Molly Flores/CNN Underscored

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 July, our editors tried countless products while also finding the best deals on Prime Day. From checked luggage to summer beauty picks, we have a lineup of products we can’t stop talking about from last month. We’re on a mission to find the best products that are useful, practical and worth the price (and we test a lot of products), so it’s no small accomplishment to end up in our daily routines.

Below, we’ve curated our favorite items we tried in July and can’t put down.

Travel

Having traveled to 88 countries, I rely on the Satechi GaN Travel Charger for its compact size, rapid charging capabilities and versatility. This charger’s four USB-C ports and international adapters have streamlined my travel experience. My devices are always powered up no matter where I am. ― Kyle Olsen, travel products editor 

I love Halfday’s Garment Duffel because it effortlessly combines the functionality of a garment bag with the spaciousness of a duffel. Its innovative design, with foldable garment-to-duffel features and cleverly designed shoe compartments, allows me to pack more clothes than I ever thought possible, all while keeping everything organized and wrinkle-free. ― Kyle Olsen, travel products editor 

With its premium features and the perfect balance of durability and functionality, this bag has everything you need. The expandable design, smooth-rolling spinner wheels and impressive organization are features you normally only find on bags twice its price. ― Kyle Olsen, travel products editor 

Home

This portable hammock is perfect for anywhere, so if you buy one thing for the summer, it should be this. You can take it on camping trips or set it up on your outside deck for the ultimate relaxation nook, which is what I've been doing all summer long. It's super easy to set up and take down, which was a nice surprise — you don’t even need tools for assembly! On top of its great features, it’s handmade and comes in cool colors and patterns. ― Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator

If you’re in need of a major pillow upgrade, you just found your next one. With the Earthfoam pillow, my sleep has never been better. It's comfortable and the perfect mix between firm and soft. Best of all, it's made with sustainable materials, which is a huge plus for me. ― Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator

Up until very recently, I was using old, mismatched measuring cups that I’m pretty sure I took from home when I moved into my first apartment after college. They were so worn out that I could barely read the measurements, and liquid splashed all over the place whenever I tried to pour. I finally replaced them with this highly rated set from Oxo, and I couldn’t be happier. The measuring cups are made of extremely lightweight plastic (that’s dishwasher-safe!) and are designed to let you read the measurements from above no need to bend over. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor  

I’ve been struggling to confidently leave the house in black clothing without feeling like I’ve been overtaken by an entire rug’s worth of cat fur. These portable lint removal pads save me the embarrassment. They fit discreetly in my purse, feature a stronger adhesive than other lint rollers I’ve tried and are fully biodegradable once you’re done with them. Good for your wardrobe and the planet? I’m fully sold. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor   

I’ve been looking for a new living room chair for months and couldn’t be happier with this Sabai piece. I knew I wanted something easy to put together but chicer than Ikea. And I also wanted to get a piece of furniture that was sustainable. Sabai checks both those boxes. The Evergreen Chair was relatively easy to assemble (it took less than an hour) and I love that you can buy replaceable parts and slipcovers in case of accidents. ― Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

My cat deserves the best of everything, so I realized (during the final minutes of Prime Day no less!) that she absolutely needed her own personal water fountain. This one from Petkit was on sale for a great price, though it’s still very affordable even at full price. The compact size is perfect for my small apartment, and it was incredibly easy to set up. After only a couple weeks, I’m already noticing that my cat is more hydrated than she’s ever been before. —Chelsea Stone, editorial director 

If you subscribe to my Underscored newsletter, then you already know how much I love this entryway mat. This gorgeous mat is made out of recycled water bottles and is easy to care for (you can toss it in the washer!). I was getting tired of wasting money going through multiple flimsy mats that didn’t trap debris and wore out quickly. Guests always compliment it and it brightens up an otherwise plain entryway. ― Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

