31 Things That Are So Useful, You'll Probably Buy A Second One For Someone Else
Get ready to budget for a second weighted blanket — your friend will totally appreciate it.
We hope you love the products we recommend! All of them were independently selected by our editors. Just so you know, BuzzFeed may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to shop from them. Oh, and FYI — prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.
1. This spoon-colander hybrid to make draining excess liquids from your food soooo much simpler. You'll want to call all your food-loving friends and tell them that they'll never burn their hands straining pasta ever again.
Promising review: "This is great since you can stir and then scoop your food out of a pot when it’s ready with only one utensil to clean afterward. I’m always looking for time-saving items for at-home cooking, and this definitely does the trick. I would definitely buy this again." —Happy Mac User
Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in three colors).
2. The ~infamous~ TubShroom that you've probably seen in a million posts. Hey, it's not our fault that this thing traps shower hair so well that you'll be gifting these as stocking stuffers!!!
Promising review: "No seriously, this is amazing. I have long hair and recently had a baby. It's a wonder I still have any hair based on the clumps I see falling out on a regular basis. This means the poor tub drain is getting clogged every time we turn around, and we're spending ridiculous amounts of time with that spiky stick thing you shove down there and then pull out over and over. I figured if this even worked to catch half of my hair then it would be worth its salt. Holy moly. When they say it catches every hair they aren't kidding. We clean it off about twice A WEEK! And when they say it's easy to clean, they are right again. A swipe with toilet paper and the hair blob comes right off to be flushed down the toilet. I've already told so many people about this product because I love it so much. Fantastic!!!" —sasamo
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in five colors and as a pack of two).
3. And a silicone sink strainer to make trapping and disposing of those *shudder* wet food bits easier much less gross-feeling — literally no one has ever enjoyed scraping around the sink with bare hands for wet bread chunks. 🤢
Promising review: "After trying multiple sink strainers, I'm thrilled to report that the OXO strainer is the clear winner. I've had zero problems with food getting stuck to this strainer — even melted cheese falls right off. My last strainer was the wire type, and I spent a good amount of time cleaning and cursing that thing because everything seemed to stick and meld itself to the wire. I've had no problems with this strainer. It stays clean looking and is easy to clean. I just empty it, wipe it off with a soapy paper towel, rinse, and replace it. Magic!" —housewench
Get it from Amazon for $8.95+ (available in three styles).
4. A silicone lip brush because it gently exfoliates away any dry, dead skin, and leave your lips ready to absorb your moisturizer. Basically, it would be a crime to not introduce your friends to these.
Promising review: "I admit I was skeptical about this product but my desperation to regain my soft lips made me click the BUY button. I just had a baby and between all the milk I was pumping for the baby and caffeine drinking my body was dried out and dehydrated. My lips took a hit and were dried, cracked, and even bleeding — very painful. Having this lip brush did the trick and made all the difference. The exfoliation must have allowed my lip moisturizer to get better absorbed. I was able to see results in just a couple of days. Now I have soft and supple lips again. A toothbrush doesn't feel as good and it will waste whatever product you are using with it because the product will settle deep in the bristles. Where has this been all my life?" —Double-J
Get one from Amazon for $7.99 (available in three colors).
5. Bra strap clips that'll help prevent your bra straps from sliding down your shoulder every three seconds. Bra wearers might actually cry tears of joy.
Promising review: "Since I started using these clips, I haven't had to pull up my straps a single time! I used to have to pull them back up a dozen times a day. No more. Now I can put on my bra and then just forget that it is there." —K. Howe
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $5.97+ (available in seven color sets and packs of three and five).
