Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (2024)

Table of Contents
1. A microwave rice cooker that'll make perfectly steamed results every time, without the mess or hassle of using a pot or traditional rice cooker. Plus, you can pop the whole thing in the dishwasher! 2. Clip-on stands to keep your bags upright while pouring in leftovers for storage; you won't waste another morsel. 3. A stainless-steel bar that'll actually rid your hands of foul odors (even fish, garlic, and onions!). Just rub — with or *without* water — and the stink is gone. 4. A compact, fold-down bread slicer so you can cut even pieces of delicious loaves, whether you're picking them up at your favorite local bakery or joining the from-scratch sourdough bandwagon. 5. A stainless-steel electric corkscrew that'll open a bottle in seconds, seriously reducing the amount of time you have to wait before having a glass of wine. 6. An air fryer (from the makers of the INSTANT POT!!) so you can crisp up leftovers, make homemade versions of your favorite fried foods (without having to deal with hot oil), and more. 7. An omelet maker that'll deliver a delicious and healthy breakfast from the microwave to your plate in just minutes — and will taste like it was made on the stove! 8. A machine-washable countertop drip catcher if you're tired of cleaning that splash zone behind your sink after ricocheting water off every! single! spoon! you wash. 9. Rubbermaid FreshWorks storage containers with venting technology to keep produce fresh for up to 80% longer. 10. An easy-breezy pineapple corer perfect 🎶 if you like piña coladas 🎶... but not spending a fortune on pre-cut pineapple. This thing is so easy to use, it's like a tropical vacation in your kitchen. 11. A Hello Fresh subscription for what's basically a daily cooking class you can do at home. Sign up for a plan that fits your diet (including vegetarian and family plans), and you'll get allllllll the ingredients you need to prep each meal! WHILE learning how to cook! 12. A silicone tube designed to easily peel garlic. Just pop the clove in the tube and roll it back and forth against the table or counter. 13. A pair of claw shredders you'll want to get your ~paws~ on ASAP for all of your meat carving and pulling needs. 14. A cast-iron skillet that'll get job after job after job done — steaks! skillet cookies! at-home pizzas! Keep this bb seasoned (and don't let it rust!) and you won't have to ever replace it. 15. A nonstick ceramic Always Pan (this one's PFOA-free), because that dinner you spent valuable time on shouldn't be burnt on! This one's designed to do the work of EIGHT pieces of regular old cookware, and comes with a lockable lid, steamer basket, pouring spout, and a nesting spatula with a built-in rest. 16. Cheese storage paper for keeping your cheddar sharp, your Parmesan poppin', and your Brie better than ever for way, way longer. 17. A lemon-lavender soy candle made of soy wax (it burns slower than paraffin!) for a long-lasting fresh scent that'll fill your kitchen — but not overpower — if cooking or trash can smells get to be too much. 18. An adjustable rolling pin with removable rings to let you roll out cookie dough or pie crust to an exact thickness in no time flat. AND it has measurements printed on the length of the pin for easy pie crust rolling (and comes with a pastry mat with measurements printed on it too). 19. A microwave popper so you can buy your kernels in bulk (no dumb little bags!) and top your popcorn with WHATEVER you choose — no oil required, if you don't want to add it! 20. Antimicrobial silicone sponges that'll never get stinky — they're almost 100% resistant to mold and mildew, more durable than regular sponges, and won't scratch your pots and pans! Aka you won't be tossing a whole new sponge every other day. 21. Or a completely reusable sponge (run it through the washing machine or dishwasher for cleaning) made from terry cloth on one side, cotton flannel on the other, and polyester mesh for a super effective clean that's also better for the earth. 22. A perforated crisping pan, because you deserve reheated, frozen, and homemade pizza with an actually CRUNCHY (never soggy) crust. And it works on anything that needs to be crisped up in the oven! 23. The Levo II, an herb-infusing machine that lets you whip up your own herbal butters and oils (and you can even use it to make scented candle!!) with ease. Helloooooo bread slathered in rosemary butter, fancy schmancy salad dressings with basil oil, and more. 24. An ice tray with a spill-proof silicone lid so you can store the tray in the freezer sideways or at an angle. 25. A quad of silicone cups that'll ensure perfectly poached eggs with no hassle and no need for swirling water or vinegar. 26. Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. 27. A handheld electric milk frother so you don't *have* to leave your home to enjoy a fabulous cafe-quality latte or cappuccino. It even works on iced bevvies — hello dalgona coffee! 28. A vacuum-sealing wine saver to remove air and keep your wine fresh for up to a week — great for people who drink one glass a day or use wine for cooking! 29. A sink cleaner and polish formulated to use on stainless-steel AND porcelain sinks (plus cast-iron, Corian, acrylic, and more) to restore that just-like-new shine *and* protect against further damage. 30. A salad spinner to keep your greens washed and fresh for crisp salads whenever you want. You'll never be surprised looking into a sad bowl of wilted and spoiled greens. "But....I *just* bought these!!" 31. A trio of cinching closures (kind of like the ones you use on drawstring bags) you can use on loaves of bread or any other bagged food. No more stale bread?! Dreams really DO come true. 32. A roll of ~bamboo~ paper towels you can toss in the washing machine and reuse over *120 times*. They're super-absorbent and durable, but are soft enough to use on your skin, too. You can even use them on your Swiffer! 33. A quick and easy breakfast sandwich maker so you can enjoy a hot and satisfying brekkie without having to go out — or shelling out those extra bucks. 34. A rapid egg cooker you're sure to think is ~eggsquisite~; it can make hard-, medium-, or soft-boiled eggs, *plus* poached or scrambled eggs and omelets. 35. A knife sharpener with two grooves (one for coarse sharpening and one for quick touch-ups) to make your year-old knives slice like brand-new. 36. And for the kids in your family who are learning kitchen skills, a safer wooden knife designed for children so they can help you cook and learn a thing or two *while* preventing any ouchies. 37. A dishwasher cleaner and disinfectant that'll remove limescale, rust, grease, and other nasty buildup so your machine runs more efficiently than ever (aka you do *not* have to replace your whole unit if your dishes just aren't getting as clean as they used to) — while you just sit back and relax. 38. An avocado tool to add some of that green goodness to every meal and help you eat guacamole guaca-more. 39. And a ~guac lock~ container that'll press alllllllll the air out so your precious dip won't turn brown or get mushy. Leftover guac? Miracles DO happen. And if you're still not sure, just listen to Han here: Looking for the perfect gift for any occasion? Check out all of BuzzFeed’s gift guides! FAQs

