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Tag: Commerce

9 Essential Travel Items We Love

Home | Updated: May 8, 2026
Molly Wolfe
Author
Molly is a British freelance travel and lifestyle writer with a decade of travel experience. She encourages slow and responsible travel, and loves to help others with tips, tricks, and essential products for the road. She's currently studying for her MA in Creative Writing to further deepen her craft.
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Traveling well is a fine art, and choosing the best travel essentials means the difference between travel master and total disaster. As a die-hard digital nomad with 29 countries under my belt, I’m your go-to girl when it comes to packing wisdom. I’ve suffered the trials and errors of curating the perfect pro-level travel kit, so you don’t have to. Ditch packing things “just in case” — yep, I’m looking at that stack of books you’re eyeing up; just get yourself an e-reader and be done with it. But this isn’t about what not to bring. Let’s get into the ultimate trip essentials to elevate your journey. Whether you’re flying, driving, or train-hopping, you should high-tail these picks to the apex of your packing list pronto.

Prices are accurate as of May 8, 2026. Subject to change.

Image of four Apple AirTags
Courtesy of Amazon

Apple AirTag

Every (Apple-inclined) traveler needs a set of AirTags. Fact. After my passport, these are item number two on my packing list. AirTags allow you to track the location of, well, pretty much anything. I pop one in my luggage (no more separation anxiety at the bag drop), one in my purse, and one on my car keys — for keys, you’ll need to add a case. Set-up is super simple: connect to the Find My app to keep a close eye on the whereabouts of your precious possessions. 

BUY FOR $99 (4 PACK) AT AMAZON
Image of the NapFun neck pillow
Courtesy of Amazon

NapFun Neck Pillow

The most unsung of all travel heroes? The humble neck pillow. Pre-pillow days, I’d emerge from a flight or bus ride with a cricked neck — a big fat F for fail, and a shaky start to my trip. The NapFun pillow is simple and well-made without a bunch of poor-quality accessories thrown in to bump up the price. With 360-degree support, plush memory foam, and an adjustable lock, you’ll find the sweet spot for your in-flight snooze before you can say “prepare for take-off.” Plus you can remove the cover for a good wash when it starts to smell a little, um, well-traveled. I love that it comes with a cute pack-away bag, too. Bye-bye bulk, hello convenience.

BUY FOR $16 AT AMAZON
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Image of the Hiluckey Solar Power Bank
Courtesy of Amazon

Hiluckey Solar Power Bank

My boyfriend gifted me this solar-powered power bank when I set off on the Camino de Santiago, and it’s been on my travel checklist ever since. It juices up your iPhone’s battery to 50% in just 30 minutes, and with a triple-port design (two USB-C and one USB-A), you can have a few devices resurrecting from digital death simultaneously. Expect six or seven full charges for your phone or three for your tablet. The pièce de résistance? The solar panels. When your power bank’s battery dips into the danger zone, just leave it in direct sunlight for an au-natural recharge. It errs on the heavy-duty side, but those extra grams mean a more robust gadget.

BUY FOR $30 AT AMAZON
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Image of the Dermalogica Antioxidant Hydramist Toner
Courtesy of Amazon

Dermalogica Antioxidant Hydramist Toner

Stuffy airports and overpowering car AC take their toll on your skin while traveling and it’s not pretty. But on the bright side, the Dermalogica Antioxidant Hydramist Toner has your back, allowing you to spritz some vitality and hydration back into your skin. Packed with rose, pea, and clove extract, this formula collabs with Mother Nature to plump and firm your skin whenever you need a pick-me-up. Those public restroom mirrors needn’t be such a scary place, after all.

BUY FOR $16 AT AMAZON

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Image of the e.l.f. Monochromatic Mutli-Stick
Courtesy of Amazon

e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi-Stick

The Monochromatic Multi-Stick by e.l.f. is no less than miraculous for adding a flush of color to your skin after a long travel stint. It’s super creamy and blendable, while the added shea butter and vitamin E make for fresh-faced radiance. Use it on your lips, cheeks, or eyes for an instant glow-up, whether you’re mid-flight or on the highway. And the icing on the cake? It’s solid, so it won’t eat into your cabin-bag liquid allowance.

BUY FOR $6 AT AMAZON
Image of a pack of Boogie antibacterial hand wipes
Courtesy of Amazon

Boogie Antibacterial Hand Wipes

This one’s about as essential as it gets. Stay hygienic on your travels with a pack of Boogie hand wipes. These come in handy mini-packs of 20, so you’ll barely notice them tucked in your bag. They’re antibacterial and totally safe for your skin — plus, you can give your seat, tray, armrests, or steering wheel a squeaky-clean wipe-down, too. Peace of mind for germaphobes? Check.

BUY FOR $10 AT AMAZON
Image of Loop Quiet 2 earplugs
Courtesy of Amazon

Loop Quiet 2 Earplugs

A small accessory with mighty impact, the Loop Quiet 2 Earplugs create a silent buffer between you and unavoidable travel commotion. Whether you’re drowning out your road trip buddy’s questionable radio choices or the whirrs and burrs of an airplane engine, these earplugs are made for the job. They come with different ear tip sizes, so you can find the perfect fit, too.

BUY FOR $25 AT AMAZON
Image of the Alaska Bear Silk Eye Mask
Courtesy of Amazon

Alaska Bear Silk Eye Mask

Catching the red-eye needn’t result in actual red eyes. Well, not with your new secret weapon: the Alaska Bear Organic Silk Eye Mask. As paramount to your travel comfort as your neck pillow and earplugs, this sumptuous eye mask ensures you can drift into sound sleep oblivious to any clamor around you. Designed with 100% Mulberry silk, this light-blocking eye mask infuses a little luxury (and a lot of peace) into your travels without a hefty price tag.

