Editors' Picks
Sometimes, everyday products our editors use don’t make it into our in-depth, long-form comparative pieces in which we vigorously test similar products head-to-head. That’s where our Editors’ Picks come in — where we highlight everyday products we personally stand by and use on a daily basis, and think you should too.
In June, we were introduced to a plethora of products, from a new Swiffer and Tide Pods to a very nice cat bed. Some were forgettable, while others left a lasting impression. Because we’re committed to spotlighting the best products out there, we’ve decided to curate roundups of our favorite products we try each month.
Keep reading to check out the products we tested and couldn’t get enough of in June, or look back at our favorites in May.
Home
Ditch the bucket with the new Swiffer PowerMop and give your floors the deep clean they need without the hassle of a traditional mop. Instead, this newest addition to the Swiffer lineup feels like you’re using a WetJet, with the ease of spraying a PowerMop solution at the press of the button. But its standout is the powerful multilayered mop pads that help you aggressively wash floors with 300-plus scrubbing strips. — Lauren Levy, contributor
Our Place’s first appliance not only looks amazing on my countertop (and matches my Always Pan), but it perform incredibly well too. It heats up super fast and cooks quickly as well, plus there’s plenty of space to cook multiple things at once. Thanks to its six functions, I’ve been using it to whip up everything from simple toast to single-portion sheet pan dinners. —?Chelsea Stone, senior editor
I’m a fan of journaling, which means I’ll never pass on the opportunity to stock up on cute notebooks. Stationery brand Rifle Paper Co. has some of the cutest products around, and this month, I’ve been jotting down my thoughts in this notebook, which I’ve quickly fallen in love with. It’s sold as a set of three, and each book has 64 ruled pages. It also has the prettiest peacock design and looks so cute on my desk with the matching mug. —?Rachel Dennis, editorial coordinator
I’ve been using this 12-inch ceramic sauté pan from Caraway for about a month now, and in addition to loving how easy it is to make almost anything on this nontoxic, nonstick surface, I’m loving the pop of color it gives my kitchen. So far, I’ve only taken it off my stove to gently wash, then it goes right back on the burner. Now that summer is here, I can fry eggs, sauté veggies and even pan fry chicken — all with a minimal amount of oil or butter. I chose the limited-edition Blush, but it comes in an array of colors, including Marigold, Navy and Sage. —?Tobey Grumet, reviews editor
I'm a very hot sleeper, and these sheets have been a true lifesaver already this summer. First off, they're gorgeous. The pop of saffron gold in our bed just makes me happy every time I see it. Second, they're buttery soft, they're light and they really feel like they make a difference in the bed's temperature at night. I love the almost cool-to-the-touch feeling of them, and they're a fraction of the cost of most other luxe sheet brands. If you're looking for an alternative to linen and still want that ultra-airy feel, I cannot recommend these enough. — Rachel Lubitz, senior lifestyle editor
Moving means doing a lot of laundry, and if you're Underscored's?resident cleaning expert (that's me!), it also means the opportunity and excuse to try a whole bunch of new laundry detergent formulas. When I learned that Tide was rolling out a lightly scented version of its detergent packs, I had to get my hands on them; typically, I like a scented detergent, but when it comes to doing load after load of bedding, towels and clothes, all that perfume can become overwhelming. Tide Pods Light solves that problem. —?Jolie Kerr, contributor??
