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Jul 27, 2023

32 Practical Gifts To Give Yourself Just Because You Can

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed collects a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

Once you read the reviews for this massage ball, every muscle in your body will be like, "Please and thank you."

BuzzFeed Staff

I recently started using one of these and WOWZA, it really helps you get extra mileage out of your shampoo. I have a whole lot of hair on my head so sometimes it's a struggle to feel like I've soaped up my whole scalp thoroughly, but this was a very effective way to spread out the suds and really get them to the roots. I was worried it might tangle in my hair, but it was totally fine on that front, too. I've noticed that my hair has been a little less greasy at the roots since I started using it a few weeks ago. And I'm echoing a ton of reviewers here when I say it just feels reeeeeally, really nice.

Promising review: "I’ve suffered from dry skin and a dry scalp ever since I turned 30. The only thing that helps me is exfoliating. I was initially concerned that the product would be too rough and damage my sensitive scalp or too soft and ineffective. However, this brush is perfect for me. It does not tangle my long hair, it is easy to use and just firm enough to get the job done. My scalp no longer itches and the icky buildup is gone. I can't believe something so affordable has made such a difference in the health of my scalp. I’ve used expensive shampoos and conditioners to no end with barely a difference. I wish I discovered this product much sooner!" —AH

Get it from Amazon for $6.98+ (available in three colors).

Promising review: "I bought these because of the famous TikTok video. All I have to say is that they are sooo cute. Great quality. And perfect size. 100% recommend." —angelina

Get a set of two from Amazon for $7.85+ (available in 15 styles).

Promising review: "These are great! I've struggled with insomnia for the past couple of years. I wish I'd found these sooner. They are extremely comfortable. When I fall asleep, I rarely sleep for more than an hour straight. These allow me to comfortably play a podcast or meditation to get myself back to sleep. I'm only two nights in on using these and I know I don't want to be without them. Even in a dark room, I use them to cover my eyes. They do move a little on my head while sleeping but not so much that it really bothers me. I always sleep with a fan on and these keep my little postpartum hairs from flying around and tickling my face all night. The battery life is great. I probably played them for a total of five hours during the night and woke up them still having 70% battery remaining. I probably won't use these for workout because I don't have to wash them all the time, but for insomnia or anyone who just likes to fall asleep listening to something, these are amazing." —Jesse Brown

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in 16 colors).

Back To The Roots is a California-based small business founded by two college friends that specializes in indoor gardening kits with a mission to reconnect families to food.

Psst — if you have not put mushrooms in your air fryer, my friend, you have not yet lived the full human experience. Also this growing kit comes with some recipes to get you started!

Promising review: "This product has been so much fun to watch! I followed the directions, exactly as written, and the mushrooms began growing within 3–4 days. I will say that I did soak them for close to 10 hours before putting them back in the box to grow and I believe this helped a ton. I also kept the box inside by a window with the blinds closed in order for them to get indirect sunlight. The mushrooms grew tremendously for almost a week before they started to shrink so I clipped them to cook with and they were DELICIOUS! This was such a fun product and process to watch. I am now in the process of trying to get a second batch of shrooms from the same box. Fingers crossed!" —Steph A

Get it from Amazon for $19.99.

Promising review: "I first saw this book on TikTok and decided to look more into it. I purchased four total because I know some people holding onto things that are difficult to let go of. It's a great way to look at things from a different perspective and truly hold yourself accountable to different things in your life. I love what it stands for and I look forward to when I burn mine after I’m done. Self love, self care, and meditation for a better state of mind tomorrow is always the goal. I definitely recommend it to those susceptible to change and the willingness to try things different. You’re so much more than what's been done to you and someone's inability to see your worth does not decrease your value. Choose you for a change." —Brent Helm

Get it from Amazon for $7.32.

Check out a TikTok of the mushroom night-light in action.