BUY FOR $15 AT AMAZON
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Courtesy of Amazon

Kindle Paperwhite

If you haven’t yet switched to an e-reader, the Paperwhite is about to become your favorite travel companion. Sure, the smell of a new book is great, but so is not breaking your back carrying an entire library in your bag. There are several Kindle models currently available, but the Paperwhite is the best. You’ll get 10 weeks of battery life, a glare-free display, and 16 gigabytes of storage for all your favorite titles. So, you can have your library, after all.

BUY FOR $111 AT AMAZON

Feature Image Credit: Pixel-Shot/ Shutterstock

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Molly Wolfe
Writer

Molly is a British freelance travel and lifestyle writer with a decade of travel experience. She encourages slow and responsible travel, and loves to help others with tips, tricks, and essential products for the road. She's currently studying for her MA in Creative Writing to further deepen her craft.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated: October 7, 2024
Posted In: Home
Hero Image Credit: Better Report
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18 Products You Need in Your Problem-Solving Toolkit

Ali Eldridge
Home | Updated: January 31, 2026
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

We deal with problems every day, from minor to major. There’s not always a quick fix, but sometimes, you wish there was a solution to that creaking door or the pesky stain you just can’t seem to get off your favorite shirt. That’s where these amazing products come in, helping to ease your frustrations just a tiny bit. What’s more, all are under $50 each, so you won’t break the bank or get stressed over the next little inconvenience.

Prices are accurate as of January 30, 2026. Subject to change.

A photo of Tide Pens box
Courtesy of Amazon

For Stains: Tide Pen Stain Remover

If you’re a messy eater or deal with unexpected spills often, the Tide Pen helps keep your clothes stain-free whether you’re at the office, on a date, or running errands. It’s compact so it fits right in your pocket or work tote, and it eliminates coffee, ketchup, wine, and even tea stains. Simply press the pen’s tip onto the stain to release the cleaning solution, rub it in with the microfiber pad, and let Tide do its job. You can even repeat the process for stubborn stains.

BUY FOR $7 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Mystyle Purse Organizer
Courtesy of Amazon

For Cluttered Bags: OMYSTYLE Purse Organize

I don’t know about you but my work tote is always a mess — I can never find my keys, pens, or anything else that’s essential in there. This purse organizer changed everything for me. It has 13 compartments, so it neatly stores everything from makeup to granola bars. Now I can separate where I keep my keys from my credit cards, so I know where they are in a pinch. I love the zippered compartment to store essentials like loose cash or IDs. Six sizes are available depending on the size of your everyday bag.

BUY FOR $23 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Squeaks Gone Lubricant Oil bottle
Courtesy of Amazon

For Squeaks and Creaks: Squeaks Gone Lubricant Oil

If you’re struggling with squeaking and creaking doors, try this lubricant oil. It breaks through rust and corrosion, loosening rusted door bolts, and eases friction on fans, cabinet drawers, and squeaky bed frames.

BUY FOR $18 AT AMAZON
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A photo of Ohill Cable Clips
Courtesy of Amazon

For Tangled Cables: OHill Cable Clips

If you have a bunch of cords leaving your TV or laptop, or you just have too many wires on your bedside table, these cable clips can help tidy the mess. They stick on surfaces and keep your charging cables neatly in place, preventing them from getting tangled with each other or falling while not in use. There’s 16 in a pack, so every room in your house is covered.

BUY FOR $8 AT AMAZON
A photo of ther GE night lights and box
Courtesy of Amazon

For Dark Hallways: GE Automatic LED Night Light

If you have trouble finding your way to the bathroom at night and don’t want to blind yourself with your overhead lights, choose these night lights. They sit nearly flush against the wall and automatically turn on when the lights go out. They’re not blinding, but are just soft enough to help see in the dark.

BUY FOR $8 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Wet Brush
Courtesy of Amazon

For Knots and Tangles: Wet Brush Original

I wake up with tangled hair every morning, and if it wasn’t for the Wet Brush, I’d show up everywhere with a messy mop. Despite having soft bristles, this brush works well to detangle stubborn knots without pulling and protects against split hairs and breakages. I have straight to wavy hair, but it works well for curly hair too.

BUY FOR $10 AT AMAZON

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A photo of a Tile Mate
Courtesy of Amazon

For Lost Keys: Tile Mate

I don’t know about you but I constantly misplace my keys. On a normal day, that’s frustrating. On a day when I’m already running late, it feels disastrous. A Tile Mate helps prevent the frenzy. Simply attach it to your keys, bag, or anything else you want to keep safe and use your phone or smart home device to ping it the next time you can’t find it. It has a range of 250 feet and is even water resistant, so it can handle the occasional drizzle without giving out. iPhone users may also like Apple AirTags, but I appreciate that the Mate has a cutout for your keychain already included.

BUY FOR $20 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Chom Chom Roller
Courtesy of Amazon

For Pet Hair: Chom Chom Roller Reusable Lint Roller

Disposable lint rollers are great for clothes, but if you have pets, you’ll go through hundreds of those sticky sheets trying to keep your furniture hair-free. The Chom Chom Roller easily removes pet hair as well as other dust and debris from your couch, pillows, carpet, or anywhere else your furry friend is shedding and traps it in the built-in receptacle. One Better Report editor has owned one for years and it’s as capable now as it was brand new.

BUY FOR $25 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Auvon Weekly Pill Organizer
Courtesy of Amazon

For Daily Medication: Auvon Weekly Pill Organizer

Whether you’re taking a bunch of supplements and vitamins every day or have medication that you absolutely can’t miss, a pill organizer helps make that routine easier. No more opening multiple bottles or trying to remember if you took your pill that day already. Because it saves so much space, I love using it when I’m on vacation. I store my pills in the conveniently labeled slots and never have to worry about missing one again.

