If You Identify As A Bargain Hunter, You'll Want To Check Out These 28 Cheap Versions Of Trendy, Expensive Products
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
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When your $35 dress looks just like the $100 one you saw online: 🤩 🤩 🤩
1. A Briotech spray reviewers have used to soothe inflammation of all kinds, from angry piercings and acne to stubborn rashes and rosacea. It uses hypochlorous acid, an ingredient found naturally in our white blood cells, similar to the much pricier Tower 28 spray.
Note: This product has newer packaging that you might receive instead of the older bottle shown above!
Promising review: "I've been using this hypochlorous acid spray morning, night, and after the gym, and I'm honestly amazed by the results! Since I started using it, I haven't had any breakouts, and my skin feels so much clearer and calmer. It's gentle but effective, and I love how refreshing it feels. It's also great for post-workout, keeping my skin clean and refreshed after sweating. This has definitely become a staple in my skincare routine, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their skin's clarity and health!" — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in four sizes).
2. A padded cropped workout tank with a built-in bra so you can ditch painful underwires and hot layers in favor of something lighter, cooler, and oh so stylish. Reviewers compare it to a similar Lulu Align top but for a less painful price.
Promising review:"I ordered this bra/tank top to compare to the Lululemon Align tank. It is amazing! For reference, I wear a size 8/10 in the Align tank, and I ordered a size medium in this one. The similarities are endless, with the only difference being the material. The material of this tank seems to be more sturdy than the Align tank, so I definitely love that the material will hold up better and likely longer than my Align tanks! If you're looking for a cheaper option, this one is it! I cannot wait to purchase it in more colors :)" — Z
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in women's sizes XS–3XL and 29 colors).
3. A cruelty-free Essence Lash Princess mascara if you're tired of getting excited about mascaras that never live up to their promises. This one is different — or at least according to the 265,000+ 5-star ratings — and can easily give the Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara a run for its money.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
See it in action on TikTok.
Promising review: "I tried this mascara for the first time in 2020 after seeing it go viral on TikTok. It was too inexpensive not to try, right?!?! Well, let me just say how upset I was to find out this little inexpensive bottle outperformed EVERY expensive mascara I had ever bought. This is now the only stuff I use!" — Amanda Sims
For more info and review pics, check out BuzzFeed Editor Kayla Boyd's full Essence Lash Princess Mascara review!
Get it from Amazon for $4.99 (available in black and brown).
4. Or this cruelty-free E.l.f tubing mascara for wrapping each lash in a hug-like layer of elongating goodness, so you can enjoy next-level va-va-voom you thought only falsies — or Tarte — could deliver.
Watch on TikTok as one user goes from skeptic to believer!
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord considers herself a fan:
"I am not a new human to the tubing mascara game, and in fact, I readily spent $26 on the famous OG blend from Blinc every time it needed replacing. I didn't even love it for the length half as much as the fact that tubing mascara like this genuinely never smudges, but can I just say — regardless of price, the E.l.f. tubing mascara formula blows all the others I've tried out of the water. It gives me way more length and volume than other brands, slides on so much more easily, stays put ALL day, and never, ever smudges. My favorite part, though, is how gently and easily it comes off with soap and water. In the past, other mascara removals have felt rough on my lashes, but this comes off so fast that I'm like ??? was I even wearing mascara a minute ago?? Anyway, I hesitate even writing this review because I want to gatekeep the hell out of this before it sells out, but the world needed to know. I'm a big fan of the brown shade (which is what I'm wearing above!), but it also comes in black and soft black."
Get it from Amazon for $7 (available in three shades).
5. A moisturizing Cremo body wash because the delicious blend of white jasmine, red currant, and sweet amber has reviewers comparing this to the smell of Baccarat Rouge 540, even hours after using it in the shower.
Amazon
Promising review:"Cremo's body wash is nothing short of exceptional. If you're a fan of luxurious fragrances, this product will quickly become your new favorite. It boasts an incredible scent that perfectly mimics Baccarat Rouge 540 — a fragrance renowned for its sophisticated and captivating aroma. What sets this body wash apart is not just its stunning scent but also its longevity. The fragrance lingers beautifully throughout the day, ensuring you stay enveloped in that luxurious aroma long after your shower." — Ralph D. Thompson II
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in two other scents).