This fan has been a total lifesaver during this unreasonably hot summer. It’s small (I keep it on my dresser and appreciate that it doesn’t take up a ton of space) but mighty thanks to five power modes. I also have Windmill’s AC unit, and I love that both devices can be controlled via the same smartphone app. Plus, it’s pink! — Chelsea Stone, editorial director 

About five years ago I made a promise to myself to drink a gallon of water a day. Still continuing that promise today, I’ve been through countless water bottles of all shapes and sizes. This is my second HydroJug and by far my favorite because it has a straw. The design is chic enough that you don’t feel like you’re carrying around a half gallon of water, and I only need to fill it up twice a day to meet my goal. Molly Flores, photo editor 

Canopy’s filtered showerhead comes with a massage attachment that has leveled up my shower routine. The prongs feel so great on my scalp and body, plus I love that the showerhead is filtered and helps keep my hair and skin healthier. Having a handheld showerhead has also been super helpful for my dog’s bath time — it makes it so easy to reach her whole body and I think she might even enjoy the massage even more than I do. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor  

Beauty

After trying Tower 28’s cult-favorite mascara, I immediately needed to see what the rest of the line’s hype was about. I recently got my hands on the AAPI-owned brand’s non-sticky gloss (including the now sold-out Ouai collab, which smells like a beach vacay in a tube), and it’s by far the best lip gloss I’ve tried. Just as the name suggests, it isn’t sticky and glides on with ease. And it comes in a bunch of colors, including a more modern take on your favorite glitter gloss from your tween days. ― Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor 

Body care brand Sol de Janeiro did it again with its latest body spray: Cheirosa 48. This tropical guava nectar-infused scent will make you feel like you’re poolside with a fresh coconut — even if you’re in your work cubicle. Summer is all about body sprays, and this is one you’ll want to have on your beauty top shelf this season. ― Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor 

Have you ever used a product that is 100% tailored to your needs? Me neither. That is, until I used The Hair Lab by Strands. This brand creates custom hair care based on your locks. You fill out an online questionnaire about your hair type and concerns, and they tell you what to get based on the results. The scalp purifying serum was my favorite out of the customized products I tried. I have a very oily scalp and almost nothing works, but my hair has never looked (or felt) better since I started using this! I love how affordable these products are, making it easy to have the personalized hair care line of your dreams. ― Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator

To say I am obsessed with this under-eye stick is an understatement. It came with my Allure Beauty Box subscription and I wish I found it sooner. As I’ve grown older, I find it increasingly hard to find a good eye cream to banish dark circles and puffiness, but Tula's Glow + Get It product does the trick. Not only does it reduce early morning swelling, but it also makes my eyes look brighter and has a cooling effect (thanks to hyaluronic acid and caffeine). It isn’t greasy, so it absorbs into my skin and feels awesome. This is my new go-to for an instant pick-me-up in the morning. Bonus: You can apply it over makeup to wake up tired eyes any time of day. ― Rachel Quigley, managing editor 

This solid lotion bar is currently my favorite part of my nighttime routine. Made from ingredients like cocoa butter and almond oil, the stone softens when I warm it up between my hands so I can glide it across my body without any mess. The limited-edition floral scent is very mild, but I love that the entire experience feels so luxurious. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor 

Sometimes, it feels like I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect moisturizer my whole life. As someone with sensitive, acne-prone skin, I’m cautious of heavy moisturizers that can clog pores and irritate my breakouts. At the same time, I still want my skin to feel dewy and moisturized. That’s why I love this velvety-smooth gel cream from Dieux. It leaves my skin feeling silky smooth and hydrated, all without heavy residue. Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer 

From “boyfriend blush” to “sunset blush,” cheek color is having a moment this summer. This one from Makeup by Mario adds such a vibrant pop and is versatile enough to use for whatever your preferred blush look is. The creamy formula is super pigmented, so a little goes a long way. I’ve been using a dense makeup brush to tap it onto my cheeks, but you can definitely blend it out with your fingers too. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor  