BUY FOR $6 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Veken 8-Set Packing Cubes
Courtesy of Amazon

For Packing: Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes for Suitcases

You may go into packing with lofty goals, but inevitably, things end up getting shoved in — either at the end of your trip or before you even leave. Instead, organize your clothes and accessories with ease with these packing cubes meant to separate sweaters, pants, underwear, and toiletries so you always know where something is. Plus, they have see-through panels so you can quickly see what you’ve stored where. There’s even a bag meant for dirty laundry. They’ll fit in your suitcase or even in a duffel bag if you’re heading out on a shorter trip.

BUY FOR $18 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Mighty Patch box
Courtesy of Amazon

For Pimples: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch

So you’ve woken up with a pimple, or worse, picked at one and now it’s more noticeable than before. Mighty Patch is your solution. Made from hydrocolloid, the Mighty Patch soaks up fluid from the pimple, reducing its size within eight hours. I use them all the time when I have a breakout and can confirm that they work — be it by healing an already enflamed pimple or by keeping me from picking new ones. 

BUY FOR $13 AT AMAZON
A photo of The Pink Stuff cleaner bottle
Courtesy of Amazon

For Cleaning Nearly Everything: Stardrops The Pink Stuff All Purpose Cleaning Paste

This viral paste can be used on nearly any surface. Use it to clean greasy stoves, stained pantries, mucky grout, and even dirty shoes — it really is that versatile. I particularly like it for quickly cleaning all the gunk off my bathroom tiles. That alone makes it worth every penny.

BUY FOR $6 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the NapFun Neck Pillow
Courtesy of Amazon

For Traveling: NapFun Neck Pillow

Traveling economy for long distances can be draining on your body, but especially on your neck. A neck pillow makes it easier to sleep on a long-haul flight (or drive), keeping your neck comfortably in place and preventing aches and pains later. This one is made from memory foam and has front and side chin support — much more than your standard neck pillow — and an adjustable cable to keep it in place. It also comes with a portable travel bag and the cover is machine washable.

BUY FOR $16 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Yishu Power Strip
Courtesy of Amazon

For Cluttered Outlets: Yishu Surge Protector Power Strip

Do you live in an apartment or an older home with limited outlets? This handy power strip has eight outlets, plus three USB-A ports and one USB-C port. It also has a six-foot cord and surge protection built-in.

BUY FOR $13 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Squatty Potty Simple Bathroom Stool
Courtesy of Amazon

For Bathroom Breaks: Squatty Potty Simple Bathroom Stool

Modern bathroom amenities are thankfully better than the days of chamber pots and outhouses, but despite the advancements, we still tend to go incorrectly. Humans are meant to squat when they poop, not sit. The Squatty Potty is designed to reduce strain and relax your muscles. There’s a reason this product is a bestseller on Amazon — it honestly cuts your bathroom time in half. The brand sells several different stools, including those made from stylish bamboo, but this model is really all you need. As the name suggests, it’s simple and effective.

BUY FOR $20 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Hamilton Beach Dual Breakfast Sandwich Maker
Courtesy of Amazon

For Busy Mornings: Hamilton Beach Dual Breakfast Sandwich Maker

If you love breakfast but hate making it during busy mornings, this breakfast sandwich maker will save you time and sanity. Layer ingredients as instructed, from the base to the egg to the toppings. You’ll have a delicious sandwich in five minutes and you hardly have to put in any work.

BUY FOR $55 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Pyrex 9-piece set
Courtesy of Amazon

For Meal Prepping: Pyrex Simply Store 9-Pack Glass Food Storage Set

Meal prepping can save you a ton of time and money during busy work weeks. But when it comes to storing all that prep work, it’s best to avoid plastic containers as much as possible — especially if you’ll need to pop them in the microwave at work. Instead, use this Pyrex set which comes with nine glass containers to store everything from meat to veggies. They are dishwasher and microwave-safe and are made from tempered glass to resist stains and odors.

BUY FOR $38 AT AMAZON
A photo of reflective running belt
Courtesy of Amazon

For Runs: Sport2People Water-Resistant Reflective Running Belt

This water-resistant reflective running belt keeps you visible and safe in the dark and also holds any important items like your cards and keys. It even has a phone holder so you can focus on your exercise without leaving all your necessities behind. It’s adjustable from 24 to 51 inches.

BUY FOR $15 AT AMAZON
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Feature Image Credit: Courtesy of The Pink Stuff

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Ali Eldridge

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated:
Posted In: Home
Hero Image Credit: Better Report
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Jigsaw Puzzles for a Book Lover’s Night In

Home | Updated: June 28, 2026
Julia Rittenberg
Author
Julia Rittenberg is a culture writer and content strategist driven by a love of good stories. She writes most often about books for Book Riot. She lives in Brooklyn with a ton of vintage tchotchkes that her cat politely does not knock over.
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

A jigsaw puzzle is the perfect accompaniment to a night in, whether you’re cozying up with a cup of tea to avoid chilly fall weather or simply need some peace and quiet. Puzzling is also a great activity to leave and resume later: you can easily pick it up between chores, do a little while watching television, or work with a group after finishing up a board game. You can find puzzles for every skill level and interest, but if you’re a fan of books and classic literature, we’ve got you covered. These are our favorite bookish jigsaw puzzles. 

Prices are accurate as of June 28, 2026. Subject to change.

Courtesy of Amazon

The World of Miss Marple 1,000-Piece Puzzle

Miss Marple is one of Agatha Christie’s most iconic characters, and this puzzle depicts her in her element in the St Mary Mead garden. Every person, item, and animal is a possible clue for solving one of Miss Marple’s mysteries. When putting this puzzle together, you can refer to the poster for image references, and check the back for how each character fits into Miss Marple’s latest mystery.

BUY FOR $25 AT AMAZON
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Book Nerd 1,000-Piece Puzzle

Holly Maguire’s colorful overflowing bookshelf design is fun to put together alongside an audiobook. While you might think the image is simple, it actually presents two levels of difficulty. One side of the bookshelf is arranged randomly and the other shows books arranged by color, which are much more difficult to piece together.  Focusing on one half at a time was the best way to finish after I got the edge pieces done. 