If it's good enough for Gordon Ramsay, it's good enough for me. He's the chef behind the brand HexClad, and you can tell from the first time you cook with one of these pans. I got the 10-inch Hybrid Pan, which is a perfect size for everything from an omelet in the morning to a filet mignon at night. The nonstick is phenomenal at first use, I love the weight of it and the handle always stays cool. It's really just the perfect everyday pan for me. —?Rachel Lubitz, senior lifestyle editor
Candles are the one thing I will always find room in my budget to buy myself because they bring me so much joy. Boy Smells recently teamed up with the iconic NYC bakery Magnolia Bakery for a scrumptious Banana Pudding candle, and it is spectacular. It’s not overwhelmingly banana-scented but more of a sweet, smoky vanilla cardamom-infused masterpiece. Just don’t blame me if you start craving the iconic treat when burning the candle. —?Lindsey Smith, associate editor
Meet the coolest salt cellar on earth. Material just launched its first line of small-batch items, and if this is the first product from the line, I'm extremely excited to see what's to come. The salt sphere features a magnetized swivel lid that reveals salt or whatever knickknacks you can fit inside, and the base doubles as storage for another type of salt or pepper (or extra-secret goodie) too. It's the coolest thing on our dining table by far. Everyone who comes by asks about it. —?Rachel Lubitz, senior lifestyle editor
I?love fresh flowers in my home, but there are only so many times a week I can run to Trader Joe's — which is why I decided to try this Sylvie Porcelain Vase with mixed calla lilies for my front hall. The flowers look SO REAL nobody would ever glance twice, plus they smell beautiful as well. The entire thing weighs just over a pound, so I can move it to a different location if I’m having a dinner party or just want to impress my family. They may not come cheap, but they are a luxury I think is well worth it. —?Tobey Grumet, reviews editor
I moved in with my boyfriend a few months back, and that meant getting a dresser big enough for the both of us. I've been eyeing this dresser for what feels like years, with its promise of easy assembly and drawers that simply fit into one another for easy stacking. When it arrived I was immediately impressed: Each drawer came in its own box, and the whole thing can be built without any additional tools. Just your own two hands. There's actually just one single large screw keeping each of the drawers stacked safely on top of one another, and it's real hardwood (which also means it's very, very heavy). But still, I was able to put it together completely alone within about an hour. The color is just divine, and it has that midcentury flair I'm into at the moment. If you're looking for a nice investment piece that feels sturdy enough to withstand decades, Thuma is where to go. —?Rachel Lubitz, senior lifestyle editor
This floral weekly planner from Day Designer has been a great way for me to schedule out my work and visualize the week ahead. The pages are undated, which means I can use as needed, and there’s a handy section for notes and tasks. —?Rachel Dennis, editorial coordinator
Behold: the prettiest serving platters I've ever seen. We've been throwing more house parties than usual lately and were in search of large platters for charcuterie and snacks that fit our midcentury vibe. These are gorgeous and durable and get compliments whenever we pull them out. Both sizes are perfect for parties or when you need a tray on your couch. I never regret buying versatile products likes this. —?Rachel Lubitz, senior lifestyle editor
Pets
Cats struggle to communicate when something is wrong, so I love that Pretty Litter provides some rudimentary indicators of their health status based on the color it turns when they use the litter. Beyond that, it’s made of superfine particles so it’s easier to sweep up or vacuum than other clunkier litters I’ve tried and it?doesn't leave an?unbearable smell. I’ve been subscribing to it for years and don’t plan on making a change anytime soon.?—?Marissa Miller, contributing editor
My cat, Phoebe, has taken to lying in piles of storage boxes filled with clothes, so I thought she’d enjoy the soft feel and cozy, concave feel of this bed. And I was right! She’s lost interest in past beds we’ve tried, but she’s happy to lounge in this one for hours. I currently have the spacious wide size, but I’m seriously considering picking up the small size for her too. —?Chelsea Stone, senior editor
Beauty