Promising review: "I LOVE this night-light. It's in my bathroom and is a lovely addition. It turns off the second the lights go on, which is nice because I don't have to worry about accidentally leaving it on. Super cute and the little itty-bitty lighting element does a good job lighting, just enough so I don't have to turn the main lights on in the middle of the night." —1Thand

Get it from Amazon for $5.97.

Check out a TikTok of the carafe set in action.

Promising review: "I saw this carafe in a BuzzFeed article. This is definitely something I needed that I didn't know that I needed. I live in a two story house with the kitchen on the opposite end which makes me groggily navigate the stairs at night. I usually have a water bottle on my nightstand but decided I could upgrade. This carafe is a little smaller than I’d like but for the price, it's really perfect and no-frills. It's simple but functional. I guess you could use this for mouthwash too but it's perfect for bedside water. I love that the cup covers the top when not in use so that the water stays clean. I would not hesitate to purchase this item again." —TheJadeMermaid

Get it from Amazon for $12.89.

Promising review: "Amazing. Seriously, buy this. It is the best back massage I’ve ever had. I have trouble with my wrists and hands and can't massage my husband's back for very long. This is small and easily fits in my hand. I can give him a great massage without pain. He massaged my back with it as well and it's phenomenal! I would definitely buy this again and I’ve recommended it to my family." —Mifflinpartyofthree

Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in four colors).

Promising review: "I had trouble falling asleep every night; I had 'hot' issues and I had very badly knotted hair issues. I decided that the last two issues might be improved with a different pillowcase. I researched for hours and hours and decided to give these a try based on the Amazon reviews. I figured that if this many people thought enough of these to not only buy them but take the time to write a review, the pillowcases had to be good. And I must tell you that they exceeded all of my expectations. They are amazing. My head is no longer hot and my hair looks exactly the same before and after a night's sleep. I cannot believe that a pillowcase can make that much of a difference but it does. I have washed and dried them in the dryer just the same as any pillowcase and they came out good as new. The standard size fits my standard pillows perfectly. And they are very reasonably priced. What more could I want (except the secret to falling asleep)? I have been back for more and I highly recommend them!" —Vern Dewitt

Get a set of two from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in 32 colors and five sizes).

Promising review: "I'm definitely a fan of this kettle. Our last one broke, so this was my first 'gooseneck' one. I love the Azure color and wished my other appliances would come in this color to match too now. It's cute and the spout makes it easy to pour in a controlled manner. The large capacity makes it great because I can boil enough hot water for the whole family, but it's still small enough that I can fit it on the kitchen counter and it not be a visual nuisance. Recommend!" —Kim Vo

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in four colors).

Promising review: "These are the most awesome and warm sweats ever. Love the fit, fabric, and style with zippered pockets. So nice to have a zippered pocket as I actually wear these to work on cold days. I work outside and love the comfort of this pant. Not to mention the great feel on the inside. I have washed them several times and they come out perfect and do not shrink either. I loved them so much I bought two other pairs in different colors. Only thing is I wish they would do them in Blue. These also don't overheat you like you would think...I just maintain a nice warm temperature. They are really a nice quality too. They arrived totally flattened and I thought what the heck but it is just the vacuum packing and they bounce right out and feel GREAT! Think the sizing was correct too. So nice to have it be right from the get go. Would be great after a day of skiing or outdoor winter activity to take off the chill and relax in. Bring on the cold!!" —Kindle Customer

Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 18 colors).

Promising review: "Saw it on TikTok and thought it would be a great bottle for work. It is very sleek and lightweight enough to carry when you have other items in your hand. I love the modern look and cleans very easily! The time increments really do motivate, definitely ordering again for myself and gifts. Fast delivery and very nice packaging." —Rosa

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in three colors and two sizes).

The Lotus Label is a Connecticut-based Etsy shop established in 2020 that specializes in functional home decor and accessories.