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Shakespearean Insults 1,000-Piece Puzzle

Text-based puzzles are not for the weak. This one includes many of Shakespeare’s most famous insults, bordered by the names of all his plays. (The back of the included poster lists in which play each insult pops up.) The most confounding part of this puzzling process for me was sorting out the typeface colors and attempting to recognize the different fonts.

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Courtesy of Amazon

Murder Most Puzzling: The Clairvoyants’ Convention 500-Piece Puzzle

Keeping with the mystery theme of this puzzle, there is no reference image of the final result – it’s revealed only through assembly. After you’ve completed the puzzle, inspect the image, which contains clues to solve the mystery of the Clairvoyants’ Convention. I relied on color sorting until I had more than half of the puzzle together, and then the interlocking clues became clearer. It’s a delightful challenge for an experienced puzzler. 

BUY FOR $19 AT AMAZON

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Chronicle Books Bibliophile Diverse Spines 500-Piece Puzzle

The stacks of colorful book spines make this an engaging visual project and it also serves as inspiration for your next read. The puzzle includes a reading checklist with each of the more than 60 books included in the image. You can check off the books you’ve already read, and then work through the rest of the list. I sorted the puzzle pieces by color and worked through the books spine-by-spine. The relatively simple design makes this a great weekend puzzle. 

BUY FOR $19 AT AMAZON
Courtesy of Amazon

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings 500-Piece Puzzle

The cover of Maya Angelou’s famous autobiography makes for a great puzzle. The large black bird and red background are deceptively simple. Focusing on the concentric circles of the sun first was the most satisfying for getting a section of the puzzle done, then it took a while to assemble the bird and the various parts of the red background. 

BUY FOR $12 AT AMAZON

Feature Image Credit: Kateryna Hliznitsova/ Unsplash+

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Julia Rittenberg
Writer

Julia Rittenberg is a culture writer and content strategist driven by a love of good stories. She writes most often about books for Book Riot. She lives in Brooklyn with a ton of vintage tchotchkes that her cat politely does not knock over.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated: September 26, 2024
Posted In: Home
Hero Image Credit: Better Report
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Deal Alert: CDSK Trivia is $35, Its Lowest Price Yet

Ali Eldridge
Home | Updated: October 1, 2024
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

CDSK Trivia, one of our favorite board games, dropped to $35 ($30 off). That’s the lowest price we’ve tracked, as we’ve most recently seen it for around $50 to $55. Check out our Better Deals roundup and Early Prime Day Deals for even more discounts.

Prices are accurate as of October 1, 2024. Subject to change.

A photo of the CDSK trivia box
Courtesy of Amazon
BUY FOR $35 (ORIGINALLY $65) AT AMAZON

If you, like me, are obsessed with trivia, you should enjoy this new take on a classic game. Each card has 10 questions, meaning players (either solo or on teams) test their knowledge of a subject on a scale of 1-10. Official rules say you decide how hard of a question you feel confident answering based on the topic — which could be anything from magazines and beer to Celine Dion and Game of Thrones — but sometimes you want to ditch trivia boards and simply go around testing each other’s knowledge. In that case, you can read down the list until you get a question wrong. If you are playing the official way with the board, you can also land on spaces that call for challenge cards, which add in more fun like listing as many answers as possible in a certain amount of time.

The name CDSK stands for its four categories. Curious: very precise or bizarre subjects; Delightful: movies, music, sports; Seasoned: grown-up stuff, school of life; Knowledge: science, nature, history, geography.

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Ali Eldridge

This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Our Favorite Non-Alcoholic Drinks (So Far)

Health | Updated: May 12, 2026
Medea Giordano
Author
Medea is a writer and editor covering products across categories like beauty, pets, and home since 2017. Her commerce and lifestyle writing has appeared in WIRED and The New York Times. She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and three cats.
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

I’m a drink person. I love water, but I’m never far from one or three other options, be it coffee, a Gatorade, or an ice-cold Coke from McDonald’s. I also like to indulge in a nice glass of wine or margarita, but I wanted a happy medium. A drink that wasn’t soda that I could sip socially or on a hot summer day, but also wouldn’t get me drunk. Thankfully, non-alcoholic drinks and craft mocktails have been increasingly popular lately and I set out to try a few of the top options with the help of a small tasting panel (AKA my family). These are our favorites.

Prices are accurate as of May 12, 2026. Subject to change.

What Non-Alcoholic Actually Means

Confusingly, non-alcoholic doesn’t always mean truly zero alcohol. When a drink is labeled non-alcoholic, it might say it contains less than .5% alcohol. That means there is some alcohol in the mixture but not enough to get you intoxicated — .5% is about the same amount you’d find in kombucha. To compare, a standard beer usually contains 5% alcohol and wine typically contains 12%.

You may also see alcohol removed on the label, often with wine. That means the drink started out life as regular wine made from fermented graps and then went through a dealcoholization process. It does usually leave behind the same .5% alcohol. Alcohol-free, on the other hand, should mean they contain truly 0% alcohol. For example, a Shirley Temple mocktail that uses Sprite, grenadine syrup, and a cherry is completely alcohol-free. This would also include regular drinks like teas and a can of Coca-Cola. We have a few options on this list that are totally alcohol-free.

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If you’re unsure, look at the fine print of whatever you’re drinking, as different brands use different words to describe their products. It’s also important to not automatically assume non-alcoholic drinks are safe to drink while pregnant. Some drinks use herbs and other ingredients that aren’t recommended to be consumed while pregnant or breastfeeding. Your doctor will have the best advice on what you can and can’t have.

