Shopping
I'm Super Frugal & These Things Under $25 Are Such Good Bargains On Amazon
Useful, clever stuff shopping writers and editors swear by.

I’m pretty careful with my spending, so when I do decide to buy something, it’s something I’ll actually use. Sometimes an item is so well-made and cleverly designed, it’s worth every penny. Other times, you have to spend a little money up front to save a lot of money down the line. Below, you’ll find my favorite Amazon buys under $25 that are such good bargains, plus other recommendations from Bustle editors.
1Quick-Drying Saucers For Plants, Pitchers, & More
Technically, these quick-drying saucers are designed to catch runoff from potted plants — but I also put one under my water filter pitcher, and I haven’t had to deal with mildew or moisture since. Made from diatomaceous earth, the stones absorb and evaporate droplets in record time. They also have non-slip pads and you can buff off any stains with sandpaper.
- Available sizes: Round 6” — Round 12”
- Available styles: 2
2Non-Stick Baking Mats You’ll Reuse For Years
I stopped buying parchment paper two years ago when I got these reusable baking mats, and I’ve never looked back. Made from food-safe silicone that’s temperature-resistant up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit, they protect your pans, rinse clean of grease and sticky messes, and help your cookies, pastries, veggies, and meat bake to golden-brown perfection. They also have templates for macarons.
- Available sizes: 16.5"L x 11.6"W — 4 Pack
- Available styles: 2
3A Viral Cleaning Paste I Use Constantly
Rust-stained cookware, sticky messes on my stove, watermarks on glass, filthy sinks and bathtubs — I’ve used this viral cleaning paste all over my home to tackle countless jobs, and it’s never let me down. The gritty texture removes stains and grime on most hard surfaces without scratching them, and it has a rhubarb scent that’s mild but pleasant.
- Available sizes: 0.5 Ounce (Pack of 2) — 0.5 Ounce (Pack of 2)
4The Best Pimple Patches I’ve Ever Used
I’ve tried several brands of pimple patches, but these are by far the most effective (which explains their overall 4.5-star rating from more than 76,000 reviewers). The tapered edges keep the patches in place, the transparent matte finish blends in with your skin, and the medical-grade hydrocolloid soaks up the gunk to help blemishes heal in record time.
- Available sizes: 24 Count — 96 Count
- Available styles: 3
5A Trendy Crop Top I Have In 2 Colors
I bought this long-sleeve crop top in both black and white, and thanks to its comfort and versatility, it’s currently the most-worn item in my entire wardrobe. The ribbed-knit fabric is soft and stretchy, while the square neck and cropped hem look as good with leggings and jeans as they do with overalls and skirts.
- Available sizes: Small — X-Large
- Available styles: 18
6Reusable Bamboo Straws That Help The Environment
As we speak, I’m drinking my iced protein coffee through a reusable bamboo straw. They’re way more eco-friendly than plastic and don’t taste weird or clink against your teeth like metal. This set of 12 comes shipped in a biodegradable cardboard box with a cotton storage pouch and a slim brush to help you clean the inside, plus 10% of profits are donated to sea turtle rescue.
7A Brown Suede Bag That Only Looks Expensive
When it comes to practical accessorizing, Bustle editor Amy Biggart is a huge fan of brown suede bags and uses hers constantly: “It's big enough to fit so many things and genuinely looks so much nicer than its price tag.” Made from faux-suede leather in your choice of six colors, this one is roomy with a snap-button closure and interior pockets for organization.
- Available styles: 6
8A Dentist-Recommended Electric Toothbrush
The Philips Sonicare Power toothbrush is surprisingly affordable given its rechargeable design, two-minute timer, and gentle, ergonomic bristles — but according to Biggart, it’s worth every penny: “My dentist first recommended this toothbrush, and it genuinely is the best toothbrush I ever used. I can't believe I ever shelled out for other expensive battery-operated ones. This one is perfect.”
9A Blendable Color Stick For Your Cheeks, Lips, Or Eyes
“I've used tons of cream blushes, and this is consistently the one I come back to,” Biggart wrote about the e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick. “It's super blendable and has the perfect amount of pigment.” Available in seven colors you can use on your cheeks, lips, or eyes, its cream-to-powder formula is infused with shea butter and vitamin E for non-greasy moisture.
