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Buzz Feed
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
25 Home Products That Somehow Feel Indulgent *And* Practical
A gorgeous statement checkered cutting board designed with deep grooves for juice, hidden handles on the bottom, and end grain to "heal" cuts from knives. A true overachiever considering it's worth the buy for decor purposes alone!! Oxo's new compact Brew Rapid Brewer, aka the answer to any money-conscious coffee lover's prayers — this version is not only cheaper and more portable than comparable models on the market, but WAY faster making cold brew without compromising on flavor. I'm talking five minutes as opposed to overnight, like other pitchers take — and it doesn't need to be charged or plugged in. 🤯 An absorbent floral dish drying mat so lovely that you'll actually — gasp — look forward to doing the dishes? The "main character in a rom com" energy of this mat is too strong to resist. A "holy grail" Coop Home Goods pillow designed for side, back, *and* stomach sleepers to get the best shut-eye of their lives. This medium-firm pillow has an entirely adjustable memory foam fill so you can mold it to the exact firmness, size, and shape you need. In other words: this is the One Pillow that will serve you well for a long, long time. A vintage-inspired crystal candle warmer to add some timeless, cozy glam in your living room or bedroom without worrying about an open flame. A set of square stemmed wineglasses inspired by the iconic Crate & Barrel version, except these are durable as heck (good for particularly rowdy wine-and-cheese nights). Reviewers especially love these chic, understated glasses because they work well for red and white wines. A marble board wire cheese cutter to serve as half decor, half kitchen tool, and 100% the biggest hit at any wine-and-cheese night when you let guests slice their own cheese with it. An oh-so-sweet hummingbird lamp with three brightness levels and a touch sensor that reviewers love using as a reading light, a wind-down light, or a nursery light. Bonus: it also functions as an aroma diffuser if you add 3–4 drops of essential oil to the top of its head. A big ole roll up plush futon so versatile that Future You will be so grateful to have it — this can serve as chic decor, a place to lounge or read, a spare mattress for guests, and, of course, a nest for pets who see any comfy thing come into the home and immediately think, "MINE." A bar soap bag, which is the ultimate hack not just to exfoliate your skin with your favorite bar soaps, but to *really* get your money's worth out of them — these produce much richer lather so a little goes a loooong way, and you won't have to replace your bars as often. A set of chic pastel reusable air fryer liners so chic that they can double as serving dishes when you pluck them out of the basket. A set of adorable wool dryer balls to replace all your dryer sheets, and make your laundry a HECK of a lot more efficient — these help significantly shorten drying time, collect pet hair caught on your clothes, and even help soften fabric for a more ~luxurious~ post-laundered experience. A set of deep set heart-shaped salad plates because sometimes the way to your heart is through a BIG OL' Caesar salad loaded with whatever flavor of crouton Trader Joe's came up with this week. A unique tripod floor lamp that will draw the eye without stealing the show — the perfect solution to keep up a modern look without falling into that trap of "woof, everything suuuure does look boring in here." A set of faux coffee table books inspired by the iconic (and verrrry expensive) Assouline travel series, except with a ~secret~ — these all open with a magnetic lid to become storage compartments. Now you can either declutter your coffee table by stashing your knick knacks, or hide your valuables by putting these books on a shelf! A set of satin pillowcases that not only have a cooling effect, but are soft on your skin and create less friction for your hair so it won't get as tangled while you sleep. Reviewers especially love these because they're an affordable alternative to ones that typically run $18 per case! A decorative rainbow window film that says, "Yes, I want my privacy, but I also want to be extremely glamorous about it." Not only does this refract beautiful rainbows in your space, but reviewers mention that it's handy for pet owners whose dogs love to bark at things outside, and that they also used them to outfit the sunroofs of their cars to prevent glare. A retro-style smoothie maker that honestly has a lot of audacity being that cute AND that functional?? It blends in either a LITERAL MASON JAR or a plastic portable sports bottle you can pop right off and drink from. But don't you dare underestimate this cute little bean — it can crush ice and blend frozen fruit like nobody's business. A trio lasagna pan designed so people with different lasagna preferences can customize their own versions without cross-contamination (sometimes you just gotta drown the whole thing in cheese, you dig me?). Also, with this gizmo, every piece is an edge piece 😋. A ginormous fluffy King-sized "holy grail" blanket that might just ruin you for all other blankets — reviewers are obsessed with how soft, plush, and comfy this blanket feels, and how it keeps you cozy. An understatedly unique wavy corner bookshelf to give your storage some personality, gosh darn it. This is a fun, subtle way to add a whimsical touch to a living room or bedroom without disrupting the aesthetic. A portable mug warmer with three different temperature settings so you can take your sweet, sweeeeet time enjoying your morning cuppa without worrying about having to reheat it in the microwave or chugging lukewarm coffee. Bonus: it also operates as a candle warmer! A set of six rustic-style ceramic ramekins so versatile that you'll be putting them to WORK. Not only can you use these in your oven or air fryer to cook in smaller portions for lava cakes and egg bakes, but you can use them to serve ice cream, yogurt parfaits, dips, and snacks. A set of itty bitty vintage-inspired spoons that are just BEGGING to be used for all your coffee, tea, dessert, and yogurt needs. (Is it just me, or do we all have an Emotional Support Tiny Spoon?) A vintage-inspired essential oil diffuser to waft calming scents through your space and add a subtle touch of ~quiet luxury~ by serving double time as decor.
