Warm weather essentials: 42 ways to make the most of the sunshine
We know better than to take good weather for granted, especially with a weekend approaching. So with the forecast set to fair, it's time to get outside (before it inevitably starts raining again).
Whether you're planning a picnic in the park, an impromptu camping trip or a gardening session, we've rounded up some of our bestsellers and the warm weather essentials you've loved to help you make the most of the sunshine.
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Spear & Jackson Razor Advantage bypass secateurs
£18.95 at Tooled Up£7.99 at Amazon
There's still plenty of time to get your garden ready for summer, and investing in a great pair of secateurs will help you make light work of any tough stems. Our gardening expert Matt Collins chose this Spear & Jackson pair as his favourite budget pick in his roundup of the best secateurs, finding them simply designed and hard-working.
Niwaki hori hori knife
£29.66 at Sarah Raven£32 at Burford Garden Co
Amateur and professional gardeners alike can't get enough of the Niwaki hori hori gardening knife. Whether you're digging, cutting, weeding or planting, this versatile tool was one of your favourites from our summer gardening guide.
The Cradley deluxe green watering can
£55 at Haws£58 at Amazon
Now that watering the plants is a daily activity, why not treat yourself to a beautiful new watering can? This classic style from Haws is an avid gardener's dream, with a long spout to help you reach deep into flower beds.
Summer wildflower collection, five packs of seeds
£4.99 at Suttons£3.89 at Amazon
Grass lawns get a bad rap, but it is possible to make them greener, as Matt Collins shows in his guide to creating a more eco-friendly lawn. Why not make your garden a haven for nature with a bee-friendly mini meadow? Lay down turf for an instant transformation or sow summer wildflowers into the bald patches of an existing lawn.
Bird watching book
£14.99 at the Guardian Bookshop£8.98 at Amazon
Next time you're sitting in the park or garden, take some time to appreciate all the wildlife that crosses your path. Birdwatching can be a great mindfulness activity, and this illustrated book will help you identify all the species you spot.
For more ways to clear your mind, check out our guide to screen-free activities
Kärcher K 2 Classic pressure washer
£90 at Argos£89 at Amazon
If your outdoor space is still looking a bit messy after winter, take advantage of the sunny weather by giving your patio, driveway or garden furniture a good clean with a pressure washer. The Kärcher K 2 Classic was rated the best budget buy in our expert reviewer Andy Shaw's roundup of the best pressure washers.
Outdoor LED table lamp
£75 at Burford Garden Co£79 at Heal's
Add a bit of ambience to warm summer nights in the garden with this rechargeable outdoor light. It has a nifty handle for hanging and three different light modes: neutral white, warm white and candle-style flickering.
For more, check out our guide to the space-saving tricks that make small spaces feel bigger
Octagonal tassel parasol
£149.99 at Daals
If you'd rather relax in the shade than catch some rays, this lovely boho-style parasol comes in various patterns, printed either on the top or underneath. This one has the print on the bottom, meaning the pattern shouldn't fade in the sun – plus, you can enjoy it while sitting underneath it.
Shade sail
£15 at B&Q
This shade sail is a versatile way to provide respite from the sun, even in the smallest of spaces.
Royalcraft Venice bistro garden table and chairs
£148.99 at Robert Dyas£199 at Marks & Spencer
Level up your alfresco dining with a classic bistro set. This lovely table and chairs, available in olive green or cream, would suit even small spaces because they can be folded and stored easily. Merchant & Found is also a great place to find vintage bistro sets.
Elevate your outdoor space with our pick of the best garden furniture
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Belkin BoostCharge 10k with integrated cable
£24.99 at BelkinFrom £24.99 at Amazon
A warm weekend is the perfect time to schedule a last-minute camping trip. Keep all your battery-powered devices topped up with our expert reviewer Pete Wise's favourite budget pick from his roundup of the best battery packs.
Strawberry and pineapple kombucha
£4.25 for 4 x 330ml cans at Ocado£29.99 for 24 x 330ml cans at Hip Pop
Intune CBD drink
£6.25 for 4 x 250ml cans at Ocado£18.75 for 12 x 250ml cans at Amazon
Picnics in the park need not lead to a pounding head by 5pm. We've got plenty of alcohol-free options in our roundup of the best tinned drinks, from award-winning kombuchas to refreshingly fruity CBD sparkling drinks.
Recycled stainless-steel water bottle
From £35 at Ocean Bottle£35 at Ryman
Keep your drinks cool on the go with this insulated water bottle made from recycled stainless steel. And each sale of an Ocean Bottle funds the collection of 1,000 plastic bottles that would otherwise have been destined to end up in the ocean.
Sport Shield liquid roll-on chafing protection
£17.99 at Decathlon£19.99 at Amazon
Create a barrier between you and any unwanted friction burns with marathon pro Kieran Alger's go-to anti-chafe cream, whether you're going for a gruelling run or just walking to a picnic.
For more, check out our guide to marathon essentials
Boules set
£30.99 at John Lewis£31 at Argos
Get the kids outside and have some fun with this classic lawn game, which has been having something of a resurgence.
Paddling pool
£29.99 at B&Q£35 at Argos
When it's sweltering outside, a paddling pool can keep the whole family cool and happy. This 9ft rectangular pool is sure to keep the kids entertained.
Wooden quoits garden game
£25.26 at Amazon
Whether you're having a summer party, barbecue or a quiet weekend at home, this wholesome garden game is great fun for all the family. It's also easy to pack up and take to the park to keep the kids entertained for hours.
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Lékué ice cube tray
£17.50 at John Lewis£19.99 at Lakeland
Treat yourself to an ice-cold drink with this handy ice cube tray. The lid doubles up as the ice tray, and the sleek design makes it great for entertaining. It was also a bestseller from our guide to gifts we buy on repeat, so it would make a lovely present for a loved one or yourself.
Rechargeable fan
£12 at John Lewis
Whether you want to keep cool while at home or on the go, this fan has you covered. It's small enough to be portable, and its handle doubles as a stand to make it a desk fan.