6. A pair of oversized square sunglasses so you can spend less time squinting and more time looking certifiably fabulous with big Bottega lookalike energy.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"These are my staple sunglasses right now! I love the cool shape that makes them slightly different from aviators. They are very good quality and have some weight to them, making them feel very high quality. They're also polarized, which I was shocked about for the price. Get them!" — Jessie Lee
Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in 11 colors).
7. Or a three-pack of polarized sunglasses to ensure you're fully stocked with a hearty supply of sunnies that look expensive (lookin' at you, Ray-Ban) but won't break your heart when you inevitably crush a pair in the bottom of your purse.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review:"I've been buying these for years. They replaced my Ray-Bans, which look identical! Fit great, and with the price point, I don't have to worry too much with my kids and being on the go!" — Jessica M
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $19.99 (available in 15 sets, as well as two-packs and individual pairs).
8. A Shea Butter Vanilla Cashmere body lotion if you're still on the hunt for a moisturizer that's hydrating, lightweight, and soothing. Allow me to introduce you to this delicious-smelling formula at a price that's just *chef's kiss.* Bath and Body Works, who?????
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "The Eos lotions are the best smelling lotions with the best moisturizing effect. They smell as good as Bath & Body Works and moisturize twice as well. And they are better value. It is really hard to pick my favorite from these lotions. Personally, I do not like the peach jasmine or the fresh scent because it smells like baby powder. But you can't go wrong with any of the other smells. I love you, guys." — Jennifer Shelton
Get it from Amazon for $8.98 (available in other scents).
9. A pair of Bedsure satin pillowcases for a luxurious swap that can work wonders for your skin and hair by helping to fight frizz, reduce breakage, and maintain hydration, all while you sleep! And Blissy wants you to pay how much?!
Get a closer look on TikTok.
Promising review:"Wow! This really does work! My hair would massively shed every day to the point of thinning. First night of use, I had very little shedding! My face felt softer as well. Try them now! Such a buy compared to $89 Blissy brand, plus you get two! Highly recommended! No, my head doesn't slip as some said, and the case stays put! Do it!" — Sherry
Get a two-pack from Amazon for $10.99+ (available in three sizes and 39 colors).
10. A set of magnetic building tiles, because have you seen the price of Magna-Tiles?!?! Kids of all ages (and a lot of adults, too) love this budget-friendly option just as much, and will have a blast becoming the architect of their own colorful creations.
PicassoTiles is a small business developing creative toys that encourage open-ended play.
Promising review:" Our child got Magna-Tiles for their birthday; we all love them. I went to get some more, but the price is wild. I got some knock-offs that weren't great, then found these. They're a wonderful and, more importantly, affordable alternative! The colors are great, you get more or less the same quality as the more expensive ones. They fit almost perfectly with Magnatiles, but you really need to be on the lookout to notice! Super happy with this purchase." — B4510
Get a 60-piece set from Amazon for $25.99.
11. Some budget-friendly period underwear that'll make handling Aunt Flo as easy as...well...putting on your underwear. This affordable pair is oodles less than popular brands like Thinx with the same powerhouse absorbency (the equivalent of two tampons!), so you can go about your day (or night) without fretting about unexpected leakages. Then just toss them in the wash between cycles!
Emma Lord / BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com
Some reviewers recommend sizing up! For more info, check out BuzzFeed writer Emma Lord's full Bambody period underwear review.
Promising review:"I was waiting for my period to review this, and I am glad I did! I have a fairly heavy flow. I can't use tampons, and I have to change super pads every couple of hours. I chose to rely only on these underwear for the entire week of my period, and I am so happy. They're so soft and fit me well. They're also more lightweight than the Thinx ones. But the most important thing: NO LEAKS! I changed them out every 8-10 hours to be safe, but I slept through the night and didn't wake up to ruined sheets, which is a huge win in my book." — Emily
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL, sold individually or as multipacks in various colors).