    We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and itspublishingpartners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

    Things that are *actually* worth making room for on your countertop or in your drawers.

    by Maitland QuitmeyerBuzzFeed Staff

    1. A microwave rice cooker that'll make perfectly steamed results every time, without the mess or hassle of using a pot or traditional rice cooker. Plus, you can pop the whole thing in the dishwasher!

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (2)

    Amazon

    It comes with a measuring cup, colander (for the all-important rice rinse) and a rice paddle for easy serving, too!

    Promising review: "Saw this microwave rice cooker on tv, decided to give it a try because my rice never comes out right. Used it the first time with packaged spanish rice with the seasoning....after putting it in, I kinda freaked out because I was afraid the yellow saffron would stain the cooker.....SURPRISE, no stain AND perfect rice! I have used it at least once a week, perfect rice everytime and truly easy clean up. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE JOSEPH JOSEPH MICROWAVE RICE COOKER. If I could give it a million stars, I would!" —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $24.24.

    2. Clip-on stands to keep your bags upright while pouring in leftovers for storage; you won't waste another morsel.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (3)

    Amazon

    They're *also* great for air drying bags you've washed out to reuse.

    Promising review: "I used three of these to help me make freezer meals for after I have a baby. I can honestly say I don't know how I would have filled the freezer bags without these ingenious baggy holders. I was able to dump veggies, spices, meat, and cans of heavy beans and tomatoes into the bags, and they stood up the entire time without sliding or spilling. One of the bags I stuffed literally to the brim, as full as it could go, and the bag did not fall down. I would definitely recommend these." —Grace S.

    Get a pack of two from Amazon for $11.35+ (available in packs of two, three, four, and six).

    3. A stainless-steel bar that'll actually rid your hands of foul odors (even fish, garlic, and onions!). Just rub — with or *without* water — and the stink is gone.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (4)

    Amazon

    Promising review: "For years we have been just using large metal spoons or the sides of our metal sink to remove various odors from our hands (i.e. after chopping garlic or onions). Finally, I said to myself, 'Self, we need to move into the 21st century and get a metal bar'....and Ta-Daaaaah! I am really glad that we bought this because it looks really nice and it works so much better than a spoon or sink. For anyone that doesn't believe that this type of thing works, go ahead and chop 10 cloves of garlic and then rub your hands on this bar under cold running water. The results will speak for themselves. I would highly recommend this to anyone." —Sergio DaSilveira

    Get it from Amazon for $6.99 (also available in a mini size and in the shape of garlic).

    4. A compact, fold-down bread slicer so you can cut even pieces of delicious loaves, whether you're picking them up at your favorite local bakery or joining the from-scratch sourdough bandwagon.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (5)

    Sierra Base

    It folds down flat to just an inch and a half.

    Get it from Sierra Base on Etsy for $55.95 (also available in a set with knives and/or bread storage bags).

    Sierra Base is an Oregon-based Etsy Shop — all of their products are made in the U.S.

    5. A stainless-steel electric corkscrew that'll open a bottle in seconds, seriously reducing the amount of time you have to wait before having a glass of wine.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (6)

    Amazon

    It comes with a cool charging stand that glows blue, and the opener can open up to 30 bottles on a single charge.

    Promising review: "I had one of the earliest electric wine openers, but it finally gave up the ghost. Boy, am I glad now! This new one is fantastic! It's really easy to use, takes no effort — you don't have to hang onto the bottle so it doesn't spin, like my old one — and it looks attractive on the counter." —Mary

    Get it from Amazon for $20.97.

    6. An air fryer (from the makers of the INSTANT POT!!) so you can crisp up leftovers, make homemade versions of your favorite fried foods (without having to deal with hot oil), and more.

    Hannah Loewentheil / BuzzFeed

    Here's what BuzzFeed Food writer Hannah Loewentheil has to say about it: "I'd been contemplating buying an air fryer for quite some time, but it wasn't until I found myself cooking every night with my family due to COVID-19 that I finally decided it was the right time to get one. Friends of mine were raving about their new Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer, so after reading similar feedback on Amazon, I decided it looked like a winner. And it happens to be made by the same company that makes the crowd-favorite Instant Pot. I figured I would be using this appliance primarily as air air fryer, but as an added bonus, it can also roast, broil, bake, re-heat, and dehydrate food.

