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I was thinking that it would be good to have a thread that could be used for two things: 1. Recommending products that you own or have used and are worth the money. Especially for things that most people wouldn't normally think of or are hard to find unbiased reviews for, and might make good gifts for Christmas. Please give a link to the web page for the product! 2. Asking for recommendations for things that don't have their own thread. Example: if you want a computer monitor, there's already a thread, as there is for hot sauce, kitchen knives, and bookshelf speakers. But for more obscure things you should ask here! So I'll kick it off with three recommendations:
Okay, and also a request:
SOME HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE RECOMMENDATIONS (I'll try to update this occasionally with items that lots of people agree are awesome):
Sgs-Cruz has a new favorite as of 01:55 on Jan 4, 2011 |
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Nov 26, 2010 22:43
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Try a kitchen shop. Cook-book holders can be pretty hefty.
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Nov 26, 2010 22:55
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Sgs-Cruz posted:[*]Travel mug: the best travel mug in the world (I know this, I've tried all of them) is the Contigo Autoseal. Costs about $20 (USD) for a two-pack at Costco, but available lots of places. Thing keeps my coffee hot for 3–4 hours and has a button you push to drink from it, so if you ever knock it over, you don't spill anything. Seriously, these things are amazing. Just today i threw one full of coffee into the bed of MY BOYFRIEND's truck for our trip up to the mountains to cut a christmas tree. Not a drop spilled back there, despite the bumpy ride, and three hours later it was still hot enough to burn my tongue. These things are some space-age poo poo.
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Nov 26, 2010 23:19
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Thank you for this thread. I recommend this product to everyone I know and occasionally strangers: http://www.amazon.com/Aquafresh-Flouride-Toothgel-Lasting-Impact/dp/B002BSVEJK Yes, toothpaste. I'm not even a dentist! It foams up in your mouth so much and really gives you an amazingly clean feeling. The whitening is great too, I drink a lot of coffee and my teeth are still very white. Hands down the best toothpaste I have ever tried.
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Nov 27, 2010 01:41
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Any Cetaphil lotion. It's good on psoriasis or just generally dry skin. I've seen many people bummed out when they drop a hundred dollars to see a dermatologist just so they can hand them a coupon for Cetaphil.
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Nov 27, 2010 01:55
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mikestg posted:Thank you for this thread. I recommend this product to everyone I know and occasionally strangers: I never thought I'd say this: Aquafresh users represent 
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Nov 27, 2010 02:05
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mikestg posted:Thank you for this thread. I recommend this product to everyone I know and occasionally strangers: Awesome viral marketing, you... AQUAFRESH SHILL!
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Nov 27, 2010 02:08
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mikestg posted:Thank you for this thread. I recommend this product to everyone I know and occasionally strangers: There are two 1star reviews on that bitching about the foam.
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Nov 27, 2010 02:38
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JohnDonovanLiver posted:I never thought I'd say this: Aquafresh users represent  Revitalized posted:There are two 1star reviews on that bitching about the foam. Haters gonna hate.
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Nov 27, 2010 02:57
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Revitalized posted:There are two 1star reviews on that bitching about the foam. I count one of those as a 5-star, I've always wondered if there was a way to make shaving cream taste better.
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Nov 27, 2010 03:02
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Magic erasers are the best things ever if you have kids. They take scuffs off of walls, hard water stains off of faucets and clean soap scum with only water. They're the only product I can think of that I've bought for other people just because I was excited for them to try it.
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Nov 27, 2010 03:14
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NarwhalParty posted:Any Cetaphil lotion. It's good on psoriasis or just generally dry skin. I've seen many people bummed out when they drop a hundred dollars to see a dermatologist just so they can hand them a coupon for Cetaphil. I have extremely dry skin (but no conditions like psoriasis). I find Lay it on Thick to be the best lotion in the world. It's the only lotion I have used that I don't need to apply more than once every couple of hours. It is too lotiony for a lot of people though. Believe you me I have gone through about every lotion you can buy in the US because nothing is more annoying than my hands feeling dry
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Nov 27, 2010 03:15
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lamb posted:Magic erasers are the best things ever if you have kids. They take scuffs off of walls, hard water stains off of faucets and clean soap scum with only water. They're the only product I can think of that I've bought for other people just because I was excited for them to try it. I don't have kids yet but I can attest to the awesomeness of magic erasers. Even the wal-mart kind are awesome. I mostly use them to clean the glass top on my stove. No matter what poo poo is burned on there, these things will take it off with ease.
