Editors’ picks: The 38 best products we tried and loved in January
Content is created by CNN Underscored’s team of editors who work independently from the CNN newsroom. When you buy through links on our site, CNN and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Learn more
Sometimes, everyday products our editors use don’t make it into our in-depth, long-form comparative pieces in which we vigorously test similar products head-to-head. That’s where our Editors’ Picks come in — where we highlight everyday products we personally stand by and use on a daily basis, and think you should too.
In January, we were introduced to a plethora of products, from a sleek trash can to a smartphone-sized e-reader. Some were forgettable, while others left a lasting impression. Because we’re committed to spotlighting the best products out there, we’ve decided to curate roundups of our favorite products we reviewed each month.
Keep reading to check out the products we tested and couldn’t get enough of as we slide deeper into 2024.
Home
Lumira Arabian Oud Candle
I received a set of Lumira’s scented drawer liners as a gift for Christmas and loved the smell so much that I treated myself and bought the candle. I get it, $80 is a lot to spend on one candle, but it boasts 80 hours of burn time, it looks très chic and it filled my apartment with a really subtle but definitely distinguishable scent of cardamom with a hint of orange. Since I just moved into a new place, I wanted my home to have a signature smell that wasn’t overpowering like some candles can be, and this was perfect. Lumira has found a customer for life. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor
Fly By Jing x Our Place Hot Wok Set
I love to cook Asian food, so I was pleased to see Our Place release its new Hot Wok Set, which includes a great-looking pre-seasoned, carbon steel wok with a glass lid, as well as a steamer with liners. I use this to whip up homemade noodles for my kids, steam dumplings (which I love to buy in bulk from H Mart) and veggies, and stir-fry everything. The wok has been especially helpful because it’s nonstick and simple to clean. Plus, it comes with cooking chopsticks and a pretty, decorated spatula. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor
Luxome Ultra-Plush Throw
It’s been extremely cold out the past few weeks, so I’ve been freezing while sitting at my desk all day. This plush blanket is the only thing preventing me from giving up and working from my bed. It’s lightweight enough that I can wrap myself in it without feeling constricted but still warm enough to keep me cozy. It’s also pretty versatile; I just throw it across the foot of my bed when I don’t need it. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor
Matador ReFraction Series
I’m a notorious overpacker, yet I also like to be prepared for a variety of possible outings when I’m on the road. I packed all three bags from Matador’s packable ReFraction line on a recent trip to New Zealand and used every one, bringing the backpack on day trips that necessitated an outfit change, sling bag out on bike rides and duffel as my second carry-on to carry a change of clothes and some toiletries for the long-haul flight home. They also look sleeker than the average packable bag, so no one will even know how nicely they fold into your luggage until you brag about it. — Rena Behar, copy editor
Burrow Opera Media Console
Redecorating my apartment has been an undertaking, but I didn’t want to cut corners on budget furniture that will only last a year or two. Burrow’s timeless designs caught my eye, and this media console became the saving grace of my living room, where storage was seriously lacking. Despite its low profile, it’s able to hold stacks of books, board games, puzzles, Lego and the TV box, not to mention my boyfriend’s PS5 and accessories. In fact, it was designed with tech in mind; its open bays on the back allow for maximum airflow for gaming consoles, and its slatted doors on the front are “acoustically transparent” for speakers or a soundbar. The piece was very easy to assemble (with two people, though — it’s heavy!) and feels super sturdy. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor
Kohler 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can
My kitchen trash can sits in full view — no hidden compartment under the sink for me — which is why I decided to add a little style to my household waste with this gorgeous 13-gallon can from Kohler. As a family of four, including two teen boys, we generate a whole lot of garbage, so the size is perfect. And because it comes in a bunch of different colors and finishes (I chose the stainless steel and white), you can match it to your kitchen decor. Because nobody puts Kohler in the corner. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor
From $140 at Kohler
From $140 at Amazon
Whisker Litter-Robot 4
I split my life into two categories: pre-Litter-Robot and post-Litter-Robot. Since getting the fourth edition of the device around a month ago, my house has looked and smelled pristine, I’ve been able to save my back from the constant bending and hinging required to clean up after my cats and it’s kept me from having to expose myself to (potentially) toxic waste particles as a pregnant person. Best of all, it sends push notifications to my phone so I know they’re staying regular. The cats surprisingly took to it right away and look like adorable little astronauts in a spaceship when using it. If there’s one thing I recommend for multi-cat households, it’s this. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor
$699 at Litter-Robot
$699 at Chewy
$699 at Best Buy
Beauty
Monastery Attar Floral Repair Concentrate
Last time I got a facial, my esthetician told me that before I slather on the Retin-A to control wrinkles, I should start with a layer of hydrating concentrate, which is why I’m loving this thick, oil-free balm imbued with vitamins A, B, C and E. And because the ingredient list includes rose, jasmine wax and hazelnut, it smells as good as it feels. A surprisingly addictive beauty product that doesn’t make my sensitive skin break out, it’s not cheap, but I will be ordering it again as soon as it runs low. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor
Naked Sundays Hydrating Glow Mist SPF 50+
I picked up a few sunscreen products from Naked Sundays while on vacation in Sydney, Australia, and this one stood out among the rest. It’s perfect for reapplying sunscreen over makeup or covering hard-to-reach places like your back. The invisible mist can be patted in, leaving a glowy (but nongreasy) finish. It’s definitely one of the most convenient forms of SPF I’ve tried! — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor
Keys Soulcare It’s Like Skin 2-in-1 Concealer and Tint
Keys Soulcare’s It’s Like Skin 2-in-1 Concealer + Tint is the perfect skin tint. This affordable product is vegan and cruelty-free, it goes on smoothly and it’s easily blendable. It isn’t super fragranced either, which I appreciated — plus, it lasted all day. It’s perfect for the days when you don’t feel like wearing heavy foundation, and you can even use it as a spot concealer. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator
Marin Blueberry French Toast Lip Treatment
I wish you could smell this lip treatment through your screen. Not only does it mimic the most delicious stack of blueberry French toast, but it’s also so hydrating that dry lips won’t stand a chance. The secret? An upcycled by-product from lobsters (yes, lobsters!). The brand was developed by two bioengineers who know their stuff, and I’m here to tell you that all of those 5-star reviews don’t lie. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor
Primera Perfect Oil-to-Foam Cleanser
Cleanser is usually a straightforward product that I don’t expect anything groundbreaking from, but this K-beauty formula is seriously impressive. It has a thick consistency between an oil and a gel, which transforms into a soft lather once you add water, but first I massage it into my dry skin so the oil can melt away makeup, dirt and SPF. Then, I wet my hands and the product transforms on the skin, turning into a gentle foam. After I rinse it away, my skin feels soft, clean and nourished. It makes for a pleasant face-washing experience, and I legitimately look forward to using it every night. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor
Well People Lush Lip Tinted oil
This tinted oil is seriously the best product I’ve ever put on my lips. Not only do you get a great color, but also my lips stayed nourished all day. The color happened to be long-lasting too, so I didn’t even need to use a lip liner under it. It’s also 100% vegan and cruelty-free, which is always an added bonus. Definitely a must-have for your makeup routine. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator
+Lux Unfiltered N°12 Bronzing Self-Tanning Drops
After attending a wedding and being asked if I was under the weather due to my pale skin, I realized it might be worth investing in a natural-looking self-tanner. These face drops are so easy to use and can be mixed into face moisturizer. A few drops go a very long way, and a bottle can last seemingly forever. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor
Cremo Blue Cedar & Cypress Eau de Toilette
I know, it’s 20-dollar cologne from Amazon. Just trust me. — Daniel Rathburn, associate editor, programming
Jones Road The Neutralizer Pencil
Bobbi Brown’s Jones Road is a go-to in my “no makeup” makeup journey, and her newest Neutralizer Pencil is a midwinter dream. An emollient, pliable recipe, this brightening stick helps cover those dark circles and/or bags, which unfortunately are omnipresent for me during these anemic NYC months. And, by making me look less tired, it takes years off in the process. The pencil comes in nine different colors, and it’s the perfect pick-me-up at all times of the day. I love it so much that I now keep one in my bag and wear it both alone and under other products. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor
Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Mask
Murad is one of the few skin care brands I trust. If you get dry skin in the winter (or anytime), this overnight mask is a lifesaver. It calms redness and soothes dry, patchy skin, leaving my skin feeling revitalized and plump. I have also used it as an overnight spot treatment around my nose or anywhere else I get dry spots. For even more protection from dryness, I love pairing this with the brand’s Repair Serum and Repair Cream, as all three work together to keep you super hydrated. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor
Zima Dental Pod
I’m not gonna lie: I saw this on Instagram and couldn't help but order it. As the adult in charge of cleaning my son’s overnight retainer, I was dying for a new way to get rid of all the icky plaque and bacteria these things pick up. This nifty little pod turned out to be a lifesaver — no more scrubbing with a toothbrush or soaking in Efferdent. Just fill the pod with water, plop it in and let the ultrasonic waves do their thing. It also works wonders for Invisalign and mouthguards. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor
Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy Sucré Eau de Parfum
I’ve never been shy about my eternal devotion to all things Y2K nostalgia from Juicy Couture. Within the brand’s vast fragrance lineup is this sweet take on the original Viva La Juicy iteration — a perfect blend of sweet vanilla caramel, floral jasmine gardenia and fruity orange and peach for a well-balanced scent I’ll never get tired of. Thanks to its coquettish bow and dessert-inspired design, it’s pretty enough to display as decor. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor
Fashion
Buck Mason Linen Hopsack Carry-On Jacket
I am at the age where seemingly everyone I know is getting married. Unfortunately (for my wallet), a couple of these are destination beach weddings. I’ve heard good things about Buck Mason and figured I’d get good use of this linen jacket over the next couple summers. I wore it recently while on vacation and it was comfortable, it kept me cool in 90-degree weather and it could be dressed up or down — which, unlike other wedding attire, means I’ll be able to wear it more than once or twice. — Daniel Rathburn associate editor, programming
Roark Chopper II Jacket
The Chopper II is one of the rare items that I spotted at a gear event and immediately needed to try, and it has lived up to all of my hopes. As with the Matador bags, I love a packable item that can blend into my regular wardrobe, and this jacket absolutely fits the bill, thanks to the fabric collar and extended length that give it just a little more style than your average down jacket. — Rena Behar, copy editor
Gabriel & Co. Stronger Together Huggie Earrings
Sure, these are gorgeous, sterling silver huggies, enhanced with a pleasing twist design, but they’re even more beautiful because all proceeds from the sale of the Stronger Together Huggies go toward benefitting Jewelers for Children and its charity partner, the Organization for Autism Research. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor
Honeylove BlissWear Top+Pant Bundle
I always see Instagram ads for Honeylove’s shapewear, but I had no idea that the brand also sells loungewear — and boy, have I been missing out. The BlissWear pants and shirt feel ridiculously soft and silky, thanks to the Tencel fabric, which is also super breathable. I love the sheer panels on the side of the pants and the shoulders of the top, which make the set feel more elevated than sweats but still best for wearing at home. Just note that both the tops and bottoms run big; I wish I had sized down. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor
Lux & Nyx Origami Daily Backpack