While a bit pricey for sunscreen, this mineral SPF became one of my favorite daily skin care products over the past couple months. It has a pinkish tint to offset any white cast and blends beautifully into the skin. In addition to protecting my face and neck with broad-spectrum SPF 40 coverage, it delivers skin benefits, thanks to key ingredients like?ectoin?and antioxidants. I started using layered on top of a?vitamin C?serum and I noticed a serious difference in my skin’s brightness and luminosity. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor
I'm an at-home mani girl, so I'm always on the hunt for polishes that last for more than a week. This month I tried MiniLuxe, and was completely impressed. The brand has a massive color range, the polishes come in gold-capped bottles worthy of showing off and it lasted on my nails for two weeks without a single chip. I tried the hot pink color Legally Blonde (love the name) at Paintbox (one of my favorite NYC nail salons with the *cutest* designs) and have fallen in love. At just $14 a pop, they're going to be my go-to polish from here on out. — Rachel Lubitz, senior lifestyle editor
As I spend more time outside, Tower 28’s SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen is my new favorite way to protect my skin from the sun. This 2-in-1 tinted mineral sunscreen snuck its way into my beauty routine and officially slated its spot as a daily staple — whether I’m headed to the beach or not — because it offers both broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30 protection as well as light, smoothing coverage that’s anything but sticky. It’s available in 17 shades, including three new options, and my sensitive skin appreciates that it’s alcohol- and fragrance-free. — Lauren Levy, contributor
I’ve been loving this facial mist from Caudalie Paris. Formulated with ingredients like grape extract and mint oil, it’s also available in a mini size that’s perfect for tossing in your handbag. So far, I’ve been using it in the morning after cleansing but before moisturizing and again at night (after cleansing), and I absolutely love how it makes my skin feel. It leaves my skin feeling refreshed and hydrated and has a beautiful herbal scent that makes me feel like I'm at a spa. —?Rachel Dennis, editorial coordinator
I’m a Wet Brush girlie through and through. However, this gorgeous pearlescent comb and brush combo has given my 27-year-long detangling method a run for its money. Both tools can be used on dry and wet hair; the double-length bristle brush works to gently separate tangled hair without causing any breakage or pain, while the comb works to part with precision and ease. If you, like me, constantly deal with very tangly hair, you need these.?—?Stephanie Griffin, director of social
I don’t know about you, but humidity is NOT my friend when it comes to my hair. Which is why I rely heavily on styling products when summer rolls around. This sleek, Barbiecore curling iron comes in three sizes, though I like the 1.4-inch barrel for beach waves. It also tends to reduce heat damage while cutting down on the dreaded frizz. Plus, it’s so shiny and pretty, I can leave it on the bathroom counter and nobody complains (much). —?Tobey Grumet, reviews editor
I’ve been reaching for Paume products all month and cannot recommend them enough. The Probiotic Hand Balm smells so good — but isn’t overwhelming?—?and makes my hands feel super soft. I love that it isn’t greasy, and it absorbs quickly. I am also a huge fan of the?All-in-One Cuticle & Nail Cream, which I put on immediately after I shower, and it has transformed my dry and cracked cuticles. —?Lindsey Smith, associate editor
I’ve been on an eye mask kick and the one I’ve been testing (and loving) as of late is this bright blue pack from clean-beauty brand Patchology. As its name implies, the eye gels are made with a cocktail of cooling and firming ingredients that work to reduce tired, puffy under-eyes. There’s a noticeable difference after just a few minutes of use, and I just love the cooling sensation throughout the treatment. It feels like the area is actually on ice and looks cute while I’m at it!?—?Stephanie Griffin, director of social
If you thought toothpaste couldn’t be luxurious, you thought wrong. Selahatin’s whitening toothpaste elevates oral care with unique flavors and apothecary-inspired aluminum packaging. I was surprised that I enjoyed the honey-infused Hypnotist flavor, but it lends a warm sweetness to the classic peppermint and makes brushing my teeth literally taste like a treat. It’s a splurge for sure but worth the indulgence, and I’m already planning on making it an unexpected gift for birthdays and holidays. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor
On the oral care theme, I also tried these gentle whitening strips and was excited to see a difference after the first use. Since then, I’ve used them intermittently once or twice a week for maintenance and have never experienced any sensitivity. And unlike other teeth whitening products I’ve tried, they don’t have a chemical taste, which makes total sense if you look at the ingredients list. With natural ingredients like coconut oil, dead sea salt, sage oil and lemon peel oil, the strips leave behind a neutral herbal flavor — and a surprisingly bright smile. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor
I grew up with the notion that liquid lipsticks meant dry and cakey, but this one from Charlotte Tilbury became an instant everyday essential for me this month. It's the feeling of this lipstick that got me really excited. It's incredibly lightweight, and really does look like it's blurring out the lips for a pillowy-soft feel and look. The color isn't technically longwear, but doesn't smudge too badly. It fades slowly on the lips so that even after a few drinks you've still got some color. I got it in the shade Pillow Talk Blur and as with all Pillow Talk products, the pinky mauve color is just gorgeous.?— Rachel Lubitz, senior lifestyle editor
I’ve obsessed over so many of Ilia’s cult-favorite, clean beauty products over the years, so I’m not shocked in the slightest to learn that I love this one too. The Limitless Lash Mascara is a midnight black mascara that’s buildable and flake-resistant. It has given me the longest, most lifted lashes of my life and never once looks like they’re clumped together or smudged — which is a huge plus, considering I spend my summers at the beach and need something that’s guaranteed to stay put! —?Stephanie Griffin, director of social
Tech
I was never a fan of big laptops, but the new 15-inch MacBook Air just converted me. It takes everything great about last year's MacBook Air M2 and simply blows it up onto a larger canvas, one that packs louder speakers and a notably bigger display while still being nearly as thin and light as the 13-inch model. The new MacBook Air made it easy for me to multitask on the road without weighing me down during a recent work trip, and its gorgeous screen and comfortable weight have made it my new favorite laptop to use when I'm kicking back on the couch.?—?Mike Andronico, senior tech writer
I’ve never been an earbud girlie since nothing stays put in my ear, and these compact and lightweight over-the-ear headphones are the perfect solution. I comfortably wear them several hours a day whether I’m listening to a podcast while doing chores or jamming to T-Swift on the treadmill. They fold up into a neat little ball so I can place them in my belt bag or tiny purse when I wind up at my destination without having to wear them around my neck. They pair quickly and the sound quality is unmatched.?—?Marissa Miller, contributing editor
After years of working out exclusively in VR, I finally bought a proper silicone face covering for my Meta Quest 2 — and it's been a total game changer. This cheap $17 add-on replaces the Quest 2's stock fabric covering (which can get uncomfortable and gross when you're sweating it out) with a smooth, rubbery exterior. It's much less harsh on my face, and a lot easier to wipe down after a vigorous Supernatural session. It also just makes my Quest 2 look sleeker and more personalized — especially paired with the $20 Kiwi grips I bought for my controllers.?—?Mike Andronico, senior tech writer
Fashion
I’ve been firmly in the bralette camp ever since the pandemic, but after a similar Chantelle bra went viral for having actor Brie Larson as a devotee, I had to try it. Turns out the right, well-made, proper-fitting underwire bra is as comfortable as a wireless one! I love the support and shape this bra provides, and even though I still love a bralette for lounging around, this is the T-shirt bra I’ll be reaching for when I leave the house. —?Chelsea Stone, senior editor
I love personalized jewelry that doesn't feel cheesy, and this ring from Birthdate is now at the top of my gifting list. The brand launched its ultra-personalized Birthdate Pendants that showcase a custom crystal design based on your birthday last year. Now the brand has launched these gorgeous rings that come set with three of your birthstones (mine's garnet!), surrounded by some glistening cubic zirconia that sparkle in the light. It looks much more expensive than it really is, and it's a personalized gift they'll thank you over and over for giving them. —?Rachel Lubitz, senior lifestyle editor
Scallop-shaped pajamas? For summer? Groundbreaking. No, but seriously, this may be one of the most seasonally appropriate sleep sets I’ve ever owned. It also happens to be the softest I’ve ever owned! From the top to the bottom, both baby blue pieces are constructed from a dreamy, ultra-cozy modal fabric that have truly unlocked longer, better sleep.?—?Stephanie Griffin, director of social
