Action News Wire

35 Products That Might Unexpectedly Become Your Favorite Thing You’ve Ever Owned

You'll be surprised how much you love your new lava lamp stress-relief toy.

35 Products That Might Unexpectedly Become Your Favorite Thing You’ve Ever Owned

From a stack of BaubleBar initial bracelets and a trendy fleece vest to Lululemon-like leggings and flower-shaped coupe glasses, there is a bounty of exciting items in here you certainly need to check out.

1.

A Create Your Own Tarot Deck kit with a full set of the Major and Minor Arcana for anyone who has grown tired of their worn-out deck (or hasn't found one that speaks to them). Color it in and design it the way your heart tells you to, all the while learning the basics of reading the cards. Before you know it, you just might find yourself reading the future on The Real Housewives.

Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

The 78 press-out cards come with illustrations based on the classic Rider-Waite-Smith deck. Grab some colored pencils here!

Promising review: "This little coloring book is delightful! I love the idea of coloring your own cards — putting a little more of 'you' in the 'energy' of the cards. It's soothing and relaxing to color away while contemplating the meaning of the card. I haven't colored all of them yet. I'm taking my sweet time and enjoying the process of creation! The cards come perforated around the edges to help you push them out. They color well." — asha_kira


2.
Amazon
,

A squishy lava lamp toy you won't be able to put down once you discover the "wax" inside actually moves and swirls when you squeeze it!

Get it from Amazon for $9.70 (you get a random color).

Schylling is a small business that specializes in modern and retro toys, games, and sets.

Promising review: "They are so cute and fun, and I ordered several. They gave me all the different colors. :) I'm 20, and I can’t stop playing with them lol, this is also my first Amazon review, so I’m really riding for these things. They are truly a lot of fun. :) The winner of all squish toys in my opinion, truly." — Brooke

Get it from Amazon for $9.70 (you get a random color).

3.
Amazon

A BaubleBar bracelet set that'll look stunning when layered with the rest of your arm candy — the stones will beautifully catch the light as you reach out of the car window to grab the Starbucks you ordered for pickup. It's the little things, amiright?

Get it from Amazon for $25 (available in 26 letters and two styles).

Promising review: "So cute, love how delicate these are. Perfect box for gifting, my MIL will love them. Great price per bracelet" — Molly S


4.

A lap pillow with a built-in stand for their book, Kindle, or iPad so you can comfortably lounge in bed and indulge in their favorite hobby while their partner scrolls on their phone beside them. Who said romance is dead?

Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in nine colors).

Promising review: "Almost identical to one I've had for years. Perfect for holding my iPad at home and when traveling. The design makes it easy to grasp and carry. My old one has a side pocket that I use for a stylus or phone; this one has a pocket that looks awesome for holding chargers when traveling. Wonderful, soft, and very functional!" — Dale

Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in nine colors).

5.
Amazon
,

A Girl Moments stress relief coloring book from Coco Wyo (a TikTok famous brand known for creating the most adorable coloring books) featuring big, easy-to-color pictures you'll take one look at and want to scream, "THIS IS SO CUUUUUUUTE!!!!!" Hunker down, turn on a soothing LoFi playlist, and color as the snow falls.

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in two styles).

I own Coco's Cozy Corner coloring book and love using it to unwind after a chaotic day of chasing around my toddlers. The Girl Moments iteration is just so cute, it'll likely be my next purchase after I finish the one I have!

Promising review: "I absolutely love this book! The illustrations are beautifully detailed, and the paper quality is outstanding. It's a great way to unwind and get creative. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys coloring!" — Sorianny


6.

Ship of Theseus, a unique book/mystery-solving activity from J. J. Abrams and Doug Dorst. While you read, you'll discover a library checkout list and tons of annotations throughout that'll help you solve a mystery while also diving into a romance novel of sorts — the perfect thing to fill your time while you wait for new episodes of Traitors to drop each week.

Get it from Amazon for $27.49.

There are also postcards, letters, and other knick-knacks to help you solve the mystery. Check out a TikTok about the book here.

