What do you do on a daily basis — fold and put away laundry? Go to the gym? Brush your teeth? (I hope that last one is a “yes.”) I have a list — at least in my head — of stuff I do on a daily basis, things like making the bed, taking my medication, checking the mail, and watching Dr. Phil. (O.K., sue me on that last one.) I also have products — yes, ones I’ve bought from Amazon — that I use every day. Why? Because they make my life simpler or more rewarding.
You probably have a bunch of items you use every day, too, but don’t think about it. What about a toaster? A pair of tweezers? A water bottle? A yoga mat? See, there are more things than you realize, aren’t there? That’s the gist behind this list, no rhyme intended. On this list, I’ve got the best planner I’ve ever used, a cast iron griddle that sears meat perfectly, and the cheapest solution to eyelash serum you ever did see. You’re going to want to grab these finds … and I promise, they’re going to become an integral part of your daily life.
Yes, You Can
What if you didn’t have to lift six other cans in your pantry to get right to the one you’re after? This stackable can rack organizer holds up to 36 cans and doubles your space because you can sit another right on top of it. It keeps everything neatly arranged so you can see exactly what you have; no more last-minute trips to Walmart because you didn’t spy that can of tomatoes.
Towel Off
Runner? Swimmer? Hiker, weightlifter, or yogi? You need this four-pack of quick-dry towels. Ideal for hands, face, and body, these towels are made of ultra-soft microfiber and wick away sweat without drying out your skin. These include a convenient hang loop that doubles as a wrap. They also fold down to nothing at all so they won’t take up extra space in your gym bag.
Heart And Sole
One of the things they never tell you about being an adult is how much your feet are going to hurt … like, all the time. These gel insoles provide shock absorption, maximum support and reduce the impact on your ankles. They make the perfect partner for running, jogging and hiking, or any outdoor activity, and even come with a free pair of heel gel pads.
Tweeze, Please
Apparently, I use tweezers a lot more than even I realized since I’ve found myself buying them for home, travel, and my purse over the past few months. These tweezers are perfectly slanted for a strong grip and great for plucking unruly eyebrows, ingrown hairs, and splinters. You’ll get a set of two with this purchase with a variety of color choices from blue to pink to black.
It’s A Match-a
Yes, I really do drink matcha every day … after spending the past 40 years avoiding it for some reason. This matcha starter kit has everything you need to get going including the tea powder itself, a matcha spoon, and an electric whisk to ensure everything is well-blended. If you’ve never had matcha, I’d compare it to a light green tea taste with just a hint of sweetness.
Donut Forget Your Water
If you’ve read any other Amazon lists I’ve written, you may already know I have a serious addiction to water bottles. I’m drawn to them in the store like a moth to a flame. This stainless steel version has a lot going for it including triple insulation, three styles of screw-on lids, and a wide-mouth opening for adding ice or fruit.
Pot Protection
You can never have too many potholders, right? One’s always dirty, frayed, or lost. This set of silicone potholders is heat-resistant and features silicone striping that provides a non-slip grip for superior handling. They’re also lined with a soft terry cloth inside so they feel good against your skin, too. At 10 inches long, these will protect your hands and wrists, and they come in six different colors.
Desk Double-Duty
It’s good to have options when you’re working, especially if you spend a lot of time on a computer. This sit-stand workstation moves with you easily, converting from a sitting into a standing desk by simply pressing a side lever. It also provides a large work surface, which can sometimes be a problem in do-it-all designs. This workstation works with your existing table or writing desk.
Time To Make A Plan-ner
As much as I try, I just can’t get away from an actual paper planner. This one from Clever Fox has so many great features that it’s far surpassed any I’ve used in the past. A non-dated daily planner, you can start it when you want. It comes with a few stickers and has segments for productivity, passion, motivation, happiness, and focus.
Keep Your Cool
I’ve had my fair share of health issues this year and one of the things that have brought me the most comfort is this cooling face mask. Pop it in your refrigerator or freezer and then apply it to your face and get ready for sweet relief. This mask comes with a jade roller, too, which has various benefits including brighter and firmer skin.
Mat About You
I enjoy yoga but I’m certainly no expert. Left to my own devices, I’d spend most of my time in Shavasana (which is basically lying flat on your back with your eyes closed). This instructional yoga mat includes 70 printed yoga poses with names and illustrations. It’s a perfect portable solution if you’re traveling and don’t have access to video instruction.