Promising review: "Beautifully made, high quality product. Ordered three for my girls for Christmas and they use them all the time! Easy to clean and definitely holds its shape over time. 10/10 recommend." —Tiffany Marie

Get it from The Lotus Label on Etsy for $12 (available in four prints).

Check out a TikTok of the flaming humidifier in action.

Promising review: "I like how this diffuser kind of looks like a mini fireplace and it's perfect for winter. I also like how long the water of this diffuser lasts — I always add my favorite essential oil in it when I go to sleep every night without worrying it will run out of water. I used to have insomnia and it helped me to sleep through the night with my relaxing essential oil scent, and it also worked as a humidifier." —Benny

Get it from Amazon for $32.69 (available in black and white).

Promising review: "I saw one of these in action at a friend's house like five years ago and thought it was just a made up memory, because making ice cream out of solely frozen fruit seems wild. But when I saw a TikTok about it I immediately went to Amazon and bought it. Literally this was the BEST decision of my life. I cannot believe still how amazing this thing is! It makes the creamiest, best tasting fruit ice cream ever. It's easy to take apart and clean, and super easy to use." —DMCKAY

Get it from Amazon for $39.98+ (available in six colors).

Promising review: "I will admit I bought these from seeing them on TikTok and I needed new clips for my thick hair. I am not disappointed and beyond glad I got them. The colors are gorgeous and they stay put without hurting my head. I'm very impressed." —Amazon Customer

Get a set of four from Amazon for $8.99 (available in two color combos).

Another bonus? If you flip the lid over, it has a wooden base, so you can *also* use this as a teensy snack table. I recently got one of these for my new apartment to stash my candles and ~candle accessories~ in and it's pretty much become my favorite piece of furniture?? I use it to prop up my feet during work hours and sometimes if I want to eat on my couch I'll use it as a tray. It's also sturdy enough to sit on, if I ever wanted to have guests over and needed an extra chair. It was RIDICULOUSLY easy to set up — I had it done in less than 10 minutes, and probably didn't even need the directions. It also just looks so darn cute (and comes in so many colors that I'm tempted to buy another!).

Promising review: "I was using a small foldable step stool in my bedroom to reach the top shelves of my wardrobe. But you know, those things aren't pretty. It wasn't be bringing me joy, just begrudging utility. This ottoman brings me joy. It's pretty, it's lightweight so I can move it easily to use it as a step stool, and the storage capacity is perfect for things like my nightly moisturizers, my Kindle and journals, and other little miscellaneous things." —Monica N.

Get it from Amazon for $49.49 (available in six colors).

Promising review: "How did I go so long without one of these??? The Saucemoto was my first 'TikTok Made Me Buy It' purchase and I have no regrets. It clips easily to my car's vent and the sauce cups clip in easily so I can dip and drive. No more trying not to dump the sauce by accident while steering with the same hand that's holding the dip cup. It even comes with a dip cup for those places that do the pouches for their sauces rather than the cups. (I'm looking at you, Arby's.) Ya know, you end up squeezing the sauce onto the wrapper that's balanced on your lap and you end up getting some sauce on your steering wheel. OR you try the whole 'wrapper and sauce on the passenger seat and try to dip while watching the road,' which usually doesn't turn out so great." —Pleasure Pamela

Get set of two from Amazon for $11.99 (available in four colors).

Promising review: "I saw this product on TIkTok and automatically liked it! I love that it comes in so many different colors and the top is wood. I drink lots of water and needed a cup I could take with me everywhere. I could also put iced coffee in it too. I love that it came with two straws a clear one and white. I will be purchasing another one for my husband and also one for my mom in different colors!" —Rose

Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in dozens of colors and in multiple packs).

Promising review: "This coffee maker is my BEST FRIEND! I use this every day, it's so easy to use! My coffee comes out perfect every time. I'm a cold coffee drinker and I put about 8–10 scoops of freshly ground coffee into the filter. I let it sit overnight and the next morning, I remove the filter and dump the grounds. It makes four days' worth of coffee and I love that it's ready to go for me, especially since I wake up at 4:50 a.m. and I need to make my coffee quickly! It's very easy to clean as well." —Panda

Get it from Amazon for $27.99 (available in two sizes).