Yes, I am on a mission to upgrade most of my travel gear to something a little fancier-looking this year. I tested out this backpack in search of a way to carry my laptop and other underseat necessities that didn’t make me feel like I was setting out for my first day of eighth grade, and I’ve gotten so many compliments on how sleek it looks. — Rena Behar, copy editor
Lilly Pulitzer Elliotta Maxi Shift Dress
I’m heading on a ladies trip to the Bahamas in March and decided to gift myself a resort-forward frock in this fabulous pink tropical print. I love the beaded and embellished neckline, the maxi length and the slit that gives it a little bit of flirt. Lilly Pulitzer may be a legacy brand, but there’s nothing old-fashioned about this dress. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor
Food and drink
Siete Fuego Potato Chips
I recently discovered these better-for-me chips on Gopuff as a substitute for some of my favorite spicy snacks (see: Flamin’ Hot Cheetos), and I was blown away by how tasty they are. Eating the entire bag in one sitting kinda defeated the purpose of my purchase, but they were just that good, OK? Looking forward to trying out some other flavors ASAP. — Daniel Toy, section editor, copy chief
Pantalones Organic Tequila
Though originally a Wild Turkey man, Matthew McConaughey ditched his whiskey partnership and is now all about the tequila. His new spirit — a joint effort with his wife, Camila, called Pantalones — is certified organic and crafted from Blue Weber specialty agave. I got a bottle of the blanco and feel comfortable sipping it solo over ice or mixing it with a little lime and soda (my favorite low-cal cocktail). — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor
Lemon Perfect 6-Flavor Variety 12-Pack
I’m in the minority of folks who prefer water over most any other drink. On days that I don’t want plain water, I love to grab a Lemon Perfect, which has no sugar and no artificial ingredients. There are so many amazing flavors to choose from, but my favorite is Strawberry Passion Fruit. Whether you’re looking to drink more water or just imbibe less caffeine, it’s a refreshing alternative to throw in your bag instead of grabbing a soda or another coffee. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor
HOP WTR Blood Orange Sparkling Water, 12-Pack
In an increasingly oversaturated sparkling water market, the Blood Orange HOP WTR has become my go-to lately with its crispness, taste and just-right amount of carbonation — and I think it’s particularly great for folks who don’t drink alcohol or anyone extending their Dry January. Its cost, however, has seemingly skyrocketed in the past month ($25 at Amazon is still A LOT for what amounts to 12 cans of citrusy water), but I think it’s at least worth trying if possible — just writing about it now made me grab one from the fridge. — Daniel Toy, section editor, copy chief
Chamberlain Coffee Single Serves
While I love coffee, I’m not very good at making it myself, which is where this simple coffee comes in. Because it's packaged as single serve, it’s a no-fail way to get an incredible cup of coffee on the go. All you need is the coffee packet, water and a cup. There are a variety of delicious blends to choose from, and at just under $2 per cup, these save me from dropping $6 on a meh cup of coffee from a chain store. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor
From $13 at Chamberlain Coffee
Boarderie Arte Cheese & Charcuterie Board
The holidays may be over, but if you’re getting ready to entertain, there’s not much better than this premade, fully stocked cheese and charcuterie board. Not only does it come with 35 items — from 13 types of cheese (hello, bacon cheddar) to specialized meats like black truffle salami — but also you get three boxes of crackers, the board to serve it on and tools to serve it with (everything is completely sustainable and recyclable to boot). There are loads of other boards to choose from, including this Football Cheese & Charcuterie Board, and each one is freshly made and shipped free anywhere in the US. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor
BrüMate Hopsulator Trio 3-in-1 Insulated Can Cooler
Stanley who? Ever since I discovered the BrüMate Hopsulator Trio, it’s all I’ve used for everything from piping-hot coffee to my aforementioned cans of HOP WTR. Removing the included Arctic Adapter gel pack from the freezer and placing it at the bottom of the Hopsulator is all you need to do to “convert” it into a 12-ounce can cooler; otherwise, simply pour in your favorite hot or cold bevvie without the need for a protective sleeve — it’s designed so that it won’t freeze or burn your hand.