Promising review: "I rarely post reviews; there doesn't ever seem to be anything I can add that hasn't already been said by some other reviewer. That's probably true in this case as well, but I'm not letting it stop me this time. S. is truly a delight. I haven't been this excited by a book in ages. S. is the first non-ebook I've purchased in a very long time, and I'm loving every minute I spend with it." — Corey Punches


7.

E.l.f.'s Hydrating Core Lip Shine (specifically, the "Ecstatic" shade), a must-buy for fans of Clinique's "Black Honey," lippie. It's nearly $20 cheaper (wowza!) and while it doesn't shift colors quite as magically, the shade is fantastic, has a nonsticky formula, and is a great option to keep in your bag when you want to craft a similar look on the go.

Get it from Amazon for $8 (also available in four other shades).

BuzzFeed writer Emma Lord keeps this version stocked and on-hand, "I personally will live, breathe, and die by the magic of $25 "universal" Black Honey version — it lasts FOREVER and also functions as the perfect blush — but it sells out so often that I am also deeply relieved to know it has a cheap alternative in case of a lip emergency!"

Promising review: "I absolutely love this product. The dark color is perfectly sheer. It also adds the most beautiful color to your lips . I am a Clinique Black Honey lip fan, and this gives me the same look for a fraction of the cost. I love it and have several that I keep in various spots. Not sticky either, which is my biggest gripe about lip glosses. My hair doesn’t get stuck in this like some glosses, but I get the shine." — Hamps5


8.
,
Heather Braga / BuzzFeed

Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener — toss your old concealer aside! This one has become the internet's holy grail for concealing and brightening dark circles under your eyes so fast that everyone's old concealers are doing double takes. This lightweight color-adapting formula is designed for truly invisible coverage that makes a drastic difference.

Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades).

The color-adaptive formula is designed so one of two shades will work on any skin tone. I've personally tested this out and it has become an essential part of my daily routine. As a mom of two I gotta just say I am TIRED. So tired that I'm not sure what my face even looks like without bags under my eyes — that is, unless I've got the Catrice "Instant Awake" on. A little really goes a long way and has great coverage. I wore it throughout my sister's wedding weekend in Aruba and, despite the heat, it stayed perfectly in place. An incredible product for an even more incredible price... 10/10 from me.

Promising review: "Took years off my eyes! This product is so reasonably priced. I came across a TikTok promoting this and decided to take a chance since the price was super reasonable. My eyes looked brighter in a good way, and the concealer worked so well that I felt I looked younger. I got compliments from friends asking what I did differently with my makeup. I recommend it." — Monica T.


9.
Amazon
,

A bouquet of Lego roses you'll likely enjoy assembling and appreciate much more than a vase filled with living florals that will, sadly, die in a few days. Not to mention, Valentine's Day is right around the corner

Get it from Amazon for $47.95.

The set comes with 12 roses and 4 sprigs of baby's breath.

Promising review: "I’ve fallen in love with every Lego Botanical Collection and this is no exception. Beautifully created." — Kelly S.

You can also check out some other trending Lego kits like this heart-shaped Lego wreath or a Lego Plum Blossom.

10.

Mirrored cat-eye sunglasses that reviewers are actually obsessed with. (They have thousands of 5-star ratings!) They're reminiscent of styles designed by Dior but so inexpensive you won't bawl your eyes out if you accidentally sit on them.

Get them from Amazon for $15.99 (available in 10 styles).

Promising review: "I love these. They remind me of my Dior glasses. They are adorable. They just look expensive, and apparently, they have polarization — good sun protection. They are very comfortable and functional." — Nicole Brennan


11.
Amazon
,
Amazon

An outlet light for anyone who has accidentally walked into a wall one (or two) times too many when getting up in the middle for a glass of water — this lil' gadget will subtly light your way without the need for a bulkier option.

Get it from Amazon for $23.98+ (available in four colors and three sizes).

Promising review: "I don't like night-lights because they take up the wall outlet, so this was the perfect solution. I put it in the guest bath, and at night, with the bathroom door open, this provides just enough light to guide a person to the bathroom without blinding them. I ended up putting two on my hallway switches as well. What a great product." — LMK


12.