12. An E.l.f. Cosmetics melting lip balm in the shade "Ecstatic" to rival Clinique's viral " Black Honey" as a go-to lippie. It's one of those signature products that'll instantly make you feel a bit more put-together with a gorgeous wash of color and a soft, hydrating feel.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I absolutely love this product. The dark color is perfectly sheer. It also adds the most beautiful color to your lips. I am a Clinique Black Honey lip fan, and this gives me the same look for a fraction of the cost. I love it and have multiple that I keep in various spots. Not sticky either, which is my biggest gripe about lip glosses. My hair doesn't get stuck in this like some glosses, but I get the shine." — Hamps5
Get it from Amazon for $7+ (also available in four other shades).
13. An easy-to-use collagen-coating hair mask you can apply at home so it looks like your hair hasn't undergone years of abuse at the hands of bleach and blow-dryers. Reviewers compare it to Olaplex but for, literally, 1/3 the price.
See it in action on TikTok.
Promising review:"I recently discovered this protein treatment and I'm blown away. I spend hundreds on hair products, and this protein treatment blows everything away, even Olaplex. Yes, I said it. After using it, I don't even need conditioner. I'm definitely buying more. The only complaint, and it really isn't even a complaint, is if you have a lot of hair like I do, it takes a lot, but at that price, I can stock up." — Theresa Harper
Read our Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment review to learn more about why my colleague calls it "the miracle product I've been searching for."
Get it from Amazon for $7.60.
14. A sleeveless bodycon maxi dress if the Kim K version is out of budget, but you still want all that comfy softness wrapped up in a snatched silhouette that's incredibly versatile.
Promising review:"I have the Skims bodycon as well, and this is a great alternative! The Skims dress is ribbed, and the fabric is thinner and softer, but I don't think that the Skims dress quality increases proportionally with the higher price point. If I were to purchase another bodycon dress, it would hands down be this one. It hugs my figure beautifully and can be layered and styled for all seasons. It's one of the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe!" — Makayla Curtis
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in sizes XXS–XL and eight colors).
15. A cruelty-free under-eye brightener for effortlessly concealing dark circles since you haven't gotten enough sleep in *checks watch* about a decade. The color-adapting formula is creamy and lightweight, just like the pricy Becca brightener, so you don't have to worry about unwanted creasing and cakiness, either.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: " I have used the Becca brightener for years and years. Decided to give this a try, and it is an excellent [alternative.] It is a softer product than the Becca, but still has the same brightening power. You won't be sorry if you try this, and the price point is perfect!" — Kelly
Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades).
16. A pack of duster sponges because it's just like the forever sold-out Scrub Daddy Damp Duster with curved ridges that actually pick up dirt, dust, and hair on the first swipe instead of just moving it around. When you're done, give it a rinse, let it dry, and it'll be ready for another round.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of this item. It is an alternative to the Scrub Daddy dusters, but at a lower price point. It works great to pick up any dust on every surface I've tried, and it rinses off under water. I highly recommend!" — Vivian
Get a four-pack from Amazon for $9.99 (available in six color combinations and packs of two and eight).
17. A moisture-wicking sleeveless workout dress that's equipped with a built-in bra, adjustable straps, and pocketed shorts for a versatile style that's as fashionable and functional as similar styles from $$$ brands like Outdoor Voices and Abercrombie & Fitch.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This dress is AMAZING. I love the removable bra pads. This is a dress you could work out in. The material is very breathable, and I LOVE how deep the pockets are. They easily fit my iPhone 11. I hardly ever order clothes online because I'm so picky with how clothes fit. This is a winner. I'm going to buy more colors!! Just buy it!" — Manda
Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 11 colors/patterns).
18. A multitasking nail concealer to buff up your nails with a sheer pink tint that reviewers compare to the look of Dior Nail Glow — with a few upgrades. This low-maintenance, low-cost mani also protects nails against chipping, splitting, and peeling thanks to its blend of biotin and keratin. Sing it with me now! 🎵 This is what dreeaamms are made of. 🎵
www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: " My Dior Nail Glow ran out, and I saw this brand had a [lookalike] for that. I liked this color even more... Excellent everyday, clean-looking polish. Seems stronger than Essie." — reviewer22
"Growing out my nails has always been a challenge for me; I'm guilty of biting and peeling/picking at my nails when I'm nervous. This product has completely changed my nail game. It gives my nails a hard protective coating, and the tint of pink makes even my stubby nails look professional and pretty." — Andi
Get it from Amazon for $5.51.
19. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks so you can wake up every morning to a luscious pout, something you'll extra appreciate when chapped lips come for us all. If Laneige has infiltrated your feed, know these cuties are a budget-friendly swap.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: " This is the most moisturizing lip treatment on the market. When my lips started getting dry due to the cold season, I was thinking of buying the Laneige lip mask, but it's soooo expensive. This is a fraction of the cost and feels just the same. Very good product." — Riya
Get a three-pack from Amazon for $9.90 (available in six combos).
20. A simple tennis bracelet if the tennis-core TikTok trend has you coveting this timeless style, but splurging for a Swarovski is not in the cards. Your day will come. Until then, snag this under-$20 lookalike.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: " Soooo pretty. It's 100% a Swarovski lookalike for so cheap. Looks exactly like the photo and I wear it every day." — Trysten Walters
Get it from Amazon for $17.95+ (available in three sizes, two material types, and three finishes).
21. Slip-on pointed-toe knit flats for a style you can wear with jeans, dresses, and everything in between. The minimalist silhouette is shockingly supportive, travel-friendly, and can be tossed in the wash (no drying!) Just like Rothy's, but at a literal fraction of the price.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:" They look and feel exactly like my authentic Rothys. They're true to size. Lightweight and so comfortable. Must buy if you are on your feet all day running around. You won't be disappointed." — Viankab
Get them from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes 6–10 and in 14 styles).
22. A "Soft" perfume rollerball because it's tiny enough to keep stashed in your purse in case you're anything like me and forget that perfume exists until you're out the door. It also smells downright divine — reviewers compare it to the far pricier Pink Sugar — and lasts allll day.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I saw this product being talked about a lot on TikTok, so I decided to buy it. It was described as a very sweet, sugary scent which is exactly my type of fragrance. This oil smells EXACTLY like Pink Sugar. If you already own Pink Sugar, don't waste your money, but for perfume collectors, I definitely would recommend it." — Lenwood Williams
23. A jumbo pack of magic cleaning pads that reviewers have likened to Magic Erasers with an extra thick design that's even more durable. Time to make all those wall scruffs and grimy door stains ~disappear~.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I was a skeptic…I clean houses for a living. I use Magic Erasers on a daily and I have to say that by far these are the best bang for your buck. The thickness is great; it allows you to cut in half and get two for the price of one. Very durable. I love them! The only problem I have is that I waited so long to give them a try." — Trudylusk83
Psst — check out BuzzFeed's STK cleaning pads review for more deets (and incredible before and after photos).
Get a pack of 20 from Amazon for $14.95.
24. An adjustable mini belted pack to wear around your waist or shoulder for unobtrusive yet convenient access to all your essentials. The jig is up! Fanny packs are cool again (not to mention so functional), and reviewers love this one as a cheaper alternative to the Lululemon bag you've probably seen everywhere.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "TikTok told me this was an alternative for Lululemon, and it's true, it is. Love this little bag! And the price — you can't beat it." — Jolie
Get it from Amazon for $12.98 (available in 43 colors).
25. A universal L'Oréal Paris BB Cream so you can banish unwanted redness no matter your skin tone with results that rival products charging double...* cough * Dr Jart+ * cough, cough *. Plus, it leaves skin feeling super soft and smooth, so whether you wear it alone or plan to layer it up, your skin is prepped to look its best.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Amazing!!! Bought this after being so disappointed with the Dr Jart+ Cicapair Color Correcting cream. I should have just bought this in the first place. It's incredible. A small amount provides smooth, natural, even coverage. Blends to match your skintone and makes any redness instantly disappear. Lightweight and inexpensive. I use this after my moisturizer with sunscreen and finish with a touch of powder. Note — this is not a moisturizer or a sunscreen. Apply those first, and it will be flawless." — mmgmom
Get it from Amazon for $9.77 (available in five other styles).
26. A paraben-free self-tanner if you still want that on-demand, sun-kissed glow even when the sun is nowhere to be found. You can expect results in just one hour! Just like the pricier St. Tropez Self Tan Express mouse, this formula doesn't have that *distinct* smell you've likely experienced with other sunless tanners.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:" If you use St. Tropez tan products or any fake tanner, do yourself a favor and try this. This stuff is AWESOME. Dries quickly, lasts longer, does NOT make your skin stinky, applies evenly, and you get a fair amount of product!! Other tanners I've used become VERY noticeable when they start fading. Gross hand lines, patchy white spots, etc., but not this stuff. The best one-hour tan I have ever used!" — Review Writer
Get it from Amazon for $9.97+ (available in nine shades).