BrüMate’s BevLock lid technology is also second to none; it’s the best leakproof design I’ve ever tested, never accidentally spilling the water I most certainly did not sneak into the movie theater on 10 separate occasions. You can use the Hopsulator for slept-through-your-Monday-morning-alarm cold brews, a beer or three at your weird uncle’s cookout or late-night hot chocolates cuddled up next to pets. — Daniel Toy, section editor, copy chief
Sola Everything Bagels
I’m by no means a keto or low-carb eater, but I am not a huge fan of the way carbo-loading midday impacts my energy levels. As a Montrealer, I take my bagels extremely seriously, so I was very pleased to discover these low-carb bagels with a pillowy-soft yet substantial texture that fully satisfies my carb cravings without those weird blood sugar spikes that put me right to sleep. Their taste is unparalleled, and the fiber and protein content for added satiety is also a serious bonus. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor
$9 at Sola
$7 at Safeway
$9 at Instacart
Tech
Meta Quest 2 x Supernatural Bundle
While I prefer to lie in bed with my Switch or Steam Deck to play cozy games, I resolved to fuse my love of gaming with something a little more … active this year. Enter: Supernatural, a gamified VR workout app that’s both fun and challenging. Underscored’s tech editor, Mike Andronico, has been singing Supernatural’s praises since 2021, and I finally decided to take the leap (and swing, and dodge, and squat) myself this year. I now find myself looking forward to exercising during my lunch break (working from home has proven to be very static), and my accompanying weight loss has just been an added bonus to feeling healthier and more active in my day to day (thanks, Coach Leanne!).
If you don’t need the bells and whistles of the newer Meta Quest 3, this money-saving bundle should suit you just fine. And don’t sleep on Supernatural’s meditation practices either — the app works wonders for both body and mind. — Daniel Toy, section editor, copy chief
Onyx Boox Palma
This cell phone-shaped e-reader has been an absolute joy to use when I don’t feel like carrying around my Kindle Oasis in a backpack. I’m not typically an audiobook person, but if you use the Kindle app on the Palma, you have the option to play the audiobook while you read along — and with this e-reader’s built-in speaker, headphones are optional, though you can connect wireless headphones or a speaker via Bluetooth if that’s preferable. The Palma would be great for public commuters who prefer E Ink text to the harsh blue light of their cell phone, or anyone who wants a pocketable solution to e-reading on the go. (Stay tuned to see if I think it’s worth its admittedly hefty price tag in my full review.) — Daniel Toy, section editor, copy chief
ReMarkable 2
Writers write, but many of us have switched from pen and pad to keyboards both physical and virtual. The ReMarkable 2, however, is a digital notebook that just pulled me back into its clutches. Astonishingly thin, this E Ink tablet took me away from my physical notebooks with its tactile writing experience, which feels so much more natural than using the Apple Pencil on an iPad. Also, its virtually unlimited number of pages means everything’s collected in the same space. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer
From $279 at ReMarkable
$549 (bundle) at Amazon
Baldur's Gate 3
I wouldn’t describe myself as a “gamer” per se, but ever since I sank 100-plus hours into Dragon Age: Inquisition, I’ve been hoping something else would come along and fill the story-intensive fantasy-RPG-shaped hole in my life. Baldur's Gate 3, one of our favorite releases of 2023, has been filling up all of my spare time and providing my winter dopamine hit since I got it as a holiday gift, spending hours murderously frolicking around Faerun, talking to every animal and cackling with glee over the perfect spell casting moment. (We simply love when all the goblins line up for the fireball.)
There are nearly infinite levels of detail and Easter eggs to scout out, and while I’m not sure how exactly my partner feels about having to share my affections with an obnoxious vampire, a charming wizard with dubious taste in girlfriends and our shared son the baby owlbear, he’s simply going to have to manage. — Rena Behar, copy editor
From $60 at Steam
$70 at PlayStation
From $70 at Xbox
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
I’ve used Android devices before, but — probably since I’m an Apple user — I’ve never enjoyed one as much as the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Not only does its new titanium frame wrap all around the device (not just the rim like on the iPhone 15 Pro), but Circle to Search is a really great way to take the effort out of using Google. Personally, I have to applaud Samsung for cutting down the phone’s curved sides, which makes it easier to hold. Sure, you could put it in a case, but these days I’d rather actually feel the phone I’m investing in. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer
From $1,300 at Amazon
From $1,300 at Samsung
From $1,300 at Best Buy
Note: The prices above reflect the retailers' listed price at the time of publication.
For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