- Available styles: 7
10A Dirt-Trapping Doormat That’s Way Cheaper Than You’d Expect
With its modern geometric design, “this door mat looks unbelievably chic in my apartment,” wrote Biggart. The low-profile loop fleece traps dirt, mud, moisture, and sand without getting in the way of your door — and even though it has a non-slip backing, the whole thing is machine-washable to keep it looking like new.
- Available sizes: 1'8" x 2'6 — 36" x 60"
- Available styles: 10
11Self-Draining Containers That Keep Produce Fresh
At-home snack-prep is a great thought, but if your produce goes bad before you can use it, those savings disappear. Biggart “saved a ton of money” after investing in these airtight fruit storage containers, which have removable colanders that drain out the water to prevent spoilage. “I started prepping snacks, meals, and cut-up fruit in my fridge, and now I basically never order takeout.”
- Available styles: 2
12A Freezer Tray That Stores Single Servings
Biggart and I are both huge fans of this Souper Cubes freezer tray, which is made from flexible silicone with 1-cup compartments so you can pop out and defrost one serving at a time. “You'll get way more mileage out of your leftover soups,” Biggart wrote, while I use mine to store individual servings of tomato sauce for easy weekday pasta.
- Available sizes: 1-Pack — 2-Pack
- Available styles: 5
13Biker Shorts That Feel Like Lululemon
“The reviews don't lie on these shorts that get so many comparisons to Lululemon,” wrote Bustle editor Jen Fiegel. The fabric is buttery-soft and breathable, the extra-wide waistband stays put, and the longer inseam provides coverage and chafe resistance when worn under dresses or during a workout.
- Available sizes: XX-Small — X-Large
- Available styles: 28
14A Clear Waterproofing Spray That’ll Help Your Stuff Last Longer
While it dries clear and odorless, this Scotchgard Water Shield spray creates a moisture-repelling barrier on fabrics, protecting your clothes, covers, and outdoor furniture from the elements and prolonging their life in the process. “I’ve used this on canvas shoes, camping gear, and lots of other things,” wrote Fiegel, who said it’s “easy to use and works well.”
- Available sizes: 10.5 Ounce (Pack of 2) — 13 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
15A Stylish, Supportive Tank Top For Less
According to Fiegel, “You've seen the same style from way more expensive brands,” but this tank top offers all of the comfort and style for less. It’s made from double-lined compression fabric for opacity and support, plus it has adjustable spaghetti straps to refine the fit and a square neckline that lends itself to both casual and dressy outfits.
- Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
- Available styles: 9
16Quality Knives At An Amazing Price
This kitchen knife set has earned an average 4.6-star rating from almost 60,000 Amazon reviewers, and according to Fiegel, it’s a great value: “At less than $5 per, it's an amazing price for quality knives.” The blades are made from high-carbon stainless steel while the woodgrain handles are curved for ergonomics, and each knife comes with a matching sheath for storage.
- Available styles: 10
17A Mosquito-Repelling Lantern That “Really Works”
“I'm a mosquito magnet but Thermacell really works for me — even when I'm out camping,” Fiegel wrote about this mosquito-repelling lantern. Using a fuel cartridge that heats DEET-free repellent mats, it creates a 15-foot zone of protection around your fire pit, outdoor table, or campsite. Each cartridge works for up to 12 hours and the lantern also has a battery-operated light.
- Available styles: 2
18A Mushroom-Growing Kit That’s So Easy To Use
“Fancy mushrooms are so expensive,” Fiegel wrote, but this mushroom growing kit is “super easy to use and [lets] you grow a ton at home in about 2 weeks.” The box is pre-infused with mushroom spawn, so all you have to do is cut it open and spray it daily. Soon, you’ll have your own USDA-certified organic oyster mushrooms.
- Available styles: 2
19Texture-Changing Sponges I Use All Over My Home
Made from a BPA-free polymer foam, Scrub Daddy sponges stiffen up with cold water, soften with warm water, sanitize in the dishwasher, and resist stains and unwanted smells for up to eight weeks. The smiley faces are also great for grip and washing utensils. Needless to say, I use them all over my home. (Pro tip: Get one of these soap-dispensing handles to use them as a scrub brush.)
