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Nice News readers know there’s no shortage of nice things in the world, and that includes products that make our lives a little better and brighter. In that spirit, we’re excited to share this roundup of our team’s favorite items from the past year — things we actually purchased (or received as gifts) and have loved using. For 2026, we’ve got an unbeatable hair brush, a cordless vacuum, scented bookmarks, and more.
Combined, these 20 products comprise a pretty great holiday shopping guide, if we do say so ourselves. Scroll down for stocking stuffer ideas, big-ticket splurges, and practical presents that can be found in our team’s kitchens, closets, and makeup drawers.
Ally, Staff Editor:
Lykke Copper Interchangeable Knitting Needles
This was my first “big” purchase after learning how to knit and getting a few projects under my belt. So far it’s been completely worth it — beyond looking beautiful, the copper needles offer the smoothness of stainless steel while conducting heat better, which I’ve read may make them easier on your joints (though there isn’t solid science to back that up). The set comes with every needle size a beginner could need, plus some interchangeable cords and a vegan suede case.
Le Creuset Heritage Butter Dish
I received this adorable butter dish as a gift, and highly recommend giving it as one. It’s a relatively inexpensive way into the wide, wonderful world of Le Creuset ceramics and looks good in any kitchen. I have it in the deep yellow Nectar hue, but there are several other colors to choose from.
Dyson Paddle Hairbrush
Dyson gets a lot of hype for its powerful blow dryers, but I’m here to sing the praises of the company’s humble hairbrush. Sure, it’s more expensive than the ones you can grab at a drugstore, but for something I use every day, it’s a major upgrade. My hair feels silky smooth, the bristles navigate knots with ease, and it has that signature sleek Dyson design.
Brett, Senior Account Manager:
Levoit Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
My cordless vacuum is easily one of my favorite purchases this year. I love how convenient and lightweight it is, making it extremely easy to quickly clean up my everyday messes without having to drag out a bulky vacuum or worry about cords.
Turtlebox Original (Gen 3) Speaker
This Bluetooth speaker has been perfect for everything from backyard parties to beach days, with impressive sound quality and durability that’s truly second to none. The best part is knowing I can bring it anywhere without having to worry about it getting knocked around or damaged.
Josh, Content Strategist:
Apple Airpods 4
The AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation have become my preferred choice for work. Their noise cancellation performs noticeably better than other earbuds I own. I use them to block out background sounds without playing any music, and they’ve significantly boosted my focus and productivity.
UGREEN Wireless Mouse 2.4G
As someone who dislikes touchpads, this mouse has been a lifesaver. Setup was effortless, it’s super responsive, comfortable, and ergonomic, and the battery life is amazing — I’ve only needed to charge it a few times since March!
Marika, Contributing Writer:
Solar Rainbow Maker Window Charm
I’m amazed by this rainbow maker! It hangs on a window in the sunniest nook of our home and scatters rainbows across the kitchen. It’s so magical that even my dog seems to get a kick out of looking at the colors (or maybe watching me get a kick out of them). Highly recommend scrolling through the customer reviews to see examples of it in action.
Violette_FR Bisou Balm Lipstick
Bisou Balm made me a lipstick person. I love the matte “blush for the lips” look and it smells like a waffle. I have it in Rose Latte and I’m tempted to try the bestseller Bêtise, but I don’t want to mess with a good thing!
Thule Sapling Baby Backpack
This backpack baby carrier is my favorite thing from my baby registry. It feels so secure and gives me peace of mind knowing my daughter is tucked in and protected from the sun while we hike uphill, downhill, wherever. And she seems to love the view! The bottom compartment is also surprisingly roomy and fits everything we need when we leave the house, which is a lot.
Mike, SVP, Editorial Strategy
Aftelier Perfumes Biblioscents Scented Bookmarks
If you love to read and were mildly obsessed with scratch-and-sniff stickers as a kid, consider ditching the dog-ears for a four-pack of Biblioscents. Scratching the botanical illustration on each bookmark releases a grown-up scent — ginger root, frankincense, vetiver, geranium — for an adult version of an old habit.
Natalie, Senior Managing Editor
YQh Retractable Sink Storage Rack
You know those products you didn’t realize you needed until you discovered they existed? This retractable sink rack is on that list. After having purchased multiple sink caddies that left water pooling by the kitchen faucet, I wanted an organizer that freed up space and didn’t require me to wipe down the countertop every time I washed a dish. This rack is exactly what I was (unknowingly) looking for: It expands over the sink, allowing water from the soap dispenser and sponge to drip directly down the drain. It’s also stainless steel and has a slim design with anti-slip rubber sleeves that help keep it in place.
Plank+Beam Contour Console Table
I’d been on the hunt for a console table for months and fell in love with this one from Plank+Beam as soon as I saw it. It’s constructed of solid pine wood, easy to assemble, and the perfect height and length for my narrow entryway (I got the 56-inch length, but it’s also available in 46 inches). It comes in three wood finishes and looks extremely high-end but sells at a much lower price point than comparable options from well-known furniture stores.
Tovolo Mini Ice Squeeze-and-Release Cylinders
If you’re a fan of nugget ice but aren’t ready to splurge on a sleek countertop maker, these squeeze-and-release ice cylinders are a great alternative. They come in a set of two and each makes 200 mini ice cubes — ideal for one to two drinks at a time, depending on how cold you prefer your beverage. I like that they’re compact, BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, and that I can enjoy mini ice nuggets more regularly without a machine.
Rebekah, Staff Editor:
Levi’s Men’s Chino Tech Pants
My husband wanted some casual but elevated pants that he could wear both to the office and out on the town. I’m a big fan of the ones he chose. They have the tiniest bit of sheen and a little give, so they’re comfy while also looking sharp. He just bought two more pairs in blue and khaki.
Thrive Causemetics Tubing Mascara
I decided to finally hop on the tubing mascara bandwagon, and Thrive’s was the one I saw most recommended on Reddit. I finally get the hype. The lengthening formula wraps each lash in a lightweight, buildable tube that doesn’t smudge or run. It’s vegan and cruelty-free, comes in multiple colors, and taking it off at night is so much easier than I’m used to with typical waterproof options. Total game changer.
Ramen Bae Protein Ramen
As an aspiring seagan, I’m always looking for ways to get my recommended protein intake without eating fish or tofu seven nights a week, and this ramen is a huge help. It has 21-28 grams of plant-based protein per serving and comes in different yummy flavors (all vegan, even the “meat” options). You can pair it with veggies or another protein or just add the brand’s dried toppings for a super easy weeknight meal.
Stephanie, Staff Writer:
Papier Planners
These are the most beautiful planners! They’re also customizable — you can add your name and in some cases adjust the designs. The stationery brand has a ton of other cute notebooks, including recipe, gardening, and gratitude journals.
Vuori Performance Jogger
Truly the perfect wear-anywhere joggers: They’re stretchy, soft, and comfy enough to exercise in or wear around the house all day but also polished enough to wear out and about. I also love that they come in tall sizes!.
Grove Co. Multi-Purpose Cleaner Concentrate Starter Kit
We switched to this nontoxic multi-purpose cleaner recently and are so happy with it. Once you get the spray bottle, you only have to purchase the glass bottles of concentrate to refresh your supply. The system makes for a more sustainable way to clean your home, and it smells great!
Related: 19 Gifts for Readers Who Always Have Their Nose in a Book
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