Rumpl is an Oregon-based small business specializing in outdoor blankets that donates a portion of its revenue to environmental nonprofits.

Promising review: "I've used it in Wisconsin to continue having outdoor hangouts with my friends during Coronatime. It's that extra cozy layer for patio dining and porch sitting. Packs down tight to keep in the car for impromptu outdoor happy hour!" —Julie K.

Check out our Rumpl puffer blanket review for more details!

Get it from on Amazon for $125+ (available in 35 colors) or from Rumpl for $125 (available in 30+ colors).

Promising review: "This is my absolute favorite fidget! I’m an adult with autism and ADHD. I carry one around with me everywhere I go. It definitely assists me in staying calm/still while I’m at work. I’ve recommended it to several friends!" —KaelynnVP

Get a set of five from Amazon for $9.99.

Each set comes with 13 professional chef knives, kitchen scissors, a peeler, a two-stage stage knife sharpener, and an acrylic knife stand.

Promising review: "I love these knives! I saw them on a TikTok and decided I had to have a set of black knives and they exceeded my expectations for sure. Super durable, and very sharp. And they aren't an eye sore in the kitchen." —Emily S.

Get it from Amazon for $44.99.

Promising review: "This stand has been seriously great. My average casebook is about 2,000 pages, and it fits comfortably and securely in the stand. You can adjust the angle very easily, and the pages aren't at risk of getting teared off every time. The little arms at the bottom also rotate, so you get them out of the way super easily when it's time to turn the page. The stand itself is quite beautiful and very lightweight — I've even brought it with me to the library a few times. The adjustable stand in the back folds up really compactly, so when you need to move it it's basically just the board. It's about the length of an average casebook when the book it opened up, and it folds up so you can easily toss it in your bag without it being unwieldy." —Danielle

Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

Promising review: "Just another thing TikTok made me buy! The quality of the plastic is really great and I love that you can move the shelves as you see fit." —Reagan

Get it from Amazon for $32.99.

Promising review: "Single best appliance I own. My boyfriend sent me this sort of as a joke; we both thought it was both ridiculous and brilliant to have a McMuffin maker in your house. And then I tried cooking with it for the first time. Holy crap, it's AMAZING. I ended up using frozen waffles for the bread; you have to trim them just a tad, but they are the perfect amount of crispy. I love experimenting with this, and have built some truly amazing sandwiches. Waffles, eggs, avocado, Swiss, and ham. Waffles, egg, corn salsa, jack cheese. If you can fit it into the rounds, you can make a sandwich with it. The panel under the egg slides out easily and cleanly when the egg is cooked (I find four minutes is perfect for cooked eggs with runny yolks), and the whole middle section can simply be tossed in the dishwasher." —Elizabeth Joy Weaver

Get it from Amazon for $25.49+ (available in five colors).

Promising review: "I researched so many coffee warmers and am so glad I decided on this one. It definitely keeps my coffee hot, no matter how long it takes me to drink it. I also like that it has three settings. As you drink down your coffee, you can lower the heat because it keeps the coffee very hot. I like it so much I ordered a second one for another part of the house." —hottytoddy

Get it from Amazon for $20.79+ (available in eight colors).

I've owned one of these babies and have faithfully used it every week for upward of two years, and especially love it while working from home — it simplifies breakfast because I know no matter what assortment of groceries I'm working with, there are precooked eggs to add some protein to it (I like mine medium-boiled 🍳). If my dinner is boring or seems like it needs a little extra "oomph" to it, I'll throw in an egg from this too. Some reviews note that the alarm on it is a little loud, but the new models have significantly decreased the volume and sing a little song instead!

