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If you've ever wondered what professional product reviewers (aka the Insider Reviews team) are buying on Amazon, you've come to the right place. I was wondering the same thing years ago when I was researching for guide to the best cheap gift ideas, so I asked my coworkers to share the best things they'd bought on Amazon for under $25 as inspiration. Naturally, that list had some really fun products on it, so we turned it into its own story and have been updating this article ever since.
Read on to see all the most random but extremely useful products under $25 that our team has purchased on Amazon.
Michael Domanico/Insider
SUTUN Rechargeable Book Light, available at Amazon, $14.99
I like to read at night before bed, but reading on tablets and screens is something I try to avoid. Using my night table lamp feels overly bright as well, so instead I've turned to this rechargeable book light. It gives you three options both for what kind of light you want and how bright you want it to be, and it fits snugly onto any book. It's also great for travel since it's super light weight and I've found the battery life to be excellent, as I usually recharge once every three weeks or so. I can't imagine reading without it. —Michael Domanico
Sally Kaplan/Insider
Cafe Du Monde Coffee with Chicory, 15-Ounce (2-pack), available at Amazon, $20.92
If you've ever been to New Orleans, you know exactly what this is. Cafe Du Monde, of powdered-sugary beignet fame, makes the best coffee ever — and you can order it on Amazon! The coffee is blended with chicory, a local ingredient that naturally contains caffeine and adds a round, sweet, rich flavor. The result is a super smooth cup with notes of chocolate and toffee. I drink it almost every morning now that I've figured out how easy it is to get at home. —Sally Kaplan
Sally Kaplan/Insider
Ecowaare Reusable Mesh Produce Bags (15-pack), available at Amazon, $11.99
I've been trying to cut down on plastic waste in my daily life, and while reusable grocery bags have been a regular part of my routine for years, I kept feeling guilty every time I'd grab a plastic bag for my produce. These reusable mesh polyester bags are extremely lightweight, come in a bunch of sizes, and have an easy-close drawstring to keep your produce secure. I just pop them in my reusable grocery bags and use them as needed. —Sally Kaplan
Amazon
Moka Pot Coffee Maker, available at Amazon, $21.99
After experimenting with pretty much every kind of coffee device on the planet, I've come to the realization that the Moka pot is simply the best. The classic Italian stovetop coffee maker is cheap, requires virtually no cleanup, and most importantly, brews a strong and delicious espresso that's on par with your favorite coffee shop. —Catherine Santino
Jacqueline Saguin/Insider
Lemedy Padded Sports Bra Tank Top, available at Amazon, from $20.99
I've found some of my favorite workout pieces from Amazon. This two-in-one sports bra tank has a smoothing material that rivals luxury activewear fabrics that you may gift this season. Its cropped cut meets high-waisted leggings for a flattering fit. Plus, it comes in 19 fun colors. —Jacqueline Saguin
Jacqueline Saguin/Insider
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask, available at Amazon, $14.95
This mask, as seen on Insider, transformed my skin and is probably my most recommended product to gift this season. The best part? It's $15! — Chelsey Hoffman
Crystal Cox/Insider
Dash Mini Waffle Maker, available at Amazon, $14.49
This teeny-tiny waffle maker is a small but mighty gift. For those rare instances when I'm craving a waffle or two, this very small appliance easily gets the job done and stays out of the way when it's stored. It's very easy to use and clean; just plug in and wait for the light, add your batter and close the iron. To clean, wait for the iron to cool down, then wipe with a damp cloth and you're done. — Melanie Winer
Amazon
Yin & Yang Candle, available at Amazon, $24.67
Candles always make for great gifts, but candles that double as decor are even better. This modern yin & yang design features two incredible scents in one candle and elevates any space — whether or not it's lit. —Catherine Santino
Amazon
Bedsure Standard Satin Pillowcases (Set of 2), available at Amazon $9.99