Monster ice lolly mould
£12.99 at John Lewis£12.99 at Lakeland
This lolly mould is a wholesome pastime and a fun way to keep cool. Get the kids involved with creating some inventive flavours, and reap the rewards after a few hours in the freezer.
Sandstone Red Pembroke stripe linen blend duvet cover
From £139 at Piglet in BedFrom £139 at John LewisPillowcases
£45 a pair at Piglet in Bed£45 for a pair at John LewisFitted sheet
From £89 at Piglet in BedFrom £109 at John Lewis
We asked experts for their advice on what to look for when buying bedding, and linen was recommended as great for hot sleepers. 'Linen wicks moisture away from your skin more effectively,' says textile expert Sarah Denise Cordery. This set from Piglet in Bed is not only beautiful, but also made from a linen and cotton blend that is breathable and will help you stay cool in the summer months.
Avène thermal spring water spray
£5.75 at Boots£5.75 at Look Fantastic
On a blistering day, there's nothing more refreshing than the feeling of sea spray against your skin. But if you're not near the coast, this cooling face mist from Avène is a close second best. Suitable for sensitive skin, this spring water spray is a soothing antidote for itchy or uncomfortable skin.
Pet shade bed
£16.99 in store at Aldi (available from 18 May)
Hot weather is even more taxing for pets, and they may need a helping hand to keep cool. This pet bed from Aldi is elevated off the hot ground and has a shade to protect them from the sun. It also comes with a travel case to keep your pet cool on outdoor ventures.
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Winnie sunglasses
£30 at The White Company£29.95 at Amazon
In need of some new sunnies? This A Kjærbede pair is a timeless style. Jess Cartner-Morley selected these for her May style essentials after lusting after a similar pair worn by Chloe in the White Lotus series 3.
Ikesia sandals
£215 at Ancient Greek Sandals£215 at Next
These sandals are 'just the right balance of chic and practicality,' says Jess Cartner-Morley. Ancient Greek Sandals are made from soft leather in various styles and colours, so you can pick a pair that suits you.
For more, check out Jess Cartner-Morley's May style essentials
Butter yellow sandals
£74.95 at Salt-Water
'Butter yellow, we are told, is the colour of spring 2025,' says fashion writer Ellie Violet Bramley. These classic Salt-Water sandals are an easy way to embrace the trend. Vinted is also an excellent source for nabbing some secondhand Salt-Waters at a bargain price.
For more women's fashion updates, check out our guide to spring style essentials
Red linen-blend top
£47 at Nobody's Child
Red linen-blend trousers
£65 at Nobody's Child
This co-ord is so wearable, and the linen will keep you cool on hotter days. If you're yet to try the co-ord trend, Ellie Violet Bramley advises going for a block colour as it's a 'less intimidating gateway' than a kitsch print.
Uniqlo Airism dress
£34.90 at Uniqlo
Uniqlo's Airism range is known for its breathable qualities, perfect to keep you feeling fresh in the heat. This cotton dress comes with a built-in bra to give you full coverage without having the worry of bra straps showing.
Rainbow linen jacket
£180 at Boden£180 at John Lewis
'This jacket is an instant spring wardrobe shaker-upper,' says Ellie Violet Bramley. Add an instant injection of colour to your look with this fun and bright linen jacket.
Barrel leg trousers
£34.90 at Uniqlo
For those sunny days not quite warm enough for shorts, loose-fit trousers will be your best friend. This viral pair from Uniqlo is a dreamy combo of casual enough for every day and smart enough for the office.
Linen-blend light striped trousers
£24.99 at H&M
Pinstripe is definitely having a moment this season. This pair of linen-blend trousers would be a hard-working staple in your warm-weather wardrobe.
Antler overnight bag
£125 at John Lewis£125 at Antler
If you need a new bag for weekends away, this one from Antler is genius. A favourite of Jess Cartner-Morley's thanks to its handy strap that can be slotted over the handle of your suitcase. 'This keeps it sitting securely on top of your luggage without everything falling over in chaos,' she says. A great option for short stays or hand luggage for longer trips.
For more, check out Jess Cartner-Morley's March style edit
Simple white organic T-shirt
£14.90 for women's at Plain and Simple£14.90 for men's at Plain and Simple
You can't go wrong with a good-quality white tee. This one from Plain and Simple is affordable and made using ethical materials and practices.
White Stan Smith trainers
From £85 at AdidasFrom £75 at Pro Direct
White trainers are a style staple and none have stood the test of time quite like Adidas Stan Smiths. Menswear editor Helen Seamons rates them as one of the only 22 items you'll ever need in her men's capsule wardrobe edit.
Colourful standard swim shorts
£60 at Harvey Nichols
Whether you're hitting the lido or running errands, these easy-to-wear swim shorts come with an elasticated drawstring waist and are perfect for sunny days.
Jetty cord cap
£40 at Finisterre
Keep the sun at bay with a hat. This unisex cord baseball cap is a colourful twist on a classic style.
Floral cotton sun hat
£28 at Lucy & Yak
This cute hat from Lucy & Yak would make a fun statement piece for a festival, but also wouldn't look out of place for a picnic in the park or a day at the beach.
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Altruist sunscreen SPF50
£22 at Victoria Health£19.99 at Amazon
I know you're probably sick of hearing it, but it's worth repeating – wearing sunscreen is not only important for your health, but is one of the most effective anti-ageing tools. Altruist is a brand founded by dermatologists, and its sunscreen is 'some of the best-value high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen on the market,' says beauty columnist Sali Hughes.
For more, check out Sali Hughes's guide to the best sunscreens for every need
Garnier Body Repair body lotion
£2.99 at Superdrug£2.99 at Amazon
Keep your skin looking hydrated with a nourishing moisturiser. Skincare expert Caroline Hirons says this Garnier body repair lotion is her 'most used skincare product of all time', even after trying hundreds of luxury and budget products. 'I cover myself in the stuff every morning, and it smooths and conditions my skin without any stickiness,' says Hirons.