Buzz Feed
27-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
27 Products From Sam's Club Future You Will Be So Glad You Bought
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. It's so nice to have Future You be proud of you for a change. 1. A cordless stick vacuum that has 50 minutes of run time, works on carpets and hardwood, and, perhaps best of all, is designed to easily help with all that fur your pet has been shedding. (How does Rover have any fur left on his bod y at this point??) Sam's Club Promising review:"My two dogs got this for me as an early Christmas gift. My youngest became a tripod last year, right after I replaced my carpet with bamboo flooring. I bought several runners to give her traction and this vacuum is perfect for them and the flooring. Doesn't touch my old school carpet in my bedroom. I can get my living room and kitchen vacuumed in no time. Love that it has 2 battery packs. I usually can get everything done with one, but if I need a little of the second one, it holds the charge until I use it again a day or two later, and by then, the other one is fully charged. It also works well on indoor/outdoor carpet." — Hannah and Ula 2. Or a Bissell Little Green Premier Pet Portable Deep Cleaner, because trying to clean up Fluffy's muddy paw prints off the carpet with a damp paper towel is simply not cutting it anymore. Sam's Club 3. An 11-piece ceramic cookware set, to replace the one weird frying pan you'd had since college and the too-big stockpot you have that takes forever to boil water. This set comes with a 9.5" fry pan, an 11" fry pan, a 2-quart covered saucepan with a lid, a 3-quart Dutch oven with a lid, a 6-quart Dutch oven with a lid, a 4-quart deep sauté pan with a lid, and a multi-function stainless-steel basket. 4. An oversize blanket, because I am not using the word "oversize" lightly here — this blanket is OVER 100 SQUARE FEET! Perfect for snugg sessions with the entire family, or wrapping yourself in it five times over and declaring that you won't be coming out until spring. Sam's Club Promising review:"I never write reviews. Never. But this blanket? It's like a hug. It's like satin to my skin. It's like the perfect feel, weight, not too hot, not too cold. I love running my legs together to feel the velvety softness. I sleep better with it. I bought everyone on my list for Christmas one. Just buy it." — dizzycheese 5. A set of five stackable 58-quart snap-lid crates, so you can safely and neatly stow away everything from out-of-season linens to your extra boxes of Cheetos. (Having emergency Cheetos on hand is crucial.) 6. A five-tier steel shelving unit that is not messing around — it can hold FOUR THOUSAND POUNDS! That mess in your garage is quaking in its boots. Promising reviews:"Super heavy duty. Love 'em." — Carrie "I had an estimate to build a storage unit in my garage, for $3,000. This shelving unit did the same job for $200. Very satisfied." — Mark Daniels 7. A four-pack of clear shoe organization boxes, because your shoes do so much for deserve more than to live in a weird, smelly pile in the back of your closet. Sam's Club Promising review:"I purchased these for my boyfriend for Christmas. They are very well-made! These have two doors with what seem to be magnetic closures. He wears a size 11.5, and there is still space in the boxes. They have worked so well for space and organization that I've purchased six additional for my shoes, boots, etc. The assembly is pretty easy, and the pieces stack well. You will not be disappointed with this purchase!" — johns081 Price: $24.05 8. A two-pack of 50 oz. tumblers that keep your drink cold for 50 hours so that you can give one away — now you and your honey/bestie/neighbor/random person who's always at the gym at the same time can finally reach your hydration goals together this year. Sam's Club 9. A Swiffer handle and 28 (!!!) refills, because Future You actually has very simple needs: they'd like you to actually have extra Swiffer refills on hand, so the next time you realize you're sneezing from a dusty ceiling fan, you don't end up cleaning it with your T-shirt (ew). Sam's Club Promising review:"Swiffer Dusters make my life easier. They hold the dirt that comes into my dusty little farmhouse. I love that they clean so easily hard to reach places. I find I use it every day to keep the dust bunnies from overtaking my home. It is an excellent product, and we need items to make our jobs easier. You will not regret buying this tidy item." — Marie 10. A three-tier wire basket that can help you finally get a handle on the clutter on your kitchen counter/bathroom counter. Wow, you sure do keep a lot of stuff on all your counters, huh? Sam's Club 11. A 19-ounce container of CeraVe moisturizer, because it's the brand most recommended by dermatologists. Future You will be very proud that you managed to not get dazzled by ads for expensive moisturizer, and saved a ton of money on one of the most effective ones. Sam's Club Promising review:"My dermatologist recommended this for an eczema flare-up on my hands. With all-day handwashing, I couldn't keep my hands moisturized. This does the trick. My hands feel deeply moisturized and not greasy." — Vik Price: $17.73 12. A Ninja Combi oven/air fryer with 14 different cooking functions, including baking, searing, broiling, and sous viding. When your friends compliment your new cooking prowess, will you tell them your secret? Or will you say, "Yes, I am a kitchen genius now?" Either way, I support you! Sam's Club Promising review:"I use it literally every day! Toast, steam, broil, crisp, saute, etc. So, many options, and you don't have to wait. It heats up immediately." — Lena 13. A roll-out undersink organizer caddy because I won't judge you — the area under my bathroom sink is also a terrifying cave filled with teetering piles. This caddy will not only help you divide up and organize items; its wheels also make it so you can actually reach things that aren't at the very front of the cabinet. A miracle! 14. An electric nonstick griddle so cooking bigger meals can be super super convenient — aka you don't have to have five different frying pans going. Sam's Club 15. An oversized dog bed, because HEAR ME OUT ON THIS ONE: this enormous pet bed gives all your furry angels space to sleep and snuggle together like a big pack, or, if you prefer, gives you and your dog a place to cuddle where they are free to drool as much as they like (aka not your couch or bed). 