27. A pack of LivaClean Superstar pimple patches for the same great aesthetic as the pricy Starface ones at a price that won't make you wince every time pimples make an appearance.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
LivaClean pimple patch ingredients include hydrocolloid, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil. Read more about tea tree oil and acne at Mayo Clinic.
Promising review: "I LOVE the look of pimple patches on myself (as weird as that sounds) and absolutely hate the semi-clear ones since they just draw my eyes to something that's SUPPOSED to be invisible. So I easily fell in love with the Starface pimple patches — but the issue with those is they're SO expensive and don't work at all. THESE, however, have immediately sucked everything out of my face. I love them and literally wear them all the time. So many people have complimented me, saying, 'Oh my gosh, I love how you just wear stickers on your face; it's adorable.' These also work as [an alternative to] the TikTok Shop ones that are really popular right now and are cheaper! 10/10 from me :)" — evalyn evoke
Get a pack of 240 patches from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in seven designs/shapes).
28. A set of chic cylindrical wineglasses that'll save the day when you and your Cupcake wine want to feel bougie without bankrupting yourself at the nearest Crate & Barrel.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Joy Jolt is a small business that specializes in modern and pop culture-themed drinkware and kitchen accessories.
Get a set of two from Amazon for $18.40+ (available in three styles).
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Cut down on your elbow grease while still getting gaps, corners, hard water stains, and (any color) grout clean with a power scrubber. It scrubs up to 60 times each second(!!) so you all you have to do is sit there and leisurely wave it around a little. Yes it's like a giant electric toothbrush, but y'all, I own one and it REALLY works. You literally see the dirt come up and the grout lighten with just 30 seconds of use. They make a specialty grout head you can buy for it ($14.68 from Amazon), but TBH the default brush works just as well, unless you have incredibly narrow grout it from Amazon for $ more details? Read my full Rubbermaid power scrubber review (#2)! Work a miracle on your disgusting toilet tank by pouring in a cup of citric acid, topping with some boiling water, and walking away for a few hours. The step-by-step: 1. Turn the water to your toilet off with the little metal valve in the back. 2. Flush the toilet so the tank empties, but doesn't refill (because the water's off). 3. Pour a half cup of citric acid in the tank. 4. Fill the tank up with hot water (some people boil it, some people just use hot from the tap). 5. Let it sit for at least two hours, and up to overnight. 6. Give it all a scrub with your toilet brush. 7. Turn the water back on, and flush a few times till all the mess is gone! You can get citric acid from Amazon for $14.99. Save yourself lots of fruitless scrubbing with a toilet brush and use a pumice stone to quickly banish those impossible rust and mineral rings in your toilet bowl. Citric acid could work here too, if you want to leave it sitting overnight. But if you want that ring gone in five minutes, the pumice stone's the way to go. Get one from Amazon for $9.60. Then stamp some gel into your clean toilet to actually keep it that way for weeks and months at a time. All you have to do is re-stamp as needed. If you can't imagine not using your toilet brush, you can use the small remaining bit of gel to scrub down the bowl before applying more. I used this in college and can personally attest it really does work!Get enough to keep your toilet clean for up to 10 weeks for $4.48 on Amazon. Switch to wearing sweeper slippers every time you're at home, so as you walk around, you're also picking up all the dust, fuzz, and hair lurking on your hard floors. Of course these only really work on hard floors like wood or tile. And even then, they'll pick up *some* stuff, but not everything — to pick up more dust, crumbs, and debris, you have to put a little effort into using your feet as brooms and sweeping everything into one pile. But when I wore them for a week, I did that way more often than I expected to, and my floors were cleaner because of it!The pair I got from Amazon initially is sold out, but you can get the pictured bear version from Amazon for $11.99 (available in 3 sizes, 3 colors, and 5 designs) or a pack of 5 brightly-colored elastic pairs that slip over socks on Amazon for $ review (for the bear version): "So worth it! I love having clean floors but sometimes I'm lazy and I live near the beach, so sand can be a hassle on the hardwood floors in my apartment. I love these so much and have pretty much worn then every day since I got them. They are super comfy and help clean! These are such a great addition to my routine." —Laura J Have pets that