For more, check out skin, hair and wellness essentials the experts can't live without
Natural gradual tan
£34.99 at Three Warriors£34.99 at Oxygen Boutique
Get that summer glow without having to roast in the sun for hours. Gradual tan is the safest way to get a tan, both because you avoid the harmful UV exposure that comes with a natural tan and it's less prone to disaster than overnight self-tanners. This one from Three Warriors is 'the creme de la creme of tan', says wellness writer Hayley Spencer.
For more, check out beauty treatments you can do at home – and the ones you really shouldn't, according to the experts
Nails Inc orange polish
£9 at Nails Inc£7.20 at Amazon
Add a pop of colour to your spring looks with some bright nails. This statement orange shade from Nails Inc will add cheer to any outfit.
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28 Shoes That Reviewers Say Keep Their Feet Blister Free
The famous Allbirds runner — uber soft and supportive everyday sneakers made from lightweight and breathable eucalyptus fibers, which means they're as sustainable as they are comfy. Promising review: "Love these shoes!! So comfortable and look great. Wore them as all day shoes at Disneyland, no blisters or other issues. I already am looking at other pairs to buy. Also great for traveling, extremely lightweight." —Michaela them from Allbirds for $98 (available in sizes 5–11 and 21 colors). A cushy pair of slides to wear for running errands, walking the dog, or just lounging about. In other words, say hello to your new comfy and casual go-to shoe. Promising review: "These are great, inexpensive, comfortable slipper/sandals. When I ordered them, I thought they'd be cute with shorts or dresses, but they're much too 'clunky' and definitely look like shower shoes. That's fine with me as these days all I care about is comfort. I think they run a little big, definitely wide. For reference I wear a size 7M, but the length of my foot measures a 7.5. I ordered these in a women's 6/7 and I like the fit. They are very wide, but hug the foot enough that they don't come off or cause blisters. They're very comfortable right out of the box and the pink is a nice pale blush color." —LucindaGet them from Amazon for $23.98 (available in sizes 4–12.5W, 3–12M, and 17 colors). A pair of these trendy two-strap sandals if you want the look and feel of Birks sans the expensive price tag and painful rubbing. Some reviewers even think these ones are softer and comfier than the name brand. Promising review: As someone who owns several pairs of Birks, I find these sandals are absolutely up to the expectations of real Birks! The Birks I have are the Arizona soft footbed. I wanted this style of Birks but I couldn't find the soft footbed version in them. I saw these are thought I may as well try them for the price. Let me tell you, these are even comfier than my soft-footbed Arizona Birks! Omg they feel amazing. They are nice and padded! They are so adorable too! Great quality. The price is a steal. They don't rub anywhere. As far as sizing goes I agree they run a little small. They LOOK almost identical to real Birks. I wouldn't be able to tell these weren't the real deal if I saw someone wearing them to be honest. I highly recommend these to anyone with back/leg/foot pain as well. They're just all around cute, stylish, super comfy, and durable shoes!" —LeeGet them from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes 5–12, wide fits, and 21 colors). A Teva quilted slip-on shoe because it doesn't actually feel like wearing a shoe but rather like stepping into a soft, cloud-like pillow. It's the kind of luxury your hard-working feet deserve, especially after a long and tough hike! Promising review: "I love these! I wear them to work and I have no pains when I get off after 12 hour shift :) I want a pair for the house too!" —Slinkygirl80Get them from Amazon for $48+ (available in sizes 4–14 and 22 colors). A Crocs wedge sandal with adjustable ankle straps, since there's just no reason you need to sacrifice comfort for style. These beauties seem wayyy too cute to be Crocs — but once you feel how comfy they are, you just might believe it. Promising review: "I kept getting suggested on TikTok to purchase these crocs for my trip to universal and oh my goodness I'm so glad I did. I'm the type of person that will wear sneakers with a cute dress because I want to be comfortable and these were amazing! They feel like walking on a cloud and look amazing. I got the tortoise and black with the cream soles and I got so many compliments on them, they're neutral enough to match every outfit but also has tons of personality on their own. I pair them with jeans and skirts and they're perfect for all occasions. I wore them for a week before my universal trip and I got no blisters. The platform makes it super cushioned when you walk, my feet weren't even tired at the end of the day, it was incredible!! BUY THEM NOW!! And in every color" —Jacqueline LobosGet it from Amazon for $41.24+ (available in sizes 4–11 and 12 colors). A pair of classic Blundstone boots that have a cult following for a reason (and yes, you're talking to a fellow member here). They're super durable and supportive (even in wet and slushy weather!) with a trendy rugged aesthetic. In almost four years, I've had not a single blister from mine! Promising review: "These boots fit true to size and have held up very well for the two months I have owned them. When I pulled them out of the box I treated them with a waterproof coating and they have kept my feet dry through three Florida down pours. I've worn them on 2-mile walks and no blisters right out of the box. Exactly what I was looking for and a great purchase." —The Dude 31Get it from Amazon for $129+ (available in sizes 6–16W, 4–14M, and nine colors). A nonslip athletic sneaker boasting not only a fun color and unique design, but also light cloud-like cushioning! And just FYI, reviewers have even hiked in these without any problems. Promising review: "These shoes are amazing! When I first tried them on, I was a bit skeptical because of the support. It's something that I never felt wearing a shoe. I thought, 'great, here comes a blister.' NOPE. The support in these shoes, is absolutely incredible. I'm on my feet A LOT while at work, 14 out of the 16 hours I work, I'm walking or running around halls to keep up with patients/clients. And let me just say WOW! The comfortability is astonishing. I figured that since they are a little heavy, that my feet would be tired, or even puffy and swollen — NOPE. ABSOLUTELY NOT. My feet feel great after I take them off. No blisters, the fit is great. I have a wide foot, and usually wear a 8W or 8.5, so I ordered a 9 and it fits great! Slightly big but nothing a thick sock wont take care of! I'm OBSESSED with these shoes. I ordered the black with white lettering, just to be on the safe side. Now, after I'm done writing this review, I'm ordering another pair! These shows are the real deal." —KayGet them from Amazon for $37.71+ (available in sizes 5.5–10.5 and 21 colors). A pair of black Toms canvas loafer since they check all the boxes: cute, comfy, versatile, and eco-conscious! Promising review: "I love these, so comfortable and broken in easily. Normally I get blisters with new shoes especially if I don't wear socks and I have had no issues/blisters. I highly recommend these. Now a staple in my closet and they are cute!" —programmergeekGet it from Amazon for $32+ (available in sizes 5–10). A Keen rose sandal that I've personally been obsessed with for years. They look so darn adorable *and* are unbelievably comfy. I walked for hundreds of miles in my first pair (everything from city streets to nature trails) before I eventually had to order a new I still love them just as much the second time around. Promising review: "I put these on right out of the box. Never owned a pair before. Went to Hawaii on vacation and wore these through water, sand, mud, etc. NO blisters whatsoever. 