    I've had this air fryer for about three weeks now, and I can honestly say it's become the hero of my kitchen. It preheats quickly, it's large enough to a good amount of food at once, it's easy to clean, and it makes food taste crispy on the outside and moist on the inside without any oil. I've been using my air fryer to make vegetables just about every night and it makes them taste so good. If you're cooking for kids, picky eaters, or you just don't get so excited about eating vegetables, the air fryer could be perfect for you. If you like chicken, the air fryer might change your life, and I don't mean that to be dramatic. The air fryer produces restaurant-quality chicken that tastes absurdly decadent, except there's no oil involved in the cooking — just air. We also tried making sesame chicken in the air fryer using boneless skinless chicken thighs. The sesame chicken tasted almost identical to my favorite Chinese takeout, and it had nothing to do with my cooking skills. Thanks to the air fryer, the chicken gets so crispy. I couldn't believe I made this at home!!"

    Get it from Amazon for $129.

    Check out the full review, plus some air fryer recipe suggestions for more!

    7. An omelet maker that'll deliver a delicious and healthy breakfast from the microwave to your plate in just minutes — and will taste like it was made on the stove!

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (7)

    Amazon

    Promising review: "This brings omelets to my weekday breakfast. I've been trying to eat a low-carb diet, and the idea of eggs for breakfast appeals to me. But, I am *so* NOT a morning person; and getting up early to stir a low-n-slow scramble just does not work for me. I've tried microwaving eggs in custard cups but they always turned out either soupy and underdone or firm but dry and rubbery. But this makes them Just Right, every time, in two minutes flat. That's less time than it takes me to brew my coffee. Two or three eggs, some herbs, a few chopped veggies, and perhaps a sprinkle of cheese makes for a quick, easy, and tasty breakfast." —Vanilla Chameleon

    Get it from Amazon for $14.10.

    8. A machine-washable countertop drip catcher if you're tired of cleaning that splash zone behind your sink after ricocheting water off every! single! spoon! you wash.

    TwoLilacsStudio/Etsy

    Promising review: "LOVE these splash catchers! They save me from having to chase the puddles that form around the base of our faucet before they start creeping over the counter. So reasonably priced, made well with neatly finished edges, and packaged with gift-ready care." —Alina

    Get it from Two Lilacs Studio on Etsy for $12+ (available in four sizes and 10 colors).

    Two Lilacs Studio is a small Etsy shop based in Saint Helens, Oregon.

    9. Rubbermaid FreshWorks storage containers with venting technology to keep produce fresh for up to 80% longer.

    Natalie Brown / BuzzFeed, Amazon

    The vents regulate the flow of oxygen and carbon dioxide and keeps moisture away so your strawberries taste freshly-picked days and days and days later. I recently got a couple of these and a bunch of basil and strawberries stayed fresh for SO LONG!!

    Promising review: "I read the reviews and thought I’d give these a try since they here easily half the price of the other ones I looked at that had to have the charcoal filters replaced periodically. These need no filter changes and oh-my-gosh, they work! I went on a 10-day trip to visit my mom and left my husband home with asparagus, strawberries, and spinach in the containers. He ate some of all of them, but there was plenty left when I got back and they were in perfect condition! I couldn’t believe it! These will save us a lot of money not throwing away food because we couldn’t get through it fast enough. (We shop at Costco and get large containers of produce.) These are TOTALLY worth getting and I will be getting a few more sizes. Excellent product!!!" —Elizabeth Walter

    Get them from Amazon for $14.52+ each (available in four sizes and in sets of multiples).

    Check out our full review of these game-changing containers!

    10. An easy-breezy pineapple corer perfect 🎶 if you like piña coladas 🎶... but not spending a fortune on pre-cut pineapple. This thing is so easy to use, it's like a tropical vacation in your kitchen.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (8)

    amazon.com

    Cut off the top of your pineapple, twist the corer into the fruit (kind of like a wine bottle corkscrew), then pull it out. You now have a cored and spiral-cut pineapple in minutes!

    Promising review: "OMG! Why did I take so long to get one of these? I would typically spend two or three minutes slicing up a pineapple and I LOVE pineapple so its pretty common for me. Now, I can do it in 30 seconds, and that was the first time not knowing what I was doing or what to expect. I suspect I'll have this down to 10 seconds on the next go round. Love IT! Oh, BTW, it is sturdy and seems like it should last a while." —riverseine

    Get it from Amazon for $11.98.

    11. A Hello Fresh subscription for what's basically a daily cooking class you can do at home. Sign up for a plan that fits your diet (including vegetarian and family plans), and you'll get allllllll the ingredients you need to prep each meal! WHILE learning how to cook!

    Hello Fresh

    I do Hello Fresh on and off, especially when work gets really busy. It added meals and techniques (like TEMPURA SHRIMP) to my repertoire, and I'm 10000% a better cook for having tried it.

    Meals start at $7.87 per serving — skip any weeks you like!

    Be sure to check out my review of Hello Fresh for more deets on how it makes cooking easy — and teaches you new skills along the way!

    12. A silicone tube designed to easily peel garlic. Just pop the clove in the tube and roll it back and forth against the table or counter.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (9)

    Amazon

    Promising review: "It really works! My least favorite part about cooking is peeling all the little garlic cloves. This thing peels them in a snap! I don't have to smash each clove and pick the pieces of skin apart from the pieces of crushed garlic. The skin just slides right off! 10/10 would recommend." —Ruth Dickhoff

    Get it from Amazon for $4.99.