16. A trash can with a motion sensor so you never again accidentally turn throwing out something messy into an even bigger mess when you try to open the trash can. The hands-free operation also makes it harder for curious kids or pets to nose around inside. The set comes with a large trash can and a small one. Promising review:"These are great kitchen and bathroom garbage cans, I love that you don't have to touch them to throw something away. The kitchen can is tall, so the standard bags fit them well; I have had others say that the bag was too tall, so when you pull them out, they are only about 2/3 of the way full. I can fill this one up to the top, and there is still enough room to tie the bag closed. The smaller can hold a good amount of garbage, and it's great for in a bathroom. I would definitely purchase again!" — dcolliver 17. A green-tea-infused memory foam mattress because Future You would love you to stop tossing and turning on that billion-year-old coil mattress you have. This antimicrobial mattress is also cooling, so sweaty sleepers can rejoice (or, you know, just sleep comfortably). Sam's Club Promising review: 'Recommended by a family member, I took a chance. I am sleeping better than I have in years. I have tried most of the major brands and spent thousands. This is the most comfortable for me.' — Frank O 18. A seven-quart programmable Crockpot with a locking lid and insulated carry bag, so you can eat and share delicious meals with the least effort possible. Sam's Club Promising review:"Just what I was looking for. I made a large pot of beef stew in it for the first time, which was fantastic. It was much better than my old Crockpot. I also like the locking handles and the warm setting, something my old Crockpot didn't have. Great purchase for the price." — CP 19. A standing/ biking desk, because just sitting at a traditional desk is sooooo boring. If you're a fidgeter or easily distracted, standing and biking might help you stay more focused — plus, they might be easier on your back and shoulders, too. Sam's Club Promising review:"Love my exercise bike. Now, I listen to training and conference calls while exercising. This helps me balance work and personal time by allowing me to exercise and not sit at my desk for excessive time. Even my husband and daughter love to use my bike as well." — CONCHY 20. A laundry rack for folks whose laundry area tends toward the, shall we say "chaotic." The rolling rack has room for both hanging and folded items, so just pop 'em out of the dryer, fold or hang 'em exactly how you like, and roll 'em straight to your closet, no heavy laundry basket necessary. Promising review:"Looks great, high quality, and very sturdy. Easy to assemble. Larger than expected. I'm ordering two more as gifts for my son's and daughter's homes. 🏡" — Lolo Price: $86.88 21. A portable USB blender because perhaps, like me, you are cursed to always. be. running. late. If this is you, a portable blender can help you mix up veg-and-fruit-filled smoothies on-the-go in your car or office, instead of going with the "running late" breakfast standby: whatever you can find at the bottom of your purse. 22. A two-way coffee maker that can brew both drip coffee and pod-style coffee, so you have the thing we all want for the future: lots o' options. Sam's Club Promising review: 'We love the versatility of our FlexBrew coffee maker, especially the one-cup brew feature. The carafe also makes it perfect for when we have guests. We've only used it a short time, but so far, so good. The only reason we didn't give five stars is that it's bigger than our Ninja dual brew.' — Susan Price: $99.98 23. A vacuum sealer 14-piece starter kit, because before you say "I don't know, I'm not a vacuum sealing type person": do you buy tons of delicious food, and then watch a bunch of it actually go bad because you didn't have time to cook it all? Vacuum sealers can keep your food (including produce!) fresh up to five times longer than regular perhaps this is the moment you become a vacuum sealing type person. Sam's Club Promising review:"It does a great job of all, but even packs juicy meat well, I really like the automatic feature." — Karen Price: $74.94 (originally $99.94) 24. A 10-piece fridge and pantry bin organizer set that's see-through and stackable to tame the chaos inside your fridge. Never lose track of any veggie or sauce in the farthest corner ever again. Sam's Club Promising review: 'These are perfect for keeping your fridge/freezer organized! My husband is finally learning that everything has a place! It helped free up a lot of wasted space as well! I love them!' — JayH Price: $47.98 (originally $59.98) 25. A four-piece set of dry food storage containers because they won't just keep your pasta, beans, etc. fresher for longer than leaving them in their original packaging — the containers will all fit neatly together in your cupboard, giving you a way more organized look and feel than trying to fit a million different-sized boxes together. Sam's Club Promising review:"I ordered these because I liked their size and clear, clean look. They hold an entire #10 can of rice, and I use them for rice, pasta and cereal. Planning to order more!" — Mikthemantle7 Price: $24.98 26. A 50-pack of ultra-thin velvet hangers that do double duty — their fuzzy surfaces grip clothes and keep them from sliding off onto the floor, and their thin profile means you can fit more of them in a small space. Plus, they have swivel hooks — perfect for those of us closet organization nerds who are obsessed with having all of our clothes face the same direction. Sam's Club Promising review:"Best hangers! Your clothes stay put. The hook will swing either way. Great for pants too. The only hangers we'll buy." — Liz S. Price: $13.98 (available in five colors) 27. A pack of 16 Command wire hooks because Past You has had to forgo your security deposit enough times to do Future You the favor of using these instead of nailing or drilling hooks into the wall of your rental. Sam's Club Promising review:"I use these and all the Command brand items to hang up items in our home. If you follow the directions they work your wall as you are supposed to AND apply pressure for the full time (actually time yourself) the directions state. When you remove the Command Strips don't get in a FOLLOW the DIRECTIONS...I have used these on several different paint and wall textures and all have worked as they are supposed to." — Leana Price: $14.98 Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Buzz Feed
16-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
38 Random Products That Will Most Definitely Improve Your Week, Month, And Year
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. Shopping · This three-year-long guided prompt journal and these wildly beloved "pillow slippers" are the life upgrades both Present You and Future You deserve. 1. Olay Super Serum Body Wash that will make anyone with dry or dull cold weather skin REJOICE — this is packed with niacinamide, shea butter, and collagen peptides to nourish your skin for 24-hour hydration that will make you feel ~luminous~. (Psst — this is the body wash version of their TikTok-famous, super effective facial Super Serum, so you KNOW they mean business.) Amazon Promising review:"I recently tried the Olay Super Serum Body Wash, and I am absolutely in love with it! The formula is incredibly hydrating, leaving my skin feeling soft and smooth after every use. It lathers beautifully and has a lovely, light fragrance that isn't overpowering. After just a few uses, I noticed my skin looked more radiant and felt deeply moisturized. The addition of serums in the body wash is a game-changer. My skin feels nourished, and I no longer need to apply lotion right after showering. Highly recommend this to anyone looking for a luxurious, skin-loving body wash!" — Darina Get it from Amazon for $12.99. 2. E.l.f.'s Hydrating Core Lip Shine in the "Ecstatic" shade, which reviewers say captures the same magic as " Black Honey," the $25 ~universal shade~ from Clinique that's blowing up on TikTok at a fraction of the price. It doesn't shift colors as magically as the other version, but it's a perfect, nonsticky "go-to" lip to stay hydrated all day long. I personally will live, breathe, and die by the magic of $25 "universal" Black Honey version — it lasts FOREVER and also functions as the perfect blush — but it sells out so often that I am also deeply relieved to know it has a cheap alternative in case of lip emergency! Promising review: "I absolutely love this product. The dark color is perfectly sheer. It also adds the most beautiful color to your lips. I am a Clinique Black Honey lip fan, and this gives me the same look for a fraction of the cost. I love it and have several that I keep in various spots. Not sticky either, which is my biggest gripe about lip glosses. My hair doesn't get stuck in this like some glosses, but I get the shine." — Hamps5 Get it from Amazon for $7 (also available in eight other shades). 