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CNN
26-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CNN
27 little things our editors have bought (or recommend buying) that make them happy
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 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 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.
CNN
25-03-2025
- General
- CNN
22 cleaning products that our editors can't stop reaching for
Regular cleaning is a necessity if you want to keep your home feeling fresh and organized, but it's by no means the most high-octane activity on your to-do list. And Underscored editors, we're just like you — we have homes that, whether we like it or not, we have to clean. Luckily, since we test products for a living, we've found plenty of cleaning essentials that make sprucing up our spaces easy and at times, even borderline fun. Ahead, we're sharing our tried and trusted cleaning products with you. A post shared by CNN Underscored (@cnnunderscored) Scrub Daddy Scrub Mommy Sponges, 3-Pack I have yet to find a better sponge than the Scrub Mommy. I love that it's double-sided for all my cleaning needs. It's long-lasting, durable and gets the job done, all without scratching my most delicate dishes or pans. I've even used it to scrub floors. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer Oxo Good Grips Deep Clean Brush Set I've had these mini scrub brushes for years, and they're so handy that I think everyone should have them in their home. I use them for practically everything, whether I need to clean the small parts of my cat's water fountain or scrub away residue from stickers. I also like that the smaller brush has a silicone 'blade' that reaches into tight crevices I'd be otherwise unable to clean. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner When I need to start cleaning, I put on a podcast and pull out my Mrs. Meyer's Multi-Surface Cleaner. I like using it after cooking or to freshen up my space over the weekend. It's safe to use on every surface in my home. Plus, the lavender scent smells incredible. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner Gel I've used other toilet bowl cleaners, but I like that this one from Lysol clings to the rim and inside of the toilet bowl. The gel's clinginess, combined with the angled bottle shape, makes it easy to coat those hard-to-reach spots before going in with the toilet brush. Plus, the Atlantic Fresh scent has a pleasant, slightly minty smell to it. — Rachel Dennis, associate editor Shark Vacmop If you have a lot of hardwood and/or tile flooring in your space, the Shark VacMop is an absolute must-have cleaning tool. I grab it for minor and major messes alike, and it's significantly cut down on the need to do regular deep cleans. I love it so much that I have one for upstairs and one for downstairs. — Daniel Toy, section editor, copy chief The Laundress Glass & Mirror Cleaner Windex is usually my go-to glass and mirror cleaner, but these days, I'm loving this one from The Laundress. With notes of lavender, jasmine and eucalyptus, this luxury cleaning product smells incredible — and it leaves my mirrors streak-free when paired with a microfiber cloth. I'm also a fan of the surface cleaner from the same collection. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Staff Reusable Lint Roller Who said cleaning products have to be an eyesore? Not Staff, the brand behind all my favorite cleaning products that look like decor. I just got this cute lint roller that I display in my apartment proudly, and it makes catching fuzzies a lot more fun. I also own Staff's toilet plunger, hangers, toilet brush and oven mitts, so I mean business when I say the brand should become a staple in your cleaning and organizing routine too. These items are so cool, I actually look forward to cleaning a dirty toilet (I'm slightly kidding)! — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Clorox Clean-Up All-Purpose Cleaner I find bleach scary and don't like to use it too regularly for cleaning, but sometimes you need to break out the heavy-duty stuff to get the job done. I'll dilute a tablespoon or two of this Clorox cleaner and bleach into a bucket when I need to give my shower a good scrub or add a splash to my compost bin when I need to get rid of lingering decomposition smells. It's a bit harsh, but good to have on hand when you want something to clean and disinfect effectively. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, 10-Pack I hesitate to call any cleaning tool 'magical,' but the Magic Eraser comes pretty close. Whether I'm using it to remove weird smudges on my walls or brighten up my white sneakers, this sturdy sponge works on tougher messes to minimize the need for intense scrubbing, often times with just water alone. I always have a pack under my kitchen sink at home, and they're my cleaning go-to when nothing else works. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director Lysol Disinfectant Spray Before lining my trash bins with a fresh bag, I like to spray the inside of the bins with this Lysol disinfectant spray. You only need a few sprays, and it keeps things smelling nice and fresh while disinfecting the surface and killing any lingering germs. — Rachel Dennis, associate editor Bar Keepers Friend Multipurpose Household Cleanser and Polish Bar Keepers Friend is one of those must-have cleaning products that you're always going to find under my sink. It works extremely well at removing rust stains and hard water spots in my kitchen sink, and it can also restore scorched stainless steel cookware. The best part? It's so affordable! — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Read our review Wagner Spraytech 925e Elite Steamer I love using a steamer because once you buy it, all you need to do is add water to get a good clean. From floors to ovens to taking off wallpaper and getting wrinkles out of clothes, this steamer can get any job done. It gets even the worst gunk and grime off ovens in only a few minutes. The whole thing is lightweight and on wheels, so it makes it easy to go from room to room. Plus, it comes with a variety of attachments for whatever you use it for. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor Dyson WashG1 I had the opportunity to finally test this wet vacuum for my best Dyson vacuums guide, and I am in love! I've probably owned about three or four mop vacuums over the years, and this one made the process so much easier. Although, I wish Dyson made the water tank bigger so I didn't have to refill it as often. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Read our review Stardrops The Pink Stuff Cleaning Paste This pink paste was all over my social feeds a few summers ago, and after a while, I was influenced to give it a go. I have no idea what is in this strange, pink paste, but it cleans well. I tend to reach for this when I deep clean and need to cut through built-up grime on my stove top, oven or shower. I've even used it to spruce up a pair of white sneakers. For extra cleaning precision and force, I like to dip an old toothbrush in the paste to get hard-to-reach areas like in-between sink handles, drains and other tight nooks. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor. Read our review Shark Steam Mop My friend gave me a Shark Steam Mop because she accidentally received two due to a shipping error, and I'm glad she did. Despite not having a lot of features and being made of mostly plastic, it's an impressive steam mop that you'll want in your spring cleaning arsenal. It gets hot enough — scalding hot, in fact, so be careful — that it'll quickly remove all the months of grime off your floor without requiring that much effort from you. I love using it on days when I'm feeling lazy but know that I absolutely need to clean. It's a cheap alternative to the Dyson WashG1. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Bona High Performance Dusting System I recently got my hands on this extendable duster from Bona, and it has been a game changer at dusting those hard-to-reach areas in my apartment. I had been neglecting to dust my ceiling fan for way too long, but as soon as I got my hands on this long-handled duster with an adjustable head, it was a cleaning task that was borderline kind of fun. Even though it's taller than me while fully extended, it folds up so compact that it'd fit in even the smallest apartments. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Iucge Rubber Cleaning Gloves It's my belief that every home should have at least one pair of rubber gloves on hand. Whether you're dealing with harsh chemicals like bleach or dealing with grimy and harrowing messes, it's nice to have something protecting your skin and clothes. These gloves give me the liberty to clean with even more elbow grease and are also great for daily tasks like dishwashing, especially if you have manicured hands you'd like to keep looking sharp. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Swiffer PowerMop Since I live in an NYC apartment, I don't have space for bulky cleaning supplies, which is why I've always opted for Swiffer's space-saving products. The PowerMop is an upgrade to the standard Swiffer Sweeper, with dirt-grabbing mop pads and a fresh-scented cleaning solution that you can spray with the push of a button. The mop itself is battery powered so you aren't hindered by long cords or the availability of outlets. It honestly makes cleaning up my floors a breeze, and I like that I can target specific spots with the spray. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets I got tired of trying to figure out whether or not my empty bottles of detergent are getting recycled, so I recently switched to these detergent sheets. They're very effective at cleaning my clothes, don't take up much space in my laundry closet and are easier to use — just grab a sheet and toss it in the washer! — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Swiffer Heavy-Duty Duster Refills I already have a Swiffer Duster handle, so now, I just buy duster refills whenever I empty a box. They do a great job at picking up dust, and because they're double-sided, I feel like I get more use out of one. The dusters I currently use are unscented, but I may need to pick up a box of scented ones the next time I run out. — Rachel Dennis, associate editor Febreze Fabric Extra Strength Air Freshener Having a pleasant-smelling abode is important to me, and after I've swept, wiped, straightened and vacuumed my living spaces, I like to metaphorically seal the deal by locking in the clean with this Febreze fabric spray. I use this liberally on my couch, carpets, curtains, bathmats and pillows to help everything feel extra fresh. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Suzanne Somers Suzanne Eco Cleaner Multi-Surface Duo Tons of cleaning products are made with a lot of chemicals, so finding an eco-friendly product that gets the job done isn't always an easy task. I started using this organic multi-surface cleaner and life has never been easier. I really love that you can use this for almost every household task, from your windows to even your car. It has a light and refreshing scent and makes my space smell clean without being too overpowering. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Here at Underscored, we make it our job to stay up to date on all the latest products, but we don't just find them; we also rigorously test products from hundreds of brands. In addition to hands-on testing products, we also consult top experts to understand what features, benefits and possible downsides each item offers. We also seek out important considerations and advice from our experts to help give you the information you need to make smarter shopping decisions. For this article, associate editor Jillian Tracy curated our editors' favorite cleaning products that help to keep our spaces spotless.
CNN
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- CNN
The 35 best Valentine's Day gifts under $50 in 2025
Valentine's Day might seem like a cheesy holiday at times, but it's still a great excuse to spoil your partner or closest friends, and show them just how much you appreciate them. But all those flowers, chocolates, stuffed teddy bears and cards can get expensive. That's why we've curated a list of Valentine's Day presents that will wow your loved ones — and each gift idea costs $50 or less. From practical products to romantic gifts that are almost guaranteed to make them shed a tear, here are our favorite Valentine's Day gifts under $50. Looking for more Valentine's Day ideas ahead of Feb. 14? Check out our favorite gifts for him, gifts for her, gifts for kids and unique gifts. Dash x Sweethearts Mini Waffle Maker Wake up your loved one with a delicious and ridiculously cute heart-shaped waffle with this mini appliance from Dash. You can choose from a few different Valentine's Day messages, including Cutie Pie, XOXO and Bestie. Kendra Scott Ari Heart Gold Huggie Earrings These earrings are a sweet and charming gift. Though there are nine colors to choose from, the Rose Quartz color is our favorite for Valentine's Day. Masters Creative Faceless Portrait This custom illustration is a unique and personal gift to capture your relationship. Underscored's home and gifts editor, Amina Lake Abdelrahman, has ordered from this Etsy shop before, and the process is straightforward and quick. Plus, you can choose from a print, canvas or digital file. Homesick Love Letters Candle Pair this romantic and cozy floral-scented candle with a handwritten love letter for a sweet surprise. M&M's Personalized Teddy Bear Gift Box One of my friends got this as a Valentine's Day gift in the past, and it was such a hit. Each M&M can be personalized with either a photo or a cute message. Plus, you can continue to refill the adorable teddy bear gift box. Lego Icons Orchid Plant and Flowers Set If you want something that's more long-lasting than flowers, these Lego Orchids are a fun and creative way to spend some time together — and you still end up with beautiful flowers. There is also a version with a dozen roses and a 16-stem wildflower bouquet. Peacoeye Rose Spa Gift Set With a handmade soap bar, body butter, massage oil and more, this spa gift set is a fantastic way to relax and de-stress. The set also includes a greeting card so you can add a thoughtful note. Besides the rose scent, this gift set is also available in lavender. Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book This customizable photo book can be filled with pictures of you and your partner on all your adventures. You can even customize the colors of the cover and foil letters to make it even more unique. Uncommon Goods Couples Handholding Mittens These handholding mittens are perfect for the couple who loves a good laugh. They're guaranteed to bring a smile to their faces, and it's an especially useful gift for couples who like to take walks together. Le Creuset Stoneware Mini Heart Pinch Bowls, Set of 4 Surprise your better half with a romantic Valentine's Day dessert and candy spread, presented in these heart-shaped pinch bowls from Le Creuset. Jellycat Munro Scottie Dog 'Love You' This adorable plush is a cuddly surprise for the dog lover in your life. The rose in its mouth adds a romantic and whimsical touch. Artmalle Bathtub Caddy Tray Thanks to this bath tray, they can easily enjoy a day of pampering and relaxation while soaking in a bubble bath. It's a great way to hold a book and all their bath essentials for a spa day at home. Uncommon Goods Valentine's Day Tarot Class For a unique Valentine's Day activity, check out this live virtual tarot class experience. Consider adding the Star Spinner Tarot Cards to your gift so you're ready for the reading. BestSelf Intimacy Deck Get closer to your partner this Valentine's Day with an introspective and intimate deck of conversation starters meant to help you understand each other on a deeper level. Men's Scotch Plaid Flannel Shirt He'll be cozy, warm and stylish with this plaid flannel shirt from Crafted from Portuguese cotton flannel, it's incredibly soft and comes in 10 different designs. Nonna Live Virtual Cooking Experience Looking for an affordable Valentine's Day activity that doubles as a gift? From making pasta to baking chocolate cake, Nonna Live has a variety of not only live classes but on-demand cooking classes for a hands-on date-night experience. I See Me 'Better Together' Personalized Book of Love For a gift that's bound to bring out the waterworks, get this book that turns your relationship into a cute and heartfelt story, all based on your favorite memories together. Williams Sonoma Personalized Chocolate Breakable Pink Heart With Roses Make a chocolate gift more exciting this Valentine's Day with a personalized chocolate heart filled with delicious treats. It comes with a wooden mallet so it's easy to crack open and enjoy the sour gummies inside! Auden Women's Satin Pajama Set With Eye Mask Upgrade her sleepwear with this three-piece satin set that features a long-sleeve top, shorts and an eye mask. It comes in four different colors, including a couple Valentine's Day-themed options. DeLight Patisserie Custom Cookie Box Customize these shortbread cookies with your name and anniversary date, romantic notes or even inside jokes. HM Gift Collection Custom Whiskey Decanter This customizable whiskey decanter set is a tasteful and elegant gift for any whiskey lover. You can choose from over a dozen personalized designs for a luxurious gift that won't break the bank. You can also choose from a variet of sets, some of which include glasses and/or a woodbox to match the decanter. Uncommon Goods A Dozen Reasons I Love You Show your love and appreciation with this sweet container filled with a dozen customized messages. This is a gift they can pick up whenever they need a reminder of your love. Man Crates Jerky Heart With over a dozen beef jerky bits in a fun heart-shaped box, this gift set is a whimsical mix of delicious bites for anyone who loves snacking on meat. Warmies Heart Plush Stuffed with real lavender, this microwavable heart plush is a cozy and relaxing gift. At 2 pounds, this adorable plush is weighted for ultimate comfort and stress relief. Uncommon Goods Personalized Engraved Compass This fully functional brass compass has a gorgeous engraving (choose from two options), and to make it extra personal, you can add either a photo or a sweet message on the inside. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L This belt bag is super versatile and stylish, and we especially love the bright-pink color (aptly named Passionate) for Valentine's Day. Whether they use it for everyday errands or outdoor workouts, the water-repellent fabric and adjustable straps will come in handy. Anthropologie Zodiac Brooch This zodiac brooch is an eccentric gift for the astrology lover in your life. It's made of gold-plated brass and has a pin closure that can be attached to their denim jacket, tote bag and more. Glossier Sip + Smile Duo A lip balm from Glossier is a staple in any beauty bag. I have multiple colors, and they're all incredibly hydrating and have a buildable tint. This duo is a delightful way to gift a lip essential with a fun smiley face mug. Choose from 10 Balm Dotcom colors. My favorite for Valentine's Day is the Black Cherry. Caitlyn Minimalist Custom Name Necklace Get this necklace that can spell out your partner's name in sterling silver, 18-karat gold or rose gold. You can even choose from a variety of fonts to truly make this necklace feel personalized. Anthropologie The Bistro Tile Stoneware Vase Valentine's Edition With 24-karat-gold decals and a pretty mosaic-inspired design, this vase is a showstopper. It's such a fun way to display flowers and add some whimsy to their home year after year. Ruiou Personalized 3D Crystal Photo Heart Turn any photo of you and your partner into an incredible work of art with this heart-shaped crystal photo. You can even add a light base to make your crystal shine bright. I gifted a similar 3D crystal to my parents and siblings, and they were obsessed; they still have it on display in their living rooms. Pinch Provisions Heart Ice Roller This soothing ice roller is a great tool for depuffing and de-stressing. Bonus: The pretty red heart design is perfect for Valentine's Day. Uncommon Goods Birth Month Flower Heart Necklace If you're deciding between flowers and jewelry, this necklace is the best of both worlds. These dried flowers are picked and preserved in eco-resin so they'll stay in bloom forever. Plus, you can personalize the gift by choosing their birth month flower. 'I Wrote a Book About You' Fill-in-the-Blank Book by M.H. Clark This fill-in-the-blank book is the perfect way to show your love, even if you're usually not good at expressing it. The handwritten elements of this book make it even more meaningful. Tangle Teezer The Zodiac Ultimate Detangler Tangle Teezer's detangling hair brushes are loved by several Underscored editors, and this version has unique artwork for each zodiac sign. Here at Underscored, we make it our job to stay up to date on all the latest products, but we don't just find them; we also rigorously test products from hundreds of brands to make sure every gift you give is a hit. We also know that you get tired of seeing the same gift ideas year after year, which is why our team of editors has carefully curated each of our gift guides with a selection of products tailored to the person, hobby or event you're shopping for (though, if you're seeing some repeat products in our coverage, it probably just means that we really love them). For this article, editorial coordinator Stephanie Luna scoured the internet, including Underscored's rigorously tested product reviews, to find the very best Valentine's Day gifts under $50. Explore trending products Tom Design Zodiac Bracelet BaubleBar Mini Hera Necklace Petite Plume Women's Silk Luxe Pajamas Kendra Scott Ari Heart Gold Pendant Necklace in Rose Quartz
CNN
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- CNN
The 35 best Valentine's Day gifts under $50 in 2025
Valentine's Day might seem like a cheesy holiday at times, but it's still a great excuse to spoil your partner or closest friends, and show them just how much you appreciate them. But all those flowers, chocolates, stuffed teddy bears and cards can get expensive. That's why we've curated a list of Valentine's Day presents that will wow your loved ones — and each gift idea costs $50 or less. From practical products to romantic gifts that are almost guaranteed to make them shed a tear, here are our favorite Valentine's Day gifts under $50. Looking for more Valentine's Day ideas ahead of Feb. 14? Check out our favorite gifts for him, gifts for her, gifts for kids and unique gifts. Dash x Sweethearts Mini Waffle Maker Wake up your loved one with a delicious and ridiculously cute heart-shaped waffle with this mini