6. A cold brew maker so you and all your coffee-loving friends can save money and still get your caffeine fix.
Promising review: "Just like everyone else, I wanted the cost savings and convenience of iced coffee at home. I followed the instructions and added the filtered water from our fridge. Mine sat for a little over 14 hours only and it was perfect! I didn't have coarse ground coffee in the house so I used my regular Folgers coffee and it was perfect! I was worried the grinds would seep into the pitcher through the filter net but surprisingly, it didn't! The filter part was super easy to clean. I added ice, a little bit more water, and then some flavored creamer, and wow! I'm looking forward to using this with my protein smoothies to make vanilla latte shakes." —LLA
Get it from Amazon for $17.59+ (available in two sizes and three colors).
7. These cute critter chip clips that you'll promptly give to your siblings so they now have no excuse to leave the bag of Doritos wide open.
Promising review: "I’m always losing or breaking chip clips. There are a lot of different chip clips being made, but none are this cute. These are simple and affordable, but durable. I tend to just add this onto any order, usually around Christmas time. Also, the cuteness is helpful because it gives me a small point of happiness anytime I see them. They’re small enough to fit inside an overstuffed drawer, yet big and distinct enough to see in that busy drawer. I will definitely purchase them again." —Kevin C
Get a pack of six from Amazon for $3.99.
8. A silicone holster you and your roommate can stick to the countertop so you'll never trip over each others' styling tools again.
Promising review: "This holster is a great space saver and prevents me from knocking my straightener off my counter, which always results in a broken flat iron! I was surprised by how big it was. It fits my standard flat iron perfectly with some space to spare so I could fit a brush in there. I love that it resists heat for up to 500 degrees because my flat iron goes up to 450 degrees, so I am able to keep my flat iron in there while using it. As long as you follow the directions and clean your countertop as directed, the holster will stay put. It held strong on top of my wooden desk. I highly recommend this!" —ashleywhy
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two colors).
9. Or! This silicone mat so you can still safely stow away your still-warm curling iron when you're rushing out the door and don't have time to wait for it to cool down.
Promising review: "I bought two of these for my 13-year-old daughter for Christmas. She uses one for her flat iron and the other for her Beachcomber. They provide great protection to her furniture whenever she lays her hot styling tool down while fixing her hair, and it's a super convenient way to store her tools immediately after use, even while they are still hot." —Sarah Elizabeth Pryor
Get it from Amazon for $15.45+ (available in two colors and as a roll-up mat, shown, or a pouch).
10. A weighted blanket because after it helps you get a better night's rest, you'll want to lend it to a family member who has trouble staying asleep at night. Reviewers also say that the blanket has helped alleviate some pain, too.
You should also check out the company's weight chart to properly determine which blanket size is right for you.
Promising review: "After reading other reviews on weighted blankets, I decided to go with Luna, and I have bought two now, one as a gift. I love that the material is organic cotton, and the beads are not made of plastic. The cotton is light but strong. I have used this blanket for three or so months now. Having battled insomnia, restless legs, joint pain, and muscle pain, I had read that a weighted blanket could help. Honestly, I hardly have sleepless nights now. The blanket isn't too heavy but just heavy enough. and I love it!! Before I had this blanket, there were many nights I was awake until 3 a.m. due to insomnia and pain. Now, usually within a half-hour of winding down, I am asleep! It calms my restless legs, and really lessens muscle and joint pain! The blanket is sturdy, holding up well, and totally worth the money." —sunshine
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in 14 weights and sizes and in 21 colors).
11. This essential oil diffuser that'll create such a perfect, soothing atmosphere that the college student in your family will want to keep this baby going while they study.
Promising review: "I bought this as a gift for my single brother because he always asks me about the scents in my house. This is perfect. It has a great style and the wood grain is masculine, but I really like it, too. It fits in anywhere and I love how the mist starts instantly. It fills the room with whatever scent you've chosen — usually three to four drops of any essential oil. It also shuts off automatically when the water level is low. I bought a similar one for myself. It's also amazing for helping you sleep!!" —Kindle Customer
Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in two sizes and four colors).