    13. A pair of claw shredders you'll want to get your ~paws~ on ASAP for all of your meat carving and pulling needs.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (10)

    Amazon

    Promising review: "These claws are just what you need for shredding pork, chicken, beef or any other items. The points are sharp, narrow, and long and work well as a pair. It's much more efficient and quicker than using two forks. I thought I might have been a little extravagant in ordering this but now I realize it is very useful beyond shredding — e. g., holding a watermelon with one hand/claw as you cut with the other hand." —J. Renfrow

    Get them from Amazon for $12.95+ (available in four colors).

    14. A cast-iron skillet that'll get job after job after job done — steaks! skillet cookies! at-home pizzas! Keep this bb seasoned (and don't let it rust!) and you won't have to ever replace it.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (11)

    Amazon

    It's preseasoned, has excellent heat retention, and has a helper handle built in for easy carrying. Just remember that it gets (and stays) hot hot HOT when it comes out of the oven. Btw, this is our mid-price pick for best cast-iron skillet!

    Promising review: "I own just about every make of cast iron out there and this is the BEST piece I have ever used. Pretty well seasoned from the factory , nice smooth cooking surface . I love the longer curved handle and oversized pour spouts ( they actually pour the liquid not spill it out of the pan). This has quickly become my favorite piece of cast iron and will be buying more." —Will

    Get a 12-inch skillet from Amazon for $19.99 (available in five sizes).

    15. A nonstick ceramic Always Pan (this one's PFOA-free), because that dinner you spent valuable time on shouldn't be burnt on! This one's designed to do the work of EIGHT pieces of regular old cookware, and comes with a lockable lid, steamer basket, pouring spout, and a nesting spatula with a built-in rest.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (12)

    instagram.com

    I *love* love love this pan and use it almost every time I cook — eggs and pancakes flip easily and never stick and no matter what I've done to it, the pan ALWAYS wipes clean without any scrubbing effort.

    Get it from Our Place for $145 (available in six colors)

    Promising review: "My always pan is going to be my new favorite cooking ware. Super versatile and absolutely beautiful. Love the functionality that it possesses and the versatility range, someone really thought about all the best way to cook with this! Safe, easy to clean, and beautiful to look at! Makes you want to cook more delicious meals all day long! Shipping took a while because I preordered, but I was happy to wait!" —Celyn V.

    Our Place is a POC-owned business based in Los Angeles. All of their boxes are packaged with biodegradable and recyclable materials, and the Always Pan is made in a female-owned factory in China.

    Check out our Always Pan review (number 4 in the post) from one of my BuzzFeed colleagues to learn more!

    16. Cheese storage paper for keeping your cheddar sharp, your Parmesan poppin', and your Brie better than ever for way, way longer.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (13)

    Amazon

    The paper breathes just the right amount, maintaining the perfect humidity and mimicking the environment that cheese is aged in.

    Promising review: "Before I bought this cheese paper I would do the cheese search in the refrigerator. After buying cheeses, opening them, and then rewrapping them in heaven knows what (namely plastic wrap, aluminum foil, and plastic containers), it was always the same result: moldy cheese. This box contains the paper in sheets plus some stickers that you can write on with the name of the cheese and the date it was wrapped or even sell by date. There are also pictures of a sheep, cow, and goat so the source can be identified by circling or checking one of them! What I also like is that the cheeses can be rewrapped after use and amazingly the stickers still stick! The paper can also be cut to size to wrap smaller cheeses. So far I have noted that the cheeses have stayed fresh with not a trace of mold. I highly recommend this product to all cheese lovers!" —Prairie Woman

    Get a package of 15 11x14-inch sheets of cheese paper from Amazon for $14 (also available in larger packs).

    17. A lemon-lavender soy candle made of soy wax (it burns slower than paraffin!) for a long-lasting fresh scent that'll fill your kitchen — but not overpower — if cooking or trash can smells get to be too much.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (14)

    instagram.com

    Promising review: "I love this lemon lavender candle — great for the kitchen. The scent is very refreshing to me — not in any way overpowering." —KWL

    Get it from Pretty Honest for $24.

    Pretty Honest is a Black-owned business that makes pretty, deliciously scented, biogradeable soy wax candles. And they're just so pretty — check out the summer pastel collection!

    18. An adjustable rolling pin with removable rings to let you roll out cookie dough or pie crust to an exact thickness in no time flat. AND it has measurements printed on the length of the pin for easy pie crust rolling (and comes with a pastry mat with measurements printed on it too).

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (15)

    amazon.com

    It comes with 1/16-, 1/8-, 1/4- and 3/8-inch discs!

    Promising review: "My old wooden rolling pin had painted handles and the paint was flaking off so I needed a new pin. I really liked what I learned about these metal ones that you can control the height with the little sliding rings. The included silicone mat is great for rolling my gluten-free dough on and has the circles for pies too. Bonus that it has measurements for conversion on there as well so I don't have to think about ratios. The sliding rings are a variety of sizes and help keep the thickness of the dough consistent during the rolling process so I don't have to guess whether it's the same anymore." —Sunshiine Mel

    Get it from Amazon for $16.99.

    19. A microwave popper so you can buy your kernels in bulk (no dumb little bags!) and top your popcorn with WHATEVER you choose — no oil required, if you don't want to add it!

    amazon.com

    Promising review: "This is a great little invention. Easy to clean and store, and it pops the popcorn perfectly every single time. Save yourself a ton of money, and just buy this and pick up some unpopped kernels from the grocery store. I bought a small organic bag for $3 and got about 15-20 bowls out of it. Now I can finally have some decent microwave popcorn without having to deal with the trans fats or palm oil that all of the major brands seem to use in their products nowadays." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (available in ten colors).