A mason jar cold brew maker in case you'd like your coffee maker to fit in with your home's carefully curated aesthetic. Reviewers absolutely love this version and also use it to brew their favorite iced teas. Cheers!

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in two colors).

County Line Kitchen is a small business specializing in mason jar–style cold brew makers, pitchers, and accessories.

Promising review: "This has been a hit in my house. Makes the most delicious cold brew and is of great quality. I have saved a ton of money on going out and on pods I used to buy. I try to let it sit for 48 hours so I can dilute it with a little water to get it to last longer, and throw it in my dishwasher in between uses. Perfect!" — Jo


13.

And a coffee syrup dispenser set complete with premade flavor labels to help you transform that little space next to your coffee machine into one worthy of a full-on cafe.

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (for four; available in three colors and in two- and six-packs).

New England Stories is a small business that specializes in home and kitchen products.

Promising review: "These are worth the money! There are labels for almost every basic syrup as well as blanks so you can label them yourself. If you get a regular size Torani syrup bottle it will hold the whole bottle, so you don't need to worry about story a quarter of the bottle of syrup. SO AESTHETICALLY PLEASING, TOO." — Naomi


14.

A pet hair remover with a unique patented brush design that'll let you invite guests to sit down without fear of them being covered head-to-toe in your dog's smelly hair (especially if they're overdue for a bath...yikes).

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in black and in a mini size).

ChomChom is a small business.

Promising reviews: "The ChomChom Roller really works. I have two German shepherds who shed SO much, so this was necessary. The ChomChom Roller picked up SO much fur that the vacuum couldn’t." — Ezra Gordon

"I've had it in my possession for like two hours and I've cleaned everything. The couch, the blinds, the cat tree pad, the chair; I'm obsessed. I feel like this thing should win an award for being so awesome. I feel like it should be in raffle baskets and giveaways and silent auctions for every event that highlights 'things cat people need.' It's better than those sticky rollers, it's better than the one-directional velvet wand thing that I always use the wrong way. It's the best." — Meowser


15.
Amazon
,

A trendy fleece vest that'll elevate your I-was-too-cold-to-put-together-an-outfit look (we've all been there). It's fleece-lined, oversized, and has a fabulous funnel neck style — and it's less than $40!

Get it from Amazon for $38.97 (available in women's sizes S–XL and 11 styles).

Promising review: "I love this jacket so much I went back and bought it in white! I love the collar and how it buttons all the way up. It has cute ribbons on the bottom that you can use to tighten the jacket. Super soft! Has capped sleeves. It looks great with a full-length bodysuit or jeans! Totally recommend! Runs large :)" — Nancy Whitney


16.
Amazon

A layered necklace set reviewers have praised for not tarnishing or turning their skin green (no offense, Elphaba) which is unheard of at this price point! It'll make curating a cool style easier than ever (since it's a set, duh) but they can also be worn separately with necklaces you already have and love.

Get it from Amazon for $12.59+ (available in three finishes and 16 other styles).

Promising review: "I love the way these layering necklaces look! I haven’t taken them off since I received them and they look brand new still. I’ve worn them in the shower, pools, and beach, and they are still perfect." — Allison Kwong


17.

A Better Breader Bowl — a container designed to make seasoning meat or veggies a cinch. All you have to do is add your bread crumbs/seasoning into one section and your meat/veggies to another then shake, shake, shake!

Get it from Amazon for $19.99.

Promising review: "This thing is awesome! Breading anything makes such a mess in my kitchen, but I absolutely loved being able to do everything in one container. I only tried a dry rub, but I was so impressed with how evenly it coated. Plus being dishwasher safe was a major bonus. Seriously considering getting some for gifts" — Susanne C.


18.

Kitsch's claw clip, which will help you tame your tangled locks into a stylish updo — no need to lose patience trying to look presentable on days your hair simply won't cooperate. It's super strong, has a sturdy clamp that'll serve every hair type, and has a delicate look to it that'll make you feel like a princess on their day off.

Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in two styles).

Kitsch is an LA-based, self-financed, woman-owned small business established in 2010 that specializes in hair accessories.