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Nov 27, 2010 03:30
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Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara http://www.revlon.com/Revlon-Home/Products/Eyes/Mascara/NEW%20Revlon%20Grow%20Luscious%20Mascara.aspx Last winter, I completely hosed/broke off a lot of my eyelashes using lovely waterproof mascara. I've been using this, and my eyelashes not only grew back, but grew back slightly longer and fuller. It's also good, makeup-wise. Doesn't clump. You can put on a couple of layers to get them nice and thick. And although it isn't waterproof, it seems to be water-resistant. I've worn it swimming and nothin'. I'm sure there's better stuff out there, but not for $10. Speaking of toothpaste... plain ol' Sensodyne for sensitivity. My front teeth get hot/cold sensitive occasionally. I use Sensodyne even once or twice and they're fine again.
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Nov 27, 2010 03:31
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lamb posted:Magic erasers are the best things ever if you have kids. They take scuffs off of walls, hard water stains off of faucets and clean soap scum with only water. They're the only product I can think of that I've bought for other people just because I was excited for them to try it. Anyone know if these would damage automotive paint? My jeep is a 2ton fly swater, and I got the urge recently to try a magic eraser to get bugs off the grill.
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Nov 27, 2010 03:35
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beanieson posted:Anyone know if these would damage automotive paint? My jeep is a 2ton fly swater, and I got the urge recently to try a magic eraser to get bugs off the grill. Not in my experience. My mother in law uses it to get those horrible love bugs off her grill and hood and there's been no problem so far. Just for an example how good they are: when my son was about four, he drew a magic marker mural on the wall that was about 5 feet wide, and the magic in magic eraser definitely was apparent by the time it was gone.
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Nov 27, 2010 03:51
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It's an abrasive pad so it it has the potential to gently caress poo poo up, but only if you scrub too long. I've taken off multiple layers of paint accidentally in a house I rented when I thought a stain was being tough
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Nov 27, 2010 03:51
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Zojirushi rice maker, with Fuzzy Logic. 8 or 10 different rice settings... you just put the rice in, fill to the water line, close the lid, and hit start; perfect rice every time! Keeps it warm for 12 hours, has a delayed start setting. It also plays Happy Birthday when your rice is done and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star when you start.
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Nov 27, 2010 03:56
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Neilmed Sinus Rinse Sick with the cold? Get allergies? A few intrusive sprays and you can watch it all disappear (well, not really. But You'll get better faster). Extra points for watching the disgusting snot you just blasted out of your nose swirl down the drain. And for cleaning around the house- Dyson DC33 Multi Floor. Yes, Dysons are expensive as gently caress. But once you cave-in and buy one you'll never get a non-Dyson model. Even after you run it over a "clean" rug it picks up a whole lot of horrible, dusty crap you otherwise would've been breathing in.
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Nov 27, 2010 04:01
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ayekappy posted:It also plays Happy Birthday when your rice is done and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star when you start. Sold.
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Nov 27, 2010 04:09
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Super duper diaper doo- if you have a baby. Best rash reliever out there.
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Nov 27, 2010 04:12
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Burt's Bees makes pretty much the perfect chapstick in my opinion. Otherwise, good thread.
