theSkimm's Most Popular, Best-Selling Products of 2021

This year, we shared tons of our fave product recs to help you shop smarter. Items for your home? We’ve got plenty of ’em. Things with small price tags that make a big difference? Got ya covered there too. So as the year comes to a close, we’re revealing all of the products that Skimm’rs (hey, that’s you) added to cart the most in 2021. From small gadgets that made your lives easier to touching gifts you bought for friends and family. Whether you’re looking to make the most of those holiday gift cards or just want to stock up on some new items so you can head into 2022 on the right foot, consider this list your go-to for tried-and-true products. 

PS: Check out the rest of your end-of-year favorites here. We rounded up Skimm’rs favorite books of the year, self-care products you couldn’t live without, the top finds under $25, and more. Don’t miss it.

A rechargeable lighter so you can kiss those matches goodbye… 

Lighters used to be butane or bust, but now there’s a tech-y, eco-friendly alternative. This one can be plugged into an outlet and will give you 300 uses on one charge alone. It’s slim enough to easily toss in a pocket, and it comes in seven colors. Plus, it automatically turns off after 10 seconds of use. ($32+, Food52)

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A five-year memory book that asks for only one line a day… 

So you can record a specific memory, a wish for the future, or just a random meal you enjoyed. It’s a great way to reflect on your feelings and thoughts without the pressure of writing an entire journal entry. At the end of the five years, you’ll be able to look back and see your progression. Oh, how time flies. ($15.26, Amazon)

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A custom house portrait that makes the perfect gift… 

For your grandparents, your significant other, or your longtime bestie. This one scores big in the sentimental department. Whether you pick the house your parents grew up in, the first place you lived as a couple, or simply where your giftee’s best memories are, your recipient will absolutely love this custom watercolor. Just email a photo of the home, pick your size, and voilà. We’re not crying, you are. ($29+, Etsy)

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The ultimate coffee table book for any travel lover… 

This New York Times book is based on its popular “36-Hour” series and is full of tips for planning a weekend trip to 150 different cities across the US and Canada. The vetted guides include photos, maps, and insider knowledge from Times contributors — with more than 600 restaurant and 450 hotel recs throughout. All that’s left to do now is book the trip. ($35.99, Amazon)

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A brightening serum you won’t be able to live without…

Because this quick-absorbing formula is packed with not one, but two potent forms of vitamin C. Aaaand tons of clean, antioxidant-rich ingredients your skin will completely fall in love with. So you can say ‘see ya’ to dark spots and ‘hiii’ to that new year glow. Plus, Skimm’rs get an extra discount with code SKIMM20. ($82, Beautycounter)*

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A self-grooming cat brush you mount on your wall… 

Your feline friend will immediately want to rub up against it. They’ll get daily massages. And you’ll get fewer interruptions as you WFH. When the brush gets filled with hair, simply remove it from the bracket and wash with soap and water. Meow. ($5.99, Amazon)

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A jewelry cleaning brush that'll make your diamonds sparkle…

Rihanna said, “Shine bright like a diamond” and we do whatever RiRi says. This genius budget-friendly tool will make your earrings, rings, and necklaces look as good as new. The secret is in the cleaning solution and brush tip that'll gently remove dirt and grime. Bling-bling. ($7.95, Amazon)

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An Amanda Gorman print to hang on your wall…

Daily dose of inspo, coming right up. This handmade poster is professionally printed on high-quality paper and features a poem by one of this year’s biggest breakout stars. 10/10 recommend. Psst: Want even more Amanda? Snag a copy of her latest book of poems too. ($16.50+, Etsy)

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A wellness program to help kickstart ‘new year, new you’ season...

‘Cause why wait? This digital program has everything you need to build (and stick to) healthier habits. And it’s rooted in behavior change psych, so you know it’s legit. It’s already helped millions of people reach their goals — from weight management to diabetes prevention to stress reduction. Plus, Skimm’rs can try it free for 14 days. ($129 for three months, Noom)*

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A tablet that’ll clear buildup in your dishwasher...

Yep, even your dishwasher needs cleaning. Oh, the irony. Once you start seeing those streaks on your glassware…you know it’s time. Drop in this tablet to power away leftover detergent and mineral buildup. And it'll get rid of some weird odors. You can add one to a full load or run it solo (sans dishes). ($5.99, Amazon)

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An all-natural candle inspired by the day you were born... 

These hand-poured ones burn between 60 to 80 hours and take some cues from the stars. There’s a candle for every day of the year, each with a custom scent and personalized info like personality traits and a tarot reading. They also make great gifts for the person in your life who never skips their daily horoscope. Happy birthday to them. ($48, Birthdate Candle)

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A vaccine card holder for your most valuable item of the year...

