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CNN
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- CNN
We asked our moms what they want for Mother's Day. Here's what they said
Mother's Day will be here before you know it, and while flowers and chocolates are always a classic gift she'll love, we wanted to make sure we hit a home run with our gifts this year — because our moms truly deserve it. To find out what moms really want this year, we turned to the best source possible: our own mothers. Who better to get the inside scoop from than the powerhouse women who have spent years receiving all sorts of gifts? While they definitely cherish everything from macaroni necklaces to timeless jewelry, this year, we wanted to go above and beyond and give them something they actually want. From meaningful experiences to practical gadgets, here's a glimpse into what the moms of CNN Underscored editors want this Mother's Day. Looking for more inspiration? Check out our favorite personalized Mother's Day gifts that are sure to wow her. Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Bread Maker My mom has been asking for a breadmaker ever since she started baking. After reading our best bread machine story, I knew she'd love this one from Zojirushi. It's compact and has an easy-to-read LED display. I can't wait to see her bread making skills thrive. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writerRead our review Osteo Cervical Pillow My mom has wanted a cervical pillow for the longest time. She's a deep side sleeper who deserves all the beauty rest, so I've decided to get her this expert-approved cervical pillow for neck pain. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer Read our review Baggu Go Pouch Set in Puffer Snoopy One thing about my mom? She adores all things Peanuts, especially when it comes to Snoopy. She's been asking for a Snoopy-themed gift and these Baggu pouches are the perfect gift to help her organize her tote bag. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer Vänt Upholstered Wall Panels I recently put up these wall panels for my bed. Ever since, my mom has been obsessed with them. She doesn't have a headboard on her bed and she wanted something that wasn't too difficult to set up, but still looked good. They're not hard to install and make your sleeping space look a lot more elevated. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Sproos! Fluted Shower Liner My mom has been bugging me for this gorgeous shower liner — three, to be specific, for each bathroom in her home. However, I already got her the Our Place Always Pan 2.0 for Mother's Day, so she's going to have to wait until her birthday in June to makeover her bathrooms! — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 A while ago, I gave my mom a pair of these Asics sneakers that were a tad too big on me. She ended up loving them so much for her daily walks that she wore them out until the treads were gone. She specifically asked for another pair this year for Mother's Day! — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Theragun Mini Massage Gun The last time my mom came over to visit, I had just gotten back home from a tough workout class and was massaging my muscles with the latest Theragun Mini. She said she was dealing with tired, achy muscles too, so I let her try it out and she fell in love. My mom specifically wants the Theragun Mini because it's easy to hold and maneuver (and less intimidating than a full-size massage gun). — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Polar Recovery Tub My mom is one of those people obsessed with wellness trends — and the latest one to catch her eye is cold plunge tubs. She tries to take cold showers in the morning to energize herself, which is a start, but she really wants to take it to the next level by actually getting a cold plunge tub. I think this one would be a great gift for her because it's small, affordable and the best cold plunge tub for beginners that we've tested. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Read our review Thank You, Mom Tinggly Box Like me, my mom loved surprises and experiences. After so many years being a mom, there were only so many physical gifts she could receive that continued to delight and surprise her. A few years ago, I started to gift her activities — like wine tasting or pasta-making workshops — which were met with a mixture of reactions (some she loved and some she regifted!). Then I came across Tinggly, which contains thousands of different experiences your mom can choose from. She receives a cute box in the mail with information and a redemption code, then she goes online to choose her own adventure (you set the price point ahead of time). No more disappointments or wasted gifts, and it's still somewhat of a surprise as you can explore everything the service has to offer before choosing what you want to do. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor Qure LED Face Mask My mom has tried a couple of LED masks but she has sensitive eyes and can't get through a full session when the red light is blinding her. Of course, she wants the anti-aging benefits of red light therapy, so she's after a more comfortable device. I've tried many and this one by Qure is one of the most wearable for multiple reasons. It has guards on the eye area that block the red light so you can see clearly, customizable treatment zones that you control with your phone and quick three-minute sessions. It's a bit pricy, but it's easy to incorporate into an everyday routine so the cost-per-use isn't that bad if you use it daily. Plus, my mom is worth it! — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor Sorel Caribou Women's Clog My mom loves being in her garden. She's constantly planting seeds, arranging rocks and watering plants, but she's doing it in very old clogs. For Mother's Day, I'm looking to upgrade her gardening footwear and came across the Sorel Caribou Clog. The shoe has a slight planform that my mom will love and is made of waterproof materials to keep her comfortable as she works. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer Muddy Bites Double Fudge Waffle Cone Snacks Yes, one of the only things my mom wants for Mother's Day is this snack! I tried these out and instantly fell in love. Then, I gave my mom some and she was immediately hooked too. She said it is easily one of her favorite snacks of all time and that I should get more for her this year. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Quiet Town Catalina Bath Sheet Cherry If you're looking to give your mom a thoughtful and luxurious gift this Mother's Day, the Catalina Bath Sheet is a perfect choice. Not only does it add a beautiful pop of color to the bathroom, but its ultra-soft material offers an unmatched level of comfort and absorbency. After seeing mine, my mom immediately wanted one for herself. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Naadam Women's Embroidered Dog Cashmere Sweater For a cozy yet stylish gift, this sweater is a must. It's ultra-soft, breathable and adorable, featuring a cute, embroidered dog design. After seeing me wear mine, my mom knew she had to have it too. We have three dogs, so it really resonated with her. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Bull Guard Crossbody Leather Wallet Phone Purse My mom said she's tired of carrying a big heavy purse around everywhere, which is why she wants a small, crossbody wallet this Mother's Day. She said it would help her keep her hands free on short shopping trips and while traveling, and the RFID feature of this wallet from Bull Guard is a big plus. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pets editor Sonder LA Laurel Cutting Board My mom is a fantastic cook, so it was no surprise when she said she'd love a new cutting board. This one is our top pick for the best wood cutting board, and it's exactly what she's looking for. She said she wants a board that's not too thin, not too hard so it won't dull her knives, but also not too big. Oh, and it needs to be bacteria-resistant too. Luckily, the Sonder LA cutting board ticks all of these boxes. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pets editor Read our review Ranavat Brightening Retinol Eye Cream My mom always loves to try different skin care products, and the bright orange bottle of this under-eye retinol cream caught her attention. Not only did she like the packaging, but she was also impressed that it's vegan and free of parabens and other chemicals while still being effective and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. — Lindsey Smith, editor, newsletters Hatch Restore 3 My mom has dropped more than one hint about being interested in this bestselling device. She recently got rid of her alarm clock that she's had since the 80s and is trying to rely on her phone less as an alarm. This device is a great screen-free option with a gentle wake up. — Lindsey Smith, editor, newsletters Women's Bamboo Stretch-Knit Long-Sleeve Pajama Set I visited my parents last month, and since I won't see my mom for Mother's Day, I was ahead of gifting. She's the pajama queen, and I knew she didn't have an editor-loved Cozy Earth set yet. When I saw the brand dropped a tulip-adored version (my mom's favorite flower), I knew this was going to be her gift this year. Spoiler: She's obsessed and couldn't stop touching them! — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Dearfoams Cozy Memory Foam Ballet Slippers My mom loves flowers and wearing slippers around the house. So, this Mother's Day, I'm skipping the usual bouquet and instead giving her these pretty, velvety-soft ballet slippers from Dearfoams. She'll love the pink floral velour style and the fact they're machine-washable. They are also available in 20 different colors and nine sizes, including wide widths. — Suzanne Kattau, sleep, home and kitchen testing editor In'voland Women's Rain Jacket Now that spring is here, my mom's been hinting that she wants a new jacket that she can wear to church and around town. She's had her eye on this hooded windbreaker with pockets, so I'm giving it to her in navy, her favorite color. It's waterproof, quick to dry and lightweight. — Suzanne Kattau, sleep, home and kitchen testing editor Purple Carrot Plant-Based Meals My mom has cooked dinner almost every night for my dad for as long as I can remember. She recently told me she'd like them to eat less meat but doesn't know how to pick vegetarian recipes worth making. So, I'll be sending them some vegetarian, ready-to-eat meals from Purple Carrot so she can hang up her apron for a week. Gift amounts start at $50 and go up to $1,000. I can even write a personal message to my mom and Purple Carrot will email my sentiments to her. — Suzanne Kattau, sleep, home and kitchen testing editor Related article 31 Mother's Day gifts under $50 she'll be completely obsessed with We know you get tired of seeing the same gift ideas year after year, which is why Underscored editors carefully curate each gift guide to include 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 we really love them). To make sure each gift you give is a hit, we include products hand-tested by our team, foolproof presents we've given to someone (or have been given), the newest products from our favorite brands and other trending items taking over our social feeds. For this guide, our dedicated team of writers and editors reached out to their moms to find what gifts they want this Mother's Day.