12. A tube of Glossier Cloud Paint that'll give you a gorgeous, natural-looking cheek color that'll accentuate your already-beautiful glow. When your friends ask what your skin secret is, you'll practically already have a tube being shipped to them.
Promising review: "I ordered cloud paint in Puff & Dusk. I sometimes mix them together and sometimes just wear one alone depending on the look I want. I love how easy it is to layer it on to get the right intensity I want. It blends so easily and doesn’t have that 'too much blush,' powdery look. It gives a natural glow. I’m almost out of it and will re-order them for sure!" —ginahanna
Get two Cloudpaints from Glossier for $30 (available in six shades).
13. This bottle of The Ordinary High Strength Vitamin and Mineral Blemish Formula because you might be so impressed with how effectively the niacinamide and zinc reduce inflammation, that your good deed for the day will be sharing your find.
This product was made for all skin types. It is alcohol-free, silicone-free, vegan, and gluten-free.
Promising review: "I have combination skin and struggle with cystic like acne, this product is heaven-sent. It improved the texture of my skin after just a couple of days, especially if you use it morning and night. It has really helped prevent breakouts all around and I’m finally seeing clearer skin. I don’t use tons of products like some people so I know this is what is improving my skin. I’ve used Philosophy face wash and Cetaphil face lotion for over six months now and after using this, The Ordinary serum I’ve finally seen improvement. If you’re skeptical just try it, it won’t break the bank either like a lot of other skincare products. Worth it!" —Gabs98
Get it from SkinStore for $6.40.
14. Massage balls for you and anyone who just wants a little relief from a workout, long walk, or just an overall rough week.
Promising review: "So many choices, which one to choose? For this, the price was right and I was looking for sciatica trigger point release. This was my first experience with lacrosse massage balls and it has been a positive one. It really hits the trigger points easily with very little effort. I knew within five seconds of using them that it was going to be successful. I let my wife try them after her workday and after five seconds, she could feel the lacrosse massage balls hitting trigger points very effectively. This is a very worthy purchase!" —Pokie
Get a set of two from Amazon for $10.95 (available in three colors).
15. This oven rack slider so no one ever has to burn a hand trying to check on the lasagna ever again.
Promising review: "This seemed somewhat of what I would call one of my silly purchases. That was, until I used it for Thanksgiving turkey. I tried to take out the rack to check the bird and could not because it was too heavy, hot, and awkward. Then, I remembered I had this in the drawer. The rack slid out like a breeze. It's one of those things you don't think you will really use, but you're thankful during the times you really need to use it." —Robert C
Get it from Amazon for $5.69+ (available in packs of one or two).
16. A microwave pasta cooker that every college student in your family will thank you for putting in their care package because reviewers say this gives you perfectly cooked pasta without the hassle of a big cleanup.
Promising review: "I don't want to get all gushy over a pasta maker, but man, I really love this gizmo! I try to limit my monthly food expenditures and the Fasta Pasta helps me work in at least one inexpensive pasta meal every week, if not more. First of all, I like spaghetti but I'm lazy and impatient and don't like things that take a long time to make, with a bunch of steps, and a big clean up afterward. The Fasta Pasta is perfect for me. I get the exact amount of correctly-measured spaghetti and it's faster than boiling water in a big pot then having to watch and stir the pasta. This pasta comes out perfectly cooked every time, and the cleanup is a snap. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!" —Smilin Sam
Get it from Amazon for $16.99.
17. This handy reminder every pet parent in your life needs so different family members or roommates never accidentally feed their corgi four times in one day.
Promising review: "This is an awesome product! There are four of us that were working together to feed the dogs. This simplified everything because I no longer have to text to see if anyone had already fed them every morning. Now, I just check to see if the button is switched to green and if not, I feed the dogs. We all love it so much!" —Toni Deegan
Get it from Amazon for $9.95.
18. An adjustable belt that reviewers say really won't budge, so you can have a comfortable walk outside without having to pull your pants up every two minutes.