shed? Pick up every last little bit of their fur that's embedded in your carpet using the squeegee-side of a rubber broom. Can you believe the German Shepard owner who took this pic uses a Dyson pet vac — and THAT is how much hair the broom got that the vacuum didn't?? It also works wonders on hardwood floors and tile! It won't take very long for this thing to pluck every last piece of pet hair out of your space. Get it from Amazon for $20.40. Promising review: "This thing just plain works. We got a golden retriever last year and were told he didn't shed, but in the spring he started shedding badly. The bristles pulled the hair up then caught the tufts and spread them around. I found that using short quick strokes with the rake turned upside-down got the best results. The backside is more like a squeegee and helps pull the hair up in long rolls and keeps the hair in one big pile." —Nick V. Use any old squeegee and some water in a spray bottle to easily clean pet hair off your sofa, furniture, and basically anything that's upholstered with fabric. Just spritz once or twice, squeegee, and watch it clump up. Then use your hands or a vacuum to suck up the clumps. It's the same concept as the broom above, but for smaller areas than your floor, and you probably already have a squeegee at home! From CareaBearaSara. A similar squeegee is $10.99 on Amazon. Pop a bunch of things in the dishwasher to clean them all at once while you go and do literally anything else: dusty AC vent covers, sticky stove vent hood filters, grimy glass light covers, and even wrenches and screwdrivers can stand a go. From One Crazy House. For more, check out 16 Ways To Use Your Dishwasher To Clean Almost Everything You Own. Then clean all the gunk and scum out of your dishwasher by running it empty with a cleaning tablet. If cross-contamination has you concerned, this will cover you! It also helps dissolve any hard water buildup. Get six tablets for $8.99 on Amazon. Spray some fume-free foam cleaner in your oven, let it all sit overnight, then easily wipe away the crud in the morning — the oven will look brand new. Technically, you can let this sit anywhere from two hours to overnight to get results. And while you might have to do *some* light scrubbing, it should be much easier than it would've been without this cleaner! Don't forget to spray it on the racks too (unless your racks have a special coating on 'em). Get a 24-ounce can on Amazon for $ review: "This stuff is amazing! Spray it on, let it sit overnight and wipe it out. Looks brand new. I honestly didn't think this was possible. The grates had years of cooked on grease, sprayed right off in the sink. Can't wait to try it on the BBQ." —Kalub hall Microwave a bowl filled with water + lemon for three to five minutes — then leave the door closed for a few minutes so everything can steam — and you'll be able to wipe off every single dried-on food bit with one swipe of a paper towel. This also works with water + vinegar, or honestly just plain water. And of course you can wipe off with a sponge instead. I've been doing this for years, and have yet to find a gross microwave where this doesn't work wonders. Read my full review or watch the Nifty video. Shine up your stovetop with five minutes of concentrated work: Drizzle on some Dawn and hydrogen peroxide, sprinkle with baking soda, and vigorously scrub in circles with a dish brush. Then just wipe clean to reveal the sparkle. From My Thirty Spot. Get a highly-rated dish brush from Amazon for $9.49. Enlist a soft cleanser to easily scrub off cooked-on gunk from your stainless or enameled gas stove (and tons of other things). Kayla, a former editor here a BuzzFeed, tested it out herself when she used it on her enameled stove — and it made the stains completely vanish! Get a bottle from Amazon for $6.40, or read her Barkeeper's Friend review for more. Run a knife wrapped in a damp cloth through the gap between your oven and your stove to extract all the crumbs and crud lodged in there. Then cover that gap with a pair of stainless steel covers so you never have to clean that spot out again. They simply slide right in there, or you can use an included adhesive to make 'em more permanent. They come in two sizes on Amazon: 20-3/4" long for $34 or 23-3/4" long for $45.61. Promising review: "In a kitchen upgrade we went from slide-in to free-standing and ended up with a gap between the range and the counter. They blend in perfectly and will not warp with heat." —Amazon Customer Dissolve hard water stains on your water faucets by wrapping them up in vinegar-soaked paper towels for an hour — they'll wipe off in one go. From Lemons, Lavender, and Laundry. Grind up a garbage disposal cleaning packet — its foam will reach into the depths of the disposal to clean every. single. last. inch. Note that if you're disposal's clogged, though, this definitely won't take care of the problem. For that, you'll probably need to call a a pack of eight on Amazon for $11.73. Promising review: "I had noticed