- Available sizes: 3 Count — 9 Count
- Available styles: 3
20Bamboo Toothbrushes I’ve Used Since 2022
I bought two boxes of these bamboo toothbrushes back in 2022, and I’m still working my way through them. The bristles are BPA-free and infused with whitening charcoal, the wooden handles are eco-friendly, and the set includes floss and a bamboo travel tube. Judging by their average 4.6-star rating from over 17,000 reviewers, I’m not the only one who loves them.
- Available sizes: Pack of 4 — Pack of 12
21Foaming Hand Soap Tablets That Are Plastic-Free
In my quest to minimize my plastic consumption, I found these foaming hand soap tablets, and now I haven’t bought liquid hand soap in years. Drop the tablet into a reusable foaming dispenser with water and it’ll dissolve into a plant-based, planet-friendly soap that washes away dirt and germs without drying out your skin. They come in several scents, or you can get them fragrance-free.
- Available sizes: 4 Count — 10 Count
- Available styles: 7
22Quick-Drying Cloths That Replaced My Paper Towels
These Swedish dishcloths helped me seriously cut down my paper towel usage. The cellulose and cotton fabric is extremely absorbent to soak up spills, textured to scrub away messes, and quick-drying to prevent the growth of bacteria and unwanted odors. You can also wash them and reuse them up to 100 times each, making them wallet- and eco-friendly.
- Available styles: 12
23Dishwasher Pods That Work Amazingly Well
I thought I needed a brand-new dishwasher, but these Cascade Platinum dishwasher pods proved me wrong. Using Dawn, enzymes, and scrubbing power, the formula breaks down grease, food residue, hard water spots, and film to save you time, effort, and water usage. Basically, I’ve never seen my plates so spotless and my glasses so clear.
24A Lightweight Cream That’s Better Than More Expensive Brands
Searching for a non-greasy moisturizer? Biggart has been using this Cocokind water cream and wrote, “It's even better than some of the bougie ‘water’ creams I've tried. It's super lightweight and hydrating.” The electrolyte-powered gel is designed to revitalize, calm, balance, and plump your complexion, all while drying into a matte finish that doesn’t cause acne or get in the way of your makeup.
25A Smart LED Light Strip For A Great Price
“I just got these to go behind my TV and they make the entire room look so good at night,” wrote Biggart, who “can't believe the price.” Thanks to their adhesive backing, you can also install these smart LED strip lights behind your headboard, under your cabinets, or along the ceiling. Using Bluetooth, they connect to an app on your phone where you can choose between 16 million colors, sync them up to music, or pick from over 64 preset scenes.
- Available sizes: 16.4ft — 100ft
26Oil Dispensers That Both Pour & Spray
“Not only will an oil sprayer like this make it easier to spray the correct amount of oil when cooking, but it's a really good deal — this is a set of two,” wrote Biggart. Made from BPA-free glass with a clog-resistant misting nozzle, the two-in-one design lets you spray or pour the oil of your choice when greasing pans, sauteeing vegetables, dressing salads, and prepping meals for the air-fryer.
- Available styles: 19
27A Slim Cart That Maximizes Storage
“This slim storage cart is a game-changer for creating storage in tiny spaces,” wrote Biggart, who thinks it’s “well worth its price tag.” In addition to four high-rim tiers that hold ingredients next to the fridge, cosmetics beside the toilet, or detergent in between the washer and dryer, the cart also has movable hooks for hanging items and free-rotating wheels for easy mobility.
- Available styles: 5
28Lanolin Lip Balm That’s Deeply Hydrating
According to Biggart, “Lanolips lip balm literally melts into your skin — it should be way more expensive than it is!” Sold in your choice of eight scents, the deeply hydrating formula uses sustainable lanolin oil (a natural byproduct of wool-washing) instead of petroleum, and you can use it on cracked cuticles, too.
- Available styles: 8
29Retro-Inspired Sunglasses That “Look So Expensive”
Thanks to their metal frames and Y2K-inspired oval shape, these retro sunglasses “look so expensive, I get compliments every time I wear them,” Biggart wrote. The HD lenses offer UV400 protection to block out glare and damaging rays, and they come in your choice of five colors with a storage pouch and a microfiber cleaning cloth.
