Living

These Are Our Editors’ MVPs (Most Valuable Products) of the Year — So Far

updatedyesterday
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Credit: Jessica Isaac

We might only be about halfway through the year, but if you think our editors haven’t already racked up a bunch offavorite home finds, you’d be sorely mistaken. We basically get paid to shop here at AT, so you can always expect an expert recommendation on anything from thecomfiest sleeper sofato the best-smelling laundry detergent. Given the positive reader feedback on ourfirst AT MVPs post, we take it that you, our readers, enjoy being able to see all of our recs in one spot. As a result, we’ve continued the franchise with a dedicated 2023 edition, which you can bookmark and come back to for the latest on our top performers. Need some new decor for the living room? Looking for your next favorite surface cleaner? Scroll down, and we’ve got you covered. There’s no doubt that as the year goes on, the list will get longer and longer, providing you with our most recent tried-and-trues.

So what makes an item a Most Valuable Product? Basically, it’s something our editors have personally owned, tested, or bought and — most importantly — loved. These products are durable, practical, and stylish where needed, and they fall into a variety of categories. We’ve already recommended them to friends and family, and now it’s your turn to get in on the fun. Each one of our picks is nothing short of game-changing, and we’re confident that if you give them a try, you’ll think the same!

Cleaning, Storage, & Organization

1/5
Amazon
$59.00
was $89.99

When it comes to different vacuum styles, we don't discriminate between stick, upright, or robot models. Really, it's about finding the perfect machine for your space. No matter your needs, though, we think everyone could benefit from a good handheld vacuum. Senior commerce editor Alicia swears by thisBLACK+DECKER pick, which gets into all of her apartment's hard-to-reach corners. She also loves its impressive pick-up ability. "Despite cleaning every surface in my apartment with the handheld vacuum, it still didn’t run out of battery," shewrote."Because of its powerful suction, you don’t really need to have a 30-minute cleaning session. I can’t see anyone needing to use it for more than 15 minutes at a time."

2/5
MDesign
$20.99

There are tons of tabletop organizers to consider, from tiered Lazy Susans to travel cases complete with wheels. But at the end of the day, everyone needs a classic, catch-all drawer set for all those stray items that your home accumulates. Best List editor Britt highly recommends this littlethree-drawer numberfrom mDesign, one of our favorite organization brands here at AT. "I have other acrylic organizers that have cracked at the slightest use, but these drawers... haven’t given me any trouble in the weeks I’ve had them," shewrote.She went on to add that you can buy multiple and stack them on top of one another, plus there's no limit to the kinds of things you can store inside.

3/5
Amazon
$6.87
was $7.49

To find the most effective cleaning products, you sometimes have to look outside the household cleaning aisles. Thisglass treatment sprayis designed for use on cars — to stop raindrops from clouding the windshield — but as commerce SEO editor Sarahdiscovered, it does an amazing job of preventing streaks and unsightly water drop marks from dirtying up her glass shower doors. She was floored from her first time using it: "I stood there, mouth agape as I tested its power and watched the water bead right off the door. 'Where have you been all my life?' I exclaimed to the bottle." Sarah said she can now go up to five weeks between reapplying Rain X to keep her shower doors sparkly clean.

4/5
Amazon
$39.99

Utilizing underbed storage space is the ultimate organization hack for tiny apartments, but finding the right bins for your out-of-season linens can prove difficult. Not to worry, though — we found a set that's just as pretty as it is functional. TheseStorageWorks boxeshave been lifesavers for Alicia, who praised their capacity and durability. "I tend to overpack every organizer I come in contact with, just based on the fact that I live in an apartment with not a lot of storage space, and these bins held up despite me overfilling them," shewrote.Really, there's nothing to contemplate. Snag a set now, and neatly stow away winter coats, blankets, boots, and more.

5/5
Grove Collaborative
$5.99

This inexpensive stain remover spraygot red wine stains outof my favorite pair of pants, so you know it's the real deal. Actually, it doesn't matter what kind of stain you're faced with, be it food, blood, sweat, or something even scarier. Simply spray theGrove Co. stain removerover top and let it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing your garment, and the splotches should come right out! I didn't expect to like this product so much, but it's so effective that I always find myself reaching for it on laundry days (and, let's face it, on regular days, too).