CNN
08-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
21 products our editors use on repeat to save them money in the long run
When our editors aren't busy testing products or drafting articles, they're just like everyone else; they have homes to clean, grocery trips to make and errands to run. This also means they know just how quickly all those daily expenses can add up (and eat away at your bank account). Luckily, because we're in the business of testing products, we know exactly what helps us save many a dollar over time. While some of our recommendations might initially strike you with sticker shock, think of them as worthwhile investments that — if you're willing to change a few pesky spending habits — have the potential to save you money in the long run. From a great espresso machine that can eliminate your daily coffee shop run to an at-home hair coloring kit to a simple produce-saving device, these are the money-saving products Underscored editors can't live without. Oxo Rapid Brewer With the price of coffee skyrocketing, I've been trying to make more coffee at home. I've raved about Oxo's Rapid Brewer and I'll continue to do so because it's just that good. It's small but efficient and, more importantly, gets the job done in a matter of minutes. This appliance has saved me from splurging on overpriced cold brews. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer Setex Gecko Grip Nose Pads This is such a random little product that I'm so glad I found. As a glasses wearer with a low nose bridge, it's difficult for me to find frames that don't constantly slip down my nose. These little adhesive pads help solve that problem. They stick to your glasses on one side and then the other side has tons of tiny little fibers that are supposed to mimic the way geckos' feet can grip any surface. In this case, they help the glasses stay on, even with makeup, sweat or oil on your skin. At $12 for five pairs (one pair will last me three to four months), they're a cheap solution that saves me from spending hundreds on new frames. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker I'll admit it: I have a sparkling water addiction. I sometimes drink two to three cans a day when I'm in the office. But when I'm home, I make my afternoon beverage with my SodaStream. A can of bubbly easily costs $3 to $5 at the store, so because I invested in a SodaStream long ago, I've been saving money in the long run. I've owned mine for at least five years and the exact model I have isn't available anymore, but it still works great. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Who Gives A Crap Dream Cloths, 3-Pack I buy and use paper towels a lot less after stocking up on various cellulose cloths. I really like the options from Who Gives A Crap, because I love the brand's mission and the cloths themselves have some really cute designs. I use them for wiping counters and cleaning up messes every day, and then throw them in the laundry after a few uses to keep them fresh. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Lettuce Grow Farmstand Nook I can't think of a time when I didn't waste leftover store-bought herbs and leafy greens. While I prep meals every Sunday, I don't cook the same things every week, so some of the herbs and veggies I bought for one meal are forgotten, leaving them to rot in my fridge. That's why this hydroponic indoor garden changed my life. It minimizes my food waste by keeping things fresh, and because it lets me grow my produce from seeds, it's cheaper in the long run. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Read our review MicroStitch The Original Tagging Gun Kit I bought this tagging gun last summer, and it's already saved me from spending hundreds of dollars on alterations. I've used it to fix too-high slits on dresses, tighten the waistband on silk pants and close up the arm holes on shirts that showed my bra. It comes with a ton of tiny plastic fasteners (in both black and white) that are virtually invisible on most clothes. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor L'Oreal Colorsonic Hair Coloring Device This device has saved me hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars at the hair salon. Ever since I turned 40, my grays are coming through thick and fast, and I went from needing a root touchup once every three months to once a month. Even if you've never been to a hair salon, I'm sure you can imagine how costly that is, especially since I live in NYC, where waking up seems to cost $50. I have had too many box dye disasters over the years so I swore off doing my hair at home — that is until L'Oreal released its Colorsonic device. This makes touching up your roots at home idiot-proof. Just insert the color cartridge, press the button to release the dye and comb through your hair; the bristles at the end of the device disperse the dye evenly through your roots. I was able to cover my grays in about 20 minutes with very minimal mess. This is not a replacement for going to the salon, but it means I can extend my visits a little and save money in the long run. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor Thuma Classic Bed and Pillowboard I've sung Thuma's praises before, and I'll sing them again. This ingenious bed requires zero tools to assemble, which comes in handy during moves. My previous bed was super cheap and (barely) got through at least four moves — two of them across the country. I had to get rid of it because the movers lost a bunch of screws during my multiple moves, and it was so squeaky I couldn't sleep. Because of Thuma's brilliant puzzle-like design that doesn't have small parts that'll get lost, it's way easier to move and I know will last me years to come. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Tushy Cloud After testing bidets for nearly four years, I'm still not convinced normal bidets can help you save on toilet paper. However, if you get one with a dryer, your toilet paper usage will actually go down drastically. That's why I love the new Tushy Cloud bidet. It's comfortable and has some of the best tech on the market, including an effective dryer. With this bidet, I only use a little bit of toilet paper to dry some dampness after the dryer does the bulk of the work. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Read our review AllSaints Balfern Leather Biker Jacket Two years ago during Black Friday, I finally invested in my first real leather jacket, and I'm never going faux again. While my previous Topshop faux-leather jacket lasted for about five years, it started peeling everywhere and was unwearable. Even though this jacket was still pricey on sale, I know it'll last a lifetime with proper care and it was worth the splurge. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Ninja Creami Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream and Frozen Treat Maker Before I got my Ninja Creami, I was spending way too much of my weekly grocery budget on Halo Top ice cream. But now that I have this countertop ice cream maker, I can make even healthier, higher-protein ice cream right at home while spending so much less on the ingredients. I've been eating ice cream from my Ninja Creami almost every day for months, so this appliance is definitely saving me money in the long run. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Read our review Caraway Glass Food Storage Set This splurge-worthy storage set from Caraway helps me avoid wasting food because I can easily store, see and eat leftovers throughout the week. It doesn't hurt that they're aesthetically pleasing and plastic-free too. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Bluapple Produce Saver, 2-Pack I was so skeptical about these produce savers, but they really do help my produce last longer. I keep one in the crisper drawer of my refrigerator and one in my countertop fruit basket, and I've definitely noticed a difference in how long my produce lasts. No more moldy blueberries or bananas that spoil almost instantly! Inside the small blue apples are little packets that absorb the ethylene gas in the air (they last about three months). In fact, writing this reminded me that my packets are due for a replacement! — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor De'Longhi La Specialista Opera Espresso Machine Girl, make your espresso drinks at home! While I still go to cafes, it's now for socializing instead of out of necessity, which saves me a lot of money. Think about it: A small Americano is almost $5 while a specialized latte might cost you $7, depending on the coffee shop. That's $50 to $70 every two weeks (or up to $840 in six months) that you're spending per person, and that's only if you have one cup a day for five days. Invest in a great espresso machine like this one from De'Longhi instead, and you can enjoy great coffee drinks from home and save money in the long run. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Read our review Nuuly Subscription During months when I have a ton of events to attend, I always end up spending way too much money on outfits I'll only wear once. So, I finally caved on a Nuuly subscription, and the selection of clothing is both cute and cost-efficient. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Read our review Owala FreeSip Water Bottle I haven't bought a plastic water bottle in years, all thanks to the reusable ones I've tested for our guide to the best water bottles. My current favorite is the Owala FreeSip, since it has an ingenious lid that lets you sip or chug. Not to mention it's incredibly cute too. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Read our review Amazon Kindle I love books — both to read and to decorate with — but like everything else, buying the newest literary drops has become increasingly expensive, and sometimes I don't want to root around for hours in a used bookstore hoping I'll stumble on something good. While it's more of an investment up front, my Kindle and a few local library cards have saved me hundreds on physical books. It's a tool every reader should have in their kit, plus it's space-saving, great for travel and lightweight. I'll still treat myself to two or three physical books a year, but my bank account and my reading goals have seen great improvements since I got my Kindle. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Instant Pot Milk Frother I used to hit up Dunkin' three to four times a week for my coffee fix — mostly because I love the cold foam — but it gets expensive and melts before I can even savor all of it. Once I got this 4-in-1 frother, I've cut my trips down to maybe once a month. It makes the perfect hot and cold foam with just the push of a button. My hack: Instead of using plain milk or cream in the frother, use your favorite flavored creamer. — Lindsey Smith, newsletters editor Therabody Theragun Relief As much as I'd love to get a professional massage multiple times a month to relieve me of my migraines, it's just not realistic, and not to mention, it would cost me a fortune. This easy-to-use Theragun — though an investment initially — always does the trick and saves me a ton of money while I'm at it. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Read our review Yeti Rambler 34-Ounce French Press I very rarely buy coffee at a store because with Yeti's ultra-durable French press, I can make delicious coffee at home. I like how easy French presses are to use and the fact they can make multiple cups at once, all with no single-use paper filters that you have to constantly buy. I'm especially fond of Yeti's unit, because I've broken countless glass coffee makers over the years and can't be trusted with anything delicate. Not only is the Yeti French press durable, but it's also insulated so your coffee stays piping hot as it brews. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor LDMA Herritage Hoodie I've been looking for a high-quality hoodie for a while, and this one is worth the investment. It has a stylish, oversized fit without being too baggy, and the soft, durable material means it'll last longer than cheaper options. In the end, it's a money-saver because I won't need to replace it anytime soon. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate editor Jillian Tracy curated our editors' favorite money-saving products that they use every day.
CNN
04-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
21 products our editors use on repeat to save them money in the long run
When our editors aren't busy testing products or drafting articles, they're just like everyone else; they have homes to clean, grocery trips to make and errands to run. This also means they know just how quickly all those daily expenses can add up (and eat away at your bank account). Luckily, because we're in the business of testing products, we know exactly what helps us save many a dollar over time. While some of our recommendations might initially strike you with sticker shock, think of them as worthwhile investments that — if you're willing to change a few pesky spending habits — have the potential to save you money in the long run. From a great espresso machine that can eliminate your daily coffee shop run to an at-home hair coloring kit to a simple produce-saving device, these are the money-saving products Underscored editors can't live without. Oxo Rapid Brewer With the price of coffee skyrocketing, I've been trying to make more coffee at home. I've raved about Oxo's Rapid Brewer and I'll continue to do so because it's just that good. It's small but efficient and, more importantly, gets the job done in a matter of minutes. This appliance has saved me from splurging on overpriced cold brews. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer Setex Gecko Grip Nose Pads This is such a random little product that I'm so glad I found. As a glasses wearer with a low nose bridge, it's difficult for me to find frames that don't constantly slip down my nose. These little adhesive pads help solve that problem. They stick to your glasses on one side and then the other side has tons of tiny little fibers that are supposed to mimic the way geckos' feet can grip any surface. In this case, they help the glasses stay on, even with makeup, sweat or oil on your skin. At $12 for five pairs (one pair will last me three to four months), they're a cheap solution that saves me from spending hundreds on new frames. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker I'll admit it: I have a sparkling water addiction. I sometimes drink two to three cans a day when I'm in the office. But when I'm home, I make my afternoon beverage with my SodaStream. A can of bubbly easily costs $3 to $5 at the store, so because I invested in a SodaStream long ago, I've been saving money in the long run. I've owned mine for at least five years and the exact model I have isn't available anymore, but it still works great. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Who Gives A Crap Dream Cloths, 3-Pack I buy and use paper towels a lot less after stocking up on various cellulose cloths. I really like the options from Who Gives A Crap, because I love the brand's mission and the cloths themselves have some really cute designs. I use them for wiping counters and cleaning up messes every day, and then throw them in the laundry after a few uses to keep them fresh. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Lettuce Grow Farmstand Nook I can't think of a time when I didn't waste leftover store-bought herbs and leafy greens. While I prep meals every Sunday, I don't cook the same things every week, so some of the herbs and veggies I bought for one meal are forgotten, leaving them to rot in my fridge. That's why this hydroponic indoor garden changed my life. It minimizes my food waste by keeping things fresh, and because it lets me grow my produce from seeds, it's cheaper in the long run. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Read our review MicroStitch The Original Tagging Gun Kit I bought this tagging gun last summer, and it's already saved me from spending hundreds of dollars on alterations. I've used it to fix too-high slits on dresses, tighten the waistband on silk pants and close up the arm holes on shirts that showed my bra. It comes with a ton of tiny plastic fasteners (in both black and white) that are virtually invisible on most clothes. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor L'Oreal Colorsonic Hair Coloring Device This device has saved me hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars at the hair salon. Ever since I turned 40, my grays are coming through thick and fast, and I went from needing a root touchup once every three months to once a month. Even if you've never been to a hair salon, I'm sure you can imagine how costly that is, especially since I live in NYC, where waking up seems to cost $50. I have had too many box dye disasters over the years so I swore off doing my hair at home — that is until L'Oreal released its Colorsonic device. This makes touching up your roots at home idiot-proof. Just insert the color cartridge, press the button to release the dye and comb through your hair; the bristles at the end of the device disperse the dye evenly through your roots. I was able to cover my grays in about 20 minutes with very minimal mess. This is not a replacement for going to the salon, but it means I can extend my visits a little and save money in the long run. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor Thuma Classic Bed and Pillowboard I've sung Thuma's praises before, and I'll sing them again. This ingenious bed requires zero tools to assemble, which comes in handy during moves. My previous bed was super cheap and (barely) got through at least four moves — two of them across the country. I had to get rid of it because the movers lost a bunch of screws during my multiple moves, and it was so squeaky I couldn't sleep. Because of Thuma's brilliant puzzle-like design that doesn't have small parts that'll get lost, it's way easier to move and I know will last me years to come. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Tushy Cloud After testing bidets for nearly four years, I'm still not convinced normal bidets can help you save on toilet paper. However, if you get one with a dryer, your toilet paper usage will actually go down drastically. That's why I love the new Tushy Cloud bidet. It's comfortable and has some of the best tech on the market, including an effective dryer. With this bidet, I only use a little bit of toilet paper to dry some dampness after the dryer does the bulk of the work. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Read our review AllSaints Balfern Leather Biker Jacket Two years ago during Black Friday, I finally invested in my first real leather jacket, and I'm never going faux again. While my previous Topshop faux-leather jacket lasted for about five years, it started peeling everywhere and was unwearable. Even though this jacket was still pricey on sale, I know it'll last a lifetime with proper care and it was worth the splurge. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Ninja Creami Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream and Frozen Treat Maker Before I got my Ninja Creami, I was spending way too much of my weekly grocery budget on Halo Top ice cream. But now that I have this countertop ice cream maker, I can make even healthier, higher-protein ice cream right at home while spending so much less on the ingredients. I've been eating ice cream from my Ninja Creami almost every day for months, so this appliance is definitely saving me money in the long run. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Read our review Caraway Glass Food Storage Set This splurge-worthy storage set from Caraway helps me avoid wasting food because I can easily store, see and eat leftovers throughout the week. It doesn't hurt that they're aesthetically pleasing and plastic-free too. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Bluapple Produce Saver, 2-Pack I was so skeptical about these produce savers, but they really do help my produce last longer. I keep one in the crisper drawer of my refrigerator and one in my countertop fruit basket, and I've definitely noticed a difference in how long my produce lasts. No more moldy blueberries or bananas that spoil almost instantly! Inside the small blue apples are little packets that absorb the ethylene gas in the air (they last about three months). In fact, writing this reminded me that my packets are due for a replacement! — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor De'Longhi La Specialista Opera Espresso Machine Girl, make your espresso drinks at home! While I still go to cafes, it's now for socializing instead of out of necessity, which saves me a lot of money. Think about it: A small Americano is almost $5 while a specialized latte might cost you $7, depending on the coffee shop. That's $50 to $70 every two weeks (or up to $840 in six months) that you're spending per person, and that's only if you have one cup a day for five days. Invest in a great espresso machine like this one from De'Longhi instead, and you can enjoy great coffee drinks from home and save money in the long run. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Read our review Nuuly Subscription During months when I have a ton of events to attend, I always end up spending way too much money on outfits I'll only wear once. So, I finally caved on a Nuuly subscription, and the selection of clothing is both cute and cost-efficient. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Read our review Owala FreeSip Water Bottle I haven't bought a plastic water bottle in years, all thanks to the reusable ones I've tested for our guide to the best water bottles. My current favorite is the Owala FreeSip, since it has an ingenious lid that lets you sip or chug. Not to mention it's incredibly cute too. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Read our review Amazon Kindle I love books — both to read and to decorate with — but like everything else, buying the newest literary drops has become increasingly expensive, and sometimes I don't want to root around for hours in a used bookstore hoping I'll stumble on something good. While it's more of an investment up front, my Kindle and a few local library cards have saved me hundreds on physical books. It's a tool every reader should have in their kit, plus it's space-saving, great for travel and lightweight. I'll still treat myself to two or three physical books a year, but my bank account and my reading goals have seen great improvements since I got my Kindle. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Instant Pot Milk Frother I used to hit up Dunkin' three to four times a week for my coffee fix — mostly because I love the cold foam — but it gets expensive and melts before I can even savor all of it. Once I got this 4-in-1 frother, I've cut my trips down to maybe once a month. It makes the perfect hot and cold foam with just the push of a button. My hack: Instead of using plain milk or cream in the frother, use your favorite flavored creamer. — Lindsey Smith, newsletters editor Therabody Theragun Relief As much as I'd love to get a professional massage multiple times a month to relieve me of my migraines, it's just not realistic, and not to mention, it would cost me a fortune. This easy-to-use Theragun — though an investment initially — always does the trick and saves me a ton of money while I'm at it. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Read our review Yeti Rambler 34-Ounce French Press I very rarely buy coffee at a store because with Yeti's ultra-durable French press, I can make delicious coffee at home. I like how easy French presses are to use and the fact they can make multiple cups at once, all with no single-use paper filters that you have to constantly buy. I'm especially fond of Yeti's unit, because I've broken countless glass coffee makers over the years and can't be trusted with anything delicate. Not only is the Yeti French press durable, but it's also insulated so your coffee stays piping hot as it brews. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor LDMA Herritage Hoodie I've been looking for a high-quality hoodie for a while, and this one is worth the investment. It has a stylish, oversized fit without being too baggy, and the soft, durable material means it'll last longer than cheaper options. In the end, it's a money-saver because I won't need to replace it anytime soon. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate editor Jillian Tracy curated our editors' favorite money-saving products that they use every day.
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.