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Our Favorite Drinks

A photo of Athletic Brewing Co's Run Wild and Free Wave IPA cans
Courtesy of Amazon

Athletic Brewing Co

If you love beer but are abstaining from alcohol, try Athletic Brewing. The brand’s IPAs taste exactly like beer. If I didn’t already know these were non-alcoholic, I would never suspect that something was different about them. Not only do they taste like beer, but they taste like good beer. I don’t generally choose IPAs, but I thought the Run Wild flavor was quite good. My taste testers agreed.

BUY FOR $37 (12 PACK) AT AMAZON

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A photo of Toma Bloody Mary Mix
Courtesy of Toma

Toma Bloody Mary Mix

I love a White Claw, but Bloody Marys might be my favorite drink ever. However, I find that they’re rarely made well. Believe me, I’ve ordered plenty of duds and I never loved any of the mixes I found in-store. Then I tried Toma. Both the original and horseradish recipes are delicious, with the right homemade consistency. While they are technically meant to be mixed with alcohol, they’re just as good on their own.

BUY FOR $34 (2 PACK) AT AMAZON
A photo of Ted Segers NA beer can and glass
Courtesy of Ted Segers

Ted Segers

As a dedicated listener to the Armchair Expert podcast, I needed to try host Dax Shepard’s NA beer, Ted Segers. I loved it, but we were a house divided. It’s light, so I felt like I was drinking an icy beer without the full, bloated feeling I usually get from it. Some of my testers thought it was too light, however, so it all comes down to the type of drink you’re looking for. If your go-to beer wouldn’t normally be light, maybe try something else. But it’s very affordable, so I think it’s worth a taste.

BUY FOR $12 (6 PACK) AT TOTAL WINE
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Courtesy of Amazon

TÖST

TÖST uses sparkling white tea for its drinks, so it’s one of the few options on this list made without alcohol altogether. The classic TÖST adds ginger and cranberry, while the rosé uses ginger and elderberry. I found both flavors to be delicious and could definitely substitute for wine. However, because it uses sparkling tea, it’s obviously got a fizz to it, which you wouldn’t get from a bottle of Pinot. We liked it, but some may want something different.

BUY FOR $14 AT AMAZON
A photo of Casamara Club's NA cocktail can and glass
Courtesy of Casamara Club

Casamara Club Superclasico

Casamara Club’s leisure sodas (see below) are a solid choice that some people will enjoy, but the brand’s first NA cocktail is delicious. And like TÖST above, it truly is made with zero alcohol. It’s sweet, but not overly so, just enough to keep you coming back. There’s also a hint of bold allspice and clove. The downside is that they’re quite pricey.

BUY FOR $60 (12-PACK) AT CASAMARA CLUB
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A photo of four of Casamara Club's soda bottles
Courtesy of Casamara Club

Casamara Club Leisure Sodas

Casamara Club sodas are inspired by Italian aperitivos — drinks meant to be had before a meal — and digestivos — those meant for after. These versions are completely free of alcohol and they’re also low on sugar. Don’t let the word soda fool you. They’re made from sparkling water and are refreshing, with subtle hints of flavor. The tasting panel either liked them or didn’t, but we all agreed that while this is an article about non-alcoholic drinks, if you do partake, these would make excellent mixers.

BUY FOR $54 (12 PACK) AT CASAMARA CLUB
A photo of the Curious Elixirs No.2 cocktail
Courtesy of Curious Elixirs

Curious Elixirs No.2 Spicy Stormy Pineapple Margarita

Like the name suggests, Curious Elixir’s No.2 is a mix of a dark and stormy — a rum and ginger beer cocktail — and a pineapple margarita. Of the options from this brand that we tried, it was the standout and reminded me of a regular spicy marg. It’s heavy on the ginger, but I enjoyed drinking this over ice with dinner.

BUY FOR $49 (4 PACK) AT CURIOUS ELIXIRS
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Featured Image Credit: celsopupo/ iStock

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Medea Giordano
Commerce Editor

Medea is a writer and editor covering products across categories like beauty, pets, and home since 2017. Her commerce and lifestyle writing has appeared in WIRED and The New York Times. She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and three cats.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated: August 8, 2024
Posted In: Health
Hero Image Credit: Better Report
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Keep Your Home Pest-Free Without Harsh Chemicals

Home | Updated: September 30, 2024
Julia Rittenberg
Author
Julia Rittenberg is a culture writer and content strategist driven by a love of good stories. She writes most often about books for Book Riot. She lives in Brooklyn with a ton of vintage tchotchkes that her cat politely does not knock over.
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

You’re lounging on the couch or fixing up dinner when something catches your eye: a trail of ants, a spider, or worse, roaches. Wherever they are, you want them gone as quickly as possible, but trying to rid your home of pests is a tiresome process. On top of your regular cleaning process, you’ll want an effective product to shoo out unwanted guests from your home’s nooks and crannies. Mighty Mint’s Peppermint Oil Insect and Pest Control Spray is the answer.

Prices are accurate as of September 27, 2024. Subject to change.

Courtesy of Amazon
BUY FOR $20 AT AMAZON

How to Use

Many sprays that are used to deter bugs and pests have harsh chemicals and leave unpleasant odors behind. If you’re dealing with an infestation, particularly in your kitchen, and would prefer to avoid spreading deadly chemicals around the area, try Mighty Mint’s Pest Control Spray. You can also use Mighty Mint at your front or back doors — anywhere that unwanted bugs can crawl in.  

With minimal ingredients and a pleasant peppermint smell, it’s an effective alternative to other sprays and traps. Spray directly on the affected area, targeting the ants, spiders, or roaches to stop them in their tracks. After spraying for the first time, let it dry and wipe away any bugs left behind. You can then re-apply if needed. It’s best to use it proactively too, spraying any areas you want to protect, keeping creepy crawlies away to begin with.

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Pet Guidelines

If you have pets, it’s important to keep their health in mind with any home cleaning products you’re using. Mighty Mint uses peppermint oil to repel bugs, and cats and dogs are particularly sensitive to essential oils. At 4%, it’s a very low percentage, but there’s still some advice to heed.