Silk pillowcases are game-changing products for your beauty sleep. They offer premium care as silk pillowcases leave skin hydrated and hair undamaged. Better yet, silk pillowcases feature a soft texture and elevate any bedroom decor toward an elegant taste. —Taylor Jeffries
Amazon
ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer, available at Amazon, $15.99
If you're looking to level up your at-home cooking setup, a meat thermometer is a must. Not only will it help you achieve perfectly tender meat every single time, but you can feel at ease knowing that your food is cooked to a safe temperature. This one is great for the kitchen or the grill, promising instant temperature reading and spot-on accuracy. —Catherine Santino
Amazon/Business Insider
Carhartt Acrylic Watch Hat, available at Amazon, $19.99
I've noticed Carhartt beanies have become increasingly popular and I finally jumped on the bandwagon. This beanie is cute, comfortable, and super warm. I got it in black so it would go with almost anything and I've been wearing it nonstop since I got it. —Victoria Gracie
Amazon
Dash Rapid Egg Cooker, available at Amazon, $16.99
After I read Jen Gushue's review of this under-$20 rapid egg cooking gadget, I was fully influenced to buy it. It makes hard-boiled eggs in half the time of traditional methods with absolutely no guesswork, saving me a good chunk of time during the week and ensuring I actually eat breakfast on busy mornings. — Ellen Hoffman
Kitsch
Kitsch Spiral Hair Ties, available at Amazon, $7.19
After using elastic hair ties for so long, I got tired of pulling out my hair, getting headaches, and snapping scrunchies. I had seen spiral hair ties before but assumed they wouldn't hold well. However, these ones from Kitsch really do the trick. They keep their shape, are comfortable, and avoid long-lasting ponytail bumps. I wear these with high ponytails, low ponytails, and even braids. —Katie Decker-Jacoby
Amazon
Dumpling Stress Ball, available at Amazon, $7.99
This dumpling stress ball might seem a little ridiculous, but that's exactly what makes it so delightful. It's truly an instant mood boost and the little "steamer" container is comes is undeniably adorable. —Catherine Santino
Amazon
Tweexy Wearable Nail Polish Holder Ring, available at Amazon, $9.99
For the manicure-obsessed friend, this nail care gift is something they'll absolutely need. The wearable nail polish holder allows you to flawlessly polish your nails without bothersome spills. —Taylor Jeffries
Amazon
Panasonic ErgoFit Earbuds, available at Amazon, $14.99
These Panasonic earbuds were easily the best $8.25 [price at the time] I ever spent on Amazon. The sound quality is fantastic and they're incredibly comfortable. I'm not someone who would ever spend hundreds of dollars on a pair of over-the-ear headphones, so these are definitely a budget-friendly gift. — Andrew Meola
Mara Leighton/Insider
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original (36-pack), available at Amazon, $11.69
If you look at my Amazon history, these pimple patches are the only thing I consistently order. They're super effective at drawing out fluids from pimples and helping them deflate, and as small, virtually clear stickers, they're hardly noticeable by other people. Within a few hours, you can expect them to noticeably improve the look and swelling of your pimple — they're that reliable. — Connie Chen
Amazon
SlipX Solutions Bottomless Bath Overflow Drain Cover, available at Amazon, $7.79
Ok, I know everyone and their mother raves about this, but it's the only thing allowing me to take baths in my current apartment. Our clawfoot tub is from the early 20th century and if I don't cover the overflow drain, my bathtub only accommodates enough water to barely reach the top of my thighs before it starts draining — not a very pleasant or relaxing bath. This little plastic overflow drain cover lets me soak deeply and comfortably in my tub. —Lauren Savoie
Amazon
TOCESS Big Hair Claw Clips, available at Amazon $10.79
I have really long hair and most clips can't hold it all back when I'm washing my face. These oversized clips are so great that I gifted the other three in this set to friends with crazy curly hair. All four of the matte colors are very lowkey and match everything. I've dropped mine at least two dozen times, and it has yet to break. —Rachael Schultz