Gel-X nail extensions can get pretty pricey, and I’m already a fan of press-on nails, so I was excited to try this at-home version that's like a hybrid between the two. The GelXtend kit comes with clear nails that you can paint yourself, but I opted to get the clear ombré set separately so I could just apply them and have my manicure all ready. They took about the same amount of time to apply as regular press-ons, and the process is very similar too. Instead of regular nail glue, however, you use the special gel glue that cures under the mini LED lamp to get a long-lasting hold. It takes a little practice at first, but I felt like a real nail tech in no time. I got so many compliments on my set and they lasted a full two weeks. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor 

This skin tint has everything you need. From SPF 50 to a skin-soothing vegan serum, you can get ready for the day with minimal skin care steps. It has replaced my need for a foundation and has taken the spot for my all-time favorite tinted moisturizer. The improved packaging is also leakproof and features a cap that clicks in place for extra security. — Elena Matarazzo, associate deals editor 

After starting at-home gel manicures a few months back, my nails seriously needed a break, but I wanted to continue creating unique manicures while prioritizing nail health. After some research, I came across the vegan, cruelty-free and toxin-free brand Lights Lacquer. With such a library of colors and products, it was hard to choose my favorite. I decided to go with the Peace & Love bundle that has a great variety of nostalgic and trendy colors. The applicator brush is beginner-friendly, and the polishes dry quickly. — Molly Flores, photo editor 

Fashion

I was on the hunt for comfortable sandals that could be dressed up or down, and I decided to give these a try because I heard great things about Reef. Trust me, these sandals did not disappoint. The all-black design and platform height make them look nicer than other summer shoes in my rotation. They’re also extremely comfy because they have incredible arch support (rare for such a cute sandal!) and fit my wide feet very well. I’m already eyeing more colors! — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor 

I’m forever in search of the perfect everyday earring I never have to take off. Mejuri’s newest 14-karat earrings from its Salmon Gold line (meaning it's responsibly sourced and fully traceable) don't require a backing that I’m bound to misplace and they pair with virtually any look I’m going for. I’m obsessed with the fine fluted details that match with my Bold Letter Pendant Necklace and how understated these earrings are while elevating my Perpetually Tired Mom look. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor   

I’ve been obsessed with sun hoodies this summer, so after signing up for the Fjallraven Classic, a three-day, 30-mile hike through the mountains of Colorado, I knew it’d be the perfect time to test one out. I wore this Abisko Sun Hoodie all three days, and despite hiking under the intense alpine sun at nearly 12,000 feet, I never got a sunburn. It is important to note though, this hoodie doesn’t have an official UPF rating. Kai Burkhardt, outdoors and sustainability editor 

I'm 5-foot-7, so I prefer a low-heeled sandal. These from Intentionally Blank are the perfect height and the color is a super-fun pink for summer. They are amazingly comfortable and effortlessly dress up any simple outfit. Molly Flores, photo editor 

I’ve been using Dagne Dover’s neoprene backpack as my work bag for nearly two years, so I was really excited to try the brand’s fanny pack from the same collection. It’s super lightweight and can be worn as a belt bag or crossbody bag. Plus, the bold Deep Sea hue adds a pop of color to my otherwise neutral outfits. There’s plenty of built-in organization features (like card slots and a key clip), but my only wish is that there were an exterior pocket for my phone. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor 

Just like the sun hoodie, I wore these trousers three days in a row on my backpacking trip, and while they were a bit hot for a hike in the dead of summer, I was seriously impressed with them. Underscored contributor Emily Pennington has sung their praises in the past when they survived a trip through the Ugandan jungle, so I was incredibly eager to see how they performed. They’re definitely heavier than your typical hiking pants, but they more than make up for it in durability and features. I especially loved their massive pockets on each thigh, and the ventilation zippers at both the thigh and the calf that helped dump heat when I was hiking uphill. I do wish these pants had a back pocket, which was a surprising omission, but these are my new go-to pants for burly, rough hikes. Fjallraven also has a lighter version in the Keb Agile Trousers. Kai Burkhardt, outdoors and sustainability editor 

