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We spend all year searching for and trying out the best products you can buy for yourself (or gift to others). And twice a year, we take a step back to show you which of those products you — and other readers — are most into. Here are our most popular products from the first half of 2023 that cost under $25. From cult-favorite beauty finds to DIY bathroom hacks that’ll save you money in the long run, read on for 17 of our favorite products you can buy on a budget.
And for more of our favorite products in other categories, click here.
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A card game your older kids might actually play with you…
This card game will have you laughing, imitating animals, and possibly icing your hands after overenthusiastic card-pile slapping. It’ll be a hit at family game nights, even with older kids, and even with you. Really. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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Wipes that’ll make cleaning your makeup brushes way easier…
You probably don’t clean them as often as you should. It’s okay, neither do we. These convenient wipes will make it seem like less of a chore. They’re effective thanks to their hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and essential oils and are perfect for on-the-go. Plus, you’ll be reviving your favorite old brushes instead of spending your hard-earned cash on new ones. ($14/20 wipes, Dermstore)
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A 52-page weekly meal planner notepad with a tear-off grocery list…
Figuring out what to cook for dinner doesn’t have to be stressful. This combo pad lets you plan ahead and prep for each day of the week. So you can save time at the grocery store and prevent food waste. Plus, this one has strong magnets so it’ll actually stay put on your fridge (no sliding here). Win-win. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A saline nasal spray for congestion relief…
Kick those sniffles to the curb with this simple spray. It’s made of purified water, salt, and baking soda. It’ll also relieve dryness, and it’s ultra gentle. Being able to breathe easily during peak pollen season? That’s priceless. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A mist to keep your scalp from getting burnt…
This broad-spectrum nourishing spray will protect your head and won’t grease your hair up in the process. (Psst: It’s also great for those who are balding.) The spray is cruelty-free, paraben- and sulfate-free, vegan, color-safe, and water-resistant. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A mirror toy that babies are obsessed with…
There’s a reason this mirror already has tons of fans. From tummy time days well into the first year, this simple toy has so much to offer: subtle sounds and textures, contrasting colors, and of course, most importantly, that way-too-cute baby reflection. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A dishwasher-safe cleaning squeegee…
This multifunctional tool allows you to remove leftovers from plates quickly, collect crumbs off countertops, push food into garbage disposals, and even clear excess water in your kitchen or bathroom — instead of having to use your bare hands. It has a sturdy grip and a slightly flexible edge to really get into dish crevices. Plus, the curved edge makes it easy to clean pots and pans. Forget having to use endless paper towels to scrape off any extra debris in your pre-wash step. Psst…peep our full review of this product and more from OXO. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A tool that’ll make your hairbrush as good as new…
If your pet isn’t the only member of your household who sheds, you’re gonna need this. One end has a small, dense brush that you can angle to get any residual hair out of hard-to-reach spots. The other end has a metal comb to help get you a more detailed, deeper clean. It works on many types of brushes and is small enough to take on the go. You’ll never have to use your bare hands to clean things up again. Ick. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A tea variety pack perfect for bedtime…
Celestial Seasonings Sleepytime tea is a classic for a reason. It’s soothing and caffeine-free, so having a cup before bed is the ultimate wind-down ritual. This bundle comes with the brand’s original blend plus honey, mint, peach, vanilla, and lavender renditions. Get the pack for yourself or your tea-obsessed friend. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A flameless candle lighter you never knew you needed…
Nix traditional matches with this rechargeable electric lighter. It has LED lights that indicate how charged it is at any moment and an auto-stop feature that’ll close the igniting spark after seven seconds for safety. And since it’s almost 7 inches long, it’ll reach the end of almost every candle. Wicks, we’re coming for ya. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A cult-fave sleeping lip mask that smells ridiculously good…
And will leave your lips feeling hydrated in the morning. Skimm HQ'rs love — and we mean love — this famous Laneige overnight lip mask. Apply a generous layer over your lips before bed and let the vitamin C and antioxidants work their magic. This one comes in seven different scents and three bundles and includes an applicator to help keep your fingers clean. Plus, you can wear it during the day for a glossy, healthy look. Your obsession will be real, promise. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A grout pen to restore your bathroom floor to its original look…
Meet the adult version of coloring. This pen will tackle grout that won’t seem to brighten even with intense scrubbing. Now all you gotta do is stay within the lines. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A delightfully low-tech outdoor toy…
Get ready, because this thing is gonna come out at every outdoor BBQ or playdate. And the adults will get sucked in every time. All you have to do is load up a rocket on the launcher, then stomp as hard as you can and…watch it soar. (This version has dueling launchers for the inevitable competition that will ensue.) ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A hydrating hand sanitizer that’ll keep you germ-free on the go…
Hand sanitizer is always a purse necessity. Touchland’s award-winning sanitizers in scents like frosted mint and velvet peach come in thin, chic packaging that can slip right into your bag. They’re as moisturizing as they are effective in germ-killing. For the smell-sensitive, it comes unscented too. We love this glowy rosewater one for the ultimate skincare step for your hands. ($16, Touchland)
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A jade roller and gua sha set for facial massages…
IOHO (in our humble opinions), these tools are best used when cold. But if you prefer them at room temp, store them in your bathroom medicine cabinet. Use the jade roller across your cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead, rolling outward and upward, and follow with the gua sha tool. The stimulation is said to decrease puffiness, help blood flow, and reduce sinus pressure. Not to mention the pressure and movements just feel really darn good. Hello, relaxation. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A slotted spoon that doubles as a colander…
Pick up pasta, fried foods, and more. If you wanna let things strain for longer, the scoop has little grooves that allow it to rest on pot and pan edges. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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Fridge photo magnets you’ll never get tired of…
You’ve already got framed photos all around the house, so why not add a couple to the fridge? They’re available in three sizes (small, medium, large) and can be made within a day. Aka a quick gift for yourself or a loved one that’ll last a lifetime. ($8.99+, PrintsFactoryInc via Etsy)
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