Furniture & Bedroom Essentials

1/8
Cozy Earth
$175.05
was $389.00

Trying a new kind of bedding fabric is a big decision — I know firsthand, I was a satin sheet devotee for years. But after trying thislinen sheet setfrom one ofOprah's favorite bedding brands, I'm happy to say that linen makes for a wonderful material (and this particular brand is an excellent choice). The fitted sheet fits my mattress much better than others I've tried, and I like that the linen is breathable so you won't sweat at night. Upgrade your bedding to this dreamy linen set to create a more relaxed and cozy sleep sanctuary.

2/8
Bear Mattress
$105.00
was $150.00

The wrong pillow not only has the power to disrupt your sleep, but it can also negatively affect the rest of your day by way of neck cramps and shoulder pain. Ian, Kitchn's senior commerce editor, recommends the brand Bear Mattress to anyone looking for the perfect 8-hour-sleep pillow. A longtime fan of their mattresses, he also tried theBear pillowand credits it with keeping him ventilated and comfortable for hours. "It stays cool all night long and walks the perfect tightrope of soft and firm — comfy enough to lull you to sleep; supportive enough to properly cradle your noggin," hewrote

3/8
Levity
$259.00

Multifunctional home goods are always a great value, and thiscombination ottoman laptop deskis the perfect example. Use it as a footrest or extra seat when you're entertaining friends, or undo the velcro strap and set the cushion across your lap to use as a desk when you're working (or watching YouTube videos) on the couch. "I'm obsessed with this ottoman," Aliciawrote.Alicia appreciates that the cushion's removable cover is easy to wash and likes how it makes smart use of her small living space. "I’m so confident in this lap desk that I gave my old lap desk away," she wrote.

4/8
Buffy
$100.00
was $125.00

After trying a variety of cotton and silk bed coverings, commerce SEO writer Nic gave thisTENCEL lyocell duveta go and hasn't looked back since. "The material has all of the smoothness and some of the sheen of silk, mixed with the breathability and anti-wrinkleness of cotton," hewrote."That makes it feel luxurious and look chic, which is a combination I didn’t know was possible in bedding." As a cat owner, Nic also found that the duvet hasn't sustained any snags or rips to date, plus, it's ultra-cooling.

5/8
Brooklinen
$206.10
was $229.00

If you're into a super tidy, put-together bedspread look, Brooklinen'sorganic core sheet setmight not be for you. Personally, though, I prefer a more lived-in, effortless appearance, sothese are perfect.表的100%有机棉高级密织棉布material is super breathable and lightweight, making the set ideal for warmer months and climates. Plus, they're available in five soothing colors that'll further add a relaxed, boho aesthetic to your bed. If you like staying covered without feeling stifled, grab your own set now!

6/8
Amazon
$59.99
was $69.99

Technically, you could place this slimtower fanin any room, but we deemed it a bedroom essential because it's a great way to prevent overheating during the night. Nic loves the fan's ability to cool down the largest room in his apartment in under five minutes, as well as its noiseless design and 90-degree oscillation. "If you’re tired of your A/C unit or just want a convenient way to keep your home cool that doesn’t add an eyesore to your window, you’re going to love this tower fan," hewrote

7/8
Bear Mattress
$1478.00
was $2111.00

After a history of back problems, Ian decided to give thisBear Elite Hybrid mattressa try. With its hand-quilted cushion cover, three layers of supportive foam, and two layers of coils, this cooling mattress had him sleeping like a baby. "Besides the unparalleled cooling power, my favorite aspect of the Elite Hybrid is that it’s the perfect compromise for my girlfriend and I — but it doesn’t feel like a compromise," hewrote."I feel like I got the better end of the deal with a firm mattress, while my girlfriend thinksshe得到了更好的处理软mattres结束s." In the end, it's sweet dreams all around.

8/8
X-Chair
$299.00

So many office chairs, especially the more luxurious models, tend to sport oversized silhouettes that don't lend themselves to small spaces. But our director of commerce, Mark, found thisX-Stack chairthat's simultaneously high-quality, reasonably priced, and compact. "Compared to my big folding chair, it seemed almost tiny," hewroteof its collapsible design. "But at the same time, it had everything that the folding chair didn’t. Wheels! Armrests! A pivoting backrest! I couldn’t wait to take it for a spin!" For those who work from home, this ergonomic model is an absolute must-have.