Cast Iron Sharpeneth Cast Iron
This cast-iron skillet is, without a doubt, one of my favorite purchases of the past year. I’ve decided to focus more on cast iron cooking because the pans impart great flavor and never lose their mojo. The heat evenly disperses in this pan, ensuring a consistent cook. With proper conditioning, you’ll have this pan long enough to pass it on to your grandchildren.
Hit The Wall-et
I’m a minimalist in many regards even though I like stuff. (It’s very specific stuff so it doesn’t count.) This cell phone wallet sticks right on the back of your smartphone so your ID, debit card, and cash (if you still carry that) are right there at your fingertips. I especially like how this one completely closes so that no one is getting a glimpse of your goods.
Puppy Love
Fine, I don’t use this every day, but my dog does and he told me to tell you it’s “two paws up.” This plush calming dog bed is so soft and snuggle, though, that you’ll wish you could crawl into it. It features a soft, shaggy faux fur lining that mimics your dog’s preferred way to sleep. The manufacturer says that dogs who sleep in this bed are friendlier, calmer, and less anxious, too.
Color Outside The Lines
Yes, I use watercolor brush pens every day … or just about every day. Remember that planner we discussed a few products above? I enjoy having lots of colors for color-coding things of importance. I also like these for the plethora of adult coloring books I have and like to flip through in my free time. This set includes 24 colors as well as a water blender pen for an authentic watercolor experience.
We Go Together Like Oil And Vinegar
I like for things to match, especially if they’re going to sit out on my kitchen counter. This oil and vinegar dispenser set looks clean and classic while also being fully functional for cooking and baking. The bottles feature controlled dispenser tops and clear markings so you know how much is left. The wide openings make it easy to fill and refill.
Brush It Off
I finally got on the electric toothbrush bandwagon a while back and I have to say I have no complaints. These replacement brush heads work with all Oral-B toothbrushes except Oral-B Pulsonic and iO and the color-coded rings make it easy to identify your toothbrush from your partner’s. These are a steal, too, at less than $5 for four brush heads. You’re not going to find that deal at Walmart.
So Fresh And So Clean
Cleaning glasses is one of the things I hate most about wearing glasses. As a result, I choose my contacts nine times out of 10. But, I do find myself slipping on a pair of glasses when my eyes are tired or I’m feeling lazy. This gel lens cleaner stays on unlike liquids that run, giving you a better overall cleaning experience.
Red Light Special
Looking for rapid recovery from workouts, faster pain relief, or better sleep? You might want to consider red light therapy. This handheld infrared device earns high praise from reviewers who describe it as a “game-changer” and a “godsend.” It works simply by holding it over the target area for up to five minutes at a time, one to three times a day. Many studies have shown promising benefits from little devices like this one.
Open, Sesame
Yes, I use a jar opener like this one every day and no, I’m not a meemaw … yet. This thing is super handy for those of us who struggle with hand pain, but it’s also great for older folks and even children. This is easy to install under a cabinet with both the adhesive and included screws and it stays perfectly hidden.
On The Board
I was 42 years old before I realized that those “wells” in a cutting board were intended to allow the juice from resting meat to pool neatly. This board is great because it also has spikes on one side, which helps keep the meat in place when you’re carving it. When you’re using it for vegetables and other things, flip it over to the smooth side.
Perfectly Portioned
Portion control? What’s that? Seriously, though, we’re quickly approaching a new year, which means we’re all going to make resolutions we have no intentions of keeping. If you want to go into it at least armed with the right tools, check out these portion control containers. They’re great for telling you exactly how much of which food group you should be consuming, which I’m sorry to say is a lot less than you think it is.
Brew On Tap
Cold-brew is quite serious in my house, which is why I keep it on tap — at all times — with this cold brew coffee maker. Brew up to 12 cups in this glass pitcher with a stainless steel spout and then store it in the refrigerator for always chilled cold brew at a moment’s notice. Twelve cups last me, oh, about two days. Ahem.
Cutting Up
If you’d prefer the ease of plastic cutting boards, take a gander at this dishwasher-safe option. You’ll get a set of three here in varying sizes from small to large. These have juice grooves, too, and non-slip handles to make it easier to move around. The non-porous, ultra-strong surface needs slightly less maintenance and upkeep than a wooden or bamboo option.