3. A dimmable flexible clip-on mushroom light so versatile that it'll become your Emotional Support Shroom — this gizmo clips to desks, cribs, bedside tables, and computer monitors to give an ambient, soft glow that's easy on the eyeballs when you're trying to focus. (Also, it's just so darn precious??) Reviewers especially love this lamp for small spaces, since it doesn't take up valuable surface area! Promising review: "I love the way the light looks and the different colors, but honestly, I love the flexibility of the neck. I can manipulate it to fit the function of what I am doing. I have used it asa reading light and mood light by the bed. I had no problem reading my book at night. I have used it as a task light to do arts and crafts. More recently, I have used it at work, and it now has a permanent spot on my desk. The light was a great value for the money for me." — Terese Get it from Amazon for $35.99. 4. Dr. Scholl's Roll-On Foot Pain Relief Liquid for 12 hours of relief when your current step count is "too many." This fast-acting formula is made with lidocaine and menthol to work within five minutes, and tackle nerve pain for deep relief. Promising review: "Wow. I was miserable at work. I bought everything I could think of to help with the intense foot pain from standing up at work. This was one of the products, and now I can't go without it! It works. I just ordered another one because I'm low on mine. I use it every night and hour before clocking in at work and even forget how my feet used to hur t until I get home, and I'm like, 'Wait a second, my feet didn't hurt.' I'm not kidding when I say this is It! Amazing product!" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $11.97. 5. An affordable, elegant gold-plated paperclip-style necklace to instantly give any outfit a touch of sophistication without also making it a little, well, *boring*. Elegance, but with a bit of a modern edge. Promising review: "You can't tell it's not solid gold. I've worn this every day for nearly a month, and it still looks fantastic. This is, I think, my fourth or fifth Pavoi purchase (specifically for their gold-plated jewelry) in the last year or so, and honestly, I won't order any other brand. Pavoi gives Vermeil a run for their money. The quality is that good. I've yet to have a single piece change in color, chip, or tarnish. All look just as good as the day I got them." — Candy H. For what it's worth, Pavoi — the company behind this piece — has gone TikTok viral time and time again for its classic, modern, and expensive-looking pieces. I personally own almost all my "daily wear" jewelry from Pavoi and swear by it. Everything is so easy to accessorize and makes my outfits look and feel so much more put together, and the pieces are so durable that they're easily worth twice what I paid. Check out the rest of Pavoi's line of jewelry for more options, including earrings, bracelets, and anklets! Get it from Amazon for $14.45 (available in two finishes and one other style). 6. A NeeDoh "Dream Drop," the latest drop from the *elite* Needoh sensory fidget toy line for anyone who wants to add more calm and focus to their day. This goo-filled, delightfully colorful fidget has a satisfying squish with a "slow rise" before going back to its original shape. Reviewers also love that it doesn't have the kind of stickiness that picks up debris and makes it hard to clean. Schylling is a small business that specializes in modern and retro toys, games, and sets. Promising review: "Great, and I love that it has a tray to sit on. I love how firm this is to squeeze, and the slow release is really relaxing. The included dish is a great touch — it keeps it clean and gives it a dedicated spot to rest." — AZMOM Get it from Amazon for $7.67 (the color is either blue, pink, or purple and gets selected for you at random)! Check out the rest of the Needoh fidget toy options on their Amazon storefront! 7. The Pink Stuff's new "Sqeezy" sponge set, which is living up to its "miracle" catchphrase by helping reviewers with their toughest cleaning projects, like grimy pans, mildewed showers, and marked-up walls. If you aren't already in the cult of Pink Stuff cleaning paste, it's so good at its job that reviewers call it " gold in a jar" and " witchcraft." Promising review: "The 'abrasive sponge when cold' or 'squishy when hot' is an awesome feature for the type of scrubbing you want to do. The Pink Stuff with the sponge does wonders! We have a hideous 30-year-old shower and although it doesn't look brand new like I was hoping, it's 10 times better!! This product really does work!" — GreenGoddess Get the set (one Pink Stuff jar and a "Sqeezy") from Amazon for $9.99. 8. A three-pack of vintage-inspired polarized sunglasses for anyone who needs to stock up on a few "these look like Ray-Bans, but I won't cry into my Baja Blast if I accidentally leave them in the Taco Bell parking lot" pairs this year. These are especially handy because you can match the subtle prints to whatever 'fit you're wearing! Promising review:"I've been buying these for years. They replaced my Ray-Bans that look identical! Fit great and with the price point I don't have to worry too much with my kids and being on the go!" — Jessica M Get a pack of three from Amazon for $15.99+ (clip the 20% off coupon on the product page for this price; available in 16 sets, as well as two-packs and individual pairs). 9. Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Milky Leave-In Conditioner to not only defrizz your hair, soften it, and protect it from heat, but to leave you smelling like the oh -so-scrumptious, wildly-beloved Cheirosa 62 "sunshine" fragrance — you know, that pistachio, jasmine, and vanilla scent that has the OG Bum Bum Cream and Hair & Body Mists constantly on the verge of selling out. Reviewers also use this as an easy detangler both for themselves and for their kiddos! Promising review: "Perfect hair day every day! This spray is both beautiful and fragrant! It leaves my hair feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed, while the scent is absolutely delightful. A must-have for anyone looking to add shine and a lovely fragrance to their hair routine!" — charlotte Get it from Amazon for $28. 10. Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener, which became the internet's holy grail — now in four shades! — for concealing and brightening dark circles under your eyes so fast that everyone's old concealers are doing double takes. This lightweight color-adapting formula is designed for truly ~invisible~ coverage that makes a drastic difference. The color-adaptive formula is designed so one of two shades will work on any skin tone. Promising review: "Took years off my eyes! This product is so reasonably priced. I came across a TikTok promoting this and decided to take a chance since the price was super reasonable. My eyes looked brighter in a good way, and the concealer worked so well that I felt I looked younger. I got compliments from friends asking what I did differently with my makeup. I recommend it." — Monica T. Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades). 