Travel & Outdoor Must-Haves

1/7
Amazon
$11.99
was $15.99

Finding a good travel adapter is tricky because there are so many shoddy products out there — and you won't know until they make smoke come out of your hair dryer. This is the oneI trustfor all of my international trips. Not only does it work without issue, but the budget-friendlyadapteralso features two USB ports in addition to the main outlet plug-in spot. It's available in 10 different styles, so you can pick the one you need based on where you're going. I've taken mine on multiple trips to Europe, and it has never failed me!

2/7
Lo & Sons
$123.00
was $205.00

Every traveler needs this versatile, hold-it-alltote bag, according to Sarah. It doesn't matter if you're using it as a carry-on for an international trip or as a weekender bag; you'll get tons of use out of it regardless. "It features everything from deep side pockets and multiple interior pockets (including a bottom compartment to keep shoes or dirty clothes separate from the rest of your belongings) to a key leash and a luggage sleeve that easily slips over most suitcase handles," Sarahwrote.And it goes without saying that this travel must-have is beyond stylish.

3/7
Stanley
$35.00

It can be difficult to stay hydrated when you're on the go, but Stanley'sIceFlow tumblermakes it much easier. It holds an impressive 30 ounces, and although it's selling fast, the tumbler is still available in a wide array of colors. Its double-wall vacuum insulation keeps your beverage cold all day long, and its built-in flip-up sip spout lets you quickly seal the top to prevent any spillage. Managing commerce editor Tamara and senior commerce editor Alicia even prefer this to the popular Stanley Quencher. "It’s better for carrying on the go thanks to the easy-to-use handle and leak-free design," Tamara said. "It’s my go-to for travel and workout classes."

4/7
Quince
$129.90
was $294.00

When you travel, you want to make sure you have all your essentials on hand no matter where you are. The best way to do that is by carrying this sleek and fashionable carry-on from Quince. Thehard-shell suitcasequickly became a must-have for Mark after he took it on two trips. "The suitcase handled the 20-minute walk to Penn Station nicely, gliding smoothly across the bumpy pavement of the sidewalk and streets, and taking knocks from going up and down curbs like a champ,"wroteMark of his trip to Boston. "Once on board my train, the lightweight luggage easily fit into the overhead compartment and still looked good as new." Right now, you can buy your own carry-on for more than 50 percent off!

5/7
Amazon
$9.95

This bug bite suction tool might look like a gimmick at first, but you'll be happy to learn that it really does work to expel venom, saliva, and stingers from your skin after a bite. Sarah swears by the gadget, especially during the warmer months. "The second I felt an itch, I grabbed my purse, pulled out theBug Bite Thing, and got to work removing the venom," shewrote."Much to my disbelief, itactuallyworked. The welt? Gone in minutes. The itch? Non-existent. I wondered to myself, 'Could it really be that easy?' Apparently so." For just $10, you can say goodbye to those pesky red splotches for good.

6/7
Levenger
$89.50

I know this zippered jewelry case is a splurge, butafter having traveled with it, I can confidently say it's worth every penny. For one, theCarrie organizerlooks so chic with its pebbled leather and gold hardware, but what's most important is that it keeps metal jewelry from tarnishing thanks to its soft suede interior, and it keeps your favorite pieces in one place. You'll also find its various ring, necklace, and earring tabs to be extremely useful, especially when it comes to preventing tangled chains.

7/7
Amazon
$24.98
was $32.98

Your next beach day calls for a lightweight cooler that'll keep your food and drinks insulated without being a pain to haul to the shore. Style shopping editor Blair mostly uses this two-piecesnack bag setto transport canned wine and beer during her own summer excursions, but she said the bags keep everything, even perishable snacks, cold for hours. "It works like a mini cooler, with no ice packs needed — just keep it in your freezer until you’re ready to use it, and the insulated interior keeps food or drinks cool for hours," shesaidof the PackIt bag. "Seriously, it’s remarkable... It’s the perfect size to toss in my beach bag, too."

Kitchen & Dining

1/5
Year & Day
$40.00

You can always place your favorite dips, sauces, and condiments directly onto your dinner plate, but these adorable littledip dishesare a much nicer alternative. They come in a set of four and are available in eight trendy colors, and they're such a simple way to elevate at-home meals. Tamara says her dip dishes are the most versatile serveware in her kitchen,writing, "These do-it-all kitchen essentials are also a beautiful way to present salt and pepper at a dinner party or as a vessel for olive oil or balsamic for dipping bread. Use them for nuts, dried fruits, olives — you name it!" In other words, they're a must for all of your upcoming get-togethers.