Power To The People
Power strips are a hot commodity in my house, as I suspect they are in yours as well. We all have too many gadgets these days that require juice from phones and tablets to everyday objects like lamps and curling irons. This power cube sticks anywhere, thanks to its detachable base, and has three outlets and three USB ports for convenience.
An Auto Organizer
O.K., in fairness, I may not use this every day, but it does its job every day so that counts, right? This trunk storage organizer is one of my best finds yet because it keeps all of those things you need to keep in your car (but don’t need regularly) organized and contained. The included tie-down strap system means it won’t come dislodged in your trunk.
Oiled Up
I really do use essential oils every day and I’m not even a part of an MLM. Real essential oils have a lot of benefits, in my mind. For example, I use peppermint for an upset stomach or motion sickness and lavender to help me sleep better at night. This set includes eight popular oils that are pure and undiluted; just add a diffuser.
A Jarring Experience
I probably got it from my grandmother, but I find glass mason jars to be wildly useful for a number of things. Of course, she used them for canning, but I use them for everything from making homemade condiments and dressings to mixing up a salad to eat on the go. This set includes six jars in sizes from eight to 32 ounces.
Kiss The Blues Goodbye
The jury is still out on whether blue light blocking glasses really work or not, but I can tell you anecdotally that they 100 percent are effective for me. This pair, outfitted with blue leopard, is super cute and stylish, but there are plain styles as well including matte black and tea brown. Wearing these alleviate visual fatigue and discomfort from long periods of web surfing, gaming, and working under fluorescent lights.
A Pocket Door
I’ll never stop buying shoes because I’m no quitter, even if I am running out of space with each purchase. And, why should I? This over-the-door shoe organizer is the perfect excuse to buy more because it holds 12 pairs (or more if you’re savvy). These aren’t limited to shoe storage, though; you can put them to use for bathroom necessities, spices, pantry needs, and more.
Light Work
Talk about a workhorse product that can be used for a plethora of things! This clip-on book light has three lamp modes and an adjustable neck so you can get the light just where you want it. Use this for reading, studying, crafting and so much more. It can also easily be attached to any desk, headboard, book, laptop, or Kindle.
Lash Out
Let me let you in on one of the beauty industry’s dirty little secrets: You don’t need to spend a fortune on brow and lash growth serum because this pure castor oil serum does the exact same thing for much cheaper. This bottle, for example? Less than 12 bucks. The last “lash serum” I looked at online? $80. One reviewer said, “It has thickened and lengthened my lashes immensely.” You pick.
A New Fidget Friend
I’ve never been a fan of fidget gadgets just for the sake of fidget gadgets but I do find myself reaching for this fidget sphere a lot when I’m on the phone or sitting through (another) Zoom meeting. This one is stackable, shakeable, snappable, and buildable in pentagon shapes that can be manipulated to make a variety of designs. Grab it in one of five available colors or mix and match.
The Spice Girls
There are lots of salt and pepper sets out there, O.K.? But, this stainless steel grinder set is one of my favorites because it can be easily refilled, grinds your spices from fresh, and just looks pretty sitting on the counter with pink salt and multicolored peppercorns. The tops feature stainless steel lids and glass bodies and the pair comes with a handy stand.
A Caddy Carry-All
If I could abandon a purse and just carry one of these storage caddies around with me everywhere, I think I’d be a lot more organized … although I’d probably get some weird looks. This caddy has six outer pockets, two to six inner compartments (depending on how you configure the partitions), and 10 internal storage loops. A handle means you can tote it with you anywhere … sort of like a purse.
A Leg-ging Up
I wear leggings every day. Every. Single. Day. And, why not? Jeans are uncomfortable. Dresses are too … dressy. Leggings understand me. Leggings don’t judge. These leggings have some great features like a high waist to keep everything tucked in and both capri- and full-length. There are also a gazillion color choices, which is a scientific term for “go buy them in every color.”
Bluetooth To Go
Have tunes, will travel. This Bluetooth shower speaker is meant to go anywhere … even outside the shower to places like the pool, the beach, or (as seen in this photo) a kayak in the middle of nowhere. I like to use these to protect my phone from the elements but still enjoy my favorite music or podcast. This one is waterproof, fully submersible, and has hands-free functionality for answering calls.