Amazon
Ceramic Food Storage Jar, available at Amazon, $12.95
I purchased these jars to store coffee grounds in and have been so happy with them. They're affordable but still feel super chic and luxe, which is the ultimate combo when it comes to home goods (or anything, really). —Catherine Santino
Jacqueline Saguin/Insider
AIXPI 10-inch LED Ring Light, available at Amazon, $17.99
I took a cue from our Insider Reviews team by gifting myself its pick for the best budget ring light. It has made my job on the style and beauty reviews team much easier, drastically cutting down on my photo-taking time. When I test makeup and clothing, I can set this up anywhere and adjust it to the angle I need in order to do my products justice. I love changing between its three different light settings: white, warm yellow, and warm white, to find the perfect glow. —Jacqueline Saguin
Amazon
PowerLix MilkPro Milk Frother, available at Amazon $15.99
This gift is the BOMB. So easy to use and clean, and to spice up my weekend coffees/matcha drinks at home, allowing me to live my best bougie life. — Kirstie Jiongco
Amazon
Silicone Scalp Massager, available at Amazon, $6.49
Another day, another beauty product that TikTok convinced me to buy. At just $6, this one was pretty low stakes — and turned out to be an amazing find. This silicone massager lathers up my shampoo really nicely in the shower which helps with deep cleaning — but it's never irritating on my super-sensitive scalp. It also just feels amazing and transforms your usual hair wash routine into a spa-like experience. —Catherine Santino
Amazon
Anker Roav Bluetooth FM Transmitter, available at Amazon $16.99
My car is from 2005, long before Bluetooth connectivity in cars was standard. This little transmitter instantly brought my car up to present-day standards, letting me stream music and directions from my phone via an open radio channel. It plugs into the cigarette lighter and even has two USB ports so my husband and I can both charge our phones on long rides. It cost less than $15 and gifting this device will make your driving experience infinitely more enjoyable. —Lauren Savoie
Amazon
Peds Microfiber Liner Socks, available at Amazon, $11.40
These PEDS socks are the only ones I use, and I wear sneakers almost every day. The no-slip gel grips on the heel keep them from falling off and bunching up. — Sally Kaplan
Amazon
AirPod Cleaning Kit, available at Amazon, $8.49
There's really nothing more satisfying than getting all the hard-to-reach gunk out of your AirPods or other gadgets, making this handy cleaning kit an ideal gift for the tidy tech-lovers in your life. It's super compact, so it's great for storing in your desk drawer or taking on the go. —Catherine Santino
Amazon
Glass Nail File (3-Pack), available at Amazon, $5.99
I love this set of glass nail files because I can keep one in my nail kit, one at my desk, and one in my purse. Each file comes with its own compact case for easy carrying, plus there are a bunch of stunning colorways available. —Catherine Santino
Sally Kaplan/Insider
Hoosier Hill Farm Cheddar Cheese Powder, available at Amazon, $13.99
I generally eat pretty healthy, but I think I'm in love with this tub of powdered cheese. It's so good on popcorn, in mac and cheese, and sprinkled on any other sort of cracker, chip, etc. It's a supremely cheesy and salty and delicious treat to gift! This is honestly one of the best Amazon purchases I've made in years. —Sally Kaplan
Amazon
MASBRILL Light Up Dog Collar, available at Amazon $17.99
During evening adventures with my pups, this LED collar from Masbrill makes it simple to keep track of my pets. Whether out camping or just trying to spot my dog out of dozens at the park, this light-up collar is highly visible in the dark, making my job a lot easier. —Sarah Saril
Jacqueline Saguin/Insider
Brooklyn Botany Brown Sugar Body Scrub, available at Amazon, $9.99
Face and body scrubs make me nervous because of my sensitive skin, but this brown sugar exfoliator combines natural ingredients like sweet almond oil that are nourishing and gentler than other formulas. I typically use it on my body before I shave or before I apply self-tanner. It's comforting knowing that whenever I run out I can get it in just a couple of days. —Jacqueline Saguin
