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Buzz Feed
4 days ago
- Health
- Buzz Feed
43 Swaps For Pricier Items If You Love Saving Money
Buttery soft high-waisted leggings giving Lululemon and other pricey brands a run for their money, according to some reviewers. They're squat-proof, stretchy, and actually stay up without rolling down! A Renpho percussion massager here to save the day because that $300 TheraGun just isn't in the budget rn. It has five different head attachments for targeting different muscle groups, plus five speeds to customize the intensity. Your sore muscles, tense neck, and deep knots are ready for some much-needed relief. E.l.f. Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen if you're still trying to find a daily sunscreen you don't hate. This clear gel sunscreen offers SPF 35 and goes on so smooth and lightweight, you'll immediately forget you're wearing it — no white cast here, folks. It doubles as a blurring primer, so it's great for wearing under makeup too! If you love Supergoop but the price is becoming hard to I suggest trying this, because it's *very* similar. Some breathable, machine-washable pointed-toe flats ready to cushion and support your feet while looking impeccably asking for way less money out of your wallet than Rothy's or Vivaia would. The stretchy knit upper is so comfy and trendy-looking (meet your new office staple!), and you can toss 'em in the wash before they even have the *chance* to get stinky. A 20-pack (!) of extra thick magic cleaning pads most reviewers agree is a great swap for the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. They're extra durable, so you can put them to work on your toughest cleaning jobs and watch the mess just ✨ disappear ✨. Rael Beauty's Miracle Patch, a budget-friendly hydrocolloid acne patch option with ultra-thin edges that make it way less detectable on your face. Keep a pack around if you're prone to sudden breakouts, and they'll come in clutch: Just apply one to a zit, and it'll literally suck out all that gunk, leaving the area noticeably flatter with less redness overnight. A set of internet-famous Mellanni sheets reviewers said they're reaching for over their Cozy Earth and Egyptian cotton sheets that cost $$$. They're made of silky soft, moisture-wicking microfiber that doesn't fade, pill, or stain, and feel like pure luxury — you may just shed a tear of happiness the first night you snuggle up in them. A ribbed workout jumpsuit considered a great Skims alternative, with reviewers claiming it looks and feels just as high quality. It's compressive but breathable, with four-way stretch so you can pull off all your squats with ease (plus it's thick enough that it won't show your undies). And a long-sleeve bodysuit that's also *dying* to make your acquaintance if you find yourself on the Skims website frequently, scrolling wistfully before remembering your credit card has LIMITS. The "Smoke Cloud" fabric is buttery smooth and *not* sheer, and the sweetheart neckline will add a little extra ~elegance~ to your 'fit even if you're just slipping on your faded Levi's. A set of aesthetic wrist and ankle weights because *yes* you can achieve your fitness goals and have cute gear without shelling out $50+ on a set of trendy Bala Bangles. Happy tears, commence — but not for too long, because it's time to go for a power walk. A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment formulated to deeply repair and hydrate your hair thanks to restorative ingredients like collagen and ceramide 3. You just apply it after shampooing, wait as little as five minutes, then rinse it out for hair that looks *and* feels silky soft. Some reviewers say it's even BETTER than Olaplex, which is over three times the price! A professional MUA–approved black makeup sponge — reviewers sing its praises as a budget-friendly swap for Beauty Blender and Real Techniques. When it comes to blending foundation, concealer, powder, and BB creams, there's no better tool for a ~flawless~ finish. *Plus* the black color of this one makes it easier to see product on your sponge for applying it — and it won't be all stained after cleaning! And some makeup brush-cleaning shampoo because chances are, your sponges and brushes are overdue for a good cleaning. Made with gentle, plant-based ingredients, this cleanser will remove all the built-up makeup, oil, and impurities from your tools — and watching all the gunk be washed down the sink is *so* satisfying. An Overmont cast-iron Dutch oven that'll save you nearly $300 if you're not loyal to Le Creuset and just want a durable pot for all your stewing, boiling, roasting, and frying needs. It's oven safe up to 500 degrees F, and the lid is designed for water vapor to condense and drip back onto your food evenly, which ensures your pot roast will come out juicy and delicious instead of dry. E.l.f's Camo Liquid Blush, which is extremelyyy similar to Rare Beauty's wonderful Soft Pinch if you're on a tighter budget. Reviewers love its *gorgeous* pigmentation that lasts all day. A bottle of Nyx setting spray so your carefully crafted makeup look can survive up to 16 hours of wear, through humidity, sweat, rain, and snow, without any smudging or melting. Reviewers have put it to the test and say it's a cheaper swap for MAC and Urban Decay's setting sprays. And a 12-pack of soft microfiber makeup removing towels, a true hack for budget-savvy makeup wearers, since they can gently remove makeup using only water and be reused over and over! Perfect for travel and everyday use, they'll cost you just over $1 per cloth, which amounts to nearly 20 times cheaper than the infamous Makeup Eraser. An ultra-hydrating TruSkin vitamin C serum concocted with hyaluronic acid (which locks in moisture), organic aloe vera, and vitamin E. It not only brightens and smoothens the skin; it also fades blemishes. Many reviewers say it's a worthy swap for SkinCeuticals' pricey CE Ferulic serum. A Briotech spray for soothing rashes, sunburns, rosacea, eczema, and other skin irritations, *extremely* similar to the beloved (but pricey) Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray. Its secret is hypochlorous acid, an ingredient found naturally in our white blood cells that helps soothe inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. This stuff = magic in a bottle. A pack of duster sponges to help you stay on top of all the dust that seems to magically reappear in your home every few days. Their curved ridges are designed to trap dust and pet hair (and actually pick it up, not just move it around). These are reusable and just need to be soaked and softened before use to unlock their full cleaning power! Essence's Lash Princess Mascara beloved for its ability to give you bold, dramatic lashes while also separating them to prevent clumping — and for its $5 price tag. People *rave* about this bestselling tube as a swap for more expensive mascaras like Too Faced Better Than Sex, L'Oreal Telescopic Lift, and many, many more. *Or* the lash-extending E.l.f. Cosmetics tubing