- Available styles: 5
306 Makeup Sponges For The Price Of 1
You don’t need to spend a ton on makeup tools, and the 4.6-star overall rating on these latex-free sponges proves it. “I am always falling victim to spending $6 for a single beauty sponge at a pharmacy — but this is a set of six for the same price,” Biggart wrote. “Incredible!” Like the name-brand, they’re low-absorption to save product, teardrop-shaped to get into crevices, and ultra-soft for an airbrushed finish.
- Available styles: 2
31A Plumping Gloss That Rivals Expensive Brands
“This lip gloss looks so good on, it rivals way more expensive glosses I've tried,” Biggart raved about Kiko Milano 3d Hydra lip gloss. The hydrating formula moisturizes for up to eight hours, the shimmery finish creates a plump, 3-D effect, and the flocked stick makes for easy, mess-free application on the go. Get it in your choice of 30 tinted shades.
- Available styles: 30
32A Washable Spin Mop That Saves Time & Money
Bustle editor Anna Anderson uses this O-Cedar EasyWring spin mop and wrote, “I have saved so much money on one-use mopping pads (plus it's faster!).” The set includes a triangular-shaped rotating mop that reaches into corners, an absorbent microfiber mop head that’s machine-washable, and a pedal-powered spin bucket for hands-free wringing.
- Available styles: 3
33Silicone Under-Eye Patches You Can Reuse
Anderson also recommends these Tree of Life under-eye patches. Like most under-eye treatments, they’re designed to soothe dark circles and plump skin for a brighter, more refreshed appearance — but unlike most under-eye patches, these are made from 100% silicone that you can reuse over and over again. They’re also cruelty-free and dermatologist-tested for all skin types.
- Available styles: 2
34Laundry Pods To Protect Your Bras In The Wash
According to Anderson, these lingerie wash bags are a “great way to extend the life of your bras.” They’ve earned an overall 4.7-star rating from more than 31,000 reviewers because their double-layer mesh fabric thoroughly cleans your bras in the wash, but they’re structured to protect the shape and have rust-resistant zippers for hassle-free use.
- Available styles: 4
35A Cloth That Removes Makeup Using Just Water
Both Anderson and I use and love this MakeUp Eraser cloth, which removes all types of makeup (even waterproof mascara) using nothing but warm water. Since it’s machine-washable and reusable, I’ve saved tons on makeup remover and single-use wipes — and now that I’ve ditched the harsh cleansers, my sensitive skin doesn’t feel as dry.
- Available styles: 17
36A Dishwasher-Safe Silicone Food Bag That Stands Up
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly, cost-savvy alternative to single-use plastic baggies, reusable silicone pouches are the way to go. “One of my colleagues suggested these bags and they really are the best,” wrote Bustle editor Lauren Beach. “They stand up for filling and are easy to clean,” plus they’re food-grade and compatible with the dishwasher, microwave, and freezer.
- Available sizes: Snack — 5 Piece Set
- Available styles: 7
37Beeswax Bowl Covers That Replace Plastic Wrap
According to Beach, these reusable beeswax bowl covers “save so much money” in the long run. They’re made from cotton that’s infused with jojoba oil, beeswax, and tree resin to keep your food fresh, and the elastic bands ensure that they fit most sizes of bowls. Wash them in cold water with mild soap and let them air-dry for ongoing reuse.
- Available styles: 4
38A Gardening Mat That Contains The Mess
“I make such a mess repotting plants and this is a cheap solution,” Beach wrote about this gardening mat. It’s made from dense, waterproof fabric with snap-closure corners that create a mess-containing workspace — but when you’re done, it’s easy to shake off, rinse clean, and fold up for compact storage.
- Available sizes: Small — Extra-Large
- Available styles: 11
39Steel Cookie Cutters With Arched Handles
Made from stainless steel with arched handles, these thick cookie cutters come in a set of five circular sizes that stack inside each other for compact storage. “The largest size in this set is perfect for making your own egg sandwiches for breakfast,” Beach wrote. “I bake one giant tray of eggs and use this to cut out the patties.” You can also use them for mini cakes, mousse, and biscuits.