    20. Antimicrobial silicone sponges that'll never get stinky — they're almost 100% resistant to mold and mildew, more durable than regular sponges, and won't scratch your pots and pans! Aka you won't be tossing a whole new sponge every other day.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (16)

    Amazon

    They *guarantee* that each scrubber sponge will stay odor-free for at least three months.

    Promising review: "My girlfriend has a keen nose for mildew, which meant we were throwing out kitchen sponges well before they were worn out. I came across these and was very happy with the first ones we tried. Absolutely no odor, even after several weeks worth of usage. The scrubber will break down long before it starts to smell. A definite winner in my book!" —Amazon Customer

    Get a pack of three from Amazon for $9.95.

    Also available in a version designed to clean your stovetop!

    21. Or a completely reusable sponge (run it through the washing machine or dishwasher for cleaning) made from terry cloth on one side, cotton flannel on the other, and polyester mesh for a super effective clean that's also better for the earth.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (17)

    Marley's Monsters / Etsy

    The prints are also just super cute!

    Promising review: "I’ve been searching for a dish sponge alternative for a long time. I bought one of these to try it out. I loved it so much I bought three more!! Excellent quality, flexible, soft but scrubs well with the mesh, keeps a good lather... all in all even better than a regular dish sponge! I’m thrilled! No more plastic trash dish sponges for me!! Thank you!! 💙🌎💚" —Jessica Hames

    Get it from Marley's Monsters on Etsy for $12 (also available in a three-pack for $28; available in four colors).

    Marley's Monsters is a woman-owned shop based in Oregon (and home to the ~original~ Un-Paper Towel) making eco-friendly essentials for everyday use.

    22. A perforated crisping pan, because you deserve reheated, frozen, and homemade pizza with an actually CRUNCHY (never soggy) crust. And it works on anything that needs to be crisped up in the oven!

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (18)

    Amazon

    Promising review: "This saves the pizza crust from getting burned and delivers a better texture to the crust. It allows the heat to fully penetrate the underside of the pizza and make it a delectable, mouth-watering experience!!!! Restaurant quality!!!!" —Lee

    Get it from Amazon for $19.93.

    23. The Levo II, an herb-infusing machine that lets you whip up your own herbal butters and oils (and you can even use it to make scented candle!!) with ease. Helloooooo bread slathered in rosemary butter, fancy schmancy salad dressings with basil oil, and more.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (19)

    Levo

    Just put your herbs in the designated pod, pour in your oil or butter, set a time and temperature on the digital screen, and watch the ✨magic ✨ happen. You can infuse up to 19 ounces of oil at a time, stored in the ceramic reservoir. Reviewers say it's mess-free and effortless, thanks to the Levo app!

    Promising review: "This has been the best purchase we have ever made. The design is super slick, beyond easy to use and clean. It will definitely get its use!" —Shelbi

    Get it from Levo for $299.99.

    24. An ice tray with a spill-proof silicone lid so you can store the tray in the freezer sideways or at an angle.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (20)

    Amazon

    AND it'll keep your cubes from getting that funky freezer smell.

    Promising review: "I love these ice trays. I needed something that my husband could freeze and use daily in his lunch chest. He goes through eight trays a day. They stack nicely. We run them under warm water to release the lid, refill with water and cover. We have 22 of them in our freezer. So we always have plenty of ice on hand without the smell. I've had no problems with leakage." —S. Raney

    Get a set of two from Amazon for $17.99 (also available in a four-pack).

    25. A quad of silicone cups that'll ensure perfectly poached eggs with no hassle and no need for swirling water or vinegar.

    amazon.com, amazon.com

    Promising review: "These are just the coolest things ever! I have tried several times in he past to make poached eggs, and never could get the hang of it. Earlier this year, I stayed in a hotel that had a beautiful tray of poached eggs on their buffet table every morning, and hey were so good. Now I can make beautiful poached eggs at home with these poacher cups...and it's fun and never makes a mess. The pot doesn't even get dirty because the cups float! Such a great idea, and definitely worth the price!" –Katie W.

    Get a set of four from Amazon for $10.95.

    26. Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (21)

    Amazon

    They can keep produce fresher for two to three times longer. Each packet inside the Bluapple lasts three months, and you can order replacement packets as needed.

    Promising review: "Lettuce was going bad in my refrigerator produce bin while lettuce in my outdoor compost bin seemed to stay green much longer. Then I bought these, and now my lettuce stays fresh for a very long time. This product pays for itself many times over." —Amazon Customer

    Get a pack of two from Amazon for $13.99.

    27. A handheld electric milk frother so you don't *have* to leave your home to enjoy a fabulous cafe-quality latte or cappuccino. It even works on iced bevvies — hello dalgona coffee!

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (22)

    amazon.com

    It's battery operated — just run it in some soapy water for an easy cleaning.

    Promising review: "Love this little thing! I have every thing you can think of at home for making coffee and espresso... Well I love the Starbucks pumpkin cream cold brew with foam. I set out to make my own. Well I can now make cold foam thanks to this little tool. Love it!" —Gav's mama

    Get it from Amazon for $11.99 (available in four colors).

    28. A vacuum-sealing wine saver to remove air and keep your wine fresh for up to a week — great for people who drink one glass a day or use wine for cooking!