mascara that uses ~tubing technology~ to wrap around your lashes and visibly extend them well beyond their natural length, with a tapered brush that helps separate each one. And thanks to jojoba seed oil in the formula, your lashes are also getting a lovely conditioning treatment at the same time! A set of satin pillowcases to make your bed feel more ~luxurious~ for a fraction of the price that you'd spend on brands like Slip and Blissy. Plus, satin pillowcases stay refreshingly cool and are good for both your hair and skin: They help prevent breakage, frizz, and tangles in your hair and absorb less moisture from your skin overnight, keeping it more hydrated. A cruelty-free brightening facial scrub that leaves your skin positively glowy thanks to Madonna lily in the ingredients, but this popular vegan formula also packs in lemon peel, French green clay, and sea kelp to cleanse and de-gunk your pores. It works so well, reviewers ditched pricier options from brands like Clinique, The Body Shop, and Rodan + Fields. A new-and-improved Govee neon rope light to incorporate super customizable lighting that doubles as unique wall decor. Its bendable design lets you twist it into all sorts of neat shapes (though the squiggle is classic), and by using an app, you can program it to all sorts of color combos and lighting effects! The cozy glow this gives at night is unmatched. Hue, who? E.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer, which blurs your pores and creates a smooth, velvety texture for makeup to glide over and also grip onto. Infused with squalane for hydration, Poreless Putty Primer has a mattifying effect that doesn't look dry — plus, it's small enough to take on the go in case you need touch-ups. Blink, and you might mistake it for Tatcha's Silk Canvas primer and other pricier options. An eyebrow soap kit reviewers love as an alternative to name brands to help you sculpt your brows so they have the exact shape, volume, and texture you're going for — and keep them looking defined and fluffy throughout the day. When it comes to precision and hold, this stuff is *chef's kiss*. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks if you've been hesitant to pull the trigger on that $24 Laneige lip mask that's *everywhere* these days — getting three flavors for under $10 feels like a great alternative if you ask me. Just smear some on your dry, cracked lips before bed and dream of the smooth, soft lips you'll have come morning. A Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer so you can give yourself a gorgeous blowout without visiting the salon — it knocks out drying *and* styling your hair in one step to save time in the mornings too! Dropping $500+ on a Dyson Airwrap suddenly less appealing. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer, a cult-favorite you can wield as part of your multistep daily routine *or* for quick touch-ups (without cakiness!) on days when you're not feeling a full face of makeup. Dark, puffy under-eye circles and redness are no match for it — and neither are the name-brand concealers, at this price. Skin1004's Zombie Pack, which works in just 15 minutes to noticeably reduce the appearance of fine lines, tighten pores, improve texture, and brighten your complexion. The mask itself tightens and cracks as it works on your skin — hence the name! — but when you rinse it off, your skin is left soooo soft and smooth. A Coty setting powder that's a good swap for Laura Mercier's $43 powder. It regulates your skin's oil product to keep your face from getting too shiny throughout the day; plus, it has a blurring effect that reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes. A fanny pack perfect for keeping your essentials *literally* close to your chest during travel or everyday life. The strap is long enough to wear crossbody or around your waist, which keeps your arms and hands completely free. Psst — people say it's very similar to Lululemon's belt bag, which is over double the price! Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip in case that $40 Dior lip oil has been in your cart forever, but you just can't bring yourself to pull the trigger. At $9, this version's a much lighter hit to your wallet, with the same burst of hydration (made with vegan squalane!) sheer color, and non-sticky finish reviewers can't get enough of. A pair of lightweight legging-style joggers remarkably similar to Lulu's Align joggers, reviewers have noticed. With four-way stretch and a stretchy elastic waistband, these will keep you in peak comfort while lounging, running errands, or exercising. And a soft, stretchy longline sports bra drawing comparisons to a tank from the same collection, so you could achieve the whole Lulu Align ~look~ for a lot, lot less. CeraVe's Retinol Serum in case you've been wanting to add a retinoid to your routine but have been scared off by potential flaking and redness — or the price tag of other brands, like Murad's $92 retinol serum. This uses encapsulated retinol designed to help prevent irritation while still resurfacing the skin to help reduce the appearance of acne scars, pores, and more. L'Oreal's illuminating Lumi Glotion if you're going for a dewy, no-makeup makeup look — this works beautifully as a lightweight foundation alternative or for adding a little glow on top of your makeup! And at under $15, it's a reviewer-fave swap for pricier options like Glossier Futuredew and Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi Drops. BestLand's high-performance matte lipsticks, which might be cheap (less than $2 each!) but bear results that feel ~expensive~ — reviewers are comparing to sooo many pricier brands like Tarte, Stila, and Kylie! This set is honestly a must-have if you love red and pink lip shades, since it contains six long-lasting staples that'll have you look fierce all day long. Or the long-lasting Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint, worth the try if you like a little color on your lips but can't be bothered with lipsticks that constantly need touch-ups. This'll give your pout a smooth, ultra-pigmented stain with a silky finish, *and* it also has a lightweight feel that's not sticky or clumpy! Some cleaning tablets that'll rid your retainers and night guards of the gunk that builds up on them over time, but lean in close and I'll tell you a secret: You can also use them to deep clean your water bottles and coffee tumblers instead of the popular, pricey Bottle Bright tablets. These'll run you just 15 cents a tablet! An ultra-light milky toning lotion to balance your skin's pH level, exfoliate, fight inflammation, and moisturize, leaving your face balanced and radiant. It actually strengthens and restores lipids in your skin for softness that lasts. It's similar to Laneige's Cream Skin Toner, but cheaper — and from a small biz! A highly rated pair of hoop earrings if you have designer jewelry taste but not a designer jewelry budget. Reviewers compare these to Jennifer Fisher hoops that go for up to hundreds of dollars and say they don't hurt your ears!