I am a huge fan of statement jewelry, and this oversized, colorful piece from Holst + Lee has been the perfect way to add pizzazz to basic summer outfits. I love that I can throw on a white T-shirt and make it pop with this necklace made of paracord, pearl cotton thread and gold-plated brass. And the pretty, magnetic clasp makes it easy to put on and take off. Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor 

I just love the idea of an open back, but usually, going without a bra is simply not an option for me. OGL offers a wide range of built-in bra options it calls “Brami” and I adore this high-necked white tank with a low-slung back. It does two things extremely well: It's supportive in the front and I don't have to show off a bra strap in the back. The tank is super comfortable and streamlined, with breathable mesh and subtle waist pleats, and it lets me simply achieve a seamless, elegant look that’s not usually a possibility unless I strap on an uncomfortable backless bra. Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor 

In the summer, I'm constantly looking for a comfortable, racerback bra I can throw on under tanks and flimsier dresses — mainly because it’s hard to find one that supports my 34DD chest. So, I must thank Padma Lakshmi, a fellow curvy sister, for creating this pretty, lightly lined and supportive front-close bra for her new line of intimates with Bare Necessities. I got it in black, but it also comes in hot pink or nude. I’m also a huge fan of her bohemian-styled Medallion Kimono, which I wear around the house in the morning and have even thrown on as a lightweight cover for a night out. Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor 

Fitness and health

I’ve accepted the fact that I’ll never be a runner. Instead, I’m the biggest advocate for long walks. They're low impact, heart-healthy and best of all, not as sweaty. To elevate my walks, I’ve started using Bala Bangles on my ankles and wrists to add a bit of resistance to my otherwise leisurely stroll. They’re incredibly easy to tote around, even for yoga or at-home workouts. Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer   

I love wearing sneakers, but I’m tired of consistently rocking my Nike Dunks. So I decided to branch out with these Atoms 000 kicks, an insanely comfy sneaker with extra cushioning and foam. I can wear these with a pair of jeans, shorts and skirts, or even with my favorite flowy dress. They slip on easily thanks to the simple stretchy laces and I can walk miles in them if I feel like skipping the subway. Plus, I adore this neon yellow color, which adds a little funk to my wardrobe. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor 

Tech

Featuring bite-sized challenges that have you conquer classic Nintendo games as quickly as possible, Nintendo World Championships scratches my high-score-chasing brain in a way that's made it near-impossible to put down. I've had a blast approaching some of my favorite titles in a whole new way, whether I'm finding an optimal path up the ladders of Donkey Kong or racing to finish an entire Mario level in seconds — and then immediately starting over so I can beat my own times. Its short-burst gameplay has made it the perfect commute game, and competing against friends in local multiplayer has been a raucous, hilarious delight. If you're a big retro nerd like I am, the Deluxe Set gets you some extra cool goodies, including a gold freakin' NES cartridge. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor 

The Beats Solo Buds have been a great backup whenever my AirPods Pro run out of juice, offering solid sound quality and a sleek, comfortable design for a cool $80. The lavender model is a perfect complement to my purple iPhone 15, and I especially love their tiny pill-shaped case that barely makes a dent in my pocket. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor 

Casetify makes some of my personal favorite iPhone covers and accessories — and that’s even more the case when it comes to its themed Co-Lab releases. Timed perfectly to go with the latest installment in the MCU, I am just simply delighted by the brand's new Deadpool and Wolverine cases. If you’re looking for a little fourth-wall-breaking flair for your smartphone, Casetify delivers with its signature cases, MagSafe grips and quite a few other fun accessories. — Rikka Altland, senior deals editor 