appliance from Dash. You can choose from a few different Valentine's Day messages, including Cutie Pie, XOXO and Bestie. Kendra Scott Ari Heart Gold Huggie Earrings These earrings are a sweet and charming gift. Though there are nine colors to choose from, the Rose Quartz color is our favorite for Valentine's Day. Masters Creative Faceless Portrait This custom illustration is a unique and personal gift to capture your relationship. Underscored's home and gifts editor, Amina Lake Abdelrahman, has ordered from this Etsy shop before, and the process is straightforward and quick. Plus, you can choose from a print, canvas or digital file. Homesick Love Letters Candle Pair this romantic and cozy floral-scented candle with a handwritten love letter for a sweet surprise. M&M's Personalized Teddy Bear Gift Box One of my friends got this as a Valentine's Day gift in the past, and it was such a hit. Each M&M can be personalized with either a photo or a cute message. Plus, you can continue to refill the adorable teddy bear gift box. Lego Icons Orchid Plant and Flowers Set If you want something that's more long-lasting than flowers, these Lego Orchids are a fun and creative way to spend some time together — and you still end up with beautiful flowers. There is also a version with a dozen roses and a 16-stem wildflower bouquet. Peacoeye Rose Spa Gift Set With a handmade soap bar, body butter, massage oil and more, this spa gift set is a fantastic way to relax and de-stress. The set also includes a greeting card so you can add a thoughtful note. Besides the rose scent, this gift set is also available in lavender. Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book This customizable photo book can be filled with pictures of you and your partner on all your adventures. You can even customize the colors of the cover and foil letters to make it even more unique. Uncommon Goods Couples Handholding Mittens These handholding mittens are perfect for the couple who loves a good laugh. They're guaranteed to bring a smile to their faces, and it's an especially useful gift for couples who like to take walks together. Le Creuset Stoneware Mini Heart Pinch Bowls, Set of 4 Surprise your better half with a romantic Valentine's Day dessert and candy spread, presented in these heart-shaped pinch bowls from Le Creuset. Jellycat Munro Scottie Dog 'Love You' This adorable plush is a cuddly surprise for the dog lover in your life. The rose in its mouth adds a romantic and whimsical touch. Artmalle Bathtub Caddy Tray Thanks to this bath tray, they can easily enjoy a day of pampering and relaxation while soaking in a bubble bath. It's a great way to hold a book and all their bath essentials for a spa day at home. Uncommon Goods Valentine's Day Tarot Class For a unique Valentine's Day activity, check out this live virtual tarot class experience. Consider adding the Star Spinner Tarot Cards to your gift so you're ready for the reading. BestSelf Intimacy Deck Get closer to your partner this Valentine's Day with an introspective and intimate deck of conversation starters meant to help you understand each other on a deeper level. Men's Scotch Plaid Flannel Shirt He'll be cozy, warm and stylish with this plaid flannel shirt from Crafted from Portuguese cotton flannel, it's incredibly soft and comes in 10 different designs. Nonna Live Virtual Cooking Experience Looking for an affordable Valentine's Day activity that doubles as a gift? From making pasta to baking chocolate cake, Nonna Live has a variety of not only live classes but on-demand cooking classes for a hands-on date-night experience. I See Me 'Better Together' Personalized Book of Love For a gift that's bound to bring out the waterworks, get this book that turns your relationship into a cute and heartfelt story, all based on your favorite memories together. Williams Sonoma Personalized Chocolate Breakable Pink Heart With Roses Make a chocolate gift more exciting this Valentine's Day with a personalized chocolate heart filled with delicious treats. It comes with a wooden mallet so it's easy to crack open and enjoy the sour gummies inside! Auden Women's Satin Pajama Set With Eye Mask Upgrade her sleepwear with this three-piece satin set that features a long-sleeve top, shorts and an eye mask. It comes in four different colors, including a couple Valentine's Day-themed options. DeLight Patisserie Custom Cookie Box Customize these shortbread cookies with your name and anniversary date, romantic notes or even inside jokes. HM Gift Collection Custom Whiskey Decanter This customizable whiskey decanter set is a tasteful and elegant