11. And a firming eye cream that uses vitamin C, vitamin E, rose hip seed oil, and hibiscus flower extract to brighten and firm that sensitive skin around your eyes and neck not just on a day-to-day basis, but a long-term one, too. LilyAna is a small business that specializes in beauty products. Promising review:"This is by far the best eye cream I have ever used!!! Within a week of using LilyAna eye cream morning and night, I've noticed a big difference with my fine lines and crow's feet. I just turned 44 in November and my skin looks like I'm in my early 30s. Worth every penny!!!!! I've purchased this cream twice and will definitely continue to buy. You will not regret the purchase." — melissa Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in four sizes). 12. Oxo's new compact Brew Rapid Brewer, aka the answer to any money-conscious coffee lover's prayers — this version is not only cheaper and more portable than comparable models on the market, but WAY faster making cold brew without compromising on flavor. I'm talking five minutes as opposed to overnight, like other pitchers take — and it doesn't need to be charged or plugged in. 🤯 Amazon You can use this to brew hot coffee *and* cold brew by adding coffee grounds to the top portion, tamping it down, letting it steep, and pumping into a carafe full of hot or cold water. Promising review: "Simple to use and cheaper than that other brand. This is about the best tasting coffee I have ever made at home. Easy to clean. Sturdy. Portable." — Alex Bonick Get it from Amazon for $32.55. 13. A weighted eye mask that's basically like a weighted blanket for your human eyes, designed to decrease stress and encourage ~deep sleep~. They also feature a 3D contour, so they're hollowed out in the middle and won't rest right on top of your eyes. Promising review: "Love these. These are soft and very comfortable, and they seriously black out every bit of ligh t. I love them. I would highly recommend. I'll probably never sleep without them again." — AJ Get a pack of two from Amazon for $16.99 (available in three sets). 14. A pair of lightweight, entirely waterproof cloud pillow slippers for anyone whose feet are pretty little princesses who need to be pampered at all times. These are near weightless, but have a cushioned, thick sole that absorbs impact on hard floors and surfaces. Reviewers with arthritis and plantar fasciitis also swear by these for alleviating foot pain! Promising review: "Feels like you're walking on a cloud. I've had these for two years and they still feel the same as when I got them. The color is identical to the picture on your screen and they feel like heaven. The price can't be beat." — The Unordinary Mom Get it from Amazon for $23.99 (available in women's sizes 4–15 and men's sizes 3–16 and 16 colors). 15. A bottle of sulfate-free biotin shampoo that thousands of reviewers swear by for helping restore their hair and promote healthy hair growth over time. It also includes nourishing ingredients like rosemary oil, zinc, and coconut oil to help moisturize locks and give them a fuller, more volumized look. Read more about how biotin shampoo could help with the fullness of hair at Cleveland Clinic. Maple Holistics is a small business that specializes in beauty products with all-natural ingredients. Check out a TikTok of the biotin shampoo in action. Promising review:"I love this shampoo! I had gastric sleeve surgery, and my hair was very, very thin. I started taking biotin and switched to biotin shampoo, as recommended by my doctor. It doesn't make your hair grow by washing it, but it makes your hair and roots stronger. And it worked. After using the whole bottle, my hair was stronger. I had a lot of new growth that was sticking around (the previous new growth fell out early on), and my hair was getting thicker. Eight months later, my hair is back to normal. It's longer and thicker than ever." — Diane J. Huff Get it from Amazon for $13.95. Psst — reviewers mention this is most effective when paired with a scalp massager to work it into their roots! 16. Deeptalk, a compact three-year prompted gratitude journal loaded with quick, gentle check-in prompts that won't overwhelm you like a lot of other journals. It's undated, so you can start it any day you want, and then as the years pass you can reflect on how your mindsets are changing and evolving over time. Promising review: "I'm a stay-at-home mom, and I've found myself in a slump lately, not knowing much about myself anymore. I REALLY love this book. Since the moment I've opened it, I've loved everything about it. It has helped me actually sit down at night, and think (with the questions) when it comes to my life, and where I am in life right now. I love answering the questions, and being able to check off my mood for the day. I can't wait to see how much my life/mindset changes during the year. I also love that it's a hardcover book, so I don't have to worry about it bending up in my purse." — Hope M. Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two colors). 17. An "Exfoliate & Glow" premium scrub mitt for that oh-so-squeaky clean sensation that comes with sloughing off dead skin. No, for real — one reviewer saw all the dead skin left in their shower floor and dubbed themselves a " Lizard Person" after shedding it. This is great for helping even out skin texture and tone, preventing ingrown hairs, calming keratosis pilaris, and removing self-tanner, too! Seraphic Skincare is a small business that specializes in brushes, razors, and other personal care products. Head's up that you should start very gently, and that you really only need to use it two to four times a month to get good results without over-exfoliating and compromising your skin barrier. Promising review:"Not to be gross but when I lightly use this on my dry skin I can see the dry skin cells flying off! Great for cellular turnover. I use on dry skin before showering and finish after shower with good moisturizing oil. Makes my legs feel soft and smooth. Don't run too hard! Gentle strokes." — Juliet "Color me converted. It's so disgusting that you want to look away, but morbid curiosity keeps making you turn back. That's really a 'you' creature in the bottom of the tub. You really sloughed off a second skin like a Lizard Person and have now emerged a new person. One that will no longer trust brand name products because they are a lie. Seriously. Buy this. You don't even know you need it, but you do. You really, really do." — Mandi Konesni Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (also available in a set of two). 18. Londontown "Nail Veil" Protectant, which is designed not only to protect your nails, but to act as a sheer tint to enhance their natural look. It's basically "no makeup makeup," but for your fingernails. Londontown is a small business that specializes in nail care products. Promising review: "This nail veil is so pretty and perfect for a simple, bare nail look! It applies very smoothly, and one to two coats work well. With a top coat, it lasts almost perfectly for about five days, but chips are not very noticeable, so you can easily wear it for longer! I also feel confident in this brand's use of healthier, higher-quality ingredients, which makes it well worth the extra cost. My nails aren't left damaged by this product, and it has become my go-to when I don't have the time for a full-color look but still want my nails to look polished and pretty!" — Sofia K Get it from Amazon for $15 (available in nine shades). 