NBC News
19-05-2025
- General
- NBC News
How to clean walls properly, according to experts
Even on my best Sunday, when I have it in me to do a deep clean of my apartment, I always feel like I forgot about an area. A few places I'd bet a lot of people, myself included, forget to clean (or perhaps didn't even know they should clean) are the walls. Yes, whether paint-coated, scuff-covered or veiled in dust, walls (including baseboards) require a good cleaning every now and then, according to Robin Murphy, the president of Maid Brigade and author of the blog Who Likes It Dirty?. The first and most important step (and one I think a lot of people may skip) is dusting, according to Kadi Dulude, the owner of the cleaning company Wizard of Homes. To learn more about the proper order for cleaning walls, I spoke with Murphy and Dulude for advice and product recommendations. The best products for cleaning walls All of the cleaning products below are either direct recommendations from our experts, NBC Select staff, or are from brands we've covered in the past. Additionally, some of the products are highly rated with at least a 4-star average rating from 500 reviews or more on Amazon. A common step that a lot of people, myself included, probably forget when it comes to cleaning walls (or really cleaning in general) is dusting. Both Murphy and Dulude recommend dusting first and foremost when cleaning walls. While it's tempting to go in with a spray simply, dusting prevents particles from being pushed around and into the air — the texture of dusters makes them great at acting like a magnet for dust particles. This extendable duster from Swiffer is three feet long, and the end bends perpendicularly, so you don't have to bend down to reach baseboards. You can also use it to clean dust on your electronics, shelves and tables. Bona Spray Mop After dusting, you should use a mop with a microfiber pad to clean walls, such as this one from Bona, which has a 4.5-star average rating from 18,355 reviews on Amazon, and which we featured in our guide on how to clean hardwood floors. This set includes a spare microfiber pad, a bottled cleaning solution that attaches to the length of the mop and a spraying mechanism at the bottom. For cleaning walls, dampen the microfiber pad and use an up-and-down motion to clean. Avoid using too much soap or going in many different directions to prevent streaks. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Extra Durable Dulude recommends using a Magic Eraser to help remove stains on particularly tough walls. This extra-durable option works similarly to the regular one, except it has grooves on the surface to make scrubbing away stains and scuff marks easier. To use it, follow the usual directions: Saturate the sponge in water, squeeze out a lot of the excess and then use it to clean stains on the walls. Swedish Dishcloth Cellulose Sponge Cloths NBC Select SEO editor Nikki Brown loves using reusable Swedish dish cloths for cleaning different surfaces in her home, and says they're particularly great at cleaning up dust. A more sustainable alternative to microfiber, Swedish dishcloths are plastic-free, biodegradable and dishwasher safe for up to 30 uses, according to the brand. You can also use them as compost materials when you're done with them. How to clean walls: A step-by-step guide How to clean painted walls Start by using a handheld or full-length duster to clean walls, including the baseboards. This is an important first step that both Murphy and Dulude recommend. Dusting first before introducing moisture or soap prevents simply moving around solid particles. Glide the duster along the side of the baseboards and walls. Dust often settles the most on top of the baseboards and in corners, and a duster clings to it as you move it. You can also use a microfiber or Swedish dish towel to pick up dust by hand. Use a thin mop with a microfiber pad with a small amount of water and soap. Like cleaning floors, Murphy recommends against using a lot of water or soap to prevent damaging painted walls and/or leaving visible streaks behind. Dampen the mop pad with a small amount of mild plant-based soap like Mrs. Meyers, and use it to gently clean the surface of the walls, using an up-and-down motion. Use a hard-surface cleaning sponge to clean scuff marks and tough stains on the walls. If you're dealing with particularly stuck-on stains, Dulude recommends using a lightly damp Magic Eraser to scrub away stains on walls. How to clean walls with wallpaper Follow steps 1 and 2 described above. It's best to avoid getting wallpaper wet as much as possible to avoid damaging it. Instead, it's best to start with a microfiber cloth or mop and use it to wipe down the surface of the walls and remove dust. If there are visible stains on walls with wallpaper, use a very small amount of water to dampen the microfiber cloth and repeat the step above. How to clean textured walls Follow steps 1 and 2 described above. Murphy recommends using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment (sometimes called an upholstery attachment) to thoroughly review the walls. Be sure to clean the baseboards with the vacuum as well. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select? I'm a commerce editor at NBC Select where I cover home and kitchen topics, including cooking appliances, cleaning gadgets, product reviews and deals and sale events from home and kitchen brands. I spoke to two cleaning experts and gathered recommendations from staff for this story.