After trying out a couple pieces from the beloved activewear brand’s most recent Court to Resort collection this month, I’m never turning back. The bright white set is constructed from the highest-quality materials and is soft, stretchy, stainproof and breathable. The scooped-neck top comes with built-in padding (can we get a little commotion?), while the skirt features hidden shorts for extra coverage and comfort. Also, after a fatal run-in with a black cup of coffee, I can now assure you (and myself) that any mess, dirt or debris comes right off in the wash with ease.?—?Stephanie Griffin, director of social
My first experience with Hoka was with the brand’s Clifton 8 model and I was blown away by their support and how light they are on my feet. And after breaking in the latest Clifton 9 style, I can say I’m officially obsessed with these running shoes. They're even more cushioned, giving additional support and shock absorption, and yet somehow weigh even less than their already airy predecessors. — Lauren Levy, contributor
After searching for the *perfect* summer top, I’ve finally found her and she’s daintier and prettier than I could have ever imagined. Constructed from 100% linen and covered in blue flowers and silk detailing, this bodice-fitted top can be worn with anything from a maxi skirt to high-waisted jean shorts. It also comes with adjustable straps, which is a huge plus, considering I almost always have to hem my wardrobe to my liking.?—?Stephanie Griffin, director of social
Work-appropriate shoes for summer are hard to find; sometimes I’m looking for something more formal than a sneaker, but I’m not looking to wear uncomfortable dress shoes all day— and sandals on a New York City sidewalk are a risk. Enter: Rothy’s The Driver Loafer. The brand’s signature knit is comfy and breathable, and they come in 14 hues so there’s something for everyone. Plus, each pair is made from about 17 plastic bottles. —?Chelsea Stone, senior editor
After 25-plus years of traveling, I’ve come to the conclusion that I always have and always will be an over-packer, which is exactly why I need an extra-spacious travel cosmetic case like this one to carry my endless holy grail skin, hair and makeup products that I never leave home without. I absolutely love this one because first and foremost, it’s *huge*, but it’s also made from recycled materials, it's waterproof, it has a zip-top closure and it comes with inside pockets for extra storage and organization.?—?Stephanie Griffin, director of social
My dad has worn nothing but Nike dad shoes for the past 30-plus years, so I counted it as a huge win when I surprised him with a stellar pair of Novella sneakers. These shoes are so stunning in person and well made. They’re an investment and will keep you from spending a ton of money replacing your shoes every year. They’re available in men’s and women’s sizing and there is a style for everyone regardless of age. They’re especially cool because there are only 2,020 of each style made, so not only are they not mass produced, but you’d also be hard-pressed to find anyone near you with the same shoes. —?Lindsey Smith, associate editor
If you’ve ever owned a Dagne Dover bag, you’re probably familiar with the little mesh pouch that comes inside. Now the brand has launched some of its bestsellers in this Air Mesh material. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, and best of all, 100% recycled. It’s already a go-to for weekend summer getaways. —?Chelsea Stone, senior editor
As a member of the IBTC, I often go braless or wear sticky bras. I’ve been loving Threads’ stickies because they’re invisible under my clothes and stay on all day or night — even in the summer heat. They’re reusable, and thanks to the medical-grade silicone they don’t irritate my sensitive skin. —?Lindsey Smith, associate editor
Last month, I was in the market for a secure, spacious and cute crossbody that can store the valuables I don’t feel comfortable leaving in a carry-on or checked luggage. Enter: women-owned brand Dagne Dover’s crossbody, which is everything I was looking for and more. It’s made from scratch- and stainproof sustainable neoprine and comes with more than enough room for my phone, wallet and keys. It also has an adjustable strap so you can keep it as close to you as you like. Sorry, pickpocketers!?—?Stephanie Griffin, director of social
I love wearing backless dresses in the summer, but I can’t go braless. It’s just not in the cards for me. So instead of showing off my boring bra strap, I turned to this Baxxe Bra Set, which is basically a strapless bra that comes with your choice of stunningly decorated bands. You can boldly show off that strap instead of wishing gravity didn’t exist for women of a certain age. I chose the neutral, dusty pink vegan patent Prima band and the Gold Rush leather with metallic studs for a little glamour. The bra is easy to assemble with different straps and it offers excellent support for larger cups. —?Tobey Grumet, reviews editor