gift for any whiskey lover. You can choose from over a dozen personalized designs for a luxurious gift that won't break the bank. You can also choose from a variet of sets, some of which include glasses and/or a woodbox to match the decanter. Uncommon Goods A Dozen Reasons I Love You Show your love and appreciation with this sweet container filled with a dozen customized messages. This is a gift they can pick up whenever they need a reminder of your love. Man Crates Jerky Heart With over a dozen beef jerky bits in a fun heart-shaped box, this gift set is a whimsical mix of delicious bites for anyone who loves snacking on meat. Warmies Heart Plush Stuffed with real lavender, this microwavable heart plush is a cozy and relaxing gift. At 2 pounds, this adorable plush is weighted for ultimate comfort and stress relief. Uncommon Goods Personalized Engraved Compass This fully functional brass compass has a gorgeous engraving (choose from two options), and to make it extra personal, you can add either a photo or a sweet message on the inside. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L This belt bag is super versatile and stylish, and we especially love the bright-pink color (aptly named Passionate) for Valentine's Day. Whether they use it for everyday errands or outdoor workouts, the water-repellent fabric and adjustable straps will come in handy. Anthropologie Zodiac Brooch This zodiac brooch is an eccentric gift for the astrology lover in your life. It's made of gold-plated brass and has a pin closure that can be attached to their denim jacket, tote bag and more. Glossier Sip + Smile Duo A lip balm from Glossier is a staple in any beauty bag. I have multiple colors, and they're all incredibly hydrating and have a buildable tint. This duo is a delightful way to gift a lip essential with a fun smiley face mug. Choose from 10 Balm Dotcom colors. My favorite for Valentine's Day is the Black Cherry. Caitlyn Minimalist Custom Name Necklace Get this necklace that can spell out your partner's name in sterling silver, 18-karat gold or rose gold. You can even choose from a variety of fonts to truly make this necklace feel personalized. Anthropologie The Bistro Tile Stoneware Vase Valentine's Edition With 24-karat-gold decals and a pretty mosaic-inspired design, this vase is a showstopper. It's such a fun way to display flowers and add some whimsy to their home year after year. Ruiou Personalized 3D Crystal Photo Heart Turn any photo of you and your partner into an incredible work of art with this heart-shaped crystal photo. You can even add a light base to make your crystal shine bright. I gifted a similar 3D crystal to my parents and siblings, and they were obsessed; they still have it on display in their living rooms. Pinch Provisions Heart Ice Roller This soothing ice roller is a great tool for depuffing and de-stressing. Bonus: The pretty red heart design is perfect for Valentine's Day. Uncommon Goods Birth Month Flower Heart Necklace If you're deciding between flowers and jewelry, this necklace is the best of both worlds. These dried flowers are picked and preserved in eco-resin so they'll stay in bloom forever. Plus, you can personalize the gift by choosing their birth month flower. 'I Wrote a Book About You' Fill-in-the-Blank Book by M.H. Clark This fill-in-the-blank book is the perfect way to show your love, even if you're usually not good at expressing it. The handwritten elements of this book make it even more meaningful. Tangle Teezer The Zodiac Ultimate Detangler Tangle Teezer's detangling hair brushes are loved by several Underscored editors, and this version has unique artwork for each zodiac sign. Here at Underscored, we make it our job to stay up to date on all the latest products, but we don't just find them; we also rigorously test products from hundreds of brands to make sure every gift you give is a hit. We also know that you get tired of seeing the same gift ideas year after year, which is why our team of editors has carefully curated each of our gift guides with a selection of products tailored to the person, hobby or event you're shopping for (though, if you're seeing some repeat products in our coverage, it probably just means that we really love them). For this article, editorial coordinator Stephanie Luna scoured the internet, including Underscored's rigorously tested product reviews, to find the very best Valentine's Day gifts under $50. Explore trending products Tom Design Zodiac Bracelet BaubleBar Mini Hera Necklace Petite Plume Women's Silk Luxe Pajamas Kendra Scott Ari Heart Gold Pendant Necklace in Rose Quartz