- Available styles: 2
40Organic Lip Balms That Have An Editor “Obsessed”
“I'm obsessed with these organic lip balms,” wrote Bustle Editor Danielle Kraese. “They feel so soothing on my sensitive lips, and I love that you get so many for so cheap. I keep one stashed in every room and bag.” On Amazon, they have an average 4.6-star rating from over 16,000 reviewers, and you can get them clear or tinted.
- Available styles: 19
41Cheap Night-Lights That Turn On Automatically
Kraese also recommends these LED night lights, which couldn’t be easier to use for eye-friendly navigation at night. Plug them into an open outlet and they’ll automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn. They’re also energy-efficient, safety tested, and cool to the touch, which explains how they earned an average 4.7-star rating from over 30,000 reviewers.
- Available sizes: 2 Pack — 8 Pack
42Bamboo Cutting Boards That Hold Up So Well
“I bought this cutting board set years ago and it has held up so well,” wrote Kraese. “It includes just the right variety of sizes too.” The three boards are made from knife-friendly bamboo with reversible designs and built-in handles for hanging and portability — plus they’re stylish enough for serving your charcuterie.
- Available styles: 3
43Shelf Liners That’re Surprisingly Versatile
Kraese also recommends this Gorilla Grip shelf liner, which is a best-seller with over 23,000 five-star ratings. It’s non-adhesive, but it has a grippy, tear-resistant texture that stays in place to protect your drawers and cabinets from messes. You can cut it to size for a custom-like fit, and you can use it as a jar opener, mattress gripper, or sofa cushion stabilizer.
- Available sizes: 12" x 10' — 24" x 30'
- Available styles: 14
44Motion-Sensing Night-Lights You Can Put Anywhere
“These are such an inexpensive upgrade for a room that needs a little more light at night — and I love that you don't need to worry about turning them on and off,” Kraese wrote about these motion-sensing night lights. Since they’re battery-powered and easy to install with the included screws or double-sided adhesive, you can put them just about anywhere in your home.
45A Glass Foot File That Works In Seconds
“Forget the pumice stone — this foot file gets the job done quickly and easily in mere seconds,” wrote Bustle editor Karen Belz. Using textured glass, it’s designed to buff away calluses fast without leaving your feet rough or raw. According to Belz, it’s also “easy to use and has its own lid to help keep it hygienic and travel-ready.”
- Available styles: 4
46A Nifty Tool To Slice Fruits & Veggies
“As a fan of raw veggies, I'm sad that I didn't discover this nifty little tool sooner,” Belz wrote about these cutting board scissors, which are “easy to wash, easy to store, and take a lot of stress out of the preparation process.” With a sharp steel blade, a built-in cutting board, and ergonomic spring-loaded handles, you can chop salad ingredients and slice fruit with one tool — plus it comes apart for cleaning and use as a standard knife.
- Available styles: 5
47A Quick Fix For Chaotic Drawers
If your drawers are a chaotic mess of unruly undergarments, here’s an affordable fix: “This breathable fabric organizer is easy to use right out of the box, and is ideal for organizing socks and undies,” Belz wrote. The woven cloth is structured for stability, but folds up for easy storage, and the set offers 64 cells in total to separate and display your clothing essentials.
- Available sizes: 3 Pack for Bra — 6 Pack Full Set
- Available styles: 4
48A Budget Planner That Makes Finances Easy
“Keeping track of spending makes me feel more financially empowered, and this planner makes it easy,” wrote Bustle editor Cassandra Seale. The Clever Fox budget planner has stellar ratings because it provides the planning tools you need to take control of your money, including spreads for setting goals and tracking debt, expenses, savings, and bills. It even has mind maps and money affirmations.
- Available sizes: Pocket — A5
- Available styles: 24
49A Steel Mixing Bowl Set With Lids
According to Seale, “Every kitchen needs a good set of mixing bowls. This affordable set is practical and also looks so sleek.” They’re made from stainless steel with five sizes that span from 3/4 quarts to 5 quarts, and they nest inside each other for compact organization. The set also comes with tight-fitting lids, so you can use them for food prep and storing leftovers.