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Nov 27, 2010 04:23
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Use a metal cigarette case as a wallet. They're sturdy and classy. I also hate thick wallets in my pants, and the cigarette case I've had for ten years is always the same slim size. It prevents you from carrying too much crap in your wallet, as when it starts to get full, you prioritize and realize all the cards you don't really need. It also is a conversation starter as a lot of people ask about it.Sgs-Cruz posted:Link to an example? http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_14?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=cigarette+case&x=0&y=0&sprefix=cigarette+case I purchased mine from a cigar store. Mine's double sided, but many cases are only single sided:  Click here for the full 643x648 image. I just realized mine has the company's name on an inside lip, it's made by a company named Prometeus. They've got 24 styles ranging from $25-50, so it might make a nice Christmas gift idea for some of you if you have any smoking friends. I'm very happy with mine, and I'd be skeptical of the ones under $10 on Amazon. You can also get them engraved. http://www.lightersdirect.com/Cigarette_Lighters___Cases.610/Prometheus_Cigarette_Cases.868/ Elijya has a new favorite as of 05:20 on Nov 27, 2010 |
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Nov 27, 2010 04:33
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lamb posted:Magic erasers are the best things ever if you have kids. They take scuffs off of walls, hard water stains off of faucets and clean soap scum with only water. They're the only product I can think of that I've bought for other people just because I was excited for them to try it. I pity people who don't know about these yet. Being a huge geek, I had to look up how it worked, and it's really neat, it's like a really fine sandpaper, but made of a soft material so it won't scratch the surface. I'm always amazed by how well they work. Here's another request: What is the best fluorescent light bulb? Based on price, longevity, colour (daylight or incandescent/warm, as long as it doesn't look like a fluorescent light)... edit: Elijya posted:Use a metal cigarette case as a wallet. They're sturdy and classy. I also hate thick wallets in my pants, and the cigarette case I've had for ten years is always the same slim size. It prevents you from carrying too much crap in your wallet, as when it starts to get full, you prioritize and realize all the cards you don't really need. It also is a conversation starter as a lot of people ask about it.
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Nov 27, 2010 04:37
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Elijya posted:Use a metal cigarette case as a wallet. They're sturdy and classy. I also hate thick wallets in my pants, and the cigarette case I've had for ten years is always the same slim size. It prevents you from carrying too much crap in your wallet, as when it starts to get full, you prioritize and realize all the cards you don't really need. It also is a conversation starter as a lot of people ask about it.
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Nov 27, 2010 04:44
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I know it's not a product, per se, but a service. Amazon Prime is one of my favorite things ever. Let me tell you why. Not only is it only $80 a year, but you get free two day shipping on almost anything you might need AND you can add up to 4 other people to your account, free of charge. They can take advantage of all the Prime benefits and not pay a dime, unless, of course, you ask them to. I ask for $20 a person to join my account, all friends and family, in which case I literally pay nothing for my Prime membership. It's a great situation for them and for me, so everybody wins! If you play it right it's a great deal and has lead me to use Amazon more than I usually would. On top of all that, Amazon has some of the best customer service in the business and I've never had the smallest problem with them. I've gotten a couple of damaged products from them and they always replace them, no question. I really can't recommend them enough! Rick Sanchez has a new favorite as of 05:44 on Nov 27, 2010 |
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Nov 27, 2010 05:33
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On the subject of wallets, these are incredible: http://www.senacases.com/apple/iphone-4-cases/walletskin/ Condense your phone and wallet into one wonderful little bundle of indispensable joy. I had one for 2+ years for my old iphone 3G and the only reason I bought a new one was because it was too loose on my iphone 4. They got versions for other kinds of phones that are just as good, I'm sure. The leather and craftsmanship are awesome.
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Nov 27, 2010 06:25
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Dr. Fancypants posted:On the subject of wallets, these are incredible: They'd have to be. $52 is a lot for a cell phone skin with a little slot for a few credit cards.
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Nov 27, 2010 06:31
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The finer things in life don't come cheap. 
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Nov 27, 2010 06:34
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Paul Allen posted:I know it's not a product, per se, but a service. Amazon Prime is one of my favorite things ever. Let me tell you why. 2nding this. If you order alot off Amazon, getting Prime is definitely worth it. You'll save money on shipping in the long run, AND getting your stuff in 2 days is pretty sweet.