😳 So comfortable. Great traction. We hiked twin muddy terrain and through sand. I was so impressed I bought another pair. My sister in law bought a pair also and she has plantar fasciitis…she fell in love with them also. No pain at all. We hiked for several hours also. Highly recommend. ♥️ —Christine A. YoungerGet it from Amazon for $61.03+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 15 colors). A pair of simple and stylish round-toe pumps so you can dance the night away *without* getting even a single blister. Plus, they come in a variety of finishes — suede, matte, glossy, and even sparkly — and a bunch of different colors! Promising review: "After shopping in my nearest malls and stores that had little inventory, few sizes and high prices, I ran out of time to find a pair of basic black pump heels to fly to a wedding in five days. I ordered these heels in nubuck black and crossed my fingers. They arrived in a few days (well packaged) and were true to size. Danced and partied at my nephew's wedding and I have no blisters! Thanks so much!!! —Sandra T. GaleGet it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes 5–12, wide sizes, and 21 colors/styles). A New Balance sneaker with a cushioned and responsive midsole *plus* a memory sole insert, aka a combo that will keep your body ache-free after standing for hours on end. 🙌 Promising review: "This is my fourth pair of fuel cores (all different colors), and I sized up a half size in these because I knew I would be doing some serious walking in them and wanted to allow a little room for swelling that comes with those 20,000+ vacation days. They did not disappoint and got me everywhere I needed to go. No blisters or other discomfort issues. If you're looking for a solid walking shoe on a budget or a good pair for a situation where you need a pair that can have some good cushion but also not be devastating if they get dirty, these are your shoes. Great quality and value!" —MaurineGet them from Amazon for $33.84+ (available in sizes 5–12, wide sizes, and seven colors). A Sketchers boat shoe featuring all the spiffy style of Sperry's you love, only even more comfort and support. (And it's probably less expensive, too!) Promising review: "I absolutely love these shoes! They fit perfectly. They also do NOT rub your heels causing blisters." —Linda KovalcikGet them from Amazon for $47.95+ (available in sizes 5–12, wide sizes, and eight colors). An espadrille wedge if you've been dreaming of a sandal that's actually as comfy and friction-free as it is cute — enter this supremely cushioned and super stylish godsend! Promising review: "LOVE THESE SHOES!!! I have a wider foot and can't wear many trendy shoes but I am in LOVE with these!! They are truly the most comfortable pair of sandals I have ever owned, no exaggeration. I wore them for an entire wedding, no complains. Walked two miles in them on vacation, no complaints. Ran through a lightning storm in them, NO COMPLAINTS!! I would run a marathon in these if I needed to. Ankle strap is comfortable and stretches enough to put my foot in but fits just right to hold the shoe on comfortably. The two foot straps don't stretch, but aren't too tight. These feel even better than name brand shoes! I LOVE THEM!!! BUY THEM!!" —tyler fischerGet them from Amazon for $35.99 (available in sizes 6–11, wide sizes, and five styles). A pair of ballet flats to pair with dresses, jeans, slacks, and more. They're super cute, but perhaps more importantly, actually comfy! Promising review: "I am typically a size 8 in a flats type of shoe, and I usually don't order a wide. But every flat I was trying on squeezed my foot…so I decided to try an 8W in these. While it fit, it was gapping a teeny bit in the back which I felt would rub my heel after so long. I sized down to a 7.5W, and they are PERFECT. My toes don't feel cramped, no rubbing on any parts of my foot, and I can wear them for a full 8-hour work day in total comfort (even on days where I am on my feet more). FINALLY…a flat that is comfortable!!! These shoes do not have much support, but they do not make my foot ache. They also have a bonus little cushion on the top back (where your heel starts to meet your ankle) which adds bonus comfort. I got the faux leather black and faux leather tan. Both are fantastic. But I did try the faux leather navy and they were a bit too tight (so I returned). But for $18, I'll take a size inconsistency here and there…I just definitely recommend trying on each color you get to ensure it fits. I have tried countless numbers of flats before finally landing on these. I can wear them without socks, too, which I could never do with other flats because others rubbed blisters." —Amazon CustomerGet them from Amazon for $15.33+ (available in sizes 5–15, wide sizes, and 23 colors). A stretchy slip-on sneaker since it basically feels like wearing a soft, comfy sock — a sock that provides tons of support, that is. Promising review: "I have extremely flat feet (my podiatrist said he's never seen flatter) and plantar fasciitis. I also have a bunion bone that makes the base of my toes wider, whereas my heels are narrow. These are the ONLY sneaker-type shoes that fit perfectly, don't put pressure on my toes, or rub blisters on my heels. The support in them is just right and doesn't bother me like most shoes do. I can wear them all day long (I'm a teacher) and then still go to a walk after work, and I won't be in pain. I will buy more colors. I love these shoes!" —M2Get them from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in sizes 5–13, wide sizes, and 21 colors). A pair of Anne Klein wedge pumps featuring a super cute twisted strap made from stretchy fabric, making them perfect for casual-chic outfits. Promising review: "These shoes are so comfortable I ordered two pairs! I'm not a person that is comfortable in heels anymore, but I like to have some kind of height on my shoes. These shoes are perfect right out of the box! No blisters, no sore feet, just comfortable all day long. You can't go wrong with these wedges!" —Danielle DGet it from Amazon for $29.78+ (available in sizes 5–11 and five colors). A Merrell mid-rise hiking boot if you need to hit the trails with ankle support and foot protection but don't really have time to break in your boots beforehand. Many reviewers say these were super comfy right from the start and didn't cause any hot