27 little things our editors have bought (or recommend buying) that make them happy

CNN

26-03-2025

Things that make you happy quick picks:
For your next pasta night: Brainstream Al Dente The Singing Floating Pasta Timer
Fun home decor: Hikinlichi Magnetic Cloud Key Holder, Pack of 2
A new hobby: Lego Super Mario Piranha Plant Set
A cozy splurge: Cozy Earth Bamboo Stretch-Knit Long-Sleeve Pajama Set On days when the world feels like just a little too much to handle, it's important to have some go-to items on hand to make your day brighter — bonus points if it adds to your wellness routine. For our editors, those products range from garden accessories to bite-sized cookies that end the day on a sweet note. Whether you're practicing meditation and want to find a candle to set the mood, or you're looking for something whimsical to brighten your spirits as you head out the door, these are some of our favorite finds that help us practice kindness to ourselves (and others), offer a laugh or create a cozy moment at home.
Marycele Candle Warmer Lamp
When candle warmer lamps first started trending on social media, I was skeptical. But as soon as I got my hands on one, it was easy to see why people were obsessed. It brings such a cozy ambiance into my bedroom, and it makes my candles smell stronger and last longer. When I work from home, I like to turn it on once I start my workday and set the timer to eight hours so it shuts off when I should be logging off. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, editor, home & gifts
TeeTurtle The Original Reversible Penguin Plushmate
I keep this reversible penguin in my car 24/7. If I'm stuck in traffic or someone cuts me off, he's mad. But if the sun is out and I'm cruising with the windows down, he's happy. Flipping this little plush to reflect my emotions actually really helps me, since it feels like someone recognizes and empathizes with how I'm feeling, even if I'm just alone in my car. — Kai Burkhardt, editor, outdoors, sustainable living and pets
Hikinlichi Magnetic Cloud Key Holder, Pack of 2
Rain isn't traditionally thought to evoke joy, but ever since I bought this cloud-shaped magnetic key hanger, which makes your keys look like raindrops, I'm delighted every time I enter and leave my apartment. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director
Brainstream Al Dente The Singing Floating Pasta Timer
Instead of setting your oven or iPhone timer, throw this singing pasta man into the pot. It sings four different Italian melodies at the three-, seven-, nine- and 11-minute marks to alert you when your pasta is perfectly al dente. — Elena Matarazzo, associate editor, deals
Camp Snap Screen-Free Digital Camera
I received this as a gift last year, and it hasn't left my purse. It's been such a huge joy snapping photos and seeing how they turned out once I plug it into my laptop. — Lindsey Smith, editor, newsletters
Tate's Bake Shop Tiny Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies, Pack of 3
I recently had to switch to a low-acid diet and finding things to eat has been really tough. A lot of the foods I can eat are very bland, but these gluten-free tiny cookies from Tate's have been my go-to. They are very easy on the stomach and taste amazing. They're the perfect substitute for regular cookies, so you can satisfy your cravings without dealing with all the headaches. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator
Tovolo Kitten Shaped Ice Molds, Set of 2
These ice cube molds were an impulse buy when I was walking around Whole Foods feeling kind of down one day, but they're one of my favorite purchases. Each one is shaped like a kitten holding a ball of yarn — how cute! They're the perfect way to make an iced coffee, cocktail or even just an Olipop feel more fun. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, editor, home & gifts
Namii W Slingshot Chickens, 10-Pack
Probably the silliest thing you'll find in any of my drawers, but these slingshot chickens are simply hilarious. You stick your finger in the head, pull the tail back and fling them onto the wall where they stick. It's a fun game when friends are over to see who can hit targets, and they always spark laughter whenever I pull them out. — Ellen McAlpine, writer, updates
Uncommon Goods Ceramic Bee Drinking Cups, Set of 5
Making bees happy makes me happy! It's so soothing to watch pollinators buzz around and perch on these cups in the garden. — Lindsey Smith, editor, newsletters
Cozy Earth Bamboo Stretch-Knit Long-Sleeve Pajama Set
There's just something about a brand-new pajama set covered in tulips that sparks so much joy. The floral print is a perfect nod to springtime, and the stretch-knit fabric is unbelievably lightweight, soft, and cozy! — Stephanie Griffin, director of social
Touchland Glow Mist Rosewater Revitalizing Hand Sanitzer
We've all needed hand sanitizer at one point, but this Touchland Glow Mist Hand Sanitizer is one I'm always excited to pull out of my bag. The rosewater scent is refreshing, and it makes hand sanitizer feel luxurious. — Gareen Puglia, associate writer, testing
Crown & Paw Modern Pet Portrait
I have a portrait of one of my dogs Miso hanging on the wall in my living room, and every time I walk in and see it, it sparks joy. It's especially nice because Miso is always asleep in her crate and doesn't care when I come home, so I can at least say hi to her portrait while she gets her much needed beauty sleep. — Kai Burkhardt, editor, outdoors, sustainable living and pets