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Nov 27, 2010 06:35
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Paul Allen posted:I know it's not a product, per se, but a service. Amazon Prime is one of my favorite things ever. Let me tell you why. I've thought of doing that, but don't they say it all has to be in the same household? Do they really not care about that? I've never tried it as $80 is just too much for me, but I don't want to have Amazon get pissed that it's being shared and cancel it on everyone either.
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Nov 27, 2010 06:40
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Paul Allen posted:I know it's not a product, per se, but a service. Amazon Prime is one of my favorite things ever. Let me tell you why. You forgot to mention the $4 one day shipping upgrade. Its hilariously awesome to get giant poo poo overnighted to your house for 4 bucks.
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Nov 27, 2010 07:01
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melon cat posted:Neilmed Sinus Rinse A million times this. Neilmed has saved me from about 3 sinus infections that would otherwise be just long, drawn out headaches. It seems gross and looks uncomfortable, but the rinse feels nothing like what you expect - no burning, no pain, just instant relief! For Canadian (or other international) goons buying things online from American companies: Occasionally you'll find a vendor with some sort of bias against shipping/selling across the border. A simple way around this, and a good way to combine several purchases into a single shipped package, is by using a US mail forwarding service like Bongo US. This is handy for getting around those sticky customs fees that UPS likes to tack on to things. They even provide a shopping service for the few US companies that wont accept a Canadian credit card - They make the purchase for you and send it along for a small fee.
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Nov 27, 2010 08:35
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I got one of these about 6 years ago and it's the most useful thing I own: The Utili-Key - I have the 6-in-1 and it's been fantastic and very discreet in places where a folding multi-tool might be unwelcome. I was eyeing the 8-in-1 with the wire strippers/cutters as a gift idea for a friend this year. Not always easy to use, you have to be careful where you grab it for some things (like the bottle opener and the flat head screwdriver bit, b/c of the blade), but extremely helpful in a pinch. A great travel tool, too. Never an issue at any security checkpoint, when it's on a keyring and locked it just looks like a weird, long key. Not that it's exactly a threat, it's not like it's any more dangerous than a key really - you couldn't really cut anyone effectively with the knife except as a last resort. There's too much crap poking out in awkward places to grip it easily and it folds in to cleave fingers. But it's awesome for when you can't carry your less awkward but more legally objectionable Leatherman or pocket multi-tool of choice. Only ever been noticed in one checkpoint - of all places at the World of Coca-Cola. They let it slide, but they did catch it and ask about it. Those guys were sharp, must be all the free Original Cocaine Recipe sample shooters.
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Nov 27, 2010 09:05
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During the winter my skin dries out real bad after a shower but I hate putting lotion on. I'm cold and rather change into my clothes asap.... which is why this body scrub is amazing: http://www.100percentpure.com/Body-Scrubs-s/37.htm After your body wash, just apply this to your whole body (not your face cause it's too oily) and rinse off. Once you dry off you're gonna feel like you already put lotion on. The container and site itself looks really girly, but I always give it out to my guy friends and they love it. I always get Lemon or Lime peel or anything else that's more citrusy because I personally hate sweet scents. And if you care, they're vegan, cruelty free, and they use soy ink to print their labels and stuff.
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Nov 27, 2010 09:11
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Fairy Power Spray is very good for getting stains off cookware. I've had things that no end of scrubbing/soaking wouldn't clean, but this stuff is like a thick gel that sits on the stain and soaks in. After about 10 minutes most nasty burnt-on crap shifts easily.
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Nov 27, 2010 09:30
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ayekappy posted:Zojirushi rice maker, with Fuzzy Logic. 8 or 10 different rice settings... you just put the rice in, fill to the water line, close the lid, and hit start; perfect rice every time! Keeps it warm for 12 hours, has a delayed start setting. It also plays Happy Birthday when your rice is done and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star when you start. They also make kickass kitchen water heaters and dispensers. If you have hard water you may have to descale them occasionally, but never having to put a kettle on to boil or nuke a cup of water for whatever is way more of a convenience than you'd think.