spots or blisters on their hike! Promising review: "Let me start by saying I am not a hiking boot fan but bought these because we were going to do some rocky mountainous hiking and wanted the ankle support. I have waited until I had a few hikes under my belt before I wrote a review. The boots were comfortable from the start! They didn't need any 'break in' time. I wore them around the house for a little bit a couple of different days (just in case). I have put approximately 15 or so miles of rocky up and down mountainous hiking on them and they are so comfortable. I have enough room in the boots to wear cushioning hiking socks. I definitely recommend these boots. No blisters!! Great from the beginning of the hike til the end. Try them out." —momma DGet them from Amazon for $127+ (available in sizes 5–12, wide sizes, and nine colors). A Brooks running shoe that reviewers swear by as being extremely comfy and supportive, even if you have wide feet. Basically, if you've been struggling to find a good exercise sneaker, it's worth checking these out. Promising review: "These are the best workout shoes I've ever owned! They require no 'breaking in' and are comfortable from day one! No issues with rubbing or blisters. They are also wider and feel highly supportive! I Highly recommend them!! I also disagree with reviews that say to size up — I'm a 7.5 and the size 7.5 fit me perfectly!" —L. CarterGet it from Amazon for $120+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 10 colors). A pair of Dr. Scholl's kicks so you can ditch the laces while still enjoying the benefits of supportive and comfy sneakers. Did I mention these have memory foam cushioning? Because they do, and you will love it. Braided Plaka sandals that combine functionality with a breezy boho aesthetic, aka the perfect combo for oceanside strolls. The straps fit snugly around the foot without rubbing or pinching while the rubber soles are durable enough for sand, beach rocks, and other rough terrain. A pair of quilted sneakers featuring memory foam insoles beneath that stylish exterior, because you deserve to look and feel like a million bucks all day every day. Doesn't matter if you're running errands or touring old European villages — these will keep you comfy, cute, and free of blisters. Psst! Some reviewers say these shoes run big and recommend ordering a size down. Promising review: "I am obsessed with these shoes! I have white and taupe, and I live in them. I got the black and white, but the black was shiny, so I returned those. I wear an 8.5 and have wide feet. True to size! No blisters! Pair with black crop pants, long pants, or jeans! Amazing!!!" —Stacy ForeGet them from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 6–11, wide sizes, and eight colors). A pair of colorful Tevas so you can stroll around the farmer's market or a pretty outdoor trail without wearing uncomfortable sandals. With so many color options to choose from, you can easily style them with a mini or maxi dress. Promising review: "Honestly, I can't say enough good things about these shoes. This was my first pair of Tevas and definitely not my last. (I just bought another pair yesterday!) I bought these for a trip to Disney World. The first day I wore them, we walked about 10 miles. Surprisingly, I had no issues with the straps rubbing and no blisters! I now take these shoes with me on every vacation. I'm normally a size 8.5, but I purchased the 8. It was a perfect fit!" —Emily DocterGet them from Amazon for $37.99+ (available in sizes 5–13 and dozens of colors/patterns). A pair of chic flats featuring a stretchy knit upper that hugs the foot to give a sleek 'n' snug fit *without* painfully digging into your precious skin. Bonus! They're machine washable. Promising review: "I ordered a size too small, but I got them to stretch out to fit my foot. I broke them in at a wedding and I wore them all day without pain or blisters after. Great pair of shoes!" —AnnaGet them from Walmart for $17.98 (available in sizes 6–11 and six colors). An adjustable cloud-like sandal if you've been searching for the most comfortable shoe of your life. With a contoured footbed that molds to your feet, these feel like walking on a soft, fluffy pillow. 😍 Promising review: "This is my fourth pair! I love how comfortable these are—it's like walking on air! I noticed that when I walk a lot in my leather Birkenstocks, the hard leather caused blisters. I can wear/walk in these all day with no problems. I love all the different colors—so fun!" —GR"These are super comfy. They hold up well and don't make your feet sweat. My friend wanted to go to a 'short' walk (not short at all…over 5miles) to a fort that ended up being flippin closed. They held up for me…a non-let's go for a walk person, in the humid heat of Baltimore. I was wearing these shoes and made it through the whole thing with no blisters or anything! I could even actually walk the next day! I thank the shoes." —KGet them from Amazon for $13.49+ (available in sizes 5.5–16W, 3.5–15M, and 18 colors). A pair of wide-calf friendly cowboy boots to help you get your ~YeeHaw~ on this summer. Promising review: "I rarely write reviews but felt compelled for these boots. I ordered 1/2 size up because of the point and for extra thick socks and they fit perfectly. Also my calves are like 14-14.25 inches and these fit with a little bit of extra room so I would say wide calf friendly. I have been searching for a pair of black boots and these arent my normal style but I am obsessed. Ive worn them almost every day since buying and they are holding up. I didn't even break them in before taking them to NY and walking around the city for a week. No blisters, no pain, nothing. They are sturdy, comfortable, walkable, and a decent price. If you have them in your cart and are debating, get them!!" —Amazon CustomerGet them from Amazon for $44.99+ (available in sizes 5–13, wide sizes, and 13 colors). Some square-toe strap sandals that blend together a modern square toe design with ruffled straps into one chic aesthetic. It's giving ~effortless fashion~. Promising review: "Wore these for a wedding last week, super comfortable and fit as expected! The wedding was my first time wearing them and did not get blisters!" —M. LopezGet them from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes 5.5–11 and three colors). A pair of sock shoes for anyone who's, well, quite frankly, over shoes. These are close as you can get to going barefoot (and blister-free!) while still protecting your feet from rocks, roots, and all the pain that generally comes with walking without footwear. Promising review: "I never write reviews - I've had these for two years and it's been one of my best and most practical purchases. I use it at the gym everyday and it's lasted this long. I've also gone trekking in these. While my hiking boots gave me blisters, these were 10 times more comfortable and durable as I walked 9+ hours per day! Great value for money." —KaranGet them from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in sizes 6–14W, sizes 5–13M and eight styles). A pair of platform lace-up oxfords so you can live out your Gilmore Girl fantasy... or at least dress the part.