Promising review: "Silly, I know but l LOVE this belt. I work as a custodian and with this belt, my pants stay in place all night. I am constantly bending over, sweeping and mopping floors, going up and down stairs, and lifting heavy items. My pants never move or slip. The belt adjusts to accommodate a large range of waist sizes. The best part is not having a belt buckle that gets caught on objects or gets in the way. I am planning to buy more for everyday use. They also look and are comfortable." —M. Sobie
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 13 colors and as a pack of two).
19. This tube of Versed Overnight Facial Peel because it'll be the exfoliating solution they've been looking for. It'll work its magic while they sleep. Its blend of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and vitamin A is gentle but effective enough to reveal brighter skin.
Promising reviews: "I read about this product on line and ordered the small size to try. After one use, I was hooked! I’m 75 and fortunately my skin is in pretty good condition without deep lines, but I needed something to brighten and even out my complexion. This did just that and made me a believer." —AuntyBirdy
"I looove that this product is a one-step solution. I use on the nights when I just can’t do my routine. My skin feels smooth and hydrated when I wake up which I love!" —Skincarefan24
Get it from Versed for $9.99+ (available in two sizes).
20. Some anti-blister foot balm — ALL of your friends will thank you for carrying it on hikes, because no one (and I mean no one) wants to hike a 3-mile trail in a pair of boots that pinch the backs of your feet.
Promising review: "All, I am proud to post that I had just completed the 2018 Boston Marathon in torrential rain and hurricane winds. It’s like when you walk from your car to your house door and you are soaked from head to toe — one of the absolute worst conditions for a marathon. A friend recommended body and foot glide, so I coated my entire foot, between the toes and all. I had NO BLISTERS after 26.2 miles in the pouring rain. I cannot rave about this product more. I highly recommend this for bad weather, breaking in new shoes, etc." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $8.
21. A winged eyeliner stamp because it'll help you seem effortlessly dressed up for those girls' nights over Zoom. Perfect eyeliner look in seconds? Right this way.
Promising review: "I just want to make my morning routine as easy as possible. I love winged liner but I don’t have a steady hand for it without mistakes. This makes the perfect and consistent wing every time. Love it!" —Julie B
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $14.97 (available in four sizes and two colors).
22. An insulated champagne flute to keep everyone's drinks cold and ~bubbly~ while you sit around your backyard sharing stories from your high school days.
Promising review: "I bought the rose gold one but will definitely be buying other colors as well! This flute is the perfect size for my small hands! I am able to hold it without a problem. While it is a good size for my hands, it also holds a lot of beverage! It holds about double the size of a standard flute, which is amazing because you don't need to refill it as often! If you love cold mimosas, this flute is for you! It keeps the drink cold and bubbly and looks cute all at the same time! I think it is cool that the lid is a flip-top lid so it is able to keep the drink bubbly." —Jackie Delao
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in 20 colors).
23. And if you and your friends prefer wine, you'll want to buy like five of these wine aerators because they add oxygen to every pour for a smoother, more flavorful tasting wine.
Promising review: "I never understood the point of aerating wine but this tool makes a difference. When my sister bought a product like this and had me try the wine, I couldn't tell the difference at all. I decided to give it another try and poured two glasses of wine — one with aeration and one without — swapped the cups around so I didn't know which was which, and after tasting both, there was a clear difference in the quality. Even my boyfriend who isn't much of a wine drinker noticed the difference. I'm not sure what exactly it is, but this aerator basically makes any wine smooth and flavorful." —KP
Get it from Amazon for $15.99.
24. This flat water bottle that you and your family members will be able to conveniently slip into purses or small bags for weekend getaways.