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Nov 27, 2010 10:29
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Lots of cheapish kitchen gadgets Sundessa Blender Bottle - It's a bottle with a ball whisk thing inside for mixing up powdered drinks. Marketed toward W&W-types for their protein drinks but that whisk ball thing is perfect for mixing pretty much any powder, such as flour or curry powder. The plastic bottle smells like rear end. Take the ball and use it in some other watertight container. EatSmart kitchen scale - For portion control and precision, quick measurement of ingredients. Cooking for engineers explains why you should use it better than I do. ayekappy posted:Zojirushi rice maker, with Fuzzy Logic. 8 or 10 different rice settings... you just put the rice in, fill to the water line, close the lid, and hit start; perfect rice every time! Keeps it warm for 12 hours, has a delayed start setting. It also plays Happy Birthday when your rice is done and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star when you start.
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Nov 27, 2010 10:35
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I always use Colgate toothpaste. I started after my stepfather went to the dentist after 10 years of not going and had no problems whatsoever. Sure enough, a few months ago I went after having never seen a dentist in 12 years and after a 5 minute cleaning I was completely done. No cavities or any other concerns, and I'm only a twice daily brusher. I personally suggest the baking soda/peroxide variety. On a related note, spend the $15 to get a Crest Spinbrush - get the rechargeable one. I could never bring myself to drop the $100+ to get the Oral-B or SoniCare kits but I decided that I could spare $15 if I decided I didn't like the Spinbrush. The drat thing has lasted me three years and is still going strong. The replacement heads are as cheap as a good toothbrush, and if you've never used an electric toothbrush before you'll be amazed at how much stuff you're leaving on your teeth. You'll feel the difference. My dentist was utterly shocked when I told her that I was using the el cheapo model of electric toothbrush and didn't even seem to believe me at first. I bought her one and she sent me a thank you card to let me know that it replaced her Oral-B kit  Hyundai makes great cars for the DIY mechanic. Working on these vehicles is actually a pleasure. It's like they're made to be easily repaired, a concept which seems to boggle the mind of every other auto maker these days. Make sure you do your research and don't get a lovely model/year though. If you wear glasses, check out Zenni Optical. I've been buying my glasses from them for the past few years. The one frameless pair I got actually broke after I had them about two weeks and Zenni replaced them for free with no questions asked. I get compliments on my glasses a few times per week. They have all kinds of colors, styles, hinges, lens shapes and perks (transition lenses, tinting, etc.), you name it - and they're pretty drat cheap too. They also list dimensions of their frames/lenses so you don't end up with comically tiny glasses on your massive head. Do you shave your head? If so, get a Headblade. It's like half-razor-half-matchbox car. Replacement cartridges are extremely cheap as far as razors go, and in no time you'll be shaving your head closer than you ever have in less than 5 minutes. Hell, it may even become part of your showering routine in the morning. My Motorola VE20 is going on three years old and is still the best phone I've ever had. It's a dumbphone that supports up to an 8gb memory card and can play music for 12 hours straight on a fully charged standard battery. Even after I get my next phone this thing is going to be my go to mp3 player. Request: I'm looking to get into kayaking. I've been rafting for almost 20 years and have read a ton of books on the subject over the last few months with many more in queue. Any craft recommendations would be much appreciated.
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Nov 27, 2010 11:04
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Seconding Amazon Prime. On the bad side, I've probably bought more poo poo than I should've this year, but on the good side, I haven't paid a dime in shipping! Wireless Routers: http://homestore.cisco.com/en-us/outlet/Router/linksys-WRT54GL-RM_stcVVproductId118092828VVcatId543809VVviewprod.htm You can argue with me, but I'll be hosed if, for the fourth time in 5 years, I haven't thrown away my "brand new high tech" router and just plugged this fucker right back in. It's a god drat workhouse; cheap as poo poo and never ever fails. Water Filters gently caress that Brita poo poo. Inline is where it's at: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000E77I0Y/ref=oss_product 25,000 gallons of water filtered for $30. You do the math. Plus you don't have an ugly water thing mounted to your faucet, getting in the way. Granted, I only use mine for my fridge water/ice maker, but it's fast enough you could just put it right in line to your sink if you wanted.
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Nov 27, 2010 11:24
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