At least once a month, the “what small purchase made a in difference in your life” prompt pops up on Twitter and what often follows is a thread with dozens or even hundreds of people recommending unique products that have made their life a little nicer.
Many of the same areas are covered again and again: what can help us sleep better and eat better? What's something inexpensive but valuable? Is there a "novelty" item that is surprisingly handy and practical?
We’ve tracked down the most highly recommended stuff, from a shirt folding board to a bucket of flaky sea salt, based on the most robust reviews and our own product testing.
For more Endorsed picks, be sure to check out our fully stocked Amazon Storefront.
Slip sleep mask in black
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who struggles with falling or staying asleep because of too much light.
Why we're endorsing it: A dark room is imperative for healthy and restorative sleep but there are a lot of factors that can disrupt that (including smart devices and early morning light). This sleep mask is like black-out shades for the eyes, ideal for light sleepers who do not want to be disturbed.
Where it could use improvements: The band is not adjustable.
Size/weight/dimensions: One size.
Price (subject to change): $77 at Sephora.
Shiatsu back and neck massager
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who has felt a kink in their neck or suffers from tension headaches.
Why we're endorsing it: This heated neck massager has eight nodes that move in multiple directions to soothe tense muscles and assist with releasing stress. The heating element is optional, and 20 minutes a day will work wonders on a tired body.
Where it could use improvements: Not wireless.
Size/weight/dimensions: One size.
Price (subject to change): $63.99 at Amazon.
10-foot charging cable
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who accidentally pulls their charger base out of the wall on a regular basis.
Why we're endorsing it: Reading and watching TV and movies on devices in bed or on the couch will be greatly improved by a long cord that doesn’t require huddling near an outlet.
Where it could use improvements: These are not name-brand.
Size/weight/dimensions: Check device ports to ensure the correct specs are met (ie: USB, USC).
Price (subject to change): $15.99/two cords on Amazon.
Aeropress coffee maker
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants to master making one (or two) perfect cups of coffee without a pod machine.
Why we're endorsing it: Low waste (filters and grinds are compostable), thousands of 5-star reviews and endless possibilities with bean types and grinds.
Where it could use improvements: Mastering it requires some trial and error.
Size/weight/dimensions: 250 ml capacity.
Price (subject to change): $50.99 at Amazon.
Pronged back scratcher
Who it's ideal for: Anyone with an itch.
Why we're endorsing it: It may seem silly to purchase a back scratcher but the next time it hits a hard-to-reach spot, it suddenly becomes a genius, can’t-live-without-it nightstand item.
Where it could use improvements: Can break if pressed too hard.
Size/weight/dimensions: 8” long (extendable).
Price (subject to change): $5.99 at Amazon.
Chuckit! Classic Launcher
Who it's ideal for: Recall-trained and high-energy dogs.
Why we're endorsing it: It will save the fetch arm from getting sore and owners don’t have to pick up slobbery or muddy balls. Compatible with tennis balls.
Where it could use improvements: The ball might be too flimsy for hard chewers.
Size/weight/dimensions: 26” handle.
Price (subject to change): $10.99 on Amazon.
Goplus Jumbo Folding Shopping Cart
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who is constantly juggling overflowing bags of stuff (like groceries or laundry).
Why we're endorsing it: Convenience, safety, four-wheel design, folds up to fit in a small space.
Where it could use improvements: Not lined and no cover.
Size/weight/dimensions: 13 lbs.
Price (subject to change): $129.99 at Amazon.
Maldon Sea Salt
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants to add a pinch of luxury to every meal.
Why we're endorsing it: Maldon Sea Salt is a favourite of home cooks who love to present a meal with a bit of flourish. The taste is clean and natural, not overpowering. Also makes lovely gifts for a host or hostess.
Where it could use improvements: It’s cheaper to buy boxes in multiples.
Size/weight/dimensions: Varies.
Price (subject to change): $13.98/28-gram box (or buy a bucket of it for $47.73) on Amazon.
Geniusidea folding board
Who it's ideal for: People who love — or hate — to do laundry.
Why we're endorsing it: This item came up over and over again in the “useful stuff” Twitter thread. Crisp, consistent folding can lessen wrinkles, saves space, and makes dealing with a load of clean laundry a little less painful.
Where it could use improvements: For those who have never used one, watching a YouTube tutorial could help with the learning process.
Size/weight/dimensions: 60 x 0.2 x 72 cm.
Price (subject to change): $19.99 on Amazon.
Aculief acupressure mat and pillow
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants to incorporate small moments of relief (via acupuncture, massage or physio) at home.
Why we're endorsing it: This mat can be used for yoga, at the gym or a relaxing meditation session.
Where it could use improvements: Doesn’t come with any instructions or tips.
Size/weight/dimensions: 46.99 x 27.79 x 19.51 cm.
Price (subject to change): $38.83 on Amazon.