We’ve got a lot to consider before we send our kid off to university, but one of the most important things is making sure he has a solid laptop for his first year of business school. The newest version of Microsoft’s Surface Laptop (7th edition) is an excellent canvas for a new life of schooling. We like it because it’s lightning fast with Snapdragon processors; it’s super thin and lightweight, so he can more easily tote it around campus; and it comes powered with AI with the company’s Co-Pilot built in. We have the 13.8-inch laptop in this sharp Sapphire blue, but you can also grab it in the neutral Dune, shiny Platinum or black. Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor 

I didn't know what to expect from Dyson's latest headphones — especially after the company launched a wacky set of air-purifying cans last year — but I've been pleasantly surprised. These over-ears have been incredibly comfortable to wear during long stretches of working and commuting, and I've yet to have to charge them after days of heavy use. I also like that their cool retro design can be customized with swappable ear cups and plates. I personally wouldn't spend $500 on these guys (especially since their sound quality is just okay), but I'm having a good time with them nonetheless. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor 

Food and beverage

This summer has been more than hot, and it's been almost impossible to stay cool and hydrated. But fear not! These Goodpop hydrating ice pops have officially saved the summer. They taste just like the ones I used to have as a kid, if not better, except without all the harmful ingredients. These are made from all-natural ingredients and electrolytes, making you feel not only refreshed, but hydrated too. My absolute favorite flavor out of this assortment was the Berry Lemonade. I hate things that are too sweet, but these had the perfect balance of sweetness. They are also a great price for all the benefits you are getting and deserve a spot in your freezer this summer. ― Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator 

Initially, I thought this coffee set from Kloo would involve a bunch of inconvenient steps to make my morning cup, but it was as simple as just pouring a small amount of the concentrate in water, and just like that, I had a barista-worthy drink! The bottles will last you a long time since you are only using a small amount, which is great, especially for the price. You can also recycle the packaging, which is an added bonus. ― Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator

I’m not much of a soda drinker because the sugar makes me bounce off the walls. But when I am craving soda, Nixie’s organic varieties are a perfect alternative. All three flavors are a win in my book, and they're a great option for anyone watching their sugar and calorie intake, without losing flavor. ― Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

Spice mixes really should be straightforward. But if you’ve ever looked at the ingredient list, you’ll see a lot of hard-to-pronounce words. Just Spices, on the other hand, is just that — spices. My current favorite blend is the Caprese Topping. I love adding it to some EVOO for a delicious bread dip, sprinkling it over caprese and mixing it into jarred tomato sauce for added flavor. ― Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

You either love ‘em or hate ‘em, and I absolutely love pickles! I recently picked up this book by the best pickle brand ever, Grillo’s (crowned by me), and I can’t wait to cook my way through the entire thing. It’s not just a cookbook about making pickles, but it’s filled with recipes using pickle as the hero ingredient — including pickle ice cream. Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

Nothing brings me down more than a sugar crash. It’s truly shocking how satisfying these low-sugar gummy bears are while actually filling me up thanks to their high fiber content. SmartSweets' other nostalgic candy flavors — from peach rings to watermelon chews — are equally tasty and a mid-afternoon or late-night essential. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor   

Ready-to-drink cocktails have been on the rise this summer, and as a Negroni enthusiast, I knew I had to get my hands on these cans from Straightaway Cocktails. I appreciate that the only prep I have to do is grab some ice, a glass and an orange. They're deliciously bitter and taste just like the real deal. And yes, you can add prosecco to them. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer  

It’s still summer, which means I’m mixing up margaritas on the regular, among other things. But I especially love this blended reposado from Cayéya because it’s just as lovely to sip on its own as it is mixed with lime juice and triple sec (I am also a big fan of dialing down the sugar and adding diet tonic instead). I also dig the sustainable bottle, which is made with 100% recycled materials. Because there’s more than one way to be responsible when you’re drinking tequila. Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor 

Although you can drink wine all year, I especially enjoy drinking light, fruity, flavorful and flirty wines during the summer. I typically stick to natural wines, so this Tinto Amorio sampler is the perfect trio. The fresh, juicy red is delectable when chilled, and having two types of orange really opens you up to different levels of the delicious variety. — Molly Flores, photo editor