Buzz Feed
18-05-2025
- General
- Buzz Feed
44 Cheap Alternatives To Expensive Products You'll Love
A pair of high-waisted leggings reviewers can't help but compare to Lululemon's thanks to that buttery soft material — but, like, a lotttt cheaper. They're legit perfect for running errands, lounging around, or even hitting that squat goal at the gym — because yeah, they're just that comfy. A Renpho percussion massager with five different heads and speeds so you can use it all over your body. You can give yourself a great deep muscle massage at a much more affordable rate than the TheraGun that's been sitting in your cart for the last few weeks. E.l.f. Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen that is clear (!!!) so you don't have to deal with the white cast that is sure to appear with other sunscreens, no matter how much you try to blend it into your face. This sunscreen is lightweight, incredibly smooth, offers SPF 35, AND it doubles as a blurring primer so you can use it under your makeup. Supergoop!, stand aside, cause this baby is super duper similar for only, like, a third of the price! Some breathable, machine-washable pointed-toe flats because you've always strived to one day reach that effortless Jess Day aesthetic — without needing to shell out big bucks for brands like Rothy or Vivaia. They have a stretchy knit upper which makes them super comfy to wear, and when they get dirty (because let's be honest, you'll be wearing these everywhere), you can simply toss 'em into the wash. A 20-pack (!) of extra-thick magic cleaning pads that will erase any crayon, pen, or scuff marks from... well... just about anything. Walls, floors, tubs, sinks, cars, and even shoes can be cleaned with a lil' bit of elbow grease, some water, and these magical sponges. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser has got nothing on these. Rael Beauty's Miracle Patch if you basically want Mighty Patches for a less cost per patch. These clean out any pore-clogging gunk that's festering right under the surface of your skin. Just pop one of these over a whitehead and let it sit for 6–8 hours to absorb all the goo stuck in your pores. A set of internet-famous Mellanni sheets so you can feel like you're snuggling up with absolute luxury — but without dropping hella $$$$ on Cozy Earth or Egyptian cotton sheets. They're soft, moisture-wicking, and don't fade, pill, or stain. Best. Sheets. Ever. A ribbed workout jumpsuit oh-so-freakin' similar to the Skims jumpsuit that has dominated your FYP lately, but for like a fraction of the price. It's the perf 'fit for a low-impact workout, a casual outing, or simply modeling for your Insta story. No one has to know that you got it from Amazon. And a long-sleeve bodysuit so you don't have to overpay for a closet staple ever again. Its super soft feel reminds reviewers of the famous Skims one, with some even claiming that they prefer it to the name brand! A set of aesthetic wrist and ankle weights because you absolutely deserve to look cute even with weights literally strapped to your wrist. And all without having to shell out $50+ on a set of trendy Bala Bangles??? You're gonna be the trendiest person at your gym. A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment for anyone who wants a frizz-free, silky look without paying exorbitant salon prices. Just apply it to wet hair, leave it in for five minutes, and say goodbye to the damaged look your hair has been sporting after years of abuse at the hands of bleach and flat irons. Many reviewers even say this is comparable (or even better) than the pricey Olaplex No.3. A professional MUA–approved black makeup sponge perfect for blending in your foundation, BB cream, powder, and even concealer at a fraction of the cost of all other well-known brands. Reviewers even swear these sponges hold up and work just as well (or even better) than Beauty Blender and Real Technique ones. I just added these to my cart. An Overmont cast-iron Dutch oven that will elevate your kitchen aesthetics, but won't hurt your wallet like the chef-beloved Le Creuset. This baby heats up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and cooks everything evenly, so it can withstand a bunch of different cooking styles — no problem! Use this baby to cook up some rice, soup, stew, or even some sourdough bread. E.l.f.'s Camo Liquid Blush, to give you a gorgeous, soft, dewy finish. It's easy to blend on your cheeks, and you'll fall in love with how pigmented, long-lasting, and buildable it is! AND apparently (you didn't hear this from me), it's giving Rare Beauty a run for its money *sips tea*. A bottle of Nyx setting spray that will protect your flawless makeup look with a matte finish. This bad boy is not only travel-size for your convenience, but can keep your makeup in place for over 16 hours — a great alternative to Urban Decay, but for under $10. And a 12-pack of soft microfiber makeup removing towels so you can gently remove your makeup without relying on the increasingly expensive liquid removers. These towels can be used again and again, are perfect for travel, and literally cost just over $1 per cloth. Move over, Makeup Eraser; these are both easier to use AND are about 20 times cheaper. A new-and-improved Govee neon rope light you can bend and customize into weird, unique shapes to work as the Coolest. Lamp. Ever. Place them on your staircase to illuminate a pathway or string them along your wall to make the best piece of wall art your friends have ever seen. You can even control the lighting effects through the app, or connect it via Google Assistant or Alexa! Hue, step aside. An ultra-hydrating TruSkin vitamin C serum capable of helping transform your skin by boosting collagen and reducing the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, acne, and clogged pores. This serum contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, aloe vera, and jojoba oil — all powerful ingredients made to brighten your skin. Say buh-bye to the expensive SkinCeuticals serum! A Briotech spray incredibly similar to the famous (and more pricey) Tower 28 SOS facial spray, to reduce redness. The main ingredient, hypochlorous acid, triggers an immune response that'll signal your body to repair and heal irritated skin (yeah, just like your white blood cells do). A set of satin pillowcases that are gentle on hair, meaning you're less likely to experience tangles or frizz, no matter how much you toss and turn. And no, you don't need to spend as much as you would buying the popular Slip pillowcases. Essence's Lash Princess Mascara for those of you who would love a way to get the falsies look for $5! This mascara is incredibly affordable, incredibly volumizing, and lasts the entire day — plus, it comes off so easily, no smudging or makeup remover required! Say goodbye to the days of shelling out for more expensive mascaras like