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As editors, we shop all year — here are our absolute favorite products of last year

Everything we thought was a must-buy (and still do).
Courtesy Alexandra Deabler; Courtesy Emma Stessman

As Shop TODAY editors, it is our mission to share with you our tried-and-true must-have products, new favorite launches and everything else we think you should know about while shopping.

And while we are researching and buying and trying things throughout the last year, we discovered a lot of great finds that we just have to share with you. From cozy sweaters to gold-standard skin care products and nifty cleaning gadgets, 2022 did not disappoint. So, among those hundreds of products we sampled, these are the select few that are our absolute standouts.

Keep reading for our editors' favorites for 2022.

Shop TODAY Editors' Picks 2022

Tech and Wellness

Hagibis AirPod Cleaning Pen

This bestselling AirPod ear buds cleaning pen is not only a hit with our Shop TODAY readers, but also an extremely popular product among our staff. Associate Editor Emma Stessman discovered them during Amazon's Prime Early Access Sale and now uses them regularly to clean all of the gunk out of her AirPods case.

She's not the only one, though. Commerce Analytics Manager Amanda Smith bought six(!) of these for stocking stuffers this year.

Amazon Halo View Fitness Tracker

"It seems like most people in my life are sporting a smartwatch these days. I've wondered if I should bite the bullet and buy one for myself, but I was hesitant to spend that much money to find out. Then I got the chance to try Amazon's Halo View for less than $100, and there's not a day that goes by where I don't wear it. I primarily use it as my alarm clock — it's comfortable to sleep in and it wakes me up through vibrations instead of stress-inducing sounds. It's also useful when it comes to tracking steps, workouts, sleeping stats, heart rate and so much more." - Danielle Murphy, Associate Editor

Tribit Wireless Earbuds Flybuds 3

"I needed a good pair of earbuds for the gym — I have the oldest generation of AirPods and they always fall out on the treadmill. These come with adjustable ear tips that keep them in place and block out a good amount of noise; sometimes I wear them while I am working at a coffee shop without playing music just to block out the surrounding noise. Since buying them in October, I've only had to charge them twice — the charging case keeps the battery life high, so I can just keep them in my backpack and pull them out when I need them. Plus, since the case can hold a good charge, you can even use it to charge your phone." - Jillian Ortiz, Editorial Assistant

Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier

"As nice as it is to go to the office every now and then, I loathe how parched it leaves my skin by the end of the day. (There’s no amount of moisturizer or facial mist that could reverse the effects of chronically dry office air.) Countless colleagues have sung the praises of Hey Dewy's humidifier over the last year for how it’s breathed new life into their self-care routines, so I finally hopped on the bandwagon. Not only does it add a cool, modern flair to my desk decor, but it lasts an entire workday on a single charge. Several people have caught me shamelessly misting myself at my desk over the last month — honestly, though, who can resist a quick facial session?" - Jess Bender, Senior SEO Editor

Hisense HS214 2.1 Sound Bar

"I finally got around to buying a new TV during Black Friday, and it came bundled with a soundbar. I've never had one before, so I wasn't expecting to be as impressed by how much it changed my viewing experience. The sound quality is so much more elevated that I'm used to only using the built-in television speakers. This budget one from Hisense also has a built-in subwoofer for bass and a more robust sound. Plus, it connects to Bluetooth, so you can connect your phone and have a pretty kicking playlist going during parties or whatever else you're hosting without having to get a separate speaker." - Alexandra Deabler, Deputy Editorial Director

Amazon Kindle

"For years I was very anti-Kindle. I loved the feeling of having an actual book in my hand too much to read something on a screen. But my friend told me that you could get library books on the Kindle, so I decided to try it out. Truly one of the best purchases I've made. I used to buy so many of my books because I didn't want to make frequent trips to the library (and was worried about having to return them on time). Now I get everything through the Libby app and read on the Kindle. I've read way more than I have in previous years thanks to the gadget (almost at my 40-book goal for the year!), because it makes it easier to read on the subway, while traveling, etc. And I can fit it in my belt bag!" - Emma Stessman, Associate Editor