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When an essential oil is concentrated at 100%, it could cause symptoms of unsteadiness or depression if a cat or dog got it on their body. If ingested, it could cause vomiting or more serious stomach issues. Because essential oils are absorbed very quickly, most veterinarians recommend caution when using essential oils in your home, like in diffusers or scented room sprays. 

Pure Origin, Mighty Mint’s manufacturer, notes that while pure peppermint oil would be toxic to pets if ingested, the small percentage of it in this particular spray means that “after it is applied, it is virtually impossible for [pets] to be exposed to toxic levels.” They also note that the product should only be used as directed, and not to spray Mighty Mint directly onto your pet, nor their items like toys or food bowls. You should also avoid using Mighty Mint in the space where your pet eats or sleeps to reduce the risk of contamination or ingestion. 

Brett Bennett, the Director of Operations at PURCOR Pest Solutions, agrees that the low concentration of peppermint oil, along with the other ingredients, makes this product “fairly pet safe… most of its toxicity comes from being ingested by dogs and cats.” Jason McDonald, CEO of WoofConnect, still recommends caution and consulting with a veterinarian when using products with essential oils. “Ingestion or prolonged exposure could cause more serious symptoms,” he says. “To minimize risks, I recommend keeping pets out of treated areas until the product has completely dried.” 

If used correctly, Mighty Mint Insect and Pest Control Spray should keep bugs away without negatively affecting pets, kids, or yourself. Natural doesn’t always mean better, but in this case, it’s a minimal-ingredient alternative to some harsher sprays you may already use. Spraying Mighty Mint, and using it alongside other household bug-repellent tricks, can keep your home pest-free for good.  

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Julia Rittenberg
Writer

Julia Rittenberg is a culture writer and content strategist driven by a love of good stories. She writes most often about books for Book Riot. She lives in Brooklyn with a ton of vintage tchotchkes that her cat politely does not knock over.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated: September 26, 2024
Posted In: Home
Hero Image Credit: Better Report

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This Affordable Beauty Brand Sells Everything You Need for Better Skin

Ali Eldridge
Health | Updated: December 23, 2025
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Kitsch is one of our favorite beauty brands for a number of reasons: It makes great hair and self-care products, tools, and accessories at very reasonable price points, meaning you don’t have to spend a ton to add a little luxury to your routine. Kitsch is also woman-owned, cruelty-free, and sustainability-focused, relying on recycled materials and biodegradable packaging for many of its products. Whether you’re looking for a new pillowcase — yes, your pillowcase can cause skin issues — a shower cap to keep treated hair dry, a safety razor, or heel socks, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites from the lineup. (Spoiler alert: there’s a lot of satin.)

Prices are accurate as of December 22, 2025. Subject to change.

An image of the Kitsch ice roller
Courtesy of Amazon

Ice Roller

Ice rollers are one of my favorite self-care tools. They calm red, painful breakouts, soothe sore muscles, and reduce puffy under-eyes. It also just feels good to roll it over your face while you relax on the couch. Some people keep rollers in their freezers, but because this one is made from stainless steel, 15 minutes in the fridge should get it cold enough without being painful.

BUY FOR $21 AT AMAZON
An image of the Kitsch satin pillowcase
Courtesy of Amazon

Satin Pillowcase

I highly recommend switching to a satin or silk pillowcase. Not only does it stay cool all night, but the slick material doesn’t tug the way cotton does, nor does it absorb as much moisture. That means you might see improvements in your hair and skin, including less breakage, better day-two hair (particularly if you have curls), and more hydration. I sleep on a Kitsch satin pillowcase nearly every night. It stays cooler than the 100% silk cases I use, and I love that it has a zipper so it doesn’t shift. Add in a pack of satin scrunchies to loosely tie your hair up at night for even more protection, or get the satin sleep set that includes a pillowcase, scrunchie, and sleep mask.

BUY FOR $14.75 (22% OFF) AT AMAZON
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An image of the Kitsch Flexi shower cap
Courtesy of Amazon

Flexi Shower Cap

Kitsch’s Flexi Shower Cap went viral this year for its unique, roll-top design. Pull it over your head with the wire in the back, and then straighten it, allowing your hair to gently fall inside instead of having to tie it in a bun at the top of your head. Roll it down until it fits comfortably and tuck it in the back to keep water out. It’s lined in satin to keep hair smooth too.

BUY FOR $15.18 (20% OFF) AT AMAZON
An image of the Kitsch shower head filter
Courtesy of Amazon

Shower Head Filter

If you live somewhere with hard water, you may notice your hair and skin suffer, looking dry and brittle and feeling itchy. Adding a filter to your shower head may help. This one softens water, removing chlorine and heavy metals and it’s easy to install yourself. The filter cartridge should be replaced every three months.

BUY FOR $19.99 (50% OFF) AT AMAZON
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An image of the Kitsch moisturizing heel socks
Courtesy of Amazon

Moisturizing Heel Socks

Cracked heels are the bane of my existence. I struggled for years until I started using gel-lined heel socks like this. Slather on your favorite foot moisturizer — I also add a layer of Aquaphor — and then put these socks on. The gel lining allows the lotion to really soak in, softening those hard heels without rubbing product off on your floors or furniture. If my heels are really bad, I attempt to sleep with them on, but that’s not always comfortable. Kitsch suggests wearing them for 20 to 30 minutes.

BUY FOR $15.99 AT AMAZON
An image of the Kitsch safety razor
Courtesy of Amazon

Safety Razor

We’ve been lied to about the number of blades you need in a razor. I thought the more the better, but I always ended up with razor burn and ingrowns. Safety razors use a single, double-sided replaceable blade that effectively removes hair while being gentler on skin. It’s also significantly cheaper in the long run. You buy one handle and then just need to replace the blades, which typically sell for a few bucks a box — that also means less waste, since you aren’t constantly throwing out plastic parts.