Too Faced Better Than Sex, L'Oreal Telescopic Lift, and many, many more — this one is better. A simple, gorgeous tennis bracelet to add some ✨sparkle✨ to your wrist, but ya know, without costing you the down payment of a nice house in the suburbs. This elegant piece looks just like Swarovski, and reviewers say it doesn't tarnish, so it's bound to last you a lifetime. After all, diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but cubic zirconia is her lover. A cruelty-free Acure brightening facial scrub that surpasses more expensive brands like Clinique, The Body Shop, and Rodan + Fields. This scrub contains ingredients like Madonna lily, lemon peel, French green clay, and sea kelp — all of which will leave your skin glowing and hydrated all day long. An eyebrow soap kit to sculpt your brows into mini-masterpieces that will stay in place for hours. With just a few swipes of a brush, you can boast perfectly fluffed brows. Reviewers even claim that it's better than any name-brand alternatives! (Anastasia Beverly Hills, I'm looking at you.) E.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer, infused with tea tree and vitamin E to help smooth out the appearance of wrinkles, blur pores, and get that whole IRL filter look. Plus, it hydrates your skin, lasts all day, and is a lot cheaper (yet incredibly similar to) Tatcha's Silk Canvas primer! Time to make this a staple in your makeup routine. A fanny pack to keep your most valuable items strapped close to your chest — it's necessary while you weave through a busy mall or an overpopulated airport terminal. And it's striking how closely it resembles the $$$ Lululemon belt bag. A Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer that can dry, style, straighten, and add some volume without having to play with about 50 other tools or products. Just step out of the shower, turn this magic wand on, and voila! The perfect look! Spending $500+ on a Dyson Airwrap is not necessary. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks to give you soft and supple lips for less than half the price of the popular Laneige lip mask. These masks use ingredients like berry extract and vitamin C to target dry and cracked lips while you sleep. There are three different scents, so you can share them with friends — or hoard them all for yourself. A chain purse if you've always salivated over the thought of owning Gucci's Dionysus bag, but your bank account says ✨no.✨ This has the same chain style and front clasp, so literally no one will be able to tell the difference — don't worry, I won't spill your lil' secret. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer, to mask those dark circles without feeling like you're wearing something heavy across your skin. It color-corrects and conceals, so you can pretend as though you haven't been pulling all-nighters all week. This magic wand has a built-in sponge for application and will give you all-day coverage (all for cheaper than those 💸💸💸 name-brand options). Skin1004's Zombie Pack masks that only take 15 minutes to work! They are made with albumin, an egg white extract that can help keep your face looking hydrated, bright, and lifted! Reviewers even compare it to Hanacure, but way cheaper. A highly rated pair of hoop earrings to match literally every outfit you own. These accessorize absolutely everything and will look cute paired with anything — from your leggings to your little black dress. No one has to know that you got these off Amazon, instead of dropping hundreds of $$$ on Jennifer Fisher. Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip, because why spend $40+ on that one Dior lip oil, when you can have basically the same thing for $9?! It's hydrating (thank you, vegan squalane), has beautiful sheer colors, and, despite the gloss, is surprisingly not sticky! Gorgeous. A pair of lightweight legging-style joggers, oh-so-similar to Lululemon's Align joggers. The fabric has four-way stretch, plus they have pockets! You'll find yourself reaching for these on every occasion possible — they'll honestly be the comfiest pants you own. And a soft, stretchy longline sports bra if you've always wanted the Lululemon look, but you don't feel like dropping money on the name brand. The look and material are so comparable to Lulu, literally no one will believe you were able to snag this from Amazon. Time to get one in every color. CeraVe's Retinol Serum to prevent irritation, flakiness, and redness, all while helping reduce the appearance of acne scars and pores. Now you can finally add a retinoid to your routine without having to pay $92 for Murad's retinol serum (big yikes). L'Oreal's illuminating Lumi Glotion for those of you who want that perfect "no-makeup" look. You can use this in place of foundation or simply add it to your existing makeup look for a bit of a glow. Plus, it's under $15, so it's the perfect substitute for the expensive options like Glossier Futuredew and Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi Drops. A pair of sling-back mules so similar to Chanel you'll find yourself triple-checking the price just in case. You can pair 'em with slacks or a cutesy lil' dress, and you'll basically be radiating luxury. Some cleaning tablets you can use to clean out all the gunk and grime from that two-day-old coffee that has stained the bottom of your thermos. Just toss the tab (which can also clean dentures and retainers) into your bottle full of water, wait 15 minutes, and pour it out. It'll be clean with no scrub and no hassle. Plus, they have a lower cost per clean than the popular Bottle Bright tablets. A faux-leather belt that is sure to become the focal piece of your outfit. Is it actually Gucci? Perhaps not. But those buddies you meet weekly for brunch don't gotta know that. BestLand's high-performance matte lipsticks, to bring some color to your lips without the fear of it smearing after every single dab of a napkin. Each lipstick costs less than $2 each, an absolute steallll when compared to the $25+ for other famous name brands 👀. Or the long-lasting Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint, that will give your pout a smooth, ultra-pigmented stain with a silky finish without having to worry about constantly reapplying. Reviewers even swearrrr it's just as good as products like the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution and YSL Velvet Cream. A cubic zirconia cuff — it'll have strangers actually thinking you spent (wait, checks notes) $17,000 😱 on the Cartier Love Bracelet. Not only is it less than $12, but you don't need to screw it on — unlike the way too ridiculously expensive version. And on that note, a cubic zirconia ring because you've always wanted the Cartier Love Ring to match, but not the price attached to it. It's simple, it's elegant, and it's pretty much guaranteed to never go out of style. Time to get one in every metal.