Promising review: "I have received a lot of compliments on this water bottle! It holds 22 oz, which is more than what it looks like it would hold. The lid is not attached to the handle, which I had mistakenly believed it would, but this is fine. The colored portion of the bottle is textured so it is very easy to grip, and the shape of the bottle allows it to fit into certain smaller bags more easily than cylindrical bottles do. I love this water bottle because it is so cute and functional — it definitely encourages me to drink more water!" —Janice Kim
Get it from Amazon for $21.96+: pink, orange, teal, or mint.
25. Egg poaching cups because you'll end up with such perfectly runny eggs that you'll make damn sure your S.O. has a backup pack in their apartment to make you a fancy breakfast when you stay the night.
Promising review: "These things are fantastic. I am a total klutz in the kitchen — a complete noncook. And yet, two poached eggs came out perfectly the first time I used these little beauties. I sprayed some Pam in each cup, cracked and dropped the egg in, put them in my microwave, covered them with a paper towel, and 60 seconds later, I had two completely delicious, wonderfully done poached eggs. Voila! If I can do it, anyone can. Boy, am I impressed." —Leland C. Sheppard
Get a pack of four from Amazon for $11.97.
26. Or! This avocado slicing tool so they can make you Insta-worthy avocado toast if you so choose.
The serrated blade lets you easily cut through an avocado without accidentally cutting yourself. The pitter's designed to remove even stubborn pits, without the risks of trying to aim a knife to hit it just so. And, the fan blade slicer removes the fruit from its skin while simultaneously cutting it into seven ~perfect~ slices.
Promising review: "Avocado? Yes, please! This tool is awesome. It easily cuts open the fruit and the pit remover works well — just push onto the pit and give it a twist and the pit pops right out. The best part is the slicer. It makes beautiful slices for a great presentation. The tool can then be used to scrape any remaining fruit off of the skin. I'm really happy I bought this tool!" —NPR MAN
Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
27. This tube of Glossier Balm Dotcom Skin Salve with a super thick texture so they can smother their lips in delicious-smelling hydration, and put an end to dry skin.
28. A dishwasher magnet that'll put an end to the familiar family bickering about dirty dishes resting among sparkling clean ones — just be ready for the influx of messages from all of your aunts asking for a magnet for their own households.
Promising review: "I purchased this magnet for my dishwasher to help my family in knowing when the dishwasher was clean vs. dirty. It has also helped me remember to start the dishwasher in the evening since I like to load it during the day and run it at night when water is cheaper (and it provides a soothing white noise for me to sleep to). I love that it has a great magnetic grip to my dishwasher, it doesn’t fall off when I put the lid down. I rotate it without ever removing the magnet from the dishwasher. It is very easy to read and use and looks great. I am very happy with it." —Nicole Durham
Get it from Amazon for $5.47.
29. These wine condoms so you can securely seal leftover bottles — and use the money you save from not having to buy a new bottle of wine to get a set of these for your friends.
Promising review: "This is so good that I had to buy two! Not only are these wine condoms a gift that people will talk about, but they're also a responsible way to keep your wine sealed between drinks. First and foremost, they're reusable. I do want to note though that, like any other condom, a wine condom will break if you're too rough with it. However, if you use common sense while putting one on the bottle and don't try to overstretch it, I doubt you'll have any problems (I haven't had any so far). Personally, I prefer using these to traditional corks when storing white wine because I can keep my bottles sideways in the fridge without fear of any spillage." —Samantha
Get a set of six from Amazon for $14.97.
30. Orrr, these beanie-shaped wine stoppers so everyone's half-full bottles will certainly look cozy in their respective fridges 'till virtual girls' night part two.
31. And a pair of fluffy Ugg slides that'll practically wrap your feet in luxury as you walk across the cold floors of your home. Just prepare yourself to budget for a second pair for your mom (because otherwise, she'll just keep stealing yours).
Promising review: "I just received them today, but I am so in love with these already. They are so cute and comfy. I lucked out and got the last pair of pink ones, and they were in my size (go figure). I also love the little wedge on it." —Sandra Richardson
Get it from Amazon for $99.95+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in 20+ colors).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.