my disposal had a bad smell to it, but my the landlord doesn't do a great job at coming to look at things. I got this to clean it and hopefully help with the smell. I've been using it once a week, and I have noticed that the smell is gone and the disposal just sounds happier when being used. These are VERY simple to use. Take a packet (DO NOT open it) and put in sink after having warm water running for about a minute. Turn on the disposal. Run until the blue foam goes away. Perfection!" —L. Johnson Pick up that grimy, sticky dust that seems to inevitably accumulate on your stove and vent hood with a few drops of mineral oil (or even olive or vegetable oil) on a paper towel. If you do opt for veg, olive, or some other food oil instead, make sure to wash it off any surfaces thoroughly when you're done to prevent it from going rancid and smelling bad. From The Manly Housekeeper (which doesn't seem to exist anymore, sigh). Get a 16-ounce bottle of mineral oil on Amazon for $7.98. Then mix baking soda with a few drops of essential oil and sprinkle that on your mattress to absorb any funky smells. Then simply vacuum it up after it sits for a bit. From One Good Thing By Jillee. A lint roller will pick up all the built-up dust on your lampshades and pillows. From Creekline House. Get a pack of five lint rollers on Amazon for $17.99. And wipe down all your other surfaces with a microfiber duster, which attracts and holds onto dust like a *magnet*, instead of brushing it into the air just to settle again later. Actually getting rid of the dust is THE key to a home that needs less dusting. This one from OXO is very thin so it can squeeze into tight crevices. To clean it you just run it through a gentle cycle in the washer, and air it from Amazon for $11.99 (or one with an extendable handle for $17.99).Promising review: "Definitely works as advertised. It captures ALL the dust it goes over and I'd recommend it, even for the lazy young adults who hate cleaning like myself." —S Washing machine smelling a little funky? Run it on an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar to freshen it up. Depending on your model, you may need to directly add the vinegar to a full drum of hot water — read more on The Inspiration Board. Or if you've tried that with no success — or are just the type to go big or go home — opt for a washer cleaning tab, instead. Get a pack of six on Amazon for $10.44. Promising review: "I always leave the door of my front loader washer open to dry out so it doesn't get moldy or smelly but despite that it had a funky smell. Being lazy and not wanting to do much to fix it, I decided to buy these and give them a try. I was surprised and thrilled to find the smell completely gone after using it just once!" —Jen You, knowing your entire home is sparkling and it didn't take all weekend to do it:
Tom's Guide
4 hours ago
- Tom's Guide
Trouble sleeping? 'Moon breathing' can reduce anxiety at night, says expert
Even when you've created the perfect environment for sleep and are exhausted from a busy day, sleep can be elusive if you experience nighttime anxiety — which can include trouble relaxing, night sweats, panic attacks and increased waking during the night. But what if we told you that an ancient yogic breathing technique could be a tool in your arsenal to challenge it? Moon breathing is a term that has become more popular more recently thanks to social media platforms like TikTok. This breathing technique is focused on using your left nostril, and can lead to a range of benefits, including activating the parasympathetic nervous system (the part of our autonomic nervous system associated with relaxation), lowering the heart rate and preparing the body and mind for sleep. To explore more about what moon breathing is, exactly why it can help with nighttime anxiety and sleep, and how you can try it, we've spoken to licensed clinical psychologist specializing in sleep and trauma, and yoga teacher, Dr. Leah Kaylor Ph.D. PLLC.. "Moon breathing is a calming yogic breathwork technique rooted in ancient Indian practices of pranayama. In yogic philosophy, the left nostril is associated with lunar (moon) energy—cool, calm, and introspective," says Dr. Kaylor. It's a breathing exercise that involves inhaling slowly through your left nostril only, while keeping the right nostril closed, then exhaling through the right nostril while closing the left. A paper published in Nature exploring the changes in brain activity recorded by EEG during nasal breathing noted that, "Yogic practices suggest, and scientific evidence demonstrates, that right-nostril breathing is involved with relatively higher sympathetic activity (arousal states), while left-nostril breathing is associated with a relatively more parasympathetic activity (stress alleviating state)." "By breathing exclusively through the left nostril, this technique is thought to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and emotional ease," explains Dr. Kaylor. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) are both part of our autonomic nervous system, with research noting that the former is connected to our alert, "fight or flight," response and the latter with "rest and digest" processes, when we are in a relaxed state. "Moon breathing works by channeling breath solely through the left nostril, which is believed to stimulate the brain's right hemisphere — the part associated with calmness, intuition, and emotional regulation," says Dr. Kaylor. The benefits of this, she says, can include reducing sympathetic (stress) arousal, activating the parasympathetic nervous system and lowering heart rate and blood pressure. Plus, moon breathing can help promote mental stillness and emotional grounding, and prepare our bodies for introspection, rest or sleep. One study looked at the effect of different yogic breathing techniques that utilise the left and right nostrils, and both, to see if they had differing effects on reaction time, heart rate and blood pressure. The researchers concluded from their results that moon breathing was among the left nostril techniques that "may induce a state of parasympathetic dominance as seen in (cardiovascular) parameters." They further noted that their findings are in line with "the traditional swara yoga concept that... the flow through left nostril (chandra nadi and ida swara) is relaxatory." Dr. Kaylor explains that moon breathing is particularly effective for pre-sleep anxiety because it: If you're experiencing regular nighttime anxiety, it's important to consult a medical professional for advice. If you want to incorporate moon breathing into your nighttime routine as a tool to combat it, Dr. Kaylor has some simple steps you can follow. The 4-7-8 method is a breathing technique that gained popularity after Dr. Andrew Weil began teaching it, and involves breathing in through your nose for a count of four, holding that breath for a count of seven, and then slowly breathing out through your mouth for a count of eight. Dr. Kaylor explains that the main difference between these two breathing techniques is that "moon breathing is through one nostril." "Moon breathing is best for highly anxious or overstimulated individuals," she says, explaining that it is "ideal for those experiencing hyperarousal or sympathetic overdrive (e.g., anxiety, racing thoughts, agitation)." Because moon breathing does not involve holding your breath, it can also be good breathing technique for those who are sensitive to breath retention, she says, or, those who find it distressing or physiologically uncomfortable. That could include people with a panic disorder or asthma. "4-7-8 is best suited for people with experience in controlled breathing or mindfulness," says Dr. Kaylor. "The extended breath-hold can feel challenging for beginners or those with respiratory sensitivity," she adds, noting that it can suit others too, including those who benefit from structure and counting, and those with sleep-onset insomnia. This is because "studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that 4-7-8 is particularly effective at quieting the mind and inducing a sleep-conducive state." Stress and anxiety are typically associated with higher levels of cortisol, which can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Cortisol is also the sleep hormone associated with making us feel awake and alert, which means that when it's increased, sleep will be more difficult. However, a review of studies looking at the effects of breathing exercises found "that breathing exercises have positive effect on decreasing the blood pressure and heart rate." Dr. Kaylor says, deep breathing can also help to "release physical tension in the body, particularly in the shoulders, chest, and jaw." And, in giving our brains something simple and rhythmic to focus on, deep breathing techniques can "interrupt cognitive rumination." Deep breathing has even been shown to increase melatonin production, the hormone our bodies produce in the evening and which helps us to feel sleepy. One study found that a group of 15 participants who practiced deep breathing alongside meditation and yogic postures for a period of three months saw an increase in plasma melatonin (which is the concentration of melatonin in our blood). In addition, Dr. Kaylor explains that deep breathing can "reduce cortisol levels, allowing melatonin to rise naturally." As well as helping you drift off in a calmer state, it can also help your overall sleep. Research showed that when a group of students practiced moon breathing for four weeks it 'led to improvement in sleep quality." Deep breathing is an incredibly affective way of activating our parasympathetic nervous system, creating a sense of calm and relaxation needed for sleep. Slower, deeper breaths into your diaphragm, "increases the pressure of oxygen in the air sacs, making it easier for oxygen molecules to move into the blood via the capillaries," neuroscience researcher Dr. Yewande Pearce explains in this useful Headspace video.