50A Fun Watermelon Serum For Face & Body
“I'm a big fan of TonyMoly, and this could easily be three times the price,” Seale wrote about the brand’s Watermelon Dew All-Over, which is “such a fun dewy serum for both face and body.” Made with 50% real watermelon extract, the Korean formula is designed to leave skin looking plump and hydrated without a greasy residue.
- Available styles: 2
51A Hydrating Serum That Works As Well As Pricey Brands
“A solid hyaluronic acid serum is a skin-care essential for me,” wrote Seale, who recommends this serum from The Ordinary. It “works just as well as expensive versions, and at this price point is easy to use lavishly.” In addition to five forms of hyaluronic acid for plumping hydration, it also has vitamin B5 to lock in nourishment and ceramides to support the skin barrier.
- Available sizes: Pack of 1 — Pack of 2
- Available styles:
52A Portable Set To Clean Your Makeup Brushes
Fiegel is also a fan of this makeup brush cleaning set, which is a portable way to get your tools working like new again. When moistened, the bar of soap turns into a cleansing foam that loosens cosmetics, dirt, and oil, while the silicone cleaning pad uses its nubby texture to deep-clean the bristles, so you can rinse away the residue. It also works on beauty sponges.
- Available styles: 5
53A Modern Mirror That’s So Well-Made
Fiegel recommends this modern wall mirror, which looks way more expensive than it is. It’s available in tons of colors, sizes, and designs (from a gold-tone semi-circle to a black-rimmed irregular pebble shape), but they’re all made with a lightweight aluminum alloy frame and six layers of shatter-resistant tempered glass for a durable, undistorted reflection.
- Available sizes: 12"L x 12"W — 38"L x 26"W
- Available styles: 28
54A Versatile Knit Vest That’s So Chic
With its crochet design, contrast trim, and dual adjustable ties, this chunky-knit vest looks like you found it in a high-end boutique — not on Amazon for $15. Since you can wear it with the ties in the front, in the back, open, or layered over various other pieces, the styling possibilities are virtually endless.
- Available sizes: Small — X-Large
- Available styles: 8
55Cute Cactus Lights You Can Use Inside Or Out
These battery-operated string lights span almost 14 feet with cute LED cactuses dispersed throughout. The copper wire makes them easy to wind around windows, mirrors, plants, mantles, and centerpieces, while the waterproof design lets you use them outside the house, too. They’re also remote-controlled with eight lighting effects and automatic timer functions.
56An Adjustable Plant Stand Made From Iron
To protect your floors and give your potted plants an elevated appearance (literally and figuratively), Fiegel recommends this adjustable plant stand. While it looks like woodgrain, it’s actually made from durable iron — and its flippable, adjustable design offers two height options while fitting containers from 8 to 12 inches.
- Available sizes: 1 — 3
- Available styles: 3
57A Wall-Mounted Accessories Organizer
Get your accessories organized once and for all with this wall-mounted storage rack, which you can use for belts, ties, jewelry, scarves, or headbands. The base is made from durable wood, while the metal hooks rotate 180 degrees and have a rounded shape that securely holds and displays your entire collection at once.
- Available sizes: 1 Pack — 2 Pack
- Available styles: 4
58A Sleek Turntable With 2 Tiers
For sleek, effortless organization in your pantry, in your cabinets, or on your countertop, Fiegel suggests this best-selling turntable rack. Unlike your average Lazy Susan, it has clear trays connected by metal rods — and its two-tier design utilizes vertical space to maximize storage. You can also combine sets to add even more tiers.
- Available sizes: 9.25in 1 Pack — 10.6in 2 Pack
59Straw Covers Shaped Like Cat Paws
Fiegel is a cat lover, and these cat paw straw covers are both a cute accessory and a practical addition to your reusable water bottle. Made from silicone and compatible with 10-millimeter straws from popular tumbler brands, they minimize spills while keeping germs off your straw and dust out of your drink.
60A Must-Have Multipurpose Tool For Gardeners
With an overall 4.8-star rating from more than 9,000 reviewers, the Nisaku Hori-Hori has been called the “best multipurpose gardening tool” — and Fiegel is also a fan. Made in Japan, it has a stainless steel blade/shovel with a serrated edge, a straight edge, and inch markings, so you can dig, plant, weed, chop, saw, and measure, all with a single tool.