BUY FOR $21.99 AT AMAZON
An image of the Kitsch heatless curling set
Courtesy of Amazon

Satin Heatless Curling Set

Heatless curls have taken over the internet in the last few years for good reason. We could all probably kick the heat a bit, and by wrapping your hair around this silk rod, you’ll wake up to perfectly curled tresses and keep your hair out of your face at night. Better yet, using this overnight gives you more sleep time in the morning. Instead of standing over a sink with a hot curler while your eyes are barely open, you can slowly wake up with a cup of coffee.

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Feature Image Credit: Courtesy of Kitsch

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Ali Eldridge

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated:
Posted In: Health
Hero Image Credit: Better Report

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If You Have Carpet, You Need a Carpet Rake

Home | Updated: January 27, 2026
Nicole Pyles
Author
Based in Portland, Oregon, Nicole Pyles is an experienced freelance writer who writes about home and kitchen, health and wellness, and more. She's written for a variety of outlets, including Better Homes and Gardens, Tom's Guide, Better Report, and more.
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

As an apartment dweller with primarily carpeted floors, I dread vacuuming. Sure, like any chore, it gets monotonous week after week, but I tend to have the kiss of death when it comes to vacuums — they enter my home and leave in terror. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve knelt before yet another model, trying to figure out what could have caused its demise. Aside from occasionally vacuuming small particles left over from my DIY projects, I found that the true culprit is actually hair.

I don’t have pets to place blame on, but rather, I have long hair that sheds, accumulating on my carpet and becoming a nemesis to vacuums. Thankfully, I discovered a game-changing solution: a carpet rake.

Prices are accurate as of January 26, 2025. Subject to change.

Image of the Goseder carpet rake
Courtesy of Amazon
BUY FOR $25 AT AMAZON

Rake Away

“The reason hair is particularly troublesome is that it tends to twist around the vacuum’s brush roll,” says Maria Anderson, cleaning and organizing expert at Henfield Storage. As hair continues to entangle in the brushes, the more they struggle to rotate as designed. “This alone could compromise the efficiency of the vacuum and also result in potential belt damage or motor strain.”

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Instead of going right in with a vacuum, I started using a carpet rake first — specifically the GOSEDER from Amazon. It collects my hair and other trapped debris, so my carpets are cleaner and my vacuum isn’t running on fumes by the end of a cleaning session. “By removing these trapped particles, you are actually increasing the life of your carpet,” Anderson says. “It also helps in preventing build-up over time which reduces the need and cost of deep cleaning the carpets often.”

A carpet rake functions like a typical backyard rake does. You just pick a spot and start raking, and as it passes over your carpet, two sides of copper teeth collect hair and other debris.

Another feature I appreciate about this particular rake is the length of the pole. I’m 5’11”, and the last thing I want to worry about is stooping low while trying to manipulate a short rake handle. This one has an adjustable handle that goes from 19 inches — to clean smaller areas or to maneuver awkward spaces, like underneath a table or inside the car — to 47 inches, so it’s ergonomically friendly and easy for me to move around my apartment. 

All it took was one raking session on my carpet to change my cleaning routine. I was shocked by the sheer amount of hair and dust clumps this little rake collected. Plus, it picked up smaller objects too, like Lego pieces, forgotten bits of wire, and dropped pistachio shells that would only cause trouble for the vacuum. 

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In addition to a carpet rake, Anderson also suggests regularly cleaning any tangles that may have formed on the vacuum brush to extend the life of your vacuum. Her helpful tip: keep scissors or a seam ripper in the same area that you store your vacuum, so that maintenance can be quick and part of your cleaning routine.  

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Thankfully, with regular use of this carpet rake, I’ve experienced fewer hair entanglements in my vacuum entirely, making the entire experience less of a challenge. Raking my carpet is an extra step, but I appreciate avoiding pricey vacuum repairs or having to outright replace it frequently. Plus, I only have to gently wipe it clean after use, and it fits easily in my hallway closet. Whether you too have long hair that challenges your vacuum, or you just want cleaner carpets overall, try adding a rake. Your carpet and cleaning tools will thank you.

Featured Image Credit: BanksPhotos/ iStock

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Nicole Pyles
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Based in Portland, Oregon, Nicole Pyles is an experienced freelance writer who writes about home and kitchen, health and wellness, and more. She's written for a variety of outlets, including Better Homes and Gardens, Tom's Guide, Better Report, and more.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Updated: September 18, 2024
Posted In: Home
Hero Image Credit: Better Report

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This Affordable Water Bottle Finally Makes My Hydration Easy

Ali Eldridge
Health | Updated: June 27, 2026
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

I’ve long struggled with proper hydration. Most mornings, eyes bleary and mouth parched, I reach for a strong tea — a gesture to hydration — chased with a black coffee. It’s not until my contact lenses have started to pucker and my skin assumes an uncomfortable tautness that I choose water. I teeter dangerously between plum and prune on the daily. But everything changed the day I fell in love with someone else’s water bottle. 

Prices are accurate as of June 26, 2026. Subject to change.

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Courtesy of Kinto
BUY FOR $21 (16.9 OZ) AT AMAZON

Simple Elegance

I spotted it from across the gym, shimmering like green glass, its clarity enhancing the movement of the meniscus. Cézanne could have painted it. Where could I buy this exquisitely beautiful bottle? After interrogating the mildly confused owner, I headed straight to the website of Japanese tableware and lifestyle brand Kinto. The result? Thanks to an affordable, lightweight plastic bottle, I’ve boosted my hydration levels forever. 

I’ll start by saying this water bottle does absolutely nothing of note. There’s no fancy UV light, charcoal filter, or built-in straw. It is neither patterned nor has my name emblazoned across it. The binary opposite of an accessorized Stanley — the drinking vessel of the moment for maximalists — the pared-back, understated Kinto is very much the minimalist’s choice. And this is what I like. Everyone has a perfect water bottle for their needs — one Better Report editor swears by her Owala FreeSip — but I veer the other way, avoiding spouts, sports caps, and color. 

Before the Kinto, I enjoyed the Hip — it made me feel like an inferior John Wayne — but the unusual shape meant it wouldn’t fit into the cup holder in my car, or slot into the treadmill at the gym. I moved on to a lightweight stainless steel bottle that was fine, except the opening was so wide I kept dripping water down my front. But when I bought the Kinto bottle, I had a Goldilocks moment: it was just right. The bottleneck sweeps softly, mimicking the curvature of my bottom lip; it just feels nice to drink from. For the first time in years, I’m drinking water without laboring over it, even without thinking about it. A beautifully reflective, eye-catching bottle in my sightline as I work at my desk commands attention. 

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This is perhaps the closest plastic could ever get to glass. Made from a type of BPA-free plastic called copolyester, it has the glass-like appearance and clarity I’ve gushed about, while being durable and scratch-resistant (though it’s not scratch-proof, so keep your keys away if you put it in your bag). 

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Many of us worry about the nasties our bottles could be harboring and I just don’t trust a water bottle I cannot see through. The Kinto is fully transparent, and the opening is just the right size for internal cleaning as well as comfortable, splash-proof drinking. The screw lid, which doubles up as a handy carrying handle, contains a simple silicone gasket to prevent leakage which can be removed for washing. The rounded bottom surface prevents residue from accumulating, presumably because there are no crevices for microbes to lurk, without unbalancing the bottle.

So much Japanese design is a perfect marriage of simplicity, beauty, and functionality. Rather than attempting to convince people to buy things they don’t need and won’t use, Kinto’s entire lineup elevates the things we already use most. That’s refreshing in this day and age of overconsumption.

Kinto’s water bottle comes in three sizes — 10, 16, and 32 ounces — and five colors. I chose the largest version in green. Replacement lids are sold separately should yours get lost or broken, so this is a product that should outlast water bottle trends. Sometimes it just takes finding the perfect vessel to boost your hydration, and the Kinto is mine.

Feature Image Credit: Courtesy of Kinto

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Ali Eldridge

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated:
Posted In: Health
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This $36 Clear Mouse Reminds Me of 1999

Home | Updated: March 4, 2025
Medea Giordano
Author
Medea is a writer and editor covering products across categories like beauty, pets, and home since 2017. Her commerce and lifestyle writing has appeared in WIRED and The New York Times. She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and three cats.
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Physically I exist in 2024, with modern gadgets like an iPhone and MacBook. Mentally, I live in the 90s and early 00s when tech was at its peak coolness. Back then, devices offered a chance to show off your personality, instead of blending in with the other metal and glass slabs everyone has today. Life was vibrant.

I’ve been trying to find fun pieces to incorporate into my life again, especially in my office. If you know me well, you know I am obsessed with clear things. There’s just something magical about looking inside a piece of tech and seeing the wires and lights — remember the iconic Baby-Sitter’s Club telephone? So when my computer mouse stopped working a few months ago, I went on the hunt for something that felt like it came from my childhood, and I found it in the affordable Attack Shark X2 Transparent Gaming Mouse.

Prices are accurate as of September 16, 2024. Subject to change.

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An image of the Attach Shark X2 clear computer mouse
Courtesy of Amazon

Function With a Dash of Nostalgia

BUY FOR $36 AT AMAZON

There are many great, reliable mice out there from reputable brands that prioritize heavy gaming and other ergonomics. A lot of them, however, are a dull black or gray. I personally don’t need a lot of fancy functions. I want something that works and is affordable, but that also considers aesthetics. I’d never heard of Attack Shark before I came across this mouse, and at the time, it had well below 100 reviews. But it was cheap and exactly what I was looking for, so I took a chance in the name of nostalgia. My inner child was calling and so far, she’s satisfied.

The X2 mouse can be plugged into your computer directly or used wirelessly. I always opt for wired, because I only work at my desk and I don’t want to deal with charging yet another thing. Annoyingly, the cord is significantly shorter than that of standard wired mice, so I can’t have it as far away from my laptop as I normally would set up. Though you could easily swap in a longer USB-C cord if you had one. I chose the white, but there is also a transparent black. Both colors are available in a Pro version, with a charging dock and a digital battery-level display.

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I’m not a gamer, so I can’t attest to how comfortable or functional this would be during a long session, but it’s all I need for working at a desk. The buttons aren’t loud, but still feel satisfying to click. The X2 has your basic functional controls, like two side buttons for going back and forth between pages.

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Light Control

The static multicolor lighting option. Credit: Courtesy of Author

While there are 11 RGB lighting options, they leave something to be desired. There are several color animations like pulses and waves, though I find most of those to be too distracting. I prefer either the multicolor static option, which has a nice display of light pink, yellow, green, orange, and blue, or I simply turn off the color all together. There is a white pulsing light option, but I wish there was a static white or static pink. The X2 doesn’t always remember what your last saved color option was, so when you come back the next day, you may need to cycle through colors again.

I don’t yet know if this mouse will last for years or if I’ll need to replace it often, but I love the whimsy it’s brought to my desk. For a place where I spend at least 40 hours a week, I want it to feel fun and be an extension of myself, rather than cold and drab. This Attack Shark mouse does the job. Now if I could only find a transparent 27-inch monitor or a clamshell iBook with modern functions. 

Featured Image Credit: master1305 via Getty Images

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Medea Giordano
Commerce Editor

Medea is a writer and editor covering products across categories like beauty, pets, and home since 2017. Her commerce and lifestyle writing has appeared in WIRED and The New York Times. She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and three cats.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated: August 8, 2024
Posted In: Home
Hero Image Credit: Better Report
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