Buzz Feed
14 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
33 Practical Home Purchases
Itty-bitty, collapsible storage crates in soothing pastel colors to give your knickknacks the vinyl record treatment. Listen, you don't have to throw away your mountain of pilfered condiment packets, but they'd look a lot nicer in one of these. A battery-operated patio umbrella light so your family can actually see each other while dining outside. The battery-powered device has 28 LEDs to properly illuminate a whole picnic table after the sun sets. A chenille tufted pillow perfect for when you're trying to enjoy some pillow fort time or just wanna sit on the floor while working from the coffee table (me). It'll come in handy when you have more guests than chairs for movie night. A set of low-maintenance, solar-powered lights you can stake along pathways to illuminate your walk to the house. Since they're powered by the sun, you can set them up and let them do their thing for the foreseeable future. Promising review: "These are great lights, we use them in our front and backyard. They are long-lasting and create a resort-like appearance." —Michele Get it from Amazon for $32.93+ (available in packs of four or eight). A pack of disposable shower hair catchers for people who often forget to clean the drain after a shower and too squeamish to maintain a device like the TubShroom. You can just close your eyes and throw these away when they're too hair-infested. A grater with a built-in container so you don't have to worry about having to balance it over a plate or cleaning up stray shavings. It comes with three grating surfaces you can swap out to meet all your grating needs. Taco night, anyone? A set of waterproof globe lights to instantly improve the ambiance of your backyard. I don't know how string lights do it, but they have a 100% success rate of making me happy. A set of wildly popular "hotel" pillows so you can feel like you're falling asleep at the Ritz. Reviewers rave that these are the perfect balance of fluffy and firm, meaning you can prop yourself up for a good in-bed TV binge. And a set of massively popular double-brushed microfiber sheets that are so soft and cuddly, reviewers have likened them to high-end hotel bedding. You'll forget aaaalll about thread count when you slide into these sheets. A Capri Blue Volcano-scented multipurpose cleaner — yes, that's right, the signature Anthropologie scent — to make cleaning feel extra rewarding. Now you can clean and leave behind a luxurious scent that'll have guests looking at your home in a new light. Was it always so chic in here? A solid wood countertop that fits over your washer and dryer in case you're really hurting for space in your cramped laundry room. The water-resistant surface will give you space for your various laundry accouterments, plus room to fold. A grassy drying rack for parents who have a ton of bottles to clean and don't want their carefully balanced mountain of dishes to come crashing down. The grass keeps bottles, tops, and other small items upright without you needing to constantly rearrange or navigate weirdly placed dividers. It's also just cute! Look at the little nipple tree. A beloved O-Cedar mop and bucket set that'll make mopping way faster and easier, thanks to the hands-free wringing system. The mop head's unique triangular shape allows it to get into corners, making it a favorite amongst neat freaks and professional cleaners. A bright and cheery fruit bowl with a secret — there's a hidden colander! The sneaky bowl lets you rinse your fruit and then display it on the counter while it dries. A set of extra mini drawers that clip onto your shelves so you can easily grab what you need instead of having to remove half the contents of your fridge just to get to the mayo. Promising review: "I bought a new refrigerator, and I missed my deli drawer. I purchased this as a way to store deli cold meat. I'm so glad I bought it" —wendyGet one from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two size packs). A flat mop with a wringing bucket offering a space-saving option for small living spaces where storage is more valuable than gold. The compact bucket has a handle and inner scraper to remove dirt from the washable microfiber mop pads, making it a hit with over 22,000 5-star reviewers. A rotating spice rack that not only provides you with all the spices you need to start your culinary journey, but also comes with FIVE YEARS of free spice refills; that means you can sprinkle your sea salt with reckless abandon. The next time you want to make a mushroom gravy, you'll have Herbes de Provence right there! And chicken is going to taste so much better with a dash of rosemary. This tower comes with 20 jars of spices. I personally have this rack and can confirm it's legit. The construction is obviously a little flimsy, but it spins nicely and doesn't wobble. All the spices are fresh and quite nice!Promising review: "I LOVE THIS! It looks great on my counter, and all the new choices I have to cook with are just exciting!! Plus, the five years of refills is just icing on top." —ImaniGet a rack with 20 spices from Amazon for $36.92. A mattress vacuum complete with a UV light to kill lingering bacteria and a HEPA filter to trap particles as small as 0.1 microns! Dust and mites won't stand a chance! Bedtime will be so nice, you'll be happy you don't have to call and ask for an early checkout. A set of Shoe Slotz that lets you stack shoes on top of each other, meaning you can DOUBLE your storage space. In the words of Kelly, let's get some shoes. A set of Command spray bottle hangers to stick to the inside of a cabinet door for easy storage, so you can grab the multi-cleaner *the second* you hear food hit the floor. A silverware sorter that takes up very little space in your drawer but can fit up to 24 pieces of cutlery. With the extra space, the possibilities are endless. Maybe it's time for a novelty monstera slotted spoon? Plastic sliding storage bins reviewers have been using to bring order to any room you can think of, from bedroom closets to home offices. Thanks to their waterproof material, they can even go in your bathroom or garage. A crack weeder tool if your home looks like it's trying out to star in the next season of The Last of Us. The L-shaped head can sneak into tight spaces and tear out the weeds, moss, and stubborn roots that have rudely taken up residence in your sidewalk. A jalapeño corer so you can get rid of unwanted seeds in seconds and minimize the risk of you slicing your hand open. Best to get this step done ASAP so you can enjoy some jalapeño poppers in record time. Promising review: "Not sure why I didn't know about this nifty gadget before! I'm obsessed!! I make jalapeño poppers AT LEAST once a week, and it has always been a little time-consuming! This gadget has cut my prep time by more than