Promising review: "Love that you can dress this up or down! It is my go-to accessory for working in preschool to put my hair up quickly . It is elegant and classic. It is amazingly durable, even when thrown in the bottom of my heavy work bag! I am amazed by this clip. I have coarse medium-thick hair and it is the perfect size." — Niki


19.

A buttery soft pair of dreamlux leggings reviewers compare to Lululemon's Align (ooh, la, la). These beauties are super comfortable for lazy days, but if for some reason you decide you want to actually break a sweat in them they'll certainly be up to the task. Get it, girrrrrrl!

Get it from Amazon for $32+ (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL, two inseams, and 16 colors).

Promising review: "These are amazing quality!! I do love my pair of Lululemon leggings, but I notice that they stretch out and slide down throughout the day. These do not! They are so soft I almost feel like I am wearing nothing, but still feel very ‘athletic’ like they’re holding everything in. When I opened the package, they looked like they were going to be too short at first, but they’re not, they are quite stretchy and comfortable. Highly recommend!!" — Kate


20.

Stylish chunky teardrop earrings that are a dead ringer for the Bottega Veneta ones, but you'll still be able to afford to treat yourself to an iced coffee after snagging them. They're gold-plated (sweeeet), lightweight, and reviewers have said they don't affect their sensitive ears.

Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 11 colors, two-packs, and an extra-large size).

Promising review: "These are absolutely BEAUTIFUL! If I didn't know any better, I would have said these are the Bottega Drop Earrings. I personally love the smaller ones. I have not ordered the larger ones yet. Smaller ones are truthfully the perfect size. We love a good alternative because who has $800+ to spend on the Bottegas." — Brittany


21.

A game-changing Snap N' Strain you can use with any pot or bowl. Just think of how much space you'll save in your already crowded kitchen cabinets!

Get it from Amazon for $11.98+ (available in three colors).

It also has a spout so you can control how much liquid you pour out, and its compact design won't take up much storage space!

Promising review: "Typically, I am not a fan of one-trick kitchen utensils. But this thing is a game-changer!! Regular strainers are clunky and take up too much space, plus pouring scalding hot liquid into them with heavy food splashing around is dangerous and messy. This eliminates that. Seriously, how have I lived my life without this? I remember making a very large and heavy batch of soup stock, and it was difficult enough to just lift the pot and pour, let alone safely into a strainer that could easily move or tip over if I poured too quickly…but this baby made the transfer so easy it’s almost laughable that anyone would use a normal strainer these days! It’s sturdy, it stays in place, it's small, lightweight, won’t rust, easy to clean, doesn’t burn your hands after being submerged in liquid fire. What else could you ask for in a strainer? Enough already, just buy it!" — Kellu


22.
Amazon
,

A mixed set of flower-shaped coupe glasses featuring eye-catching colors and a vintage feel to 'em that you might not even want to hand drinks out in them when guests are over in fear of one being dropped — but good news, at this price point, you ABSOLUTELY can (and should).

Get a set of six from Amazon for $59.95.

Promising review: "These are gorgeous. They look delicate but are pretty sturdy. They came very well packaged. I love the flower design for something just a little different. I highly recommend." — Cindee S.


23.
Fellow
,
Fellow

A set of artisanal espresso glasses you'll appreciate if you've basically transformed into a barista in an effort to 1. make better coffee at home, and 2. stop spending so much money at chain coffee shops. Applaud your own efforts with these aesthetic cups. Cheers to that!

Get them from Fellow for $34.95+ (available in four colors and sizes).

I picked these up for my husband for Christmas and they truly are even more gorgeous in person. We have the "Woodland" green color (it matches our kitchen which is a lovely bonus) and I'm still enamored with them. They add a little something extra to his morning coffee and they can be washed in the dishwasher (always a win). They also come in Cortado, Cappuccino, and latte sizes!

Promising review: "These glasses are perfect for my daily espresso pulling needs. They feel really solid and weighty and are a great size that leaves the perfect amount of space between my scale and portafilter. I’ll probably pick up some more in a different color at some point." — Chris


24.

A set of stoneware bowls that are so lovely and well-made they could easily be mistaken for a West Elm item — their depth makes them perfect for everything from salad to cereal and they're dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.