Buzz Feed
10-05-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
25 Practical Target Items If You Never Go To The Store
A three-pack of Clorox disinfecting wipes because we *all know* that when sickness or general ick hits your house, you want those germs escorted OUT as quickly as possible and who has time to go to the store with everyone coughing or worse? Have these easy-to-use wipes ready to go for all your disinfecting emergencies and save your future self the stress. Promising reviews: "They're definitely handy and at an arms' reach when needed." —Eli"Love these cleaning wipes. They work great and it feels clean after you have used them to surface clean. I def recommend!" —1313WickedPrice: $7.39 for a three-pack And a bunch of Puffs plus lotion facial tissues for the sneezes that come along with the ick. (Hell-o allergy season.) There is literally no such thing as "too many tissues," so stock up to your heart's (and nose's) delight! Promising reviews: "This product is soft and does not dry out your nose when using them. I highly recommend them." —MrsO"Only tissue I will buy! Love the plus with lotion! Your nose will thank you!" —MaryPrice: $6.89 for a four-pack A bleach-free, no-scrub daily shower spray so you can kiss mildew and that weird stain beneath your shampoo bottles goodbye with a spray-it-and-leave-it ease that will have you wishing you could spray your whole house with this stuff. Promising review: "I purchased this on a whim as I've used the other cleaning sprays in the past. This has a great smell and is great for quick cleanings in between the deeper cleanings of the bathroom. We use it every time we shower and I deep clean weekly. The scent is great and not overpowering. It does not leave a residue either. The value is great and cheaper than a lot of other shower sprays." —DkirkPrice: $2.99 A tub of the cult-fave The Pink Stuff, which uses itty bitty mild abrasives to scrape but not scratch your floors, stovetops, ovens, bathtubs, car wheels, and pretty much anything else you can think of. Always smart to test it on a small patch before really going to scrub town, but then you're free to clean to your heart's content! Promising review: "Been using this product for a year now and it cleans almost EVERYTHING and with ease." —JaylaPrice: $5.99 A Mr. Clean Magic Eraser because some messes need the big guns, and for that, we call Mr. Clean. (That man must work out almost as much as these sponges do after my kid has finished an arts and crafts day at the kitchen table.) Promising review: "The holy grail of cleaning products!! Took all the marks off of our walls before moving out!" —ClewisPrice: $3.29+ (available in sets of two or four) An easy disposal cleaner that's a total drop-and-go situation and will clean your disposal blades, sidewalls, and beneath the splashguard, ensuring your kitchen smells ~amazing~ with seriously minimal effort. Promising review: "These are the best for disposals! They make the sink smell so good!" —PeytonAnnePrice: $10.49 for a box of eight A bottle of Dawn Powerwash for anyone who loves the ~idea~ of "just let it soak" but in practice just wants to get those dirty dishes out of their sink ASAP. Just as easy as soaking but twice as fast, I use this all the time and would like to note that it also smells nice, which is NOT always the case with high-powered soaps! Promising review: "The best tool at your sink for stubborn pots and pans. This product truly shorten my cleanup time after dinner. However, the added bonus is getting to use it on many other things. When I have grease spilled on my counter, I simply spray it down and wipe it up and it's gone. I've used it to pre-treat laundry stains as well. I'm sure I will be discovering more uses." —Warm Happy EarsPrice: $5.49 An O-Cedar spin mop and bucket I can personally attest has made mopping 99% less terrible. My least fave part was wringing out the mop head because even with the "easy wring" ones, I STILL HAD TO TOUCH THE GROSS ICK WATER. No more with this thing. It's easily the best cleaning money I spent last year. And why not go ahead and snag some replacement heads while you're at it?Promising review: "Literally obsessed with this thing! It makes cleaning every nook and cranny so much easier. I use it for my floors, walls, ceilings, behind the toilet, you name it. So happy I bought it." —MomofgirlsPrice: $39.99 An odor-eliminating spray for those spots from kids or pets or snack-dropping friends that just smell wonky. I don't need my cute candle smells to clash with "eau de Cheez-it," thanks. Rocco & Roxie is a family-owned small business named after the Magleby family's pets Rocco, a labradoodle, and Roxie, a former shelter tabby cat. They make a variety of pet supplies, including cleaners, treats, grooming tools, accessories, and out our in-depth Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator review: "I have two senior dogs, who have begun having urine and bowel accidents in the house and there is nothing like this on the market. It works SO good. I wish it wasn't so expensive but like I said it is a game-changer so I can justify." —MMilbrandtPrice: $29.49 A 48-pack of AA batteries, because why is it that you always run out when you need them most? Whether it's for your TV remote, your kid's favorite water toy, or the flashlight you use to check beneath beds and in dark corners for monsters, set yourself up for replacement success now. Promising review: "Great price and work just as well as the brand name." —CarlitaPrice: $29.99 (also available in 10- and 20-packs) Matter compostable lidded hot cups which are a win for you and the planet. (AND your plants if you use your compost to nourish those!) Don't you want to bother fishing your thermos from the dishwasher on a Monday morning? Snag a 10-pack of these, so you always have an ecologically friendly grab-n-go-n-toss option! Matter is a company all about making compostable products from plants which is obviously so much better for the environment without sacrificing the convenience we love to have in our homes. Promising review: "They were great and they didn't leak!" —KayPrice: $5.99 for 10 And some Matter compostable sandwich bags to keep your emergency sandwich handy and not crumbling at the bottom of your bag. I ~personally~ love these earth-friendly sandwich bags for lunches and snacks if you're looking to green-ify another daily habit! Price: $5.39 for a 50-pack A bottle of Method daily wood cleaning spray I SWEAR by simply because it smells ~divine~ and I don't dread spritzing it. It also really makes the bookcase shelves, the tables, and wood panels ✨shine✨, so no more panicking when guests drop by unexpectedly and you need a quick table swipe to spruce things up. Promising review: "I took a chance and tried this wood cleaner in my last pickup order—and so glad I did! The scent is subtle, but nice and more sophisticated than Pledge. I've used this on my mango wood dining table, walnut wood end tables, and more. It works like a charm! Also, a great price in my opinion. They also make a wood floor cleaner that I'll probably try next. Highly recommend!" —BethanyPrice: $6.99 A box of Ecos laundry detergent sheets if you are dubious about those huge tubs of liquid detergent re: the environment but also? Who wants to schlep those around? NOT YOU. Use these handy-dandy, earth-friendly