and they really enjoyed the animal shapes and particularly the ‘dipping’ size of the waffles. And so did my husband and I. The waffle maker is super easy to use, all the faces were clearly imprinted, and I didn’t have any issue with cooking time or uneven browning. LOTS of FUN! At $30, why not? Wish we’d had this years ago!” —jchungmd
Get it from Amazon for $39.95 (also available in a sea creature version).
Amazon, amazon.com
It’s nonstick and can make seven different snack-size animals at once!
Promising review: “These waffles brought smiles and giggles to our breakfast table. Our kids are 10.5 and 12, and they really enjoyed the animal shapes and particularly the ‘dipping’ size of the waffles. And so did my husband and I. The waffle maker is super easy to use, all the faces were clearly imprinted, and I didn’t have any issue with cooking time or uneven browning. LOTS of FUN! At $30, why not? Wish we’d had this years ago!” —jchungmd
Get it from Amazon for $39.95 (also available in a sea creature version).
8.
A double-sided tongue scraper and brush, aka the oral hygiene gadget you never knew you needed. Bad breath and aftertastes can be left in the past, thank you very much.
Amazon
Promising review: “This is one of those tools that you don’t know you need until you actually use one. I’d never used a tongue scraper until my sister introduced me to them. Why would I need one when I use my toothbrush to scrape my tongue, right? Using this tool gets so much grime and grossness out of your mouth and tongue that you didn’t even know you had. Your mouth won’t feel clean until after you’ve used it, period.” —Katherine
Get it from Amazon for $3.80.
Amazon
Promising review: “This is one of those tools that you don’t know you need until you actually use one. I’d never used a tongue scraper until my sister introduced me to them. Why would I need one when I use my toothbrush to scrape my tongue, right? Using this tool gets so much grime and grossness out of your mouth and tongue that you didn’t even know you had. Your mouth won’t feel clean until after you’ve used it, period.” —Katherine
Get it from Amazon for $3.80.
9.
A visual grocery list pad so you can just circle what you need and be able to check at the store at a glance — no more struggling to read your own handwriting (I feel ya). The rows are even organized by category and have spaces next to each to write down other items, so you won’t have to keep doubling back to an aisle you’ve already been in for something farther down the list.
Amazon
Promising review: “It really helped when we were out of a grocery item to just circle it on the list for the family, so when I ordered groceries I knew what we needed. It didn’t stop the family from putting empty cartons in the refrigerator, but at least they let me know that we were out. LOL.” —Live Laugh Love
Get it from Amazon for $9.95.
10.
A hypoallergenic, anti-bacterial, anti-mold, and anti-yeast panty wash formulated by an actual gynecologist — so yes, she really *does* understand the problem you’ve had your whole vagina-having life and haven’t wanted to talk about. It’ll be delicate on your delicates but tough on all the gunk (yes, I am talking about discharge) you need to wash out of them.
Clean And Cute
This Black-woman owned brand is the genius creation of Philly-based OB/GYN Dr. Tosha Rogers, and it’s good for bras too!
Get it from Clean & Cute for $14.99.
11.
A purring plush toy that’ll be a game-changer for your anxious kitty and help them have a better life. When touched, a recorded purr will soothe them for two minutes. And even when it’s quiet, it’s sure to be their new BFF (sorry, you’ve been replaced).
amazon.com, Amazon
You can take the purring part out when it needs a bath!
Promising review: “My 3-year-old male rescue kitty has gone through a lot of change and anxiety in his short life (which began as an abandoned kitten on the streets). I saw this online when searching for my fur babies’ Christmas gifts this year and thought, why not give it a shot? Let me tell you just HOW MUCH he loves his new cuddle buddy! He sleeps with it for EVERY nap and evening slumber now, and even pets it like it’s his own baby! I watch him fluff, gently stroke, and pull his new stuffie close to his chest before drifting off to sleep…and it warms my heart to see how much it comforts him and how much he loves/cares for it. Sooo recommended for cats of all ages.” —Jennifer
Get it from Amazon for $11.01+ (available in two animals).
amazon.com, Amazon
You can take the purring part out when it needs a bath!
Promising review: “My 3-year-old male rescue kitty has gone through a lot of change and anxiety in his short life (which began as an abandoned kitten on the streets). I saw this online when searching for my fur babies’ Christmas gifts this year and thought, why not give it a shot? Let me tell you just HOW MUCH he loves his new cuddle buddy! He sleeps with it for EVERY nap and evening slumber now, and even pets it like it’s his own baby! I watch him fluff, gently stroke, and pull his new stuffie close to his chest before drifting off to sleep…and it warms my heart to see how much it comforts him and how much he loves/cares for it. Sooo recommended for cats of all ages.” —Jennifer
Get it from Amazon for $11.01+ (available in two animals).
12.
As-seen-on-TV Debbie Meyer GreenBags here to save you major waste and $$$. They can keep your produce fresher much longer and be reused eight to 10 times!!!
The reviewer comparison above is what two bananas — one kept in the bag and one not — looked like after four or five days!
Promising review: “I am a big warehouse shopper and in the past often couldn’t eat all those berries or all that lettuce before they went bad. So I followed the directions and made sure the produce was dry (lettuce, spinach, asparagus, and blueberries). For the lettuce and asparagus, saw a little condensation in the bag, so put a paper towel in the bag where moisture was accumulating. Two weeks later, the berries were almost as fresh as on day one. Lettuce was still crisp and crunchy and only a few pieces of spinach were starting to wilt. Asparagus were crisp as well. I would definitely recommend and will continue to try with other fruits and vegetables.” —BAS
Get a pack of 20 (eight medium, eight large, and four extra-large) from Amazon for $9.88.
13.
A pair of sleek silicone mask applicator brushes with several benefits that’ll make a mask day more effortless (and therefore more relaxing): it evenly spreads a thick layer of product without any getting caught or wasted in bristles, it’s easy to clean, and reduces mess!
Promising review: “GAME-CHANGER! I love these! I no longer dread putting on my face products. I was using my fingers to apply the product to my face, and it was so messy and got in my nails too. When I came across these silicone brushes I knew I had to have them. They are amazing and the low price is a steal. These brushes really changed my routine. I use my facial products more often because I’m no longer worried about the annoying mess. The silicone brush is very flexible and spreads the product on my face nicely. Cleaning the brush is a simple task, just rinse and pat dry. Highly recommended!” —Wells Family
Get a set of two from Amazon for $3.98.
Promising review: “GAME-CHANGER! I love these! I no longer dread putting on my face products. I was using my fingers to apply the product to my face, and it was so messy and got in my nails too. When I came across these silicone brushes I knew I had to have them. They are amazing and the low price is a steal. These brushes really changed my routine. I use my facial products more often because I’m no longer worried about the annoying mess. The silicone brush is very flexible and spreads the product on my face nicely. Cleaning the brush is a simple task, just rinse and pat dry. Highly recommended!” —Wells Family
Get a set of two from Amazon for $3.98.
14.
A compact and cord-free milk frother so you can save some $$$ and wow your friends by creating Starbucks-worthy drinks at home. Because if there’s one thing you truly can’t live without? It’s coffee.
Amazon, amazon.com
Promising review: “I’m a barista at Starbucks, so obviously I know how I like my coffee. For a while I was using an immersion blender to froth my milk for my morning cup of coffee but it just wasn’t doing what I wanted it to do. I finally bought this frother and I’m so so happy with it!! It doesn’t need to be plugged in so it takes up way less space. It is a lot quieter than the blender, and I can use any size cup I want because the frother is so small. Not only can I heat up my milk for a hot coffee, but I can also use it just the same with cold milk for my iced coffee!! Highly recommend this product!!” —Heather Michael
Get it from Amazon for $17.95+ (available in 29 colors and prints).
Amazon, amazon.com
Promising review: “I’m a barista at Starbucks, so obviously I know how I like my coffee. For a while I was using an immersion blender to froth my milk for my morning cup of coffee but it just wasn’t doing what I wanted it to do. I finally bought this frother and I’m so so happy with it!! It doesn’t need to be plugged in so it takes up way less space. It is a lot quieter than the blender, and I can use any size cup I want because the frother is so small. Not only can I heat up my milk for a hot coffee, but I can also use it just the same with cold milk for my iced coffee!! Highly recommend this product!!” —Heather Michael
Get it from Amazon for $17.95+ (available in 29 colors and prints).
15.
A genius dongle case that can clip to a keyring and that literally everyone with an iPhone needs. Because who among us has not found ourselves dongle-less when we were desperate to listen to music or watch a video?
DukeofCases/Etsy
It’s from a Black-owned Etsy shop!
Promising review: “Love it. I’m always losing my cord or leaving it in my other jacket or pants pocket. Now all I have to do is put it back on my keyring. Brilliant!!!” —Mel
Get it from DukeofCases on Etsy for $15.
16.
The Skincare Set from cult-fave brand Glossier, so finally finding that perfect skincare routine
will be as easy as clicking “add to cart.”
Glossier
The set includes the brand’s Milky Jelly Cleanser (a pH-balanced daily face wash), Priming Moisturizer (which hydrates, plumps, and just generally leaves you glowing), and Balm Dotcom (an antioxidant-rich skin and lip salve available in different flavors and tints).
Promising review: “I was the biggest skeptic of Glossier — I didn’t trust the hype. Whenever I do wear makeup, it’s a full face, and I don’t have a super consistent skincare routine, so I figured this wasn’t the company for me. However, I have friends that gave it rave reviews and the curiosity finally got the better of me. I decided to buy the skincare set to inspire me to get more consistent about my skincare routine. I’ve had this set for about five days now and I am completely shook by how good my skin looks. Acne scars that I thought were a permanent part of my face are fading and my skin feels baby soft! The Milky Jelly Cleanser is one of the only cleansers I’ve ever used that doesn’t make my skin feel tight after. The Priming Moisturizer goes on smooth and actually decreases the redness in my face. I got the rose Balm Dot Com and I almost cried when I first put it, on it smelled so good. It goes on thick and stays on your lips for a while, and it feels moisturizing without feeling heavy. I immediately order three more in different flavors. I now understand the hype.” —Sempervirine
Get all three from Glossier for $40 (available with eight balm varieties).
Glossier
The set includes the brand’s Milky Jelly Cleanser (a pH-balanced daily face wash), Priming Moisturizer (which hydrates, plumps, and just generally leaves you glowing), and Balm Dotcom (an antioxidant-rich skin and lip salve available in different flavors and tints).
Promising review: “I was the biggest skeptic of Glossier — I didn’t trust the hype. Whenever I do wear makeup, it’s a full face, and I don’t have a super consistent skincare routine, so I figured this wasn’t the company for me. However, I have friends that gave it rave reviews and the curiosity finally got the better of me. I decided to buy the skincare set to inspire me to get more consistent about my skincare routine. I’ve had this set for about five days now and I am completely shook by how good my skin looks. Acne scars that I thought were a permanent part of my face are fading and my skin feels baby soft! The Milky Jelly Cleanser is one of the only cleansers I’ve ever used that doesn’t make my skin feel tight after. The Priming Moisturizer goes on smooth and actually decreases the redness in my face. I got the rose Balm Dot Com and I almost cried when I first put it, on it smelled so good. It goes on thick and stays on your lips for a while, and it feels moisturizing without feeling heavy. I immediately order three more in different flavors. I now understand the hype.” —Sempervirine
Get all three from Glossier for $40 (available with eight balm varieties).
17.
Adhesive weather- and sound-proofing strips to block drafts, leaks, and the sound of the people next door who haven’t been quiet for even a second since stay-at-home started. Did you expect to find sympathy and salvation in the form of 33 feet of foam? No, but this past year has been full of surprises.
Amazon, amazon.com
Promising review: “I really love this product!! I live with roommates and am very sensitive to sound. It was kinda hard to coordinate everybody’s time and schedule and I’ve been woken by the sound in the kitchen several times in the early morning, like 3 to 4 a.m. This product is a game-changer for me. I can barely hear people talking or washing dishes outside and I can see less dust in my room since I sealed those gaps in my door. Highly highly recommend this product!!” —Yiting Cai
Get two rolls (for a total of 33 feet) from Amazon for $8.97+ (available in four colors).
Amazon, amazon.com
Promising review: “I really love this product!! I live with roommates and am very sensitive to sound. It was kinda hard to coordinate everybody’s time and schedule and I’ve been woken by the sound in the kitchen several times in the early morning, like 3 to 4 a.m. This product is a game-changer for me. I can barely hear people talking or washing dishes outside and I can see less dust in my room since I sealed those gaps in my door. Highly highly recommend this product!!” —Yiting Cai
Get two rolls (for a total of 33 feet) from Amazon for $8.97+ (available in four colors).
18.
A Grace Eleyae satin-lined beanie that may look like a regular winter hat, but has a secret superpower — it’ll protect, not damage, natural hair.
Amazon
The satin helps retain moisture and reduce breakage-causing friction, and can even help distribute the natural oils in your hair. The brand, Grace Eleyae, is a Black woman-owned business that specializes in accessories that are both protective and stylish!
Promising review: “Love it! Absolutely my favorite hat. It’s high quality and fits well even over my weave. Love, love the satin silky lining. I want one in every color.” —Kesha
Get it from Amazon for $29.99, and find more Grace Eleyae caps here.
Amazon
The satin helps retain moisture and reduce breakage-causing friction, and can even help distribute the natural oils in your hair. The brand, Grace Eleyae, is a Black woman-owned business that specializes in accessories that are both protective and stylish!
Promising review: “Love it! Absolutely my favorite hat. It’s high quality and fits well even over my weave. Love, love the satin silky lining. I want one in every color.” —Kesha
Get it from Amazon for $29.99, and find more Grace Eleyae caps here.
19.
Athena Club’s natural, plant-based, aluminum- and cruelty-free deodorant, which not only comes in pretty packaging but will make you take back pretty much everything bad you’ve ever said about natural deodorant — trust me.
Katy Herman/BuzzFeed
Two things I used to believe: 1) That putting on deodorant would never be something I looked forward to and 2) natural deodorants just didn’t work as well and I was stuck with my regular drugstore brand (rhymes with Schmecret) instead of the effective aluminum- and cruelty-free formula that was my white whale. But now, slap me in Cabin 6 and call me Annabeth Chase, because I’m a dutiful daughter of Athena (Club). The first thing I noticed when I got my sample of this magic stuff in the mail was the sleek and pretty packaging that feels all Insta-worthy on my countertop. Then, the smell — I really don’t like perfume-y, overpowering scents, but this was so mild and beautiful and natural-smelling (I picked scent No. 2, a rose, sage, vanilla, lime and cedarwood blend). But most importantly, it heckin’ WORKED. I will confess that I have skipped some shower days in quarantine with my family. I’m not going anywhere and my parents love me unconditionally, okay??? But I also feel totally fresh with this stuff on. My pits stay noticeably dry and smelling A-OK pretty much all day, even if they were pretty stinky to begin with (is this TMI??). And it achieves all that with really just a swipe — no need to apply a ton. And I actually look forward to putting this goodness on in the morning!
Get it from Athena Club for $12 (or $11 with a subscription; available in two scents).
20.
A countertop dishwasher here to make the dreams of anyone with a small kitchen come true. Turns out that hand-washing dishes and spending an arm and a leg on having a full-size dishwasher installed aren’t your only two options.
It’s got six different wash cycles (normal, heavy, glass, speed, eco, and rinse), and the assembly doesn’t even require tools! It comes with an adapter to hook the included hose up to your sink.
Promising review: “My place did not have a dishwasher. I begged the landlord to install one (as most of the units have one), but he’s too cheap. I loathe washing dishes by hand. There were always dirty dishes in the sink. I’ve had this for a couple of months now, and it is one of my best purchases in the past decade. I ran it the night it arrived and have run it virtually every night since. If you follow the directions, you can fit a decent amount inside, but it is what it is: a very compact dishwasher that comfortably fits on the countertop next to the sink, where the dish strainer used to live. It will fit underneath cabinets if they are to code. It’s pretty quiet, except when it expels water into the sink, but that’s only a few seconds a few times during the wash. I have never had to wash anything a second time. Ever. I rinse a little but do not believe in washing the dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. I named it (‘Dishy,’ because I am not that creative) and it is now a member of my family. My daughter doesn’t quite grasp why I love it so much, but then again, she is 7 and has never had to do dishes. Personally, I think she’s just jealous that I give it so much attention. If one were to ask me to decide between this and a PS4, I would choose this every time (and I am an avid COD player).” —HoopdySF
Get it from Amazon for $329.99.
It’s got six different wash cycles (normal, heavy, glass, speed, eco, and rinse), and the assembly doesn’t even require tools! It comes with an adapter to hook the included hose up to your sink.
Promising review: “My place did not have a dishwasher. I begged the landlord to install one (as most of the units have one), but he’s too cheap. I loathe washing dishes by hand. There were always dirty dishes in the sink. I’ve had this for a couple of months now, and it is one of my best purchases in the past decade. I ran it the night it arrived and have run it virtually every night since. If you follow the directions, you can fit a decent amount inside, but it is what it is: a very compact dishwasher that comfortably fits on the countertop next to the sink, where the dish strainer used to live. It will fit underneath cabinets if they are to code. It’s pretty quiet, except when it expels water into the sink, but that’s only a few seconds a few times during the wash. I have never had to wash anything a second time. Ever. I rinse a little but do not believe in washing the dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. I named it (‘Dishy,’ because I am not that creative) and it is now a member of my family. My daughter doesn’t quite grasp why I love it so much, but then again, she is 7 and has never had to do dishes. Personally, I think she’s just jealous that I give it so much attention. If one were to ask me to decide between this and a PS4, I would choose this every time (and I am an avid COD player).” —HoopdySF
Get it from Amazon for $329.99.
21.
Clever pant waist extenders for making old jeans (that are just a little too tight) feel comfy again — or for making your fave trousers work during early pregnancy or after a medical procedure. And, of course, you can also use these to make real (read: nonsweat) pants more quarantine-level comfy.
Amazon
They can provide up to two inches of extra room!
Promising review: “They work great. I had a kidney transplant and the new kidney was put in around waistline, which made all my pants tight. I have several pairs I would’ve had to replace, but waist extenders did the trick.” —jde
Get a pack of 13 (with a mix of hooks and buttons) from Amazon for $15.95.
Amazon
They can provide up to two inches of extra room!
Promising review: “They work great. I had a kidney transplant and the new kidney was put in around waistline, which made all my pants tight. I have several pairs I would’ve had to replace, but waist extenders did the trick.” —jde
Get a pack of 13 (with a mix of hooks and buttons) from Amazon for $15.95.
22.
Washable microfiber mop pads that’ll fit on your trusty Swiffer WetJet or similar mops so you can kick wasteful and pricey disposable pads to the curb. They even pick up more gunk, so you’ll wonder why you haven’t been using these the whole time.
One pad can last up to 100 washes and works on pretty much any surface, from wood to tile to stone.
Promising review: “I wanted to reduce waste with disposable pads and I was pleasantly surprised by these. This photo [on the right] was AFTER I cleaned the floor with the disposable pad! I was able to get a super clean floor, spots were easier to clean up, and it didn’t sound like it was scratching my floors. This was easy to use, didn’t use more cleaner then the disposable pads, and got my floor cleaner. Definitely gonna buy more if the two I got ever wear out.” —Riley
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $14.95.
One pad can last up to 100 washes and works on pretty much any surface, from wood to tile to stone.
Promising review: “I wanted to reduce waste with disposable pads and I was pleasantly surprised by these. This photo [on the right] was AFTER I cleaned the floor with the disposable pad! I was able to get a super clean floor, spots were easier to clean up, and it didn’t sound like it was scratching my floors. This was easy to use, didn’t use more cleaner then the disposable pads, and got my floor cleaner. Definitely gonna buy more if the two I got ever wear out.” —Riley
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $14.95.
23.
A memory foam gel cushion to turn your desk chair into a luxurious, not miserable, experience for your tush. Truly, how have you and your glutes been working from home without this?
It’s got over 9,000 positive reviews!
Promising review: “Miracle for my back troubles. I have back problems and an office job that sometimes requires me to sit in the world’s most uncomfortable chair. The first day I had to sit in that chair for a meeting, I thought I’d have to quit because my back was SO mad at me long after getting out of the chair. I bought this seat cushion and now I can’t live without it. It has a little handle on the side, which makes it easy to carry even when my hands are overflowing with papers. Only downside is that it sometimes squishes down a bit more than I would like for it to, but it works so well overall that I don’t really mind. I just readjust myself on the seat cushion or take the opportunity to walk around for a minute while it re-inflates.” —Amelia
Get it from Amazon for $37.95 (available in two colors).
24.
A beyond brilliant four-in-one convertible makeup brush (you read that right — I’m talking a concealer sponge plus blush, eyebrow, and shadow brushes all together), because makeup bag clutter and wasting time during your morning routine are two annoyances best left in your past life. The future is now.
Alleyoop
The materials are latex-free and vegan, and it comes with a storage pouch (you can also easily replace the sponge end). Honestly, I’m fascinated by all the clever, time-saving beauty tools from this woman-founded brand — they look so cool and would totally upgrade your routine this year! Also, how did no one think of them till now?!?
Promising review: “So functional! This brush is game-changing! It’s so much easier than scrambling through your brushes in the morning. The beauty sponge is soft and so are the bristles! Definitely would recommend” —Chazlyn
Get it from Alleyoop for $28.
Alleyoop
The materials are latex-free and vegan, and it comes with a storage pouch (you can also easily replace the sponge end). Honestly, I’m fascinated by all the clever, time-saving beauty tools from this woman-founded brand — they look so cool and would totally upgrade your routine this year! Also, how did no one think of them till now?!?
Promising review: “So functional! This brush is game-changing! It’s so much easier than scrambling through your brushes in the morning. The beauty sponge is soft and so are the bristles! Definitely would recommend” —Chazlyn
Get it from Alleyoop for $28.
25.
Majorly space-saving hangers to transform your tiny closet into something you can work with until the day you can afford to move into a mansion with a Cher Horowitz-type closet with room for your whole wardrobe.
There are hanger hooks on both ends, so you can attach either one (like in the pics above for maximum space-saving) or both (to hang easily-wrinkled clothes a little farther apart) sides to your closet rod. Each one has five slots for more hangers, so one set can store up to 50 pieces.
Promising review: “TEARS OF JOY. Okay, I know that’s dramatic, but I cannot say enough about how these hangers have transformed my tiny, odd-shaped closet. I was so desperate for more space, I was considering spending big bucks to have a professional come in and redesign the space. Then I found these and it’s like my hanging space quadrupled! It feels downright luxurious in my closet now. I can see all my clothes and nothing is squished together like it used to be. I can also comfortably add a substantial amount of clothing and would still have room to grow. BUY THESE IMMEDIATELY!” —milanina77
Get a pack of 10 from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in two colors).
There are hanger hooks on both ends, so you can attach either one (like in the pics above for maximum space-saving) or both (to hang easily-wrinkled clothes a little farther apart) sides to your closet rod. Each one has five slots for more hangers, so one set can store up to 50 pieces.
Promising review: “TEARS OF JOY. Okay, I know that’s dramatic, but I cannot say enough about how these hangers have transformed my tiny, odd-shaped closet. I was so desperate for more space, I was considering spending big bucks to have a professional come in and redesign the space. Then I found these and it’s like my hanging space quadrupled! It feels downright luxurious in my closet now. I can see all my clothes and nothing is squished together like it used to be. I can also comfortably add a substantial amount of clothing and would still have room to grow. BUY THESE IMMEDIATELY!” —milanina77
Get a pack of 10 from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in two colors).
26.
A truly wonderful Wonder Woman chair cape, because your work-from-home space needs a ~super~ makeover. You may not be an Amazonian/demigod princess, have super speed or strength, or travel by invisible plane, but the to-do list you tackle on a daily basis? That should be enough to earn you a spot in the Justice League.
Amazon
Promising review: “Fit my desk chair just fine. It’s adjustable. The back of my chair is fairly wide and there was still extra room to adjust. Looks nice and is a lot of fun for the office.” —rose c. glass
Get it from Amazon for $28.99.
27.
A dishwasher-safe can colander sure to make anyone who stocked up on canned foods last year (same) but hates getting pungent liquid on their fingers (double same) say “I can‘t believe I went so long without this!”
Amazon
Promising review: “Life-changing little strainer!! Okay, maybe not life-changing, but this thing is awesome! I used to drain my canned tuna or chicken by just squishing the lid down and hoping I didn’t get squirted with stinky water, but now I place this thing in the can and gently press down to drain the water with the utmost confidence that I will not 1) get injured on the can, 2) get splashed with stink water, or 3) lose any tuna out the side. Ahh, it’s the little things. :)” —jaime138
Get it from Amazon for $7.89.
Amazon
Promising review: “Life-changing little strainer!! Okay, maybe not life-changing, but this thing is awesome! I used to drain my canned tuna or chicken by just squishing the lid down and hoping I didn’t get squirted with stinky water, but now I place this thing in the can and gently press down to drain the water with the utmost confidence that I will not 1) get injured on the can, 2) get splashed with stink water, or 3) lose any tuna out the side. Ahh, it’s the little things. :)” —jaime138
Get it from Amazon for $7.89.
28.
A primer mask that’s a genius invention, IMHO. It’ll help you get glowing and leave your whole dang face primed for a great makeup look in a far more luxe and spa-like way than your usual liquid primer. Oh, and did I mention it’s only two bucks???
elf
It’s made with vitamin C, vitamin B3, and hyaluronic acid, and it’s cruelty- and paraben-free!
Promising review: “I used this mask right before an event. OMG, this stuff is amazing! It leaves my face so smooth. My makeup application was flawless and glowing! It smells so good too, very soothing. My makeup lasted pretty much all evening without having to retouch. I don’t know if it really blurred pores, because I don’t really have that issue, but overall it just makes your face looks so good and hydrated. I just ordered more!” —Jules78
Get it from e.l.f. for $2.
elf
It’s made with vitamin C, vitamin B3, and hyaluronic acid, and it’s cruelty- and paraben-free!
Promising review: “I used this mask right before an event. OMG, this stuff is amazing! It leaves my face so smooth. My makeup application was flawless and glowing! It smells so good too, very soothing. My makeup lasted pretty much all evening without having to retouch. I don’t know if it really blurred pores, because I don’t really have that issue, but overall it just makes your face looks so good and hydrated. I just ordered more!” —Jules78
Get it from e.l.f. for $2.
29.
A Rapid Ramen Cooker with over 2,000 5-star reviews that’s a lazy cook’s dream — it can cook your noodles in the microwave in three minutes and must have been designed by someone with a pretty genius ~noodle~ themselves.
It’s BPA-free and dishwasher-safe! Plus, since you use less water, you can also use less seasoning and therefore reduce your sodium intake. It was presented on Shark Tank, and the Black-owned company now makes rapid cookers for everything from noodles to oatmeal to desserts!
Promising review: “Possibly the best thing I have ever purchased. Like legit, it cooks the ramen perfectly and it’s super easy to clean. I gave the red one to my friend who is also an avid ramen lover. I don’t even put the flavoring in anymore — I can just mix in kimchi with some fish and it’s like using spaghetti. Seriously sweet when you don’t want to clean up a million pots and pans or wait or sweat your butt off over a hot stove.” —P Y
Get it from Amazon for $10.98.
30.
And a truly majestic piece of art that no home should be without, ever. Yes, I’m talking about Handsome Squidward.
Amazon
Promising review: “He dummy THICCCCC. I wake up in the middle of the night to see his face. Best thing I have ever owned. The way he looks at me as I rub his chest makes me want to buy 20 more.” —RIleyChilds
Get it from Amazon for $21.98.
You realizing these products are what your life needs:
NBC
The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
Looking for more great Amazon finds? Check out some of our favorite cheap things to buy on Amazon, some of the weirdest things on Amazon you might actually want, or read through all the rest of our incredible Amazon product recommendations.
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