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (23)

    Amazon

    Put the stopper in your open bottle, attach the vacuum sealer, and pump out the air. When you hear the patented click, that means it's sealed! The vacuum seal prevents oxidization (because there's no air next to the wine), preserving the taste.

    Promising review: "This product keeps your red wine good for about a week and is also nice to use on white wine to ensure freshness. I'm so happy I bought it! I like to have a glass of wine or two in the evenings, but I rarely finish a bottle of red within the time it takes the wine to go bad (which I find is 3-4 days). With this, my red wine lasts about a week and a half!" —LindsayRoseEliz.

    Get a wine saver with two stoppers from Amazon for $14.99 (also available in larger sets with more stoppers and different designs).

    29. A sink cleaner and polish formulated to use on stainless-steel AND porcelain sinks (plus cast-iron, Corian, acrylic, and more) to restore that just-like-new shine *and* protect against further damage.

    amazon.com

    I bought this recently for my white porcelain kitchen sink and I've since texted five people about it, which is really a lot for such a boring grown-up product. It cleans beautifully, but the *best* is its ability to repel stains after cleaning. You know that thing when you rinse out your coffee cup and the coffee water just lingers in your sink and you have to purposefully rinse it out for two minutes? You don't have to do that — the coffee can't stick to the sink and just goes RIGHT down the drain. Time saved, sink clean — this is really a Virgo dream product right here.

    Promising review: "This amazing product saved us $1,000. This product is amazing!. We have a kitchen sink that was so stained and scratched that we were shopping around for a new one. My wife stumbled on this product and we decided to give it a try. I used my drill with a soft buffing attachment, and after about 30 minutes, the sink was like brand new!! Highly recommend this product." —Joseph Rodriguez

    Get it from Amazon for $5.44 (also available in larger packs).

    30. A salad spinner to keep your greens washed and fresh for crisp salads whenever you want. You'll never be surprised looking into a sad bowl of wilted and spoiled greens. "But....I *just* bought these!!"

    Amazon

    This one has a smart, wobble-free design, and the corners make it easy to pour the excess water out neatly!

    Promising review: "I eat a huge amount of greens everyday. I like to wash them and then dry them thoroughly before I store them. This spinner really dries the vegetables and then you don't get those nasty wilting bits in the containers of baby greens from the market after a day or two. Well worth the money and looks like it will last a very long time." —JPC10

    Get it from Amazon for $29.47.

    31. A trio of cinching closures (kind of like the ones you use on drawstring bags) you can use on loaves of bread or any other bagged food. No more stale bread?! Dreams really DO come true.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (24)

    Amazon

    These are way easier to keep track of (and seal WAY better) than those stupid plastic dongles that come on bread and English muffins.

    Promising review: "These little plastic doodads may have saved my marriage! My husband and I had a longstanding competition to see who had the best method of closing bread and roll bags, since I absolutely hated dealing with metal twist ties or plastic clips. I would throw them away once I opened the wrapper and fold over the top, but he was sure this was going to make things go stale. I wasn't quite sure what to think of these little beauties when I saw them, as I am wary of bag clips that really don't stay put or keep things fresh. You simply push the spring loaded end, opening the little divot, and pop it over the end of any bag that would use a twist tie. It is so much quicker, easier, less frustrating (and, frankly much cuter, too) and they have made my kitchen a happier place." —L. J. Schrader

    Get a set of three from Amazon for $5.99.

    32. A roll of ~bamboo~ paper towels you can toss in the washing machine and reuse over *120 times*. They're super-absorbent and durable, but are soft enough to use on your skin, too. You can even use them on your Swiffer!

    Amazon

    One roll of these will tackle a number of messes equivalent to 60 ROLLS of conventional paper towels.

    Promising review: "I've had these bamboo towels for a month now and am incredibly impressed with their performance! They're much larger than a regular paper towel, thicker, softer and more absorbent. I've washed the first ones I've torn off the roll several times now and they DO survive the laundry and perform just as well afterward. I've only used five bamboo towels this month, washed them and re-used. Several times. I would have been through a whole roll of Brawny by now. One caveat...when you wash them, you're supposed to air dry them, so I haven't sent any through the dryer. And I haven't needed to, because allowing them to air dry has not affected the quality of the towels when I 're-roll' them!" —A. Clark

    Get a roll from Amazon for $8.99 (also available in packs of two and four).

    33. A quick and easy breakfast sandwich maker so you can enjoy a hot and satisfying brekkie without having to go out — or shelling out those extra bucks.

    AMmazon, amazon.com

    It'll cook eggs, veggies, meats, and toast up English muffins, biscuits, and even small bagels. It comes with a recipe book with ideas, and you can TOSS THE REMOVABLE PARTS IN THE DISHWASHER! Breakfast is ready in five!

    Promising review: "The best small appliance I have ever bought! My husband buys the microwaveable egg sandwiches that are frozen and they are pretty expensive, especially when you buy enough for the month. He just grabs one and goes to work. So not only did this little gadget work as well as it said, it will save us money in the long run. The food is better since it's fresher, and I just couldn't believe it took five minutes. The sandwich was done and without all that messy frying and smelling up the house. Now, this is so easy, even my husband can do it without me if he had to. I want to buy one for my kids, the one at college and the newly wed. Also, the one here on Amazon was cheaper than the one I saw at the store and I had it in two days." —Mistie Morgan

    Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in three colors, plus a double sandwich maker).