Promising review: "I saw someone on TikTok with this and gasped! Ordered it right away. I had no idea these things existed. Super easy and convenient and the hard-boiled eggs came out perfectly. I’m testing a batch now without punching a hole in the eggs to see how they come out. Because why not make an easy process even easier?!?! LOL." —Gina

Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in eight colors).

LuvScrub is a Black-owned beauty brand that specializes in mesh exfoliators influenced by creator Ghanaian-American Caroline Owusu-Ansah's childhood using this type of mesh like many West Africans. Her version is meant to replace loofahs and washcloths as a more full-body effective, long-lasting, and bacteria-avoidant option.

Promising review: "I've been using LuvScrub body exfoliates for about a year now and it's beaten every other loofah I've tried in the past. I get those little keratosis pilaris bumps on the backs of upper arms and thighs and this is legit the only thing that has ever helped with it, along with just making my skin nice and soft in general. It also dries out much quicker when you're done, which means less water being held on it after showering and building up nasty bacteria. Honestly, this little strip of netting is a game changer. Get yourself one!" —Chels

Get it from Ulta Beauty for $18 or LuvScrub for $18 (available in five colors).

Comma Home is an eco-friendly home goods company that works with small organizations in all 50 states to donate 10% of sales to help the homeless.

Promising review: "I'm about to order my third one for a loved one. These blankets are the real deal, my son and I both suffer from anxiety and coming home to this bad boy after work and relaxing has never been easier or more restful. I cannot recommend enough worth every penny and the faux fur is glorious!" —Meagan B.

Get it from Comma Home for $135+; (originally $169+; available in two weights and two colors).

Promising review: "This is such a lifesaver during these quarantine days. We live in an apartment and I tried to find out ways that could keep my 3-year-old active while we cannot go out. He is having a great time jumping. The trampoline is very well-made and easy to assemble. Both my hubby and I also jump on it from time to time. It somehow helps to release the stress. I would recommend this size over the 40 inches one for people who live in apartments. (Of course If space is not a constraint, then I’ll surely go for a bigger size.) With this 38-inch one I can jump with my 3-year-old together without a problem." —Kate W

Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in three colors).

Promising review: "I have been using these for about two years and let me tell you, they look like the day I bought them! I was using them for school lunches, but now with the stay-at-home orders, I’ve begun making batches of rice and pasta and freezing those with these bags. They work great and heat up in the microwave beautifully. No damage to the bags at all! I actually ordered some more just to have plenty on hand since I’m using more of them now than in the past. I have tried other brands of reusable storage bags that got pitted and messed up in the microwave. These may cost a little more, but they are almost indestructible and last a long long time! Did I mention you can throw them in dishwasher? Just open the bag and fit it onto the upper-rack spikes and they wash up great. I just shake them out and let them air dry. I’m not using plastic bags anymore! Thanks for the great product." —John S.

Get it from Amazon for $9.21+ (available in five sizes and 24 colors, as well as several bundle options).

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

WOWZA, it really helps you get extra mileage out of your shampoo I've noticed that my hair has been a little less greasy at the roots since I started using it a few weeks ago Promising review: dry scalp ever since I turned 30. My scalp no longer itches and the icky buildup is gone. I can't believe something so affordable has made such a difference in the health of my scalp. Promising review: Promising review When I fall asleep, I rarely sleep for more than an hour straight. These allow me to comfortably play a podcast or meditation to get myself back to sleep The battery life is great. I probably played them for a total of five hours during the night and woke up them still having 70% battery remaining. for insomnia or anyone who just likes to fall asleep listening to something, these are amazing. Promising review: the mushrooms began growing within 3–4 days. . The mushrooms grew tremendously for almost a week before they started to shrink so I clipped them to cook with and they were DELICIOUS! Promising review: It's a great way to look at things from a different perspective and truly hold yourself accountable to different things in your life. I definitely recommend it to those susceptible to change and the willingness to try things different. Promising review: It turns off the second the lights go on, which is nice because I don't have to worry about accidentally leaving it on. Promising review: This is definitely something I needed that I didn't know that I needed. I usually have a water bottle on my nightstand but decided I could upgrade. I love that the cup covers the top when not in use so that the water stays clean. Promising review: It is the best back massage I’ve ever had. Promising review: I had 'hot' issues and I had very badly knotted hair issues. I figured that if this many people thought enough of these to not only buy them but take the time to write a review, the pillowcases had to be good My head is no longer hot and my hair looks exactly the same before and after a night's sleep Promising review: It's cute and the spout makes it easy to pour in a controlled manner. The large capacity makes it great because I can boil enough hot water for the whole family Promising review I work outside and love the comfort of this pant. Not to mention the great feel on the inside. I loved them so much I bought two other pairs in different colors. These also don't overheat you like you would think...I just maintain a nice warm temperature Promising review: It is very sleek and lightweight enough to carry when you have other items in your hand. Promising review Easy to clean and definitely holds its shape over time. Promising review I used to have insomnia and it helped me to sleep through the night with my relaxing essential oil scent, Promising review: But when I saw a TikTok about it I immediately went to Amazon and bought it. Literally this was the BEST decision of my life. It makes the creamiest, best tasting fruit ice cream ever. Promising review: The colors are gorgeous and they stay put without hurting my head. I use it to prop up my feet during work hours and sometimes if I want to eat on my couch I'll use it as a tray. It was RIDICULOUSLY easy to set up — I had it done in less than 10 minutes Promising review: It's pretty, it's lightweight so I can move it easily to use it as a step stool, and the storage capacity is perfect for things like my nightly moisturizers, my Kindle and journals Promising review: Saucemoto was my first 'TikTok Made Me Buy It' purchase and I have no regrets. It clips easily to my car's vent and the sauce cups clip in easily so I can dip and drive It even comes with a dip cup for those places that do the pouches for their sauces rather than the cups. (I'm looking at you, Arby's.) Promising review: I drink lots of water and needed a cup I could take with me everywhere. I could also put iced coffee in it too. Promising review: I use this every day, it's so easy to use! My coffee comes out perfect every time. It makes four days' worth of coffee and I love that it's ready to go for me, especially since I wake up at 4:50 a.m. Promising review: It's that extra cozy layer for patio dining and porch sitting. Promising review Promising review: Promising review: My average casebook is about 2,000 pages, and it fits comfortably and securely in the stand. The little arms at the bottom also rotate, so you get them out of the way super easily when it's time to turn the page. The adjustable stand in the back folds up really compactly, so when you need to move it it's basically just the board. Promising review: Promising review: Holy crap, it's AMAZING. I ended up using frozen waffles for the bread; you have to trim them just a tad, but they are the perfect amount of crispy. Waffles, egg, corn salsa, jack cheese. If you can fit it into the rounds, you can make a sandwich with it. Promising review It definitely keeps my coffee hot, no matter how long it takes me to drink it. I also like that it has three settings. the new models have significantly decreased the volume and sing a little song instead! Promising review Super easy and convenient and the hard-boiled eggs came out perfectly. Promising review: I get those little keratosis pilaris bumps on the backs of upper arms and thighs and this is legit the only thing that has ever helped with it, Honestly, this little strip of netting is a game changer. Get yourself one Promising review coming home to this bad boy after work and relaxing has never been easier or more restful. Promising review: ways that could keep my 3-year-old active while we cannot go out. He is having a great time jumping. It somehow helps to release the stress. Promising review: I was using them for school lunches, but now with the stay-at-home orders, I’ve begun making batches of rice and pasta and freezing those with these bags. I actually ordered some more just to have plenty on hand since I’m using more of them now than in the past These may cost a little more, but they are almost indestructible and last a long long time I’m not using plastic bags anymore!
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