half!!! Such great quality and love that it's dishwasher safe! You don't have to work hard to get stems and seeds out. Only takes about 10-15 seconds per pepper, and it's completely cleaned out! Would definitely recommend to everyone!!!" —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $7.99. Clear, hardshell pouches perfect for cosmetics, toys, and craft supplies. You can stack them or throw 'em in a bag for easy traveling. They're basically go-bags, but for colored pencils and makeup. A Tibet Almond scratch remover stick that you can apply like ChapStick for your furniture. The colorless balm can help hide light scratches, watermarks, and water stains from wood, bamboo, glass, and more. Just open the can, remove the wrapper, and start rubbing the stick on unsightly marks. White caulk tape if you've noticed (and proceeded to ignore) some cracks in your previous caulk job. Use the waterproof sealing tape to fill in gaps before they get any worse and unwanted guests see the bug equivalent of a vacancy sign. Reviewers say this is easier and cleaner looking than liquid caulk, so there's no excuse to keep putting this off! An oil-stain remover doing the impossible — removing grease spots and refreshing your walkway, driveway, and more. You may have thought you had to live with The Stain until you moved, but no! A magic cleaning potion is here to banish that foe! Apply the formula, let it dry, then brush it away to reveal a stain-free surface. A bamboo shelf with a tilt-out hamper because I know you're sick of having your dirty unmentionables just out in the open like that. This turns what would normally have been an eyesore into a nice storage solution. Display decorative candles, not dirty socks! An expandable, cabinet-lining, two-tier shelf that will make every bottle you own visible and easily accessible. You'll never have to settle for paprika when you wanted smoked paprika ever again. Reed fencing offering a little privacy when you don't have the space or money to plant trees or bamboo. It'll obscure the view of your patio, balcony, or yard while still letting in some light so you don't make the space feel walled in. Promising review: "I am very happy with this reed fencing. The lovely brown color and tight weave with the string is so much better than ones I've had in the past that were woven with wire that look shabby and horrible. These are a wonderful quality for the price, to make putting up large sections of fencing more affordable. They are not completely private, as people have mentioned, but that's not what I wanted. I wanted to be able to see through a little bit, but they work great to give some sense of separation and privacy." —Lauren it from Amazon for $56.09+ (available in seven sizes and two colors). A rapid egg cooker so you can stop settling for overcooked hardboiled eggs with gross gray yolks. You deserve better. Along with hardboiled eggs, this thing can make omelets and poached and scrambled eggs, all without close supervision. An outdoor Wi-Fi extender you can place in a weatherproof enclosure (like a screened-in patio) to extend your network range to your porch or backyard. The applications are endless, from outdoor movie nights to actually getting your teenager outside for some fresh air. A pair of fan light pull cords so you can finally know which turns on the fan and which turns on the light. What an ~illuminating~ product! A wooden privacy screen with built-in planters at the bottom to help distract from whatever you're trying to hide, whether it be lawn equipment, an AC unit, garbage cans, or a giant skeleton lawn ornament waiting for its time to shine this fall. Promising review: "We have a small patio close to a grassy area where the neighborhood dogs do their business — so annoying and smelly — so we needed a way to get lots of florals in while also providing some privacy. These are perfect and hold lots of florals; the ivy I have is already beginning to climb the trellis, and they're sturdy!! We live in a windy area, and so far, they haven't budged. Also so, so easy to put together!! Took us less than a half hour probably." —JessicaGet it from Amazon for $76.49+ (available in three sizes; clip the 10% off coupon when applicable).
Buzz Feed
15 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
33 Products That Are Surprising Life Hacks
A pair of fluffy slippers with microfiber mops on the soles so you can get some cleaning done while you make your way from the couch to the kitchen and back to the couch again. You'll use way less paper towels the next time you knock over a glass of Moscato. An easily hangable T-shirt organizer so you can roll up all of your favorite graphic tees and neatly store them on the back of your closet door. It's so much easier than rummaging through a crowded drawer or shuffling through endless hangers. A two-pack of silicone gap covers, because you'd be surprised at how many stray crumbs make their way into that space between your stove and countertop. This will keep it covered so your ground beef won't fly outta the pan and live in that mysterious gap forever. Promising review: "This product does just what it is supposed to do. It is heat resistant, easy to wipe and extremely easy to install in my kitchen. I was lucky - my gap covers didn't need any trimming at all, they fit perfectly and they don't move during normal kitchen use." —Tia DGet a two-pack from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three sizes, three colors, and steel styles). A click-on automatic cleaning pack that clings right inside the toilet bowl to keep things fresh. It'll clean with every flush and buy you some time in between more thorough scrubbing sessions. An AirFly Pro wireless transmitter so you can add Bluetooth capabilities to any device with a headphone jack — even the screens on an airplane! Now, you can watch a movie on your next flight without using those awful wired earbuds that get all tangled up in your tray table. A wrinkle releaser and fabric-freshening spray that describes itself as an "iron in a bottle" — and over 34,000 Amazon reviewers swear by it. It'll help you get rid of all those creases and crinkles with just a few simple sprays, so it's perfect for when you can't be bothered to pull out the iron. A set of sheet detanglers to stop your bedding from becoming a twisted mess in your washer and dryer — because there are few things worse than realizing your pillowcases are still wet after getting caught in your fitted sheet during the dryer cycle. Just pop the corners into the tabs to keep them from getting jumbled up while tumble drying. A small snail that will hang out on the side of your mug and keep your tea bag from sliding all over the place while you enjoy your much-deserved 10th tea break of the day. A cloth drip catcher to automatically mop up any water splashes and stop the back of your sink from getting gross