2/5
Walmart
$39.96

It's no secret that we're huge fans of pretty much every home product Drew Barrymore releases, including thiselectric kettlefrom her aptly named Beautiful line. In fact, Britt loves it so much that we had to include it in ourBest List roundupas the best budget-friendly option. "For such an affordable and stylish kettle, I was blown away by how quickly it boils water," Brittwrote在她自己的评论。“我开始,开始抓我tems for my breakfast, and the kettle would chime to let me know the water was ready before I’d have a chance to leave the kitchen!" This piece also features a digital touch display that's easy to read and lets you customize the kettle's settings with the push of a few buttons.

3/5
Coyuchi
$58.00

This is your sign to replace those raggedy kitchen towels you've been using for far too long. We suggest replacing them with something that's just as stylish as it is durable, and theseCoyuchi waffle towelsare perfect. "The first time you use and wash these towels, this smooth weave design 'puckers' into a tight, high-performance waffle texture that absorbs water better than most other kitchen towels out there," Sarahwroteafter trying them. "Essentially, these towels gain sponge-like absorbency, minus the drips that come with a regular kitchen sponge." And although the towels might seem pricey at first glance, keep in mind that you actually get six towels in one set.

4/5
Instant Home
$59.99
was $99.99

It used to be that if you wanted to enjoy icy cold brew coffee in the morning, you had to make it the evening before and leave your carafe in the fridge overnight — but not anymore. At least, not when you own Instant Home's editor-favoritecold brew maker, which is so simple to use. "Just add water and your favorite ground coffee (you can customize the brew strength to taste), turn on the machine, and in the time it takes to take a shower and brush your teeth, you’ll have a pitcher of cold brew that’s ready to drink," Ianwrote.You'll also find that the brewer is relatively quiet.

5/5
Verloop
$55.00

You might not typically think of the kitchen as a place to display your favorite decor, but it's no hassle when you introduce Verloop'sstripe mini ruginto the space. You could place it in front of the sink or refrigerator, or even in a bathroom if you'd like. Britt also loves that her rug has non-slip padding underneath its vibrant surface. "Overall, I’ve been really pleased with my Verloop rug as a replacement for my old kitchen rug," shewrote."I thought I needed a large floor covering to make the room feel whole, but the stripe rug is able to complete it at only a quarter of the size."

Lighting & Decor

1/6
Amazon
$45.99
was $65.00

Just because something goes viral on TikTok doesn't mean it's worth purchasing... but thiscandle warmer lamptotally is, according to Sarah. "With its gold neck, neutral oak-colored base, and a glass shade that glimmered even before turning it on, I couldn’t help but let out an Owen Wilson-esque 'Wow' as I unpacked it," shewrote."I cleared off the perfect spot for it, plugged it in, and marveled both at how stunning it looked lit upandhow quickly it began melting my candle; The scent was immediately dispersed throughout my apartment and I, well, was in love." In essence, this lamp the perfect marriage of style and function.

2/6
Afloral
$38.00

无论你是活着还是不善于保持真正的植物simply want a new decor piece for your bookshelf, thisBest List-winningartificial plantis sure to brighten up your space in no time — just ask Alicia. "The thing I love most about this fake pothos is that the cascade of leaves looks so realistic," shewrote."The stems feel rubbery, so you can adjust them to fall in the way that you wish. The leaves are made of plastic, but they feel thin and artfully crafted and don’t give off that plasticky sheen that some leaves of fake plants do." Really, anyone who visits will just think you're a good plant parent and admire your very authentic-looking greenery.

3/6
Amazon
$11.29
was $16.99

Thisclip-on ring light可能TikTok创造者和youtube的最爱, but Nic thinks it shines brightest as a home office or bedside light. Clip it to your desk or bedframe and position the gooseneck head to point exactly where you want it. You can adjust the light color and brightness whether you're reading before bed or lighting up your beautiful face for a Zoom call, and because it's powered via USB you can plug it into your computer if you don't have an outlet nearby. "My wife and I use these lights every night," Nicwrote, "and I’ll be holding on to mine for a long time."

4/6
Amazon
$44.95
was $55.99

As far as table lamps go, it doesn't get much swankier than this vintage-style dome find. Alicia came across hers on Amazon and was taken by how affordablethe lampwas despite its expensive, gold-toned design. "I also like that it had space for two lightbulbs (not included), so you can adjust the brightness by pulling down on one or both of the chains," shewrote."Plus, the chains are way more fun and easy to use than a traditional lamp switch." It's the ideal budget-friendly and practical decor piece for any reading corner.

5/6
Amazon
$12.99

If you want to make a certain space look like it was styled by a professional, it's important to incorporate small design touches that'll draw the eye in. A decorative tray will work in just about any room, especially one as beautiful as this gilded number that Sarah keeps in her bathroom. "This trayisexactlywhat I was looking for," shewrote.“坚固和时尚,这金色的美丽a permanent space in my updated bathroom, displaying some of my personal care essentials with the ultimate air of elegance." And despite its affordability, the traywon'tlook like a stage prop — take it from Sarah.

6/6
Amazon
$49.99
was $95.99

Every small-space dweller knows what a pain storage space (or a lack thereof) can be. That's why it feels like you've hit the jackpot when you find a fixture, like thisfloor lamp, that doubles as shelving. Nic says his was worth every last penny, so it's no wonder he bought two of them! "In my living room, the lamp has become my secondary entertainment center: it’s filled with board games, playing cards, and all my word games," hewrote."In the bedroom, the shelves hold books and a small pile of folded clothes; it’s not perfect, but it’s definitely better than draping them on my desk chair." The lamp also adds a soft warm glow to any space, which feels much better than harsh overhead lighting.

Bathroom Favorites

1/4
Cold Picnic
$70.00

A major life hack is making your bath mat double as decor. You need one anyway, so why not opt for a mat as cute asthis onefrom Cold Picnic? Inspired by '80s and '90s design, this floor covering sports a fun abstract pattern that'll catch every visitor's eye. Sarah loves hers for its cozy, plush pile and non-slip backing. "When I gave it a step test, I instantly loved that 1.) It stayed put and 2.) It felt luxuriously soft under my feet without enveloping them in the fabric," shewrote."But the thing that sold it for me? How well it washed. When I pulled this mat out of the dryer, it was perfectly intact andsomehowsofter." In other words, it's perfect.

2/4
Cozy Earth
$150.00

Whenever you can, it's important to invest in a set of really good bath towels that feel nice on the skin and absorb moisture quickly. Our top recommendation? Cozy Earth'sribbed terry bath towels, which Sarah found to be incredibly soft and true to expectations. "As I hopped out of the shower and wrapped myself up, I couldn’t help but smile," shewrote.“我是第一次打开后几乎干!”What's more, each towel in this set has a hanging loop, so you can hook it onto your bathroom rack without worrying that it might slip off. The towels' ribbed texture is also nothing short of luxurious, and they hold up great after lots of washes.

3/4
Tuft & Paw
$29.00

You probably weren't expecting to see cat litter amid our favorite bathroom products, but hey, your pets have to go, too. Cats are cute, not to mention a never-ending source of entertainment, so it's easy to see why their owners put up with certain unpleasantries, like litter tracking. For Tamara, what helped with this issue was investing in Tuft & Paw'sReally Great Cat Litter.The name definitely fits the product because Tamarawrote, "If you’re beyond tired of the endless litter dust around your home and you’re willing to pay a little for some peace of mind, you’ll have no regrets swapping your old-school litter to this upgraded, modern version." The litter is also made from soybean product, which is better both for the environmentandfor your cats compared to traditional litters.

4/4
Wayfair
$147.99
was $189.99

Increase your bathroom storage space with the help of this beautiful (and functional!) cabinet. It's available in either a black or natural-colored wooden finish and sports stylish rattan doors. Sarah couldn't believe her luck when she saw thatthe cabinetwas just under 27 inches wide and still offered plenty of shelf space. Assembly was notably a breeze, too. "All that was left to do was empty my storage cart, pick up some organizers, and get to work reorganizing (and visually decluttering) my bathroom," shewrote."Saying goodbye to that unsightly storage cart in favor of this small-space-friendly cabinet is one of the best things I could’ve ever done for my bathroom." If you have the floor space to spare, you can't go wrong with this visually appealing find.