LARQ Bottle PureVis

"At this point, I'm certain my friends are convinced that I am sponsored by this self-cleaning bottle brand. In reality, I am just a fan of products that are quality and provide a much-needed solution. I've had my bottle for under a year, and it has been a lifesaver for outdoor activities, travel and even days at home when I don't feel like refilling a filtered pitcher. Not only does one charge last a month, but it's self-cleaning so it helps me reduce my time over the sink." - Vivien Moon, Commerce Editor

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 Bluetooth Speakers

"One thing about me is that I am incredibly clumsy. My last speaker met its fateful end because I knocked it off my kitchen counter while I was attempting to cook. I've avoided buying a new one ever since because I legitimately didn't believe that I deserved nice things. That is, until I found this 'virtually indestructible' Bluetooth speaker from Ultimate Ears. It's drop-proof up to five feet, is waterproof and even floats, so no matter how crazy things have gotten in the kitchen or elsewhere, it has held up really well.

The sound is clear and balanced, and don't be fooled by the small size — it's definitely capable of getting LOUD. It's got a battery that lasts up to 10 hours of playing time and connects wirelessly to a bunch of devices, including other Wonderboom speakers for surround sound or extra volume if desired." - Audrey Ekman, Market Assistant

Home

YouCopia StoraLid Organizer

"Up until a few months ago, I had an "organized chaos" approach with my kitchen cabinets — I knew where everything was, but good luck to anyone needing anything useful in a moment's notice.

Moving into a new apartment with a large separate kitchen (a rarity in many sections of New York City) in the springtime gave me the freedom to make more of an effort with keeping my cooking space tidy. Since my Tupperware was one of the major culprits of my messy pantry, this organizer with five adjustable dividers keeps everything in plain sight in one accessible place. One clean cabinet down, seven more to go!" - Jess Bender, Senior SEO Editor

Bentgo Glass Leak-Proof Salad Container

"I've been bringing so many more homemade salads to the office for lunch since Bentgo sent me this container. It has separate sections and a little dressing cup so nothing gets soggy! The top tray is even microwave-safe, so I can warm up ingredients like rice or protein without having to stick the whole thing in the microwave (and ending up with warm lettuce)." - Emma Stessman, Associate Editor

Outlines Shower Liner System

"I find little else as gross as when my shower curtain lining starts to get mildewy/moldy after a few months, and so I love the Outlines liner system. Basically how it works is you buy the initial kit, which includes a canvas shower liner top that has magnets that attach to the non-toxic PEVA liner. You choose to have a new PEVA liner sent to you every three, six or nine months, depending on how hard the water is in your shower and how often it's being used. Then, when the new liner is sent, it comes with a pre-labeled bag for your old liner that is sent back to Outlines to be recycled. It's a genius system and my new liner always comes right when I need it!" - Hannah Baker, Freelance Editor

luzdiosa Candle Warmer

"My apartment has never smelled better or felt more cozy! This candle warmer is so chic and really brings out the scents of my favorite candles without a flame. It's not only a vibe, but it makes me feel safer and worry less about potentially forgetting to blow out a candle." - Kara Quill, Social Media Editor

Corkcicle Baldwin Boxer Lunchbox

"I got married this year and put this chic lunchbox on my registry. It easily fits my various containers and snacks, and it looks more like a purse than a lunchbox, so I don't mind carrying it around! It even has a front pocket that's big enough for my phone and office badge." - Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil, Branded Commerce Editor

Our Place Tabletop Set

"I bought these for my sister. They're a great, easy way to elevate your dish set-up, or for a college grad who is moving out on their own." - Alexandra Deabler, Deputy Editorial Director

Ruggable Washable Doormat

"I know this is a little pricey, but hear me out! I found Ruggable last spring and have been obsessed with their whole washable rug collection ever since (I also own their Faux Hide Rug). These doormats are so smart because they come with a two-piece system consisting of a non-slip base and a removable, washing-machine-friendly design on top.