19. A ballpoint pen oil diffuser that emits a calming scent as you write with it, which may just be the key to stopping all the "adkfjgalkdgjal" in your brain when you're trying to study or write extensive to-do lists. (According to Johns Hopkins, you may want to avoid diffusing oils around larger groups and young children because of the side effects of different oils. You may also want to avoid using an oil diffuser around pets with breathing problems, according to the ASPCA.) Promising review: "This pen is so nice to hold. It writes so smoothly and has an easy function of just twisting it to reveal the point of the pen. Now, let's get to the good part of why I even bought this. The smell! It smells really good, and I cannot wait to get different scents when money becomes available again. My thoughts when buying this were I remember things by smell and rewriting things. I am currently in college,e so having a nice pen as well as a scent is amazing for me." — Katherine Timbrook Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in three scents and multipacks). 20. A chic weekly pill organizer you will *love* if you're the type of human whose life is "go go go" — this lets you easily pull out separate days and stick them in a bag or overnight backpack if you're traveling or staying the night somewhere. It even includes two extra detachable pill containers so you can have backups in your bag! Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (available in three styles). 21. A Benzene-free, travel-friendly applicator of I Dew Care's dry shampoo powder so easy to use that you can just dab it on your hairline and rub it in for an instant, oil-absorbing refresh. Now your "no wash" days are a secret that you and your roots will never tell 👀. Check out a TikTok of the dry shampoo in action. Promising review: "Will be buying again!! This is a fantastic product. I have incredibly thin hair that gets very oily very easily. This is the first product that I've tried that actually works! I am so very happy!" — Katie_0_Baker Get it from Amazon for $12.59 (available brown, dark brown, blonde, and in multipacks and bundles). 22. A sweet Nessie sugar spoon reviewers are obsessed with, and for good reason. It infuses just the right amount of ~whimsy~ into the best parts of their day (read: that first cup of coffee, the first bite of oatmeal, that lil' bowl of ice cream before bed). It also has a very satisfying weight and curve for optimum sipping. Promising review:"This little silly spoon makes me happy. It is now the #1 spoon everyone looks for in the silverware drawer at our house. Often found in a container of ice cream or a mug of tea living its best little life." — Emily Get it from Amazon for $9.95 (also available in sets of four and eight). 23. An adorably encouraging daily planner you can fill out throughout the course of each day to keep yourself on track for all your calls, goals, and even your water intake. This is especially ideal for hybrid workers because you can tear off each sheet as you go instead of lugging the whole planner around with you! Each planner comes with 50 tear-off sheets the size of a standard piece of paper. Bliss Collections is a family-owned, Wisconsin-based business established in 2012 that specializes in stationery, planners and pads, and drinkware. Promising review:"These daily planning sheets keep this mama on TRACK! I started out printing daily planning and schedule sheets from a free download on my computer. Then I realized why not just buy some already printed so I save my ink at home. I found these and love how the day, schedule, tasks, and health habits are organized. I've already reordered once and will continue to use these." — Shannon Hoglund Get it from Amazon for $11.99. 24. A pack of cult-favorite Clean Skin Club Clean Towels — these ultra-soft, chemical-free disposable towels are ideal for drying your face or pairing with a makeup remover or face wash to gently remove makeup at the end of the day. A lot of folks with sensitive skin *swear* by these, particularly because it helps prevent exposing their skin to bacteria that may collect in ordinary reusable towels. Clean Skin Club is a US-based small business specializing in hygienic, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare products. Promising review:"I absolutely love these. I saw these on TikTok and bought them. I will be buying more. They are great for my face. Really soft and VERY durable and strong, even when wet. You can wash your face [with it] or just dry your face, either way, it's the best option." — Sahara Get a pack of 50 from Amazon for $17.95. 25. Glossmetics' Lychee Overnight Lip Mask, which is a cult-fave in the making — you can wear this nonstick, ultra glossy lip shine during the day or overnight as a lip treatment to help hydrate, soften, and condition your lips. Not to mention you will taste *delectable* all day and night. (Just ask the many lychee martinis I have downed on this here earth!) Promising review:"I'm obsessed with lip products. I have tried everything you can imagine, inexpensive and expensive. This is my favorite lip product I've purchased. This gloss is incredible, perfectly moisturizing, and the color is so perfect, a very light natural glowy pink. I just came on Amazon to order a couple more to have one in the car, my purse, nightstand." — Tara Bills Get it from Amazon for $7.99 (available in three flavors). 26. A wildly impressive handled BrüMate tumbler designed with a completely leakproof straw lid that might be actual witchcraft, and ~BevGuard insulation~ that will keep drinks ice cold for over 24 hours. Finally, a ginormous emotional support tumbler that not only fits in your car's cup holder, but can get tossed into your bag worry-free! Amazon, BrüMate is a small business that specializes in mugs, tumblers, coolers, and other insulated products. Bonus – this is dishwasher-safe! Promising review:"The BrüMate is an absolute game-changer for anyone looking for a reliable drink container. I ts 100% leakproof design means you can confidently toss it into your bag without worrying about spills, making it perfect for on-the-go use. The durability is outstanding; it holds up well against daily wear and tear, maintaining its sleek look and performance. Most impressively, it keeps beverages cold for a full 24 hours. Whether you're hiking, at the office, or relaxing by the pool, the BrüMate is the ultimate companion for keeping your drinks icy cold. Highly recommend!" — Horace Dixon Get it from Amazon for $38+ (available in 16 colors and two sizes). 27. Naked Sundays CabanaClear SPF 50 Water Gel Serum with an ultra-hydrating, "invisible" blend so absorbent and so good at playing nice with makeup that it'll feel like you never put it on in the first place. If you are serious about protecting your skin, this holy grail SPF-packed base layer is the way to go. Note that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information! Promising review: "I use SPF cream regularly, and I can say that it really does its job. The cream has a pleasant texture, absorbs quickly, and doesn't leave a greasy shine or white residue, which is a big plus for me. It also provides reliable protection, even under direct sunlight. After several hours in the sun, there's no redness or irritation, which speaks to the product's effectiveness. Moreover, the SPF cream can be a great base for makeup, as it doesn't affect the texture of foundation." — Karina Kostiuk Get it from Amazon for $20.99. 28. A set of crease-preventing spiral hair ties that not only give your pony that delightful ~oomph~ to elevate it, but stay locked in place. They're also waterproof, which makes them great for exercise (as much as we all love a soggy hair tie on our wrist post-workout 🫠). Basic Concepts is a small business that specializes in personal care products and home goods. Promising review: "I'm super picky about what coil hair ties I use but these are by far my fave! I have super thick hair and it holds so well. They are super durable and stretch A LOT, so you can make sure it's holding your hair well." — Gillian D. Get a set of 10 from Amazon for $7.99. 