Mellanni Iconic Collection Sheets Set
It really is the little things that make you happy, like climbing into a soft and cozy bed at the end of a long day. I've influenced so many people to buy these sheets because I'm obsessed with how luxe they feel. I usually look forward to climbing into bed, but these sheets make it all the more exciting. — Ellen McAlpine, writer, updates
Last Crumb The Core Collection
I will gladly spend serious money on a basket of baked goods, especially pastries and cookies, and The Last Crumb is no exception. The brand makes some of the most delicious cookies I've ever had, and each piece is massive. Every bite makes me do a happy dance. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates
Ototo Red the Crab Silicone Utensil Rest
My dad gifted me this a few Christmases ago, and it's still one of my most-used and favorite kitchen items that brings joy. It's super functional because it holds your utensils and pot lids when you're not using them. Plus, it's super cute. — Ellen McAlpine, writer, updates
Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera
Photography makes me happy, but I especially love taking instant photos of my friends when we're doing one of our dinner parties or beach days. I feel even happier every time I look at all our photos on my fridge. This Instax makes it all possible. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates
La Colombe Canned Oat Milk Double Draft Latte, Pack of 12
I discovered these canned lattes about three years ago, and I know it's going to be a good day whenever I pull one out of my fridge. I like to buy them in advance if I know I have a busy week ahead because they're a delicious caffeine kick that makes me happy. — Gareen Puglia, associate writer, testing
Lego Super Mario Piranha Plant Set
Here at CNN Underscored, our editors are big fans of Lego. It's a fun, creative hobby that stops you from doomscrolling your phone. We love that once you're finished with this fun Mario Cart-inspired Lego set, you have a fun display for your home.
Ostrichpillow Self-Care Journal
Whether you have a meditation practice or you're looking to use some time in your day for reflection, this journal is here to help with prompts to help you start writing. It also features pages to help you track sleep, nutrition, your mood and your exercise habits.
The Bouqs Co. Lillie
Fresh flowers are always a good way to brighten the mood, especially when they come in this chic reusable vase. The pops of color add freshness to your space and when it's time to replace the florals, you still have a pretty piece of home decor.
Elago Game Console AirPods Case
You take your AirPods with you everywhere, so keeping them protected in a case is a smart move. This one looks like a retro game console and comes with a carabiner to hook onto your keys or bag so you always have your earbuds on hand.
Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks
These glam eye masks will make your morning routine feel a little more fun. After testing, our fashion and beauty editor Sophie Shaw (and her mom!) was impressed with the hydrating formula and brightening effect. Plus, they didn't slide around while she wore them, so it was a foolproof addition to her morning routine.Read our review
Scrub Daddy Color Sponges, Pack of 3
Is cleaning always fun? No. But are these smiling sponges adorable? Yes. These expert-loved sponges change from a soft to abrasive texture depending on the water temperature they're exposed to, making them versatile enough to clean different areas around your house. A clean house is a happy house! Read our review
Anthropologie Capri Blue Volcano Tin Candle
Anthropologie's signature scent, the Capri Blue candle, has notes of tropical fruits including oranges, lemons and limes and fresh notes of greenery. This tin candle comes with a lid and is decorated with a bold design that looks nice while it's sitting out, waiting for you to light it and relax.
Jall Wooden Digital Alarm Clock
The key to starting your day on the right foot? Ensuring you have a trusty alarm clock. In our testing, this sleek alarm clock was a breeze to set up and use, and it comes with nifty features like humidity and temperature settings. It's the perfect affordable upgrade for your nightstand.Read our review
Uncommon Goods Coconut Fiber Dog Planters
Here's a pawfect find for the dog lovers. These planters are made from coco coir, a material made from the husk of a coconut, and look like your favorite furry friends.
Preston Lane Doheny Drive 3-Piece Kitchen Set
Swap your boring kitchen cleaning essentials with this elevated trio that includes hand soap, dish soap and all-purpose cleaner. Plus, the Doheny Drive scent is citrusy, warm and fresh. Your kitchen will be cleaner and smell delicious. It's a win-win! CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test most of the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have an experienced team of writers and editors who have many years of testing experience and ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to ensure we are testing each product accurately and speaking about pros and cons of each item. For this article, our writer Ellen McAlpine asked the CNN Underscored team for the little things they own that spark joy. She also included expert recommendations, best-tested products and more joy-inducing items from our other guides.