    34. A rapid egg cooker you're sure to think is ~eggsquisite~; it can make hard-, medium-, or soft-boiled eggs, *plus* poached or scrambled eggs and omelets.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (25)

    Amazon

    Just fill it with water (according to your chosen level of egg doneness), add up to six eggs, and turn on. When the eggs are done, it'll automatically shut off! Yes, you can take a nap while waiting for your eggs to boil — and not worry about leaving them on too long. The removable parts are also dishwasher-safe, so get ready for this to be your new lazy best friend. You can also make poached eggs, scrambled eggs, and omelettes in this game-changing product.

    Promising review: "If hard-boiled eggs are at all a part of your life, this device will change everything. Reclaim lost hours, catch up on missed TV, reconnect with old friends and family -—anything is possible with the free time you'll find at your disposal as you drop six eggs into this beast, press a button, and then walk away. What will you do? High-intensity exercise? Model building? Learn a second language? I hear your concern. 'What if I become so engrossed in my newfound love of taxonomy that I forget about my eggs?' Fear not, efficient chef. Like the trumpet of Gabriel himself, the unmistakable tone of this technological marvel could rouse the dead and will bring you running to your fresh-and-ready ova's side. The Dash Go Rapid Egg Cooker is what mankind has been working towards since the first roundish stone was shaped into a wheel. Witness the apex of human innovation!" —J. Mercer Crenshaw

    Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in five colors).

    35. A knife sharpener with two grooves (one for coarse sharpening and one for quick touch-ups) to make your year-old knives slice like brand-new.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (26)

    Amazon

    Promising review: "I have had my set of knives for over 10 years. I was looking to replace them when someone recommended trying to sharpen them. I hated sharpening the knives with the sharpener they came with. I wanted something easy. This was it! I sharpened all my knives with it and they are like they were when I first purchased them. This knife sharpener made it quick and easy. It saved me a lot of money from purchasing a new set. If your knives are dull, give this a try. You can't beat it for the price!" —M. Bell

    Get it from Amazon for $10.83 (available in three colors).

    Learn more about this handy sharpener in our editor's in-depth review, and check out our picks for the best chef's knife.

    36. And for the kids in your family who are learning kitchen skills, a safer wooden knife designed for children so they can help you cook and learn a thing or two *while* preventing any ouchies.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (27)

    JUstenbois / Etsy

    Promising review: "My 4-year-old grandson cooks with me but moves too fast for a real knife. He made an entire salad with this brilliant, beautifully made knife. Fit his hands and he was a whiz right away using it because of the smart design. Every child should have one. Shipping was fast. Packaging was great." —graceannemchugh

    Get it from JUstenbois on Etsy for $17.22.

    JUstenbois is a Canadian (zero-waste!) shop handmaking tableware from maple wood.

    37. A dishwasher cleaner and disinfectant that'll remove limescale, rust, grease, and other nasty buildup so your machine runs more efficiently than ever (aka you do *not* have to replace your whole unit if your dishes just aren't getting as clean as they used to) — while you just sit back and relax.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (28)

    Amazon

    Promising review: "After using this product, I am happy to report that my $5 investment saved me over $500. I was ready to replace my dishwasher, due to super cloudy glasses, residue, and just not getting clean. Then, I became aware that the water softener no longer was doing it's job, so I had the rental company replace it. Dishwasher performance improved somewhat. I decided to do two more loads before deciding to purchase a new one. Then I saw a product test review for Affresh in good housekeeping magazine. I was ordering some stuff from Amazon anyway, so I added that to my order. When it came, I tossed one of the tablets into the bottom of the full machine, per instructions, and ran the regular cycle. I did not expect the results I got! My glassware that I thought was permanently etched and ruined came out like new. Same with cutlery. The difference is unbelievable. I will use this faithfully on a monthly basis, as recommended. I can even put it on my subscribe and save order, so I will get a new pack every 6 months. I am amazed!" —Sheila

    Get a pack of six tablets from Amazon for $5.99.

    38. An avocado tool to add some of that green goodness to every meal and help you eat guacamole guaca-more.

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (29)

    AMazon

    It'll slice open the fruit, painlessly (aka no knife needed) pop out the pit, and create perfectly Instagrammable slices.

    Promising review: "Avocado? Yes, Please! This tool is awesome. Easy to cut open the fruit. Pit remover works well, just push onto the pit and give it a twist, and the pit pops right out. The best part is the slicer. Makes beautiful slices for a great presentation. The tool can then be used to scrape any remaining fruit out of the skin. Really happy I bought this!" —NPR Man

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99.

    39. And a ~guac lock~ container that'll press alllllllll the air out so your precious dip won't turn brown or get mushy. Leftover guac? Miracles DO happen.

    Amazon, amazon.com

    Promising review: "Fairly certain I've never left a review for ANYTHING on Amazon but everyone needs to know how amazing this product is! I finally purchased it after the price inflated up to almost $70 and came back down to $30! WORTH. EVERY. PENNY. I'm a self proclaimed guac enthusiast and the guac in my photo is a WEEK OLD. I put this bowl to the test when I first got it and it gets an A+++ ! The guac is not only fresh in color but still has great taste after a whole week! Getcha one guac lovers!" —angel brooke raines

    Get it from Amazon for $18.85.

    And if you're still not sure, just listen to Han here:

    LucasFilms Ltd

    Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

    Looking for the perfect gift for any occasion? Check out all of BuzzFeed’s gift guides!