Jacqueline Saguin/Insider
Ehoomely Womens Fuzzy Slippers, available at Amazon, from $7.99
I've been hearing about these Amazon slippers for months — from TikTok, Instagram, and podcasts I listen to — so I had to give them a try. These slippers are comfy, just warm enough, and a perfect gift for working from home. The quality is also great for being under $20. An added bonus is that they come in almost any color you can imagine! —Victoria Gracie
Amazon
ESARORA Ice Roller, available at Amazon, $18.99
After seeing this ice roller all over social media, I finally caved and bought it — and it quickly became one of my favorite Amazon purchases ever. I'd seen it used mostly for depuffing and other skincare benefits (I love using it in the morning to instantly feel fresh and energized), but it also comes in handy for battling headaches and neck pain. —Catherine Santino
Amazon
Voluspa Nissho Soleil Candle, available at Amazon $24
I love Voluspa candles, from their balanced scents to the packaging. They also make nice, fool-proof gifts. — Julia Pugachevsky
Jacqueline Saguin/Insider
PopSockets PopGrip, available at Amazon from $9.99
When I got my iPhone X, I also picked up a PopSocket grip to make it easier to hold my phone without straining my fingers. I love it as a gift because it's practical, keeps one's phone secure, and lets me express my crazy cat lady side. — Malarie Gokey
Amazon
TubShroom Revolutionary Tub Drain Protector, available at Amazon, $12.99
Between her curly red hair and my long brown hair, my roommate and I shed a lot. Our tub doesn't have a drain catch and after a particularly effortful session with a plastic drain cleaner, I decided it was finally time to try this viral hair catcher out. This small silicone tool fits into most standard tub drains and collects all the hair before it washes down and clogs your drain. Take it out, remove the hair with a piece of toilet paper, and it's ready for the next shower." — Connie Chen
Amazon
BBTO Layered Choker Necklace (9-piece set), available at Amazon $11.59
I love chokers and layering different necklaces together, but I have a short attention span when it comes to jewelry. I tend to lean more towards affordable jewelry that I can experiment with on different looks before committing to staple pieces that I know I'll wear forever. This choker set was a great addition to my summer looks, and now I have more of an idea of what I'm looking for when I eventually take the plunge on long-wear jewelry. — Emily Hein
Amazon
OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener, available at Amazon, $17.99
Any nail enthusiast would be thrilled to receive this OPI nail strengthener, which has become a staple in my routine. It works almost immediately to treat weak or damaged nails and overtime, helps them to grow longer and stronger. —Catherine Santino
Amazon
Olive Oil Dispenser, available at Amazon, $15.49
Cutting down on dirty dishes is always appreciated, and this olive oil dispenser with built-in measurements makes everyday cooking that much more efficient. Simply squeeze the sides and it dispenses up to a tablespoon of olive oil (or whatever else you want to fill it with) for quick and easy measuring that is especially helpful when baking or whipping up salad dressings. —Catherine Santino
Wet
Wet Brush Rubberized Wet Detangle Shower Brush, available at Amazon, $8.99
My thick hair has a long history of eating brushes, but the Wet Brush finally put a stop to that! It painlessly smooths out tangles and the bristles are tough enough that I only have to buy a new one every year or so. Before, my brushes only ever made it a few months. — Ashley Phillips
Amazon
Bark Bros Hot Sauce Bottle Dog Toy, available at Amazon, $14.99
My friends recently adopted a dog named Pepper, so a hot sauce-themed toy seemed like a mandatory gift. I liked the Cholulua pun (other strong contenders were "Tabarkso" and "Bark BQ Sauce") and the toy even comes with a little squeaker inside. Apparently, it's become a favorite of Pepper's! — Julia Pugachevsky
Amazon
Lasenersm Two-Piece Dough Scraper, available at Amazon $5.99
If they bake a lot, do them a favor and gift a pack of these plastic bench scrapers. They're great for scraping dough out of bowls or off the counter — I can't tell you how handy they are! —Sally Kaplan