Fitness
Bala Bangles are the It ankle weights, and it’s not hard to see why — they’re incredibly comfortable without digging into my ankles or wrists, they come with a convenient carry case and they’re cute enough to wear out and about (I haven’t tried that yet, but will report back when I do!). I feel like a celebrity trainer every time I do a barre or Pilates class while wearing them, and I truly believe they add the perfect burn to every workout for athletes of every level. —?Marissa Miller, contributing editor
Food and drink
I have never been an excellent water drinker, but I am both health-conscious and vain and I know how important it is to get that daily H2O in. So when I discovered True Lemon I thought it might be the answer to my water aversion — and indeed, it turned out that all I needed to get my ounces in was a little flavor! I prefer the shaker, but True Lemon is also available in?single-use packets?that are perfect for flavoring water, seltzer, soda, etc. on the go. And, if lemon isn't your citrus of choice, the brand also offers crystalized?lime,?orange?and?grapefruit. —?Jolie Kerr, contributor
Just as its name implies, Fellow’s latest product is a sleek, matte black tumbler that keeps 16 ounces of water or other beverages ice cold for 18-plus hours. Unlike my Stanley, which I often find too bulky to bring with me to workouts or the beach, this is the perfect size and naturally has become my go-to water bottle over the last month or so. It’s easy to clean and can go in the wash too!?—?Stephanie Griffin, director of social
I haven’t met a single person who rivals my sweet tooth, which means it’s completely acceptable to treat myself to delectable cookies for no reason at all. I recently fell in love with Last Crumb, and this box is filled with 12 of the most delicious cookies you’ll ever taste and are inspired by summertime treats like s’mores and fruit cobbler. If you do want to share, they make perfect party favors, gifts or snacks to nosh on while watching a movie. The Summertime Collection was so popular it sold out, but Last Crumb’s Core Collection drops every week and is equally as delicious. —?Lindsey Smith, associate editor
Proxies have been my go-to drink for every occasion and now the brand has released my new summer staple: Sparkling Rosé Cans. Now, if you haven’t read about me waxing poetic about Proxies in the past, these are nonalcoholic drinks with blends of juices, teas, spices, bitters and more. I highly recommend them if you’re a nondrinker or if you want to try out something new. —?Lindsey Smith, associate editor
You can’t go wrong with a nice cold glass of raspberry iced tea or, in this case, a cold can of Swoon’s Raspberry Tea. Swoon’s drinks are a huge hit in my family, and with so many flavors to choose from (I also recommend trying the Peach Iced Tea), there’s something for everyone. And with zero sugar added (monk fruit is used as a sweetener), I’m hopping on the sugar-free drinks bandwagon. —?Rachel Dennis, editorial coordinator
Refreshing, hydrating and oh-so-delicious, iced tea is a summer staple in my house. Tea Forte’s Tea Over Ice Pitcher Set is elegant and easy to use and makes a great centerpiece. I’ve currently been loving the Blue Mint Nectar flavor. While the color is bright, the flavor is light and perfect for a super-hot day. It only takes five minutes to make, which is another bonus. —?Lindsey Smith, associate editor
I’ve been trying to cut out refined sugar in my diet and recently learned about the brand Just Date. The organic date sweetener has quickly become a favorite of mine for pancakes and waffles. The low glycemic index makes it perfect for diabetics as well. —?Lindsey Smith, associate editor
I’ve been trying a lot of different drinks lately and Aura Bora’s newest flavor, Raspberry Vanilla, really hits the spot. Refreshing and great-tasting, flavors range from Lavender Cucumber (which tastes just as nice as you'd expect) to Peppermint Watermelon. —?Rachel Dennis, editorial coordinator
All month I’ve been reaching for flavored popcorn from Prospector Popcorn, and I cannot get enough of it; I’m pretty sure my body is made up of 85% popcorn right now. I’m not even embarrassed to say I can eat an entire bag in one sitting. It is the perfect snack and is great to bring along for your?travels. From salty to sweet, the brand — which gives employment opportunities to people with disabilities?— has some of the most creative (and delicious) flavors I’ve ever eaten. Currently, I’m snacking on the Buffalo Cheddar variety and I recently devoured the?Summertime S’mores?flavor. —?Lindsey Smith, associate editor