Get a set of two from Amazon for $27.35+ (also available in a set of four and in three styles).

These bowls are microwave, freezer, dishwasher, and oven-safe!

Promising review: "I legit think salads taste better out of this dish. I can't explain it but it's amazing and I'm now eating more salads. Maybe because a bowl holds dressing better than a plate and I'm not worried about running the greens off the side of a plate but can scoop them up with ease with the edges of this dish? Questions that don't really need answering, I suppose, but they illustrate how great this dish is. Buy the set, you won't regret it." — ANH


25.

Etude Dear Darling Water Tint, aka your soon-to-be new favorite lip product. Reviewers love that it's smudgeproof, looks super natural when applied, and can also be used as a blush!

Get it from Amazon for $6.90+ (available in three shades and combo packs).

Promising review: "I bought the Benefit version a couple of months ago and was very underwhelmed by it, but this product is sooo soo much better than Benetint. The pigment is so good and natural at the same time. A 10/10 for sure. And at this price point what’s there not to like?" — Rachael


26.
Amazon

Satin pillowcases that are said to help prevent hair breakage and breakouts on your face — not to mention they'll make you feel like you're living in the lap of luxury the second your head hits the pillow each night. Reviewers can't get enough of this set for their price tag and high quality. (Seriously, they have over 216,000 5-star ratings!)

Get a set of two from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in 37 colors and five sizes).

Promising review: "My hair has never been better! I got this because of TikTok and it has done wonders for my hair. My hair isn’t frizzy or dull-looking when I get up in the morning." — Aaron Key


27.

A glass mushroom lamp because scattered lighting/creating a mood is very much having a moment right now. Don't break the bank on one from Urban Outfitters and West Elm when you might just change your mind about it when trends shift again! This one is lovely, unique, and comes in a bunch of colors that'll go with your space.

Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in eight colors).

Promising review: "I am obsessed with this adorable, mini lamp. I wanted the Urban Outfitters one, but couldn’t justify the price. This one is even cuter and much more affordable." — Audge


28.

A shower lamp for anyone who liiiiiiives for spending their evening in their tub — I bet you'd love nothing more than adding some aesthetic lighting to your soak. How lovely does it sound to sit and read in this lovely ambiance while covered in warm water and bubbles? Diviiiiiiine.

Get it from Amazon for $33.56+ (available in six colors).

This is IP44 waterproof certified, meaning it can withstand splashes of water. DO NOT put this in the water with you (obviously!) or place it somewhere precarious where it can fall into the water or will get wet — but know that it'll be ok if splashed. Your nighttime shower mood lighting will be just as cozy with this on your bathroom counter or shelf. Safety first!

Hear one TikToker's thoughts on the shower lamp.

Promising review: "I bought this kind of as a joke for our shower, but it's the best thing I've purchased so far in 2025! It's easy to use, love the dimmer, and it creates a nice ambience." — Holla


29.
Amazon

Plus, a limited-edition Dr. Teal's "Snowy Night" Epsom Salt Magnesium Soak, featuring a soothing blend of orange and sandalwood — it'll transform your next soak into a revitalizing, spa-like experience. Pair it with a new bath pillow and tray to take your relaxation to the next level.

Get it from Amazon for $5.87 (psst — you can also try the popular " cozy vanilla season" and " cozy fireside" versions before they sell out for the season!!)

Promising review: "Absolutely love the smell of this Epsom salt. I got th e other seasonal scents, but this one is the bomb! My muscles relax when soaking in this Epsom salt, and it doesn't make my skin itchy either. After trying the first bag and loving it, I bought three more before they were no longer selling." — JulieK


30.
MNM Impressions Co / Etsy

An engraved reading habit tracker/bookmark you can count on to make you feel more motivated than ever to reach your reading goals in 2026 — pick out some of your fave markers and color in a box for each book you finish per month!

Get it from MNM Impressions Co for $4.15+ (available in two sizes).

MNM Impressions Co is a small business based in Missouri that sells handmade wooden items.

Promising review: "This is so convenient and fun for avid book readers. My daughter loves it!" — Tashley Gagne


31.