and mildewy. It's machine washable, so you can easily clean it when it needs a refresh. A nifty device that can turn hot coffee into iced coffee in 60 seconds, so it's perfect for the coffee connoisseur who drinks iced beverages year-round. It can also be used to quickly chill wine, which honestly might be even more useful. The unique design keeps the ice completely separate from the liquid you pour inside, so you'll get a chilled bev without diluting it. An ice cube tray with a lid since you'll probably be doubling the amount of ice you put in your drinks now that the summer heat is in full swing. The lid will keep out any lingering odors and makes it way easier to transport from the sink to the freezer. Promising review: "It's the little things in life. I feel a little silly writing a review for an ice tray, but this thing is fan-freaking-tastic! Perfect, easy-to-remove ice every single time with no spills getting to the freezer. If you're looking for an ice tray, this is the one you want." —DazzGet it from Amazon for $10.94 (available in two styles). A three-pronged duster to reach in between your blinds because they are probably way dirtier than you think 😬. The design means you can hit multiple blinds at once, so you'll be done with the full window in just a few swipes. Once you're done, just throw the cloth in the washing machine and pop a new one on! An all-purpose scrubber kit that'll magically transform your power drill into the ultimate cleaning tool you never knew you needed. The nylon bristles won't leave behind any scratches, so you can scrub away without worrying about ruining your tub, toilet, baseboards, or any other surface that needs an intense cleaning. A luggage-mounted cup caddy to keep your hands free when you need to rush to your gate, but you're not quite done with that cold brew yet. It's large enough to hold a Venti Starbucks, and the second pocket is perfect for snacks, keys, AirPods, etc. A waterproof eyeliner stamp which will be a life-saver for all my fellow peeps with shaky hands. You can use the curved wing side to effortlessly apply liner to the outer corner of your eye, then flip over to the regular fine tip to define the rest of the eye. A Tubshroom to catch all of your hair before it has a chance to clog your drain — because no, it shouldn't take a full hour for your shower to fully drain. Just place this in your drain and let the clever design trap hair while still letting water through. A bracelet tool so you can wear your favorite accessories even when nobody is around to help you deal with that annoying lobster clasp. Seriously, it's 2025 — bracelet clasp technology should be more advanced by now. A dishwasher magnet to help you keep track of the last time you did your to prevent any dish-related quarrels in your home. Listen, dishwasher pods are expensive, nobody wants to double-wash already clean dishes in this economy!! This'll also prevent anyone in your fam from throwing a used cereal bowl amongst your sparkling clean dishware before you have a chance to empty the machine. A no-scrub weekly shower cleaner that'll stop soap scum and residue from forming before they have a chance to take over your entire tub. Just spray and walk away — your future self will be so grateful. A pack of hypoallergenic body wipes for the days when you need to skip the shower and take the lazy route instead. We've all been there. These are infused with aloe so your skin will feel refreshed, clean, and silky smooth! An absolutely genius tool that lets you easily spread butter on your pans before cooking or directly on hot foods like corn on the cob or fresh bread. No more ~butter fingers~! A nifty strainer you can attach to the side of your pot so you'll never burn yourself while using a colander ever again! Plus, no more splashing yourself while hand-washing a full-size strainer. A roll-up dish-drying rack that's a major space saver and surprisingly multifunctional. It can also be used as a trivet mat on your countertop or simply as a way to turn your sink into some extra counter space when you're cooking. My fellow tiny apartment dwellers, rejoice! A grout ink pen — it'll take the space between your tiles from grimy to shiny in a few simple swipes. This won't clean your grout, but it'll make it look brand-new. It's like a more productive version of an adult coloring book! A toothpaste dispenser and storage unit so you can stop fumbling around with a crusty tube of Colgate when you've barely wiped away the crust from your eyes. It'll keep five toothbrushes, two tubes of toothpaste, and other bathroom necessities in their proper place. A mountable jar opener — you shouldn't have to use every bit of your upper body strength just to open a jar of jelly. It can fit jars up to five inches wide, so you should be able to open basically anything in your cupboard. A game-changing pan and pot lid organizer, because reaching for your favorite cookware shouldn't feel like playing a game of Jenga in your cabinet. The unique design allows you to store them horizontally or vertically, so it's bound to work in almost any cabinet. Having such easy access to your pans might make you close Uber Eats and cook for once. I said "might." A felt handbag insert with several pockets and compartments that will stop your purse from becoming an endless black hole of nothingness. Just imagine reaching into your bag and finding your lip balm on the very first try. A super grippy suction attachment so you can stick your phone to basically any smooth surface (think mirrors, walls, windows, basically anything without any texture). I recently saw someone use one of these to stick their phone to the back of a plane seat and my jaw dropped as I was filled with pure jealousy. A sleek stand that will finally give you a place to rest your spoons and pot lids instead of awkwardly laying them on the counter and hoping they don't leave a mess for you to clean up later. A set of lids so you can store all your bottles upside down and get every 👏 last 👏 drop 👏 out of there. It's the money-saver you never knew you needed. It's designed to work with 90% of plastic bottles and has adapters for different size openings. A set of washable liners that'll catch the lasagna that's bubbling over before it has a chance to reach the bottom and basically become a permanent part of your oven forever. Now, you can just take this out and give it a quick rinsing instead of endlessly scrubbing. A hanging garbage bag holder — it clips onto the top of your cabinet so you can easily dispose of your scraps without having to walk over to the trash can every. single. time! This will make cleanup SO much faster, especially if you're chopping tons of veggies. Meal prepping is hard enough as it is — don't make the cleaning afterward harder than it has to be. Now get to hacking! The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.