29. The Let Them Theory, a science-backed self-help book about taking control of your life and your mindset that came out in late 2024 and has already become a global sensation. In it, author Mel Robbins uses expert research from psychology, neuroscience, and relationships to frame how you can focus your time, energy, and love on what matters, rather than getting tripped up on what you can't control. Promising review:"These ideas are so simple, and they're not new — but they are combined with powerful new research and practical tools for taking back your energy and time while boosting your joy and peace. Tops my list for the BEST self-help book I've read since Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown. Mel's personal stories and real life examples make it almost impossible to avoid the truth, yet at the same time see the opportunity we all have to CHOOSE who we love, how we respond, and what we want our lives to look like. A BEAUTIFUL work — truly a MUST-READ!" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $21.44. 30. A pair of waterproof wireless earbuds with AirPods Pro energy — except these feature a charging case that, bless its technologically savvy heart, has an LED display letting you know exactly how much charge is left. Reviewers also love how delightfully comfortable and sweatproof these are, making them a solid, affordable option for talking on the phone and exercising. Promising review: "I use these every day at work! Love these — easy to learn and to use. Best thing about them? Well, everything, lol. Good sound, they hold a charge for long periods, and I don't have to worry about them losing power. I can answer my phone easily and then go back to music without a problem. Definitely a great buy and worth the money! Love this color, too!" — Erin Get it from Amazon for $25.99 (available in eight colors). 31. A pack of the internet-beloved Mighty Patch Pimple Spot Treatment, a hydrocolloid sticker that you can apply straight onto open zits to help drain them and reduce that sore feeling overnight. Personally *love* to see a problem magically disappear while I'm snoozing. Promising review:"I heard all about these on TikTok so I decided to order. I switched my birth control and was having a ton of breakouts, these are amazing! They helped me stop picking at my face. My skin is so clear now. Will always have these in my house from now on!" — Kiara Galloway Get it from Amazon for $12.99. 32. A "Cup Cozy Pillow" to keep everything steady on your bed when you are one silly little beverage away from accidentally turning your bed into a LaCroix swamp. This will not only keep all your "bed rot" accessories upright and on hand, but has expandable cup holes to fit mugs, water bottles, and snacks, with an insulating foam that keeps drinks hot or cold for longer periods. Amazon, Cup Cozy Pillow is a small business that specializes in family-friendly snack and drink organizers. Check out a TikTok of the Cup Cozy Deluxe Pillow in action. Promising review:"This thing is great! I'm home on maternity leave with my new baby and spend most of my time on the couch under a sleeping baby. This product makes it easy for me to keep my drinks, remote, etc close by even with dogs running around. It's a little more expensive than I would have liked but it works and I love it so money well spent!" — Amber Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in three styles and nine patterns). 33. A set of compression gloves reviewers swear by for helping aches and pains from arthritis, carpal tunnel, neuropathy, and general overuse (it's giving ✨works-all-day-on-a-laptop✨). Promising review: "I have both osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis in both hands, but this winter I smashed my right hand and badly damaged cartilage in the knuckle joints. I wish I had found these gloves sooner because they feel so supportive and allow me to move my fingers without pain, so much so that I really don't want to take them off. The little booklet that accompanied the gloves is good, and I will start doing the exercises they recommend." — Kindle Customer Get a set from Amazon for $15.95 (available in five sizes and four colors). 34. Ninja's new *portable* Crispi Air Fryer system, perfect for people with high foodie standards and a chaotic schedule. This "all-in-one system" cooks your food in the same container you eat from, so you can pop your meal into the air fryer, cook it, and either pack it for later or eat it right out of the container. Amazon Each air fryer comes with the"PowerPod," two containers (a 4-quart and a 6-quart), and lids. The PowerPod has auto-shutoff and four modes: Max Crisp, Bake, Air Fry, and Recrisp. The "feet" are heat-safe, so you can prop it on any surface without worrying! Promising review: "I got my Ninja Crisper today and reheated some stuffed bread with feta cheese and spinach, and it did a wonderful job. I t was like it just came out of the oven the first time. Nice and crispy outside, but the inside heated just right. I love that the bottom glass can be covered with the lid it comes with. They come with a metal plate you can put in the glass bottom part, and it actually fits into the lid, so it doesn't get lost. The glass makes a difference in the taste, too. It is a great product and well worth it." — Jennifer Get it from Amazon for $159 (available in three colors). 35. A SnapPower GuideLight to put all your night-lights out of business — this subtle but effective light installs under your outlets, so it will feel like little fairies are guiding you through the hall when it's dark at night. Reviewers love that with this clever installation, the light doesn't take up valuable outlet space! Amazon SnapPower is a small business that specializes in unique and innovative lighting products. Promising review: "I ordered this after seeing it on TikTok. I'm very happy with this product!" — Miss. Harris "Game changer. When I get up, I don't want to wake everyone up with flipping on lights and all. These provide plenty of walking through the house light. Super easy installation, too." — Monica Martinez Get it from Amazon for $22.98 (available in three outlet styles and four colors). 36. A bar soap bag, which is the ultimate hack not just to exfoliate your skin with your favorite bar soaps, but to *really* get your money's worth out of them — these produce much richer lather so a little goes a loooong way, and you won't have to replace your bars as often. Promising review:"I've only been using these for four days but my skin is smoother! I like that I'm not using plastic bottles for my body soap. I am using the least exfoliating one for now. But once I'm totally used to it, I will move up to the other one. So far, I'm impressed. Lots of lather and my soap doesn't slip out of my hands anymore!" — Doris M. Get a set of two from Amazon for $11.99 (NOTE: these are available in deep exfoliating, gentle exfoliating, and a pack of both!). 37. Birdie, an indoor carbon dioxide monitor that — bless her dramatic heart — flips over and "dies" if the air quality in your home goes down, prompting you to open a window or run an air purifier so you can breathe easier. Once Birdie is happy with the air quality again, she'll pop back up! Amazon Promising review: "Super easy to set up, and it works! We set ours up, and after charging it and mounting it, the bird fell down. We opened the windows, and about 10 minutes later, the bird went upright. People have commented how cool it look, going to buy as a gift for a family member as well." — M English Get it from Amazon for $149 (clip the $40 off coupon on the product page for this price; available in five styles). 38. A beautifully packaged, travel-friendly Touchland Power Mist hydrating hand sanitizer for anyone who's like "mindfully practicing health and safety, but make it fashion." Unlike other sanitizer sprays, it's infused with aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated and has the most luxurious floral scents. Amazon Touchland is a small business that specializes in hand sanitizers. Check out a TikTok of Touchland in action. Promising review:"Touchland's hand sanitizers are absolutely beautiful! Not only is the packaging functional for travel, but it's pretty! Absolutely no issues with the product or the design of the packaging leaking, and it's extremely easy to use! No sticky residue, and your hands feel completely hydrated and soft after each use. I'm especially impressed with this perk, considering most hand sanitizers leave your skin feel tight and dry. No leaks, great hydration, phenomenal fragrance…. what's not to LOVE!!!? 🤍 SPOIL YOURSELF, NO EXCUSES NECESSARY!" — Briana R. Get it from Amazon for $16 (available in Lily of the Valley and Rose scents; check out Touchland's Amazon storefront for more options). Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
The Independent
16-02-2025
- The Independent
I spoke to an AI-version of my future self – and it might have changed my life
When I was 15, I wrote a letter to my 30-year-old self, which was about as far into the future as I could imagine at that age. I found it when I was clearing out some boxes in my mid twenties, and although I'd completely forgotten what I'd written, some of it had already partly come true. I had imagined myself a sports journalist (not far off); that I'd bought a bus and travelled across Europe (it wasn't a double decker, but I'd driven an old campervan from Ireland to North Africa in my early twenties); and that I'd been in a car chase (this one had not come true). I didn't know it at the time, but engaging with an older version of myself in this way is something psychologists refer to as 'future self-continuity' – a field of study that is the inspiration behind a new AI chatbot that lets you talk to a simulation of your future self. Developed by researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Future You uses the same large language model (LLM) technology as ChatGPT, but trained on your own personal data. Keen to see how realistic it is – and maybe find out if I ever do get in a car chase – I signed up as one of the thousands of participants in the research. After an extensive survey to determine my emotions, hopes, fears, current situation and future goals, a personalised chatbot appeared, offering to share its 'experiences and insights' with me. The system also used age progression software to transform a picture from my webcam into a 60-year-old version of me. (I apparently keep the bad haircut, but lose the blue eyes.) I began with some simple questions to my future self: Do I have any regrets? (Not spending enough time with my children); What have been the highlights? (Travelling the world with my wife); Will I still have a landlord when I'm 60? (No! I'm told I buy a 'beautiful home in the countryside'.) None of the answers felt particularly insightful, more like the stock answers given by a fairground fortune teller. I gave up asking anymore questions and instead turned to an early study of the Future You chatbot, involving 344 participants, to see what benefits there might be to this AI time machine. The study found that the people who interacted with the AI system were less anxious and reported improved motivation. The results mirrored previous research into future self continuity, which has shown that the connection a person feels with their future self can have a positive impact on their long-term decision making and general well being. In a 2011 study on the subject, US-based psychologist Hal Hershfield wrote: 'When the future self shares similarities with the present self, when it is viewed in vivid and realistic terms, and when it is seen in a positive light, people are more willing to make choices that may benefit them at some point in the years to come.' MIT says its Future You platform draws on these insights to 'create an experience that reduces anxiety and strengthens users' connection to their future potential'. The researchers also said that the more I interact with the chatbot, the more it learns, and the more personalised the responses become. So I tried again, this time being more specific in my approach and sharing more details about my current life. Future me said that the most cherished memory of my middle age is a trip to Bali for my 10 year wedding anniversary. 'The two of you stayed in a private villa surrounded by lush jungles and breathtaking views of the ocean,' the bot told me. I'd never considered that trip before, but it's my 10 year wedding anniversary next year and I immediately began looking into holidays to Indonesia. When I told my wife, she was on board for the trip, but also had a load of questions for future me. 'Will we still live in France?' (No, we move to England); 'Will we have any more children?' (Also no, two is enough apparently); 'Which of us will die first?' (It didn't know because my wife is still alive in this simulated future. Some of my friends are dead though). The more I talked with it, the more convincing it felt, which made me worry – not for the first time – that AI will soon be taking my job. So I asked it if AI will replace my job. ' Artificial intelligence is advancing at a rapid pace,' it told me, ' but there will always be certain aspects of work that require human touch and creativity.' Not very reassuring. I wondered if it could write an article for me. In fact, could it write this article for me? 'As I sit here, talking to an AI version of my future self, I can't help but feel a sense of wonder and curiosity,' it wrote. 'It's a surreal experience to be able to have a conversation with someone who has already lived the years that I am currently experiencing… I learned about the importance of prioritising love and family above all else… And perhaps most importantly, my future self reminded me to embrace the journey rather than just focussing on reaching specific goals or achievements.' Back to platitudes. How about writing this article, but from the AI's perspective? 'This experience highlights the ever-evolving relationship between humans and technology,' it wrote. 'As we talked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. I shared stories and life lessons with my past self – about love, loss, and embracing the journey. These are all things that may seem simple or cliché, but they hold so much truth and wisdom that goes beyond time.' Similar to the letter I wrote when I was 15, it was beginning to feel a bit like a one-way conversation – though this time it was the future me saying what I was going to do, rather than the other way around. But it did allow me to do something that I haven't done since then, which is to properly think about what a future me might be like. These chats may even shape my life's trajectory, even if I forget all about them. Finally, I asked the AI if I will ever be in a car chase. No, future me told me; but he's only 60. There's still plenty of time.