Lauren Savoie/Insider
Da Brigh Original Tarot Cards Deck, available at Amazon, $19.95
I'm not into the occult, but this deck of tarot cards has bought me endless hours of fun with my friends and insights for journaling. On days I don't feel inspired to write in my journal, I pull a card and reflect on whatever feelings it brings up. —Lauren Savoie
Amazon
Free & Clear Liquid Cleanser, available at Amazon, $7.99
I bought this as an alternative to my household's Bath & Body Works hand soap stock. Its fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and dermatologist-tested formula please my sensitive skin. This straightforward cleanser gift never causes redness or irritation for frequent hand washers like me. I pour the liquid into a decorative holder so it matches my bathroom. — Jacqueline Saguin
Amazon
Genuine Fred Duck Drink Tea Infuser, available at Amazon $15.20
Tea time becomes a whimsical affair with this charming tea infuser. The duck-shaped infuser is a perfect gift for the tea lover looking for an additional delight. —Taylor Jeffries
Amazon
CÉLOR Foot Peel Mask, available at Amazon, $11.97
Ok, I know these things are all over the internet, but this winter is the perfect time to gift one of these viral foot peels. It took about five days for my feet to start peeling after using it, but it was so satisfying in a really gross, but fascinating sort of way. The end result was that my feet looked and felt softer, but I have to say that the process was all part of the fun. —Lauren Savoie
Amazon
Three-Photo Collage Frame, available at Amazon $16.49
I bought a set of three 4x6 "realistic bird" prints and they fit into this three-photo frame perfectly. It's the finest art I own. — Julia Pugachevsky
Amazon
illy Coffee iperEspresso Capsule (Classico), available at Amazon $18.49
The majority of my Amazon order history is made up of these illy espresso capsules, and the orders have even been way more frequent since I started working from home. You'll need one of the illy pod machines to use them (I have the X7) but the investment is 110% worth it in my opinion.
I can whip up an Italian espresso in under a minute, and it tastes so much better than the coffee from the Nespresso and Keurig machines I previously owned. Being able to buy the pods off of Amazon means my caffeine supply is always well-stocked, and if I ever do run out, I know I can get more in just two days max. —Ashley Phillips
Jacqueline Saguin/Insider
Wet Volume & Body Round Brush, available at Amazon $11.93
Some may think a blow dryer does all the work, but a round brush makes all the difference. Replacing the $5 styling brush I've owned far past its use, the Wet Round Brush completely revived my hair routine. It grips onto large hair sections and helps dry my entire head in 10 minutes, making it a great haircare product to gift. Knowing it's on Amazon, I'll definitely be gifting myself this brush more frequently. —Jacqueline Saguin
Amazon
OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Angled Measuring Cup Set, available at Amazon $23.95
OXO is my go-to kitchen brand for cheap, well-designed tools. This measuring cup set has an angled surface that allows you to see measurement markings from above as you're pouring, so you can better measure ingredients without bending or lifting the cup to eye level.
I also highly recommend gifting OXO's silicone baking mat for creating a non-stick surface that makes for easier cleanups and this cookie scoop for scooping out balls of dough that are all the same size. — Ellen Hoffman
Amazon
Autoark Ice Velvet Earring Organizer, available at Amazon $19.99
I wear a lot of studs, and it's hard to find cute display storage for my earrings. Not only is the Autoark Ice Velvet Earring Organizer good at storing my jewelry, but it's also nice to keep on display. It's low profile too, so it sits pleasantly on any vanity or dresser. —Sarah Saril
Amazon
Urban Deco Honeycomb Wine Rack, available at Amazon $24.99
I wanted a non-bulky wine rack to sit on my kitchen counter, and I love the simple style of this one. This honeycomb design holds seven bottles officially, but nine if you add two on top — and if you need more storage, you can buy two and stack them. —Rachael Schultz
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