While professional reviewers test countless products, from bath towels to blenders, what do they actually choose to buy for themselves? As the holiday season approaches, the team behind the Guardian US's Filter newsletter asked its writers to reveal the items that have earned a permanent spot in their daily lives.
From Wardrobe Staples to Travel Essentials
The personal recommendations cover a wide spectrum, reflecting the diverse tastes and needs of the product experts. In the realm of fashion and comfort, several items stood out. Tobey Grumet Segal champions the Buck Mason Seafarer Shrunken Crew sweater (£188), praising its perfect fit and versatility. For cosy home wear, Tim Stevens opted for Birkenstock Zermatt Shearling Wool Slippers (£99.95), finding them a warm and supportive winter essential.
Seeking a more durable alternative to Converse Chuck Taylors, Stevens also recommends Moonstar Gym Classic Shoes (from $167), citing superior Japanese craftsmanship. Meanwhile, Chris Allbritton extols the virtues of the Lands’ End Men’s Calf-Length Turkish Terry Robe ($43.98), which he finds more durable and comfortable than a previous high-end purchase.
Gadgets for Adventure and Home Comfort
The writers' travel picks blend practicality with a sense of adventure. Kiki Aranita relies on the Aloha Collection Keep It Light Weekender Bag ($74) for its stylish, functional design. For tech-enabled exploration, Alan Truly is a fan of the DJI Neo Mini Drone ($289), a palm-sized device that offers high-quality aerial footage without the complexity of traditional drones.
For home upgrades, several smart and affordable gadgets made the list. Stevens is switching to TP-Link’s Tapo C113 security cameras ($19.99) to avoid monthly fees. Allbritton recommends the XGIMI Halo+ Portable Projector ($499) for its impressive, cinema-quality performance in a portable package. To combat dry winter air, Truly uses the Levoit Dual 150 Ultrasonic Humidifier (from $35.79), a quiet and effective solution.
Self-Care, Cleaning, and Culinary Delights
The self-care selections focus on targeted solutions. Segal reports visible results from the Nulastin Brow Shape Altering Serum ($84) for fuller eyebrows, while Julia Skinner enjoys the balancing effect of Boreal Folk Yarrow Face Oil Cleanser ($30). For relieving muscle tension, Truly swears by the LiBa Trigger Point Massage Tool (from $18).
Eco-conscious cleaning solutions also featured prominently. Allbritton advocates for Sheets Laundry Club Detergent Sheets ($21.29 for 50), highlighting their drastic reduction in plastic and shipping weight. He also praises the O-Cedar ProMist Max Microfiber Spray Mop ($24.98) for its refillable tank and reusable head.
The culinary picks offer unique flavours and convenience. Segal enjoys Thousand Cranes Origami Sake ($24.99) for low-ABV cocktails, and Aranita carries the quirky Cabi Mini Mayonnaise Keychain ($36) for on-the-go condiments. Skinner recommends Portrait Coffee's Stankonia Limited Edition blend ($24), a tribute to OutKast with a rich, fruity profile.
All prices were current at the time of the original publication. This curated list provides a unique insight into the products that have genuinely impressed those who spend their days separating the exceptional from the ordinary.