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (30)

    BuzzFeed

    Ethylene gas-absorbing apples for anyone tired of fresh produce spoiling before they can use it — the company claims these'll save the average household up to $600 per year. (2024)

    FAQs

    How much ethylene do apples produce? ›

    according to these data one bushel of apples produces approximately 1-4 ml. of ethylene per day,depending upon the variety and length of time in storage. CARBON DIOXIDE AND ETHYLENE PRODUCTION IN APPLES AT 00 AND 200 C.

    What does ethylene gas do to fruits and vegetables? ›

    Ethylene is a gas released by some fruits and vegetables that causes produce to ripen faster.

    What can I use to absorb ethylene gas? ›

    Packaging with an ethylene scavenger involves the inclusion of a small sachet which contains an appropriate scavenger in the package such as potassium permanganate (KMnO4), zeolite, active carbon, pumice, etc. to remove ethylene.

    Which fruits emit ethylene gas and why is this a consideration when storing fruits? ›

    A key ingredient is ethylene, an odorless, colorless gas generated naturally to ripen not only bananas, but also the likes of apples, avocados, cantaloupe, pears, stone fruit, and tomatoes. Ethylene's impact is so profound that one must be careful when storing fruits and vegetables in coolers.

    Which fruit has the most ethylene gas? ›

    • Fruits that produce the most ethylene are Apple, orange, Banana, Peppers, and Tomatoes.
    • H.H. Cousins (1910) confirmed the release of a volatile substance called ethylene from ripened oranges that hastened the ripening of stored unripe bananas.
    • Ethylene is a simple gaseous plant growth hormone.

    What effect does ethylene have on apples? ›

    Some apple varieties such as McIntosh, produce prodigious amounts of ethylene and are difficult to store once this occurs. When harvested after the rapid rise in ethylene, they quickly soften and senesce in storage. Other varieties have a slower rise in ethylene and slower ripening rate.

    Do lemons give off ethylene gas? ›

    Note that not all fruits and vegetables produce significant amounts of ethylene, nor is all produce sensitive to it. Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons, for example, do not produce much ethylene and are relatively hardy to it.

    Does lemon juice stop fruit from going brown? ›

    Keep cut fruits, such as apples, pears, bananas, and peaches from turning brown by: Coating them with an acidic juice such as lemon, orange, or pineapple juice. Use a commercial anti-darkening preparation with fruits, such as Fruit-Fresh®*, and follow the manufacturer's directions.

    Is ethylene gas safe for humans? ›

    * Ethylene gas can affect you when breathed in. * Skin contact with liquid Ethylene can cause frostbite. * Exposure to Ethylene can cause headache, dizziness, fatigue, lightheadedness, confusion and unconsciousness.

    How does an ethylene absorber work? ›

    Pulling ethylene out of the air

    As they draw the gas out of the air and hold onto it, they can reduce the amount of the hormone that produce is exposed to and slow the ripening process. Absorbers can come in different forms, including individual packets and storage bags that have the technology built in.

    Why is ethylene gas bad? ›

    While ethylene is invaluable due to its ability to initiate the ripening process in several fruits, it can also be very harmful to many fruits, vegetables, flowers, and plants by accelerating the aging process and decreasing the product quality and shelf life.

    Can you reuse green bags? ›

    The green bags do work for certain types of produce. Some caveats–the shelf life is extended as long as the product is very dry (mold growth appears to be a problem in damp produce). Also, the bags have a shelf life and can only be reused 10 times.

    Do potatoes give off ethylene gas? ›

    For example, if spinach, kale, or broccoli is stored in the same refrigerator bin as apples, those crops will turn yellow and limp in just a couple of days. You also don't store potatoes and onions together because the potatoes emit ethylene which will cause premature sprouting of the onions.

    Where can you get ethylene? ›

    Natural sources of ethylene include both natural gas and petroleum; it is also a naturally occurring hormone in plants, in which it inhibits growth and promotes leaf fall, and in fruits, in which it promotes ripening.

    Which type of fruit is a banana? ›

    Botanically speaking, a banana is both a berry and a fruit. (Remember, if it's a berry, it's also a fruit by default.) Here's the deal: The banana flower contains one ovary, which grows into a single banana. The banana also has a somewhat soft skin, juicy flesh, and many tiny seeds.

    What are the largest producers of ethylene? ›

    Major players in the production of Global Ethylene are Sinopec, LyondellBasell, DowDupont, Exxon Mobil Corporation, INEOS, Chevron Phillips, Braskem, Formosa Plastics Group (Formosa Petrochemical Corp.), Zhejiang Petrochemical, PTT Global Chemical, PetroChina, Arabian Petrochemical Company, Yeochun NCC Co.

    Do apples or bananas produce more ethylene? ›

    Bananas actually only produce moderate levels of ethylene but apples, pears and melons are so sensitive to the hormone that it has a powerful effect on their ripening.

    Do rotting apples produce ethylene? ›

    Is there any truth to the expression, "one rotten apple spoils the whole barrel"? You bet. Because once an apple is rotten or has physical damage, (ie a bruise), it produces ethylene, which in turn leads to a slightly increased internal temperature causing a breakdown of chlorophyll and the synthesis of other pigments.

    Do apples make other fruits go bad? ›

    Do you remember the old saying "one bad apple spoils the bunch?" It turns out it's true that apples help other fruits ripen more quickly and this is the reason they shouldn't be stored together. Kiwis, mangoes, bananas and other ethylene-producing fruit can result in early spoilage and lead to food waste.

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