A reading lightyou can wrap around your neck, in case you have no interest in fumbling with a clip-on light while you turn the pages of your book. Reviewers have also said it's great if you tend to fall asleep while reading, leaving your overhead lights on in the process.

Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in seven styles).

BuzzFeed editor Elizabeth Lilly is a fan, she said: "I got one of these for Christmas and in the month or so since, it's totally changed my at-home reading game. I can pretzel myself into all sorts of positions wherever I want to read in my apartment without worrying about damaging pages with a clip-on light or sitting by a lamp."

Promising review: "I also ordered one of those book lights that you have to clip directly on to your book. I haven't even tried the clip-on yet because I LOVE THIS ONE SO MUCH!! It's so versatile. It is the perfect solution for when I'm up in the middle of the night and I still want to stay in bed and read while my husband sleeps next to me. Even when I don't have to worry about disturbing someone this light is still my go to when reading. It's better than any night stand lamp because you can focus this light directly on your book or other types of hands-on projects. I had worried that it would be uncomfortable around my neck but It's so lightweight I hardly even notice it" — Linda Holloway


32.

A Dracula garlic mincer that'll make even the most serious of chefs let out an audible giggle.

Get it from Amazon for $14.95.

Promising review: "I love this little guy. I found him on a BuzzFeed list and had to have it as soon as I saw it! I’ve minced as many as five cloves in it in seconds. It’s a little tricky getting all of the garlic out once minced (I use a silicone basting brush to get most of it, but I always use more than the recipe calls for anyway, so it’s not a deal breaker). Cleanup is a breeze because he goes right in the dishwasher!" — Barbie


33.
Amazon
,

A slouchy mini bag you might not be able to resist from adding more than one to your cart — I'd apologize, but I'm truly not sorry because this bag is fab-u-lous,

Get it from Amazon for $84.15 (available in eight colors).

JW Pei is an Asian- and family-owned small biz with minimalist accessory designs made with sustainable and vegan materials.

BuzzFeed shopping editor Kayla Boyd is a huge fan and has written about her JW Pei collection so check it out!

TikTok is LOVING this bag — check it out here!

Promising review: "These super cute and stylish mini bags are a must-have for anyone who wants to look stylish without carrying too much. Even though they’re small, they can hold all the essentials you need, like your iPhone, mirror, travel perfume, lip gloss, and even a hand fan. If you carry a lot of stuff, this size is not the best choice for you, but it’s definitely worth getting if you want a stylish and practical bag that won’t weigh you down. I need more colors! Go get you one!" — Natalie Velazquez


34.

A Piranha Plant Camera for the Nintendo Switch 2, perfect for those snowed-in weekends where you and your pals can't get together to hang out — embrace the GameChat video call feature and feel like you're in the same room, egging each other on as you fight for the winning spot in Mario Kart World.

Get it from Amazon for $29.99.

Learn about the Nintendo GameChat feature here!

Promising review: "Out of the box, you see why HORI is a respected brand in the third-party space. Works right out of the box, has an awesome stand, or you can plug it right into the Switch 2. Also comes with a 3.5mm right-angle adapter, just in case it gets in the way of your headphones. Awesome product." — Seth


35.
,
Amazon

And a quirky tape measure, level, and protractor all-in-one for kids who would love nothing more than to be able to lend a hand the next time you decide to take on a home improvement project. It measures up to eight feet (!!!) and has a built-in kid-safe retraction (no tears, please). Next, you'll have to teach them the age-old motto: "measure twice, cut once."

Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in three colors and in dog versions).

Handy Famm is a small business!

My toddler is forever eager to help my husband build anything and everything, so this was a no-brainer stocking stuffer for him two years ago. The second he sees Dad's tools out, he runs to grab his own measuring tape to get involved. The bird's face on the measuring tape is funny to me because he looks as tired as I feel. All jokes aside, this little item has been great for quick measurements and showing my son how to use a level! It's super kid-friendly, and I'll absolutely keep it in mind to suggest to other parents with tykes who want to help/learn about building!

Promising review: "My grandson was forever playing with his dad's metal measuring tape, so I purchased this for his birthday. He loves it and it can't cut or harm him. Great purchase for curious kids who want to be like dad!" — Barb A.