Today, I’m sharing my favorite products that have a few key features in common: They’re useful, affordable, and have amazing reputations. In fact, I’m only including stuff that’s earned at least 1,000 reviews on Amazon! It’s a genuinely high bar, since even earning a few hundred positive ratings is relatively uncommon. Earning thousands? That’s a sign that a product is truly worth it.
For example, you really can’t go wrong with this essential chef’s knife that is not only highly rated, but also ridiculously affordable. I also love this gadget that dries hair fast and leaves it smooth, not to mention this insanely loud alarm clock that wakes up even the heaviest sleepers. Keep reading for the full list, and rest assured that every item here is a bestseller for good reasons!
This Gratitude Journal Is A Real Mood-Lifter
Ever since I started using a gratitude journal, things just seem…better, even when the news is depressing and the kids are fighting, yadda yadda. It helps you stay focused on the good things in life. This one has an inspirational quote to start your week and a gorgeous design that’ll keep you coming back to use it on the daily. And it’s got almost 4,000 rave reviews, so you know it’s something to be thankful for!
These Dry Highlighters Are Magic
These colorful dry highlighters are definitely a new invention for me but they make so much sense when you think about it. There’s no smudging or smearing or bleed through to other pages like with traditional highlighter markers since these are more like crayons. Just highlight and go! People love these for studying and marking passages on thin Bible paper since you barely have to press down to make a mark.
This Calf Stretcher Feels Like Heaven
Admittedly, I was a little skeptical about a whole device just to stretch your calf, but the reviews won me over. People with plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis SWEAR by this thing – everyone gives it an enthusiastic ten toes up. Selected review: “Easy to use, is also good for hamstrings and other potentially troublesome muscles that need stretching to avoid problems.
I used it daily and my plantar troubles were gone within a couple of weeks. This one gets a 100% rating from this aging being.”
This Tank Top Hanger Adds So Much Room To Your Closet
These clothes hangers get so much love for the room they add to your closet thanks to vertical storage – you can hang eight tank tops or four bras on them to free up drawer space! It’ll also keep your bras in better condition than being shoved into a drawer that’ll crush the cups. You can also hang jewelry, scarves, belts and other accessories from the uniquely-shaped arms!
This Rice Washer Is Key
For anyone who’s ever tried rinsing rice in a regular colander, you know the frustration of watching the tiny grains slip through and wash down the sink. This rice washing colander solves that problem ingeniously, with special side and bottom drains that let you effectively rinse without losing even a morsel. Nearly 4,000 peeps heartily support this made-in-Japan kitchen must-have!
These Ice Pop Molds Let Your Creativity Run Wild
These ice pop molds are the next best thing to sliced bread, especially if you don’t enjoy the idea of feeding your kids an artificially colored chemical soup every time they want a popsicle. But perhaps the best thing about these is you can customize your flavors and add some booze to make the most delicious “artisan” adult pops around. They’re portable, convenient and come in a pack of 100 so your house will be the top destination this summer for everyone in your ‘hood.
These Dough Presses Are A Kitchen Necessity
If you’ve ever tried making hand pies, homemade ravioli or pierogi, you know how difficult it is to get it right! These dough presses in three sizes take all the hard work out – use one side to cut the dough into a circle, then the other to crimp it shut after filling. You’ll get perfectly-sized, uniform goodies that’ll all cook at the same rate for delicious results, every time.
This Body Balm That Prevents Chafing
Ah, summer. It’s filled with dining al fresco, shorts, grilling out, and, sadly, chafing. This Body Glide anti-chafe balm is here to save the day and erase the painful parts of summer. Just glide it on the inner thighs, around your sports bra, and anywhere else you typically experience chafing for instant protection and moisturization.
It’s small enough to keep in your purse for on-the-go protection!
These Dishcloths That Won’t Get Funky
People are completely obsessed with these dishcloths (they have over 2,000 positive reviews!) and for good reason. Ya know how regular dishcloths get that horrible mildewy smell after sitting in the sink for roughly five minutes? These have a special design that keeps them from smelling bad pretty much ever. Plus, they scrub off even the toughest stuck-on food with ease.
These Charcoal Toothbrushes That Whiten Your Pearly Whites
You’ve probably heard the buzz about how well charcoal whitens teeth, so isn’t it time you tried it out for yourself? This set of five toothbrushes uses the power of charcoal to buff away stains, while the soft-tipped bristles are able to effectively remove food particles and plaque while gently massaging gums. More than 5,000 reviewers are smitten with their newly dazzling smiles!
This Hair Remover That’s 100% Painless
Here’s the thing: Everyone has some facial hair that they’d love to get rid of, but most people are afraid of the pain that comes with traditional hair removal methods. This Finishing Touch Flawless Women’s Painless Hair Remover erases unwanted hair in one quick step without even a pinch.
Seriously, it doesn’t hurt! More than 16,000 can back me up on this!
This Mouthwash That Banishes Bad Breath
Bad breath can happen to anyone, but luckily, you can stop it in its tracks with this magical oral rinse.
TheraBreath has a mild mint flavor that’s clinically proven to eliminate bacteria and keep breath fresh for up to 24 hours straight. That means morning breath is a thing of the past. I don’t know how it works, but I’m sure glad it does.
This Leg Pillow That Perfectly Aligns Your Body
When I was pregnant with my son, I found it nearly impossible to sleep comfortably. I’m a natural stomach sleeper, so when I was unable to sleep this way due to my giant belly I found that every other sleeping position simply wouldn’t do. That’s where this leg pillow came in. It finally allowed me to sleep on my side comfortably.
And no, you don’t have to be pregnant to love this thing!
These Squeezers That Help You Get Every Last Drop Out Of Your Tubes
Throwing out your toothpaste before it’s completely empty is a total waste of money, so help save yourself some green by using these squeezers. They’re made from high-quality plastic that won’t warp under the pressure, and you can use them with practically any type of tube — not just toothpaste. Each order comes with four, which means you can keep one in every bathroom.
This Pumice Stone Made From Real Lava
Made from real volcanic lava, this pumice stone makes it easier than ever to scrub away calluses and dead skin from your feet. It’s ergonomically shaped to fit comfortably in your hand, yet no two stones are the same — because they occur naturally in the Earth, each one features a pattern unique to itself. There are zero synthetic additives in it, and many reviewers raved about how it lasts a “long time.”
These Nano Sponges That Don’t Require Any Cleaning Products
Will they change your life, balance your checkbook, and pick a winning lottery ticket? No, but these nano sponges will get your household surfaces squeaky-clean without the use of any cleaning serums or sprays. That’s right — all you have to do is get these sponges wet, and the nanolon fibers will latch onto dirt, grease, and grime without leaving behind any scratches. Each order comes with two, and they’re completely reusable to help you save money over time.
A Water Flosser With 3 Different Cleaning Modes
Pssst, you wanna know a secret?
…Everybody lies to the dentist about flossing. Your priest, your parents, even your dog if it could talk. Why? Because it sucks — so ditch the string for this water flosser instead. It has three different cleaning modes so that even people with sensitive gums can use it, and the battery lasts for up to two weeks when it’s fully charged. The water tank is extra-large so that you can clean your entire mouth without refilling it, plus it’s also waterproof so you can use it in the shower.
A Miniature Waffle Maker That Can Also Make Paninis
For just $10, you can grab this miniature waffle maker that you can also use to make paninis, hash browns, biscuit pizzas, and more. Be honest — you were probably going to spend more than that on lunch today. It’s small enough that you can keep it at the office to make quick lunches, and the heating plates are coated in nonstick so that it’s also easy to clean. Grab it in a variety of fun colors, including aqua, red, orange, pink, and more.
These Foot Sleeves That Can Help Alleviate Pain
Wear them to help support your arches, or wear these compression foot sleeves to help alleviate pain from plantar fasciitis. They’re made from lightweight, breathable fabric that won’t leave your feet feeling suffocated, and they’re especially great for long flights or car rides since they help promote healthy blood circulation. Grab them in multiple fun colors, including black, pink, blue, purple, green, and more.
A Sink Caddy Made From Rust-Resistant Stainless Steel
We’ve all seen those sink caddies that get rusty and gross after just a few months — so upgrade yourself to this one that’s made from rust-resistant stainless steel. The ventilation holes on the bottom help your sponges and scrubbers dry quickly in order to prevent mildew, and the four suction cups prevent it from sliding down your sink wall.
Store a Full Sack of Flour in This Air-Tight Canister
This 4-quart canister is the gateway to an entire pantry organization system! I should know, because I now have all my baking ingredients stores in these excellent containers by OXO. I love that they’re easy to scoop from, air-tight, and stack neatly to save cabinet space.
Customize Your Desserts With This Best-Selling Ice Cream Maker
Sure, it may be easier to buy a pint of vanilla ice cream at the store, but the real beauty of this best-selling ice cream maker is customizing your desserts. Mix in any favorite ingredients–homemade cookie dough, fresh fruit, candy–you name it! Also amazing for frozen yogurt, dairy-free recipes, and more.
Making Smoothies Is SO DARNED EASY With This Blender Bottle
I love the smart simplicity of this Blender Bottle. Spoon in protein powder, liquids, and any other ingredients. Add the included stainless steel whisking ball. Shake away, and in a few seconds you have a perfectly blended smoothie ready to enjoy!
Organize the Most Unwieldy Cleaning Supplies With This Broom Organizer
Nearly 8,000 Amazon customers appreciated this product so much, they went back online to leave a good review! The Broom Organizer is easy to install with included anchors and screws (and step-by-step instructions, thank goodness). Once attached to the wall, it holds up to 35 pounds of brooms, mops, sports equipment, or garden tools.
Keep Your Ride Clean With This Handy Car Vacuum
I have three kids, a dog, and a minivan, so I need this car vacuum immediately. It plugs into the car’s power outlet so you can use it anytime you notice crumbs and dirt. Includes a built-in LED light so you can see what you’re doing, and attachments for getting into all the nooks and crannies.
No Sticky Tapes! Clean Up Pet Hair Better With This ChomChom Pet Hair Remover
I have a zillion lint rollers for dealing with my dog Rosie’s constant shedding, but I think it’s time to upgrade to the ChomChom Pet Hair Remover. Instead of adhesive sheets, it uses a special brush surface to attract pet hair and collect it in the dust receptacle. With nearly 10,000 positive reviews, I’m convinced!
Grill Perfect Burgers Every Time With This Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler
Compact and versatile, the Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler is made for countertop cooking. It plugs into an electrical socket and heats up to 450 degrees. There are interchangeable plates so you can use it as a grill, griddle, or panini press.
Keep Hot Foods Hot and Cold Foods Cold in This Dual-Compartment Lunch Box
When I was pregnant with my first baby, I started taking a sack of food with me to work everyday. I needed a healthy variety, and a lot of it. This dual-compartment lunch box would have been so handy! It has two roomy zippered compartments so you can keep warm and cold foods separate. Also has exterior pockets for smaller items!
Flawless Eggs Are a No-Brainer With This 7-Egg Cooker
However you like your eggs, this cooker’s got it covered! It’s affordable, takes up hardly any space, and is designed to do one job really, really well. This 7-egg cooker can be set to cook eggs in their shells hard, medium, or soft. It can also poach eggs or steam an omelet.
Smooth Your Dry, Scaly Feet With This Electric Foot File
I have the blue one, but I see that now this electric foot files comes in a manly black and gray color, too! Perfect for both men and women, this gadget safely and efficiently sands away the dry, coarse skin on your feet. No, it doesn’t hurt one bit. Yes, it’s weirdly fun to use!
Dry Delicates on This Foldable Laundry Rack
There is a better way to dry your hand-washables rather than draping them over chairs, doors, and other “handy” spots. Order this foldable laundry rack, and you’ll always have plenty of hanging space on laundry day. The rest of the time, it folds flat and can be easily stored under the bed, in a closet, or elsewhere.
Flavor Your Water With This Fruit-Infusing Water Bottle
This is one of my favorite Amazon buys ever, and 5,000+ other Amazon customers agree! This fruit-infusing water bottle has an inner core designed to hold fruit, veggies, and herbs, infusing the water (or iced tea) with flavor. My current favorite is cucumber-strawberry-lemon-mint. It tastes amazing.
Dry Hair Faster and Better With This Hair Dryer Brush
If you use a hair dryer to style your hair, trust me when I say that this hair dryer brush will change your life. It’s faster, easier to use, and gives better results than a hair dryer and brush used separately. You will never want to go back to a traditional blowdryer!
Deep-Condition Dry, Damaged Hair With This Argan Oil Hair Mask
Infuse hair with moisture and shine by using this Argan Oil Hair Mask at least once a week in place of your regular conditioner. One Amazon reviewer says, “After about five treatments my hair was silky smooth, thick, hydrated and had volume I had not seen since I was a teenager. I would recommend this product for anyone at least give it a try.”
These High-Waist Leggings Have the Pockets You Need and the Price You Want
These high-waist leggings have a loyal following among Amazon customers, who leave overwhelmingly glowing reviews! They come in an impressive range of colors and sizes in full or cropped length. And yes, they have pockets big enough to fit your phone!
I’ve Found the Highest-Rated Chef’s Knife Under $20. You’re Welcome!
I’ve had a hard-working set of knives for years, but I recently added an additional chef’s knife to the mix. It’s amazing what a difference it makes to have a new, sharp, good-quality chef’s knife! This one is well-priced and highly-rated, with customers calling it “wonderful” and “super, super sharp.”
Get Through Your Day Better With This Laptop Backpack
Perfect for students, commuters, people who need to carry stuff places…okay I guess that’s just about everyone! This laptop backpack has thousands of 5-star reviews and plenty of thoughtful features, like a USB port for easy charging on the go.
Turn Sneakers Into Slip-Ons With These Lock Laces
Replace any shoelaces with Lock Laces for instant slip-on shoes! These are indispensable for people who have trouble tying laces or anyone who wants a faster way to get shoes on and off.
Chill or Heat Food and Drinks With This Compact Micro-Fridge
Sized to hold a 6-pack of soda cans, the micro-fridge plugs up anywhere you need a tiny fridge to keep your snacks or beverages cold. With the flip of a switch, it can also heat up its contents!
Make Better, Faster Popcorn With This Microwave Popcorn Popper
This microwave popcorn popper is simply a better way to make popcorn! Just add kernels to the bottom (along with seasoning if you want it), microwave for a couple minutes, and you get fresh, affordable, customized popcorn!
Whip Up Your Own Lattes at Home With This Milk Frother
For the price or two or three coffee shop lattes, you can get your very own handheld milk frother! It’s easy and fun to use, with customers calling it, “just really great” and “the best frother I have ever purchased.”
Charge Up to 6 Devices at Once With This Multi-Port Fast Charger
Give up to six devices a full-speed charge at once with this multi-port fast charger. It’s earned thousands of 5-star reviews, with customers calling it “small, powerful, great value” and “a winner.”
Make Your Own Almond Milk With This Nut Milk Bag
Made from food-grade nylon mesh, this nut milk bag is the best way to strain almond milk, vegetable or fruit juice, cold brew coffee, and homemade yogurt! It’s earned an impressive 4.8-star average rating on Amazon, with customers calling it, “highly recommended,” “great for almond milk,”and “super easy to clean.”
Treat Your Picky Pets to Their Very Own Water Fountain
Give your furry friend their very own water fountain! Many pets prefer freshly flowing water over a stagnant bowl, and consequently drink more water, which improves their health and digestion.
This Portable Charger Has Almost 20,000 Positive Reviews on Amazon
Portable chargers have become a basic necessity of life, and you can’t go wrong with this Anker PowerCore 10000. Affordable and compact, it packs enough juice to power three-and-a-half iPhone 8 charges or two-and-a-half Galaxy S8 charges.
A Great Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush at a Great Price
A better toothbrush means you’ll brush more frequently and thoroughly! Try this Philips Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush, which lasts two weeks on a single charge.
Use the Same Pages Over and Over in This Super-Smart Rocketbook
There are plenty of great reasons to switch to a Rocketbook reusable notebook. It’s eco-friendly, basically lasts forever, and easily transfers handwritten notes to digital files. But the best reason of all might be that it’s just so very cool!
Relieve Fatigue and Foot Pain With These Shoe Inserts
You don’t have to put up with sore feet! These shoe inserts are designed to give support and cushioning exactly where feet need it most, relieving pressure points and reducing pain.
Brew a Perfect Cup With Your Favorite Grounds in This Single-Serve Coffee Maker
Get all the benefits of a Keurig without the price tag or wasteful plastic K-cups! This Hamilton Beach single-serve coffee maker is affordable and easy to use. Just spoon in your favorite coffee grounds, hit a button, and coffee brews directly into your mug or travel cup.
Get Peace of Mind With This Smart Security Camera That Includes Cloud Storage
Install this indoor/outdoor security camera in minutes, then view the footage live or via the included cloud storage. The camera can be set to send you an alert when it detects motion, and includes 2-way audio as well.
Spark Joy With These Socks and Underwear Organizers
Perfectly sized for socks, undies, and bras, these organizers transform messy drawers into Instagram-worthy works of organizational art! One five-star review says, “I LOVE LOVE LOVE these organizers…Great product for a great price!”
This Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock Wakes You Up With Loud Noises and Shaking
If you (or someone you love who drives you crazy) have a really hard time waking up in the morning this sonic bomb alarm clock is exactly what you need! It has tons of customizable features, including an extra-loud alarm, adjustable snooze, and a bed shaking insert you can slip under your pillow or sheet.
This Tablet Stand Is Perfect for Following Recipes on Your iPad
Affordable and sleek, this tablet stand is the perfect spot to prop up your iPad or other tablet while cooking. Also works great as a dock on your desk or bedside table.
These Are Simply the Best Mechanical Pencils You Can Buy
Recommended by Wirecutter and thousands of Amazon customers, the Pentel GraphGear 1000 Mechanical Pencil is well-designed, affordable, and durable. Loyal customers praise it for being comfortable, well-weighted, and a great value.
This Vacu Vin Wine Saver Keeps Wine Fresh Longer
Unless you polish off the bottle every time (no judgment), you really need this Vacu Vin Wine Saver. It pumps the air out of the bottle so the remaining wine stays fresher longer.
Sleep Better and Reduce Anxiety With This Weighted Blanket
We all need better-quality sleep, and this weighted blanket can help. It’s affordable and comes in various sizes, so you can use a small one as a wrap while watching TV or a larger one that covers your entire bed.
This Electric Wine Bottle Opener Is Simply the Easiest Way to Open Wine
This is one of my favorite kitchen gadgets! The Oster Electric Wine Bottle Opener charges on the base, and then opens a bottle at the push of a button. It seriously couldn’t be any easier.