This super minimal clear option is the perfect vessel to keep your immunization card in mint condition. Buy one or snag ’em in a pack of two, five, ten, or twenty to supply your crew. They’re made of durable PVC material that’s waterproof and corrosion-resistant. All you need now is a lanyard to accessorize. No folded or torn edges here, thank you very much. ($4.79, Amazon)

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A bathroom accessory that’ll change your life… 

With this bidet you’ll use less toilet paper (which we love for the environment) and you’ll leave the restroom with a cleaner rear. It takes less than 10 minutes to install, doesn’t require electricity or special plumbing, and is fully adjustable — plus it’s available in a handful of colors. That’s a win-win-win, if you ask us. ($99, Tushy)

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Crest Whitestrips so your pearly whites can actually be pearly white...

To make sure your teeth are looking as good as they can, just place the strips on your babes for 30 minutes at a time. You’ll get professional-grade results right from your bathroom counter. Lucky you. ($42.16, Amazon)

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A blow dryer that’ll give you salon-like hair without all the hassle...

This tool belongs on the mane stage. And no, you don’t have to be an expert to use it. It’s a brush and hair dryer all in one — at a fraction of the cost of some other tools just like this. It features three heat and speed settings, plus a cool option for styling. The oval design helps to smooth your locks and create volume. Hello, good hair days. ($34.88+, Amazon)

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An arts-and-crafts subscription box for date nights, friend hangouts, or solo self-care days...

Because you’re never too old to get creative. Every month you’ll get a new craft to try out delivered right to your doorstep. You can do everything from wood burning and engraving to making epoxy resin coasters or wine carriers. Each box will come with all the tools (and instructions) you’ll need. So you’ll never have to run out to Michaels to supplement your kit. Phew. All that’s left for you to do is focus and use a little imagination. ($31+/month, Cratejoy)

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A portable white-noise machine to help you fall asleep at night…

Catching those Zzz’s has never been so easy. This rechargeable device can be taken on the road or kept on your nightstand and will help mask distracting background noises like loud cars or barking dogs. It comes with 36 sounds built in, ranging from ocean and calming rain hums to fireplace and pretty wind chimes. Sweet dreams to you. ($20.39, Amazon)

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A tool that makes cleaning your makeup brushes hassle-free…

Because the struggle is real when it comes to getting old, caked-on foundation off your brushes. This silicone tool suctions right on to your sink. And its different textures and grooves really help you get in there for maximum results. Once you buy it, you won’t believe you never had it in your life before. ($5.99, Amazon)

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A detangling hairbrush with more than 50K reviews… 

It’s a miracle worker. Trust us. It has firm (but not painful) bristles that won’t bend or lose their shape after you use it. And won’t rip out your knots or hair in the process. No tears here. Plus the brush’s bristles help massage your scalp and increase circulation, which we love. It works on wet, dry, thick, thin, kinky, oily, frizzy, or any type of hair really. Go for it. ($12.99, Amazon)

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A vibrator that focuses on the clitoris…

It uses sonic waves and cruise control to make magic. So it doesn’t drop in intensity as you go. Here’s how it works: It saves 20% of its power when you're holding it lightly against your body, but then uses that stored energy when you push harder. So the motor stays just as powerful even under pressure. Have fun. ($139, Lelo)

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A Kindle Paperwhite that has a glare-free screen for easy use…

Calling all e-reader holdouts. This Kindle lets you read anything, anywhere. A single charge can last weeks, and with twice the storage, you can download more magazines, audiobooks, and reads. It also includes Audible, so you can pair the Kindle with your headphones via Bluetooth. The screen brightness is adjustable, so it’s easy to read comfortably at night and outdoors. You can also adjust text size and boldness, and thanks to the massive selection of new and old releases, you’ll never be bored or let down by the quality. ($139.99, Amazon)

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Face masks that are ideal for an exercise session… 

Made with three layers and adjustable ear loops, these masks feel light against your face. Meaning it may feel easier to breathe in, especially during a workout. They’re highly rated, with over 5,000 customers giving them a five-star review. Some even say the fabric helps prevent breakouts too. Sweat sesh = activated. ($20/5 pack, Athleta)

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An embroidery kit that’s as relaxing as it is satisfying... 

It’s perfect for when you want to put your phone down and let your mind escape. The kit has all the essentials (and step-by-step instructions) you’ll need to complete your hoop art, so even if you’ve never done something like this before, you’ll be able to execute flawlessly. All you need now is some calming tea and music and the vibe is set. ($17.99+, Etsy)

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*This denotes a sponsored section.

Skimm'd by Lindsay Schneider, Emmy Favilla