sheets instead. One sheet per load that you just toss in. Your arms say, "Thank you in advance." I literally have gotten my whole family hooked on these, I love them so much!Promising review: "I feel better using ECOS Plastic-Free Laundry Detergent Sheets than plastic tubs of detergent. They work great and completely dissolve. I have not had any issues with them." —iachicmomPrice: $15.99 for a 64-pack (available in two scents) Some moisturizing hand soap because nobody wants cracked knuckles, thank you very much. Hand soap is arguably like, the most skincare your hands see on a daily basis. The aloe vera and olive oil in the Meyer's not only smell great, but they don't leave your hands feeling like dried, overused kitchen sponges. I have a bottle of this at every sink in my house. No joke. Promising review: "Love the scent and how it washes off clean without any residue. Plus doesn't have toxic chemicals!" —Loloco87Price: $4.89 And a Gear Hugger multipurpose lubricant that'll kiss squeaky doors, kids' toys, and cabinets goodbye with a quick spritz on the hinges. Best of all, it's made with plant-based, non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients, so it's perfectly safe to use around kiddos, pets, and your own human self! LOVE that my eager-beaver kid can help me while using this brand. I've had other brands of lubricant in the past that I didn't feel comfortable with him touching because of the strong smells and the general "ick" factor, but not so with Gear Hugger! (Also, the bicycle-riding bear on the packaging is named "Geary." It's hard to tell who was more delighted by this: me or my son.)Promising review: "I had several squeaky door hinges around the house and didn't want to spend a lot of money replacing each one, as I have in the past. I also wanted to avoid using anything toxic because of my children. After some searching, I discovered Gear Hugger! It worked instantly — no more squeaky hinges and no toxic fumes. I couldn't smell a thing after using it. The only thing I needed after spraying was a cloth to wipe away the excess. This product definitely saved me money and relieved my concerns about toxic fumes around my kids." —JeffPrice: $12.89 A Zevo flying insect trap because who isn't sick of trying to fight the eternal insect war? I've had one of these in my kitchen for years because — as you can see — fruit flies are the bane of my existence. Super non-gross to change out the sticky pad, and the little buggers are drawn in by the light rather than me having to worry about spraying pesticide in the same place where I make my food. Promising review: "I have seen no bugs flying around in my apartment since I purchased this. It is a bit larger than I expected, but it is still small enough to not be too obvious. I saw some reviews saying they use it as a nightlight, but I personally do not think it is bright enough for that." —CarmenPrice: $25.99 for a device and three cartridge refills A Scrubbing Bubbles gel toilet-cleaning stamp I use as ~a little treat~ after giving my toilets a good scrub. These stick to the sides of the bowl for ages and though the smell disappears after a while, I swear it keeps icky rings and buildup at bay for even longer than the little gel sticker lasts. This comes with a dispenser and six stamps!Promising review: "The applicator is real easy to use. Just go slowly! The scent is wonderful and not too overpowering. The floral scent is stronger than the fresh scent. Keeps my toilet clean for two weeks. Worth the money." —hipstamomPrice: $4.59 Some Bounty select-a-size paper towel triple rolls so you can clean three times as often and still not have to go to the store for a refill. (Bless.) Promising review: "I have used Bounty for years definitely the stongest towel for cleanups!" —Jan NY Price: $11.79 for a four-pack (also available in 6- and 12-packs and in a mega roll) A battery-operated Air Wick essential oil diffuser kit with a clean linen fragrance to transform your home's scent-scape into an oasis of freshness. Say goodbye to stinky sports gear permeating every inch of your living space and welcome this essential-oil infused mist into your life instead. Promising reviews: "These are perfect, batteries operated so you can put it any where. Everything now a days has to be plugged in or charged. I will be ordering more of these." —B Reed"I absolutely love the Air Wick Essential Mist Diffuser Kit in the Linen scent! It's easy to set up, and the sleek design blends beautifully into any room. The mist is perfectly balanced—not overpowering, but strong enough to fill my space with a clean, fresh aroma that reminds me of freshly washed linens. The adjustable settings are a huge plus, allowing me to control how often it diffuses. Each refill lasts a surprisingly long time, making it worth every penny. It's been perfect for my bedroom and bathroom, creating a calming, inviting atmosphere. If you're looking for a fuss-free way to elevate your home's ambiance, this is it. Highly recommend!" —Target CustomerPrice: $13.99 A scratch-free, odor-resistant Scrub Mommy that is absolutely worth the hype. It has spots for quick, easy utensil cleaning and is (my fave hack) dishwasher safe so you can just chuck it in with the dishes when you're done using it to have it feel brand new! I use these on my counters to give them a good scrub, especially after dealing with raw meat. Promising review: "Absolutely love this scrubber/sponge; since I made the change to these, I haven't bought any other sponges." —RosiePrice: $4.99 An oven cleaner because who has the time and energy to scrub for days when you can just spritz and wipe your burned cheese pizza remnants away? Not you! Promising review: "This stuff is like magic. I thought my stove top was ruined. It's looked awful for two years, and then I found this stuff. It literally made it look brand new in one minute. Amazing." —Carmen RPrice: $6.29 A three-pack of drain cleaner tools that will rid your sinks and drains of those nasty hairballs once and for all. (And without ruining your pipes like some of those pour-down-the-drain liquids can do!) Promising review: "Cleared the hair clog in my pop-up shower drain immediately, without having to remove the drain cap." —SSPrice: $6.29 A four-piece Swiffer dusting kit so that even if you're not 10-feet tall, you can still clean those dusty corners, fan blades, and furniture tops. Promising review: "Never been a duster person; I feel like you just move dust from one place to the next, but this is incredible. So easy. So efficient. Lightweight. Easy to reach hard-to-reach places, and dust actually clings to the duster. What a game changer!" —NKPrice: $10.99 And finally, a pack of stainless steel wipes because streaky fridges and handprint-decorated microwaves are not very demure, and this will get you and your cooking space back to being cutesy in no time. Promising review: "I've tried a few different stainless steel cleaners, and by far this one is top of the mark! I even use it on my sink when it's wet, and it always dries to a beautiful shine when used on my enamel stove; it is the best for cleaning stainless steel and kitchen appliances! Thank you, Weiman; you're the best!" —KatPrice: $5.49 for 30 wipes
New York Times
25-03-2025
- General
- New York Times
Scrubbing Grout Is Annoying. This Tiny $2 Brush Makes It Easy.
Turns out, I was right about the odd jobs, but this little brush also ended up being the perfect tool for keeping the white grout lines in my shower clean. Originally, I bought two of these mini cleaning brushes on a whim, simply because they were cute—and less than $2 each. Sure, I also thought they might come in handy for odd jobs around the house, like scrubbing around faucets and cleaning appliance crevices, but I'm a sucker for anything miniature (see: my beloved mini dustpan set ). But one of my best Muji purchases is also one of the most unassuming: a tiny little cleaning brush that I end up reaching for more times than I can count. Give me an hour, and I could fill it with all the ways I love Muji, a store that sells Japanese-designed basics. Over the years, I've stocked up on my favorite 0.5 mm gel pens, colorful cotton socks, and little spiral-bound notebooks. I like to give the tiles in my shower a periodic deep clean (usually once or twice a quarter) when I start to notice a buildup of soap scum and that hauntingly familiar pink bacteria, but especially if dark mold spots are beginning to form. Since I'm allergy-prone and asthmatic, keeping mold and mildew at bay in my home is a constant but worthwhile endeavor. It's annoying, though, to try to clean the once bright-white grout lines between my subway tiles with any sort of efficiency, and I've tried my fair share of relatively ineffective methods. The small brush head and angled handle of this mini cleaning brush make it easy—and even fun—to really get into grout lines. Caroline Mullen/NYTWirecutter In the past I've tried a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser (which turned out to be better suited to non-abrasive surfaces), a spinning brush attachment for my drill (which put more strain on my arm than simply scrubbing), and a host of wider, bigger cleaning brushes (which weren't precise enough to focus on the grout lines). To confirm that the mini Muji brush really was my new favorite tool, I also tested the OXO Good Grips Grout Brush, which Wirecutter recommends in our article on how to clean grout and tile. The OXO brush was certainly more effective than the Magic Eraser and a flatter, wider cleaning brush, and I liked the grippy handle. If your shower or floor has wide grout lines, I would definitely recommend the OXO brush for scrubbing more surface area. But my shower is covered with subway tile, and the grout lines are relatively thin, so a small brush head is ideal for my situation. Plus, instead of begrudging the tiny tool for not getting the job done as quickly as possible, I found that it worked more effectively than a larger brush because it allowed me to focus on cleaning each section of grout properly before moving on to the next. This way, I complete the task correctly the first time instead of needing to go back and touch up my work. I usually spray Clorox Clean-Up on the tile and grout, let it sit for about a minute to penetrate the grime, and then get to scrubbing. Caroline Mullen/NYTWirecutter The Muji brush is about the size of a toothbrush and angled, so it's quite comfortable to hold flush against the wall. The bristles are short and stiff, which is particularly helpful when I'm scrubbing the gritty, abrasive grout, which tends to do a number on cleaning brushes. The stiff bristles further set it apart from a toothbrush, as even the stiffest toothbrush isn't nearly as hardy as the Muji brush (and for good reason—the Muji brush would tear your gums apart). It also has a hole at the end of the handle, so you can hang it from a hook or loop a string through it. Left: My shower wall before a scrub-down with Clorox Cleanup Cleaner + Bleach and the little Muji brush. Right: The results. Caroline Mullen/NYT Wirecutter I like to use this brush in conjunction with our top disinfecting all-purpose spray, Clorox Clean-Up Cleaner + Bleach, to kill the mold and bacteria living in the damp shower environment and return the grout to its original white. I always wear gloves and turn the bathroom fan on, as bleach can affect my breathing, and I never use other cleaning products with bleach to prevent noxious fumes. This little brush isn't great just for grout, though. Since my original purchase, I've picked up several more and stashed them around the house—they're less than $2 apiece, after all. I keep a couple under the kitchen sink for scrubbing the rivets on stainless steel pans with Bar Keepers Friend, getting gunk off the electric stove coils, and squirming into the nooks and crannies of the faucet for a deep clean. I have one in the bathroom for the grout (of course), faucet, and drain, and another one specifically for scrubbing inside the rim of the toilet, which is prone to mineral buildup. Caroline Mullen/NYT Wirecutter Brushes that come in contact with particularly gross bacteria, such as those that I use inside the toilet bowl, get washed with soap and water and then disinfected with Clorox Clean-Up Cleaner + Bleach, the same cleaner I use on the grout. I let the Clorox cleaner remain visibly wet for at least 30 seconds, per the bottle's instructions, to kill bacteria. When I'm finished using any of the other brushes on a particular task, I pop it in the dishwasher for a cycle. However, I keep the brushes that come in contact with food surfaces separate from the others for sanitary reasons. I've fallen so in love with these little cleaning brushes that I even put them in my family's stockings last Christmas in the hopes that they'll find a little bit of joy when scrubbing their grout or getting their showerhead back to its glistening glory. Much like my affinity for my mini dustpan set, my fondness for this little brush is bound to last. I tend to think that a thoughtfully designed, adorable tool makes even the most loathsome cleaning task a bit less painful—and that's certainly worth $2. This article was edited by Megan Beauchamp and Maxine Builder.