Since I live in one of the dirtiest cities in the world, I'm often trekking into the house after a long day with grime, slush, mud and other elements clinging to the bottom of my shoes — and my previous doormat definitely showed it. This one has been a game-changer, and is sure to stay clean and pristine for years to come, since I'm able to simply throw it in the wash when it starts to look a little worse for wear. Also, there are so many gorgeous designs, from artist collaborations — I love all of the Keith Haring ones — to festive options you can swap out for the season by simply replacing the top cover of the mat." - Audrey Ekman, Market Assistant

Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker

"I moved back to the city this year and have very limited counter space, so I bought this little Keurig that is PERFECT for small apartments, dorms or office desks. It's less than five inches wide and tucks neatly into the corner of my countertop and between other appliances. Also, the coffee comes out super hot and quick!" - Shannon Garlin, Editorial Assistant

Beauty

Tonymoly Sheet Masks

"I went to Korea a couple years ago and fell in love with Tonymoly and all of their products. They're just now being sold at Ulta and they're the most hydrating sheet masks ever. I use the hyaluronic acid and collagen one religiously and it changed the texture of my face. They have tons of different kinds that target different skin challenges, and really cute packaging." - Shannon Garlin, Editorial Assistant

L'Oreal Paris EverPure Brass Toning Purple Shampoo

"Maintaining blonde hair is expensive. Thankfully, this toning shampoo helps my blonde stay bright and brass-free so I can keep my hair looking good between appointments (and even go a few months longer between salon trips than I should). Compared to other options, it's really affordable, so I'm not afraid to use a more generous dollop when my hair feels like it needs extra toning." - Emma Stessman, Associate Editor

RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream

"It took me a long time to understand that you don't need to break the bank to get quality skin care — and this product is evidence of that. Retinol is the gold-standard ingredient for anti-aging, according to dermatologists, and this option by RoC combines wrinkle-smoothing retinol with a hydrating mineral complex. I've noticed my own fine lines look less noticeable after consistent use." - Julie Ricevuto, Commerce Editor

Ilia Lip Wrap Reviving Balm

"Arid winter air typically leads to a dry, chapped pucker — and lots of lip licking and painful peeling. I'd ideally like to avoid all of the above this season, and Ilia's 'hydration building' lip balm seems to be working its magic pretty quickly after a few weeks of use. Two features I particularly love about this balm: Its formula includes a moisture-boosting blend of hyaluronic acid, prickly pear oil and sea succulent, and it leaves a subtle sheen after application — which is great when I need to elevate my face while in a rush to catch a Zoom meeting." - Jess Bender, Senior SEO Editor

Associate Editor Emma Stessman is another Ilia lover: "I second what Jess said. I'm a big fan of this balm!"

Rhode Barrier Restore Cream

"I am normally wary of celebrity-founded skin care products, but this cream has changed my skin texture for the better. My skin has never been softer, to the point where my friends and family ask what products I've been using. This cream is light, hydrating and restorative. I cannot get enough!" - Camryn Privette, Production Coordinator

Ouai Thick Hair Shampoo

Privette is also a big fan of this shampoo for thick hair. "I have extremely thick and frizzy hair, and other shampoos don't lather correctly and leave my hair feeling heavy and greasy. Enter: Ouai! This shampoo is my holy grail and always leaves my hair feeling healthy, clean, and most importantly, not weighed down by chemicals. I only have to use a dime-sized amount, and a whole bottle lasts me two to three months."

Fable & Mane SahaScalp Wild Ginger Purifying Scrub

"I've been taking my scalp health very seriously this year and this was one of my favorite finds. Having tried several scalp scrubs in the past, I had an idea of what I was looking for: Gentle exfoliation, a light scent and quality ingredients. What I love most is that this has lasted me months even though I sometimes use more than the recommended amount." - Vivien Moon, Commerce Editor

Lux Unfiltered N°32 Hydrating Self-Tanning Cream

Moon also loves this self-tanner. "I have tried countless self-tanning products, and this is the one I always go back to. What I love about this lotion is the natural glow it gives me, its light scent and how easy it is to apply. I also have white bed sheets, and I often apply it before bed and sleep well knowing I will not stain my sheets."

Beachweaver S1 Rotating Curling Iron

"I didn't realize how attached I would get to my curler, but this is truly a game-changer. I love that I don't have to constantly twist and bend my arm while trying to get parts of my hair, so the Beachweaver has made hair curling easier and faster. The small clamp makes it easy to free my hair in a second — a timesaver for somebody with long hair," Moon said.

CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion

"I'm on my third bottle of this daily morning moisturizer because it's that good! I have oily skin, so I love how this leaves my skin feeling hydrated without a greasy finish. Even better, it has SPF 30." – Dani Musacchio, Associate Social Media Editor

Haus Labs by Lady Gaga Triclone Skin Tech Foundation

Associate Editor Danielle Murphy tried the TikTok-trending foundation and was not left disappointed. Murphy said the medium-coverage product lived up to the hype, covering up her hyperpigmentation without enhancing her textured skin and giving her complexion a more hydrated look.

Fashion

Truth Lined Long Sleeve Ribbed Dress

"This little black dress has become my go-to for dinner dates, last-minute events and weekend outfits. The fabric is very forgiving and flattering. I love the cut-out detail in the front for extra elegance and the extra length on the hem. It's super comfortable and one of my favorite purchases I've made this year. Also, it is fully lined so you won't have to worry about see-through disasters." - Jannely Espinal, SEO Writer

Chico's Juliet Side-Vent Ankle Pants

Espinal also loves these work pants.

"The first time I tried on these pants, I knew I needed them in every color. These are my favorite to wear for work or on a casual day. They feel like leggings but look dressier thanks to the fit. What makes them stand out is the slimming technology inside the pants. It comes with a stretchy fabric that smoothes the tummy and flatters the curves. This is my personal favorite to wear with sweaters, button-down shirts and silk tops on a day I need to look more put-together. It's the best-kept secret in my office wardrobe."

Stars Above Beautifully Soft Pajama Set

"I've had these pajamas for years and I can confidently say they are the best ones I've ever owned. Not only do I have them in the long sleeve version, I also have two sets that are short. They're incredibly soft, cozy, and so much better than the old college t-shirts I used to wear to bed. Plus, at $30 you can buy multiple sets and always feel chic when you're lounging around in pajamas all day." - Kate McCarthy, Senior Social Media Editor

Express Super High Waisted Faux Leather Leggings

"These classy leggings were $68 so when I saw they were 50% off, I snagged a pair. (I've been eyeing a pair of almost $100 faux leather leggings for a while now, and I just couldn't stomach the price.) I'm glad I bought these; they are actually comfortable! They suck in my little muffin top without rolling. I can lounge in them. I can go out in heels with them. And they don't lose their leather sheen when I bend. Some reviewers say they make sounds when you walk, but my pair doesn't seem to do that." - Fran Sales, Associate SEO Editor

Gap Seamless Ribbed Bralette

"Having a DD chest doesn't give me the freedom to rock cute, frilly bralettes whenever I please. (The girls need ample support on a 24/7/365 basis.) That said, this Gap bralette is the closest I've gotten to my wire-free fantasy. Not only is the ribbed material ridiculously comfortable, but it also gives a surprising amount of lift." - Jess Bender, Senior SEO Editor

The Drop Alice Ribbed Pullover Sweater

"If I had a nickel for how many times I got the question, 'Where’d you get that?' I’d seriously be rich from this sweater.

"The sweater, which is made by The Drop, Amazon’s influencer-curated store, is so soft and cozy and the material is surprisingly lightweight considering how warm it keeps me on chillier days. Plus, it has just the right amount of stretch to make this my go-to lounging piece. And with the bell sleeves, ribbed design and multiple colors to choose from, though it might be 'designed for comfort', I love wearing it French-tucked into flare jeans and paired with booties for a night out." - Danielle Murphy, Associate Editor

Miduo Long Sleeve Midi Dress

"I bought this dress as a last-minute fix for a wedding I had procrastinated preparing for. Though it was a bit of a gamble waiting until the week before to get a dress, I'm glad I did because this 'fit' was a big hit! It has a very flattering neckline and a flowy skirt to dance (and strut) in, and the tie can be worn either as a bow in front or tied around, which I preferred. Plus, I'm a fan of a long-sleeve. Though, I will say at 5'10, the sleeves are a little short on me, so I had to push them up into a 3/4-length." - Alexandra Deabler, Deputy Editorial Director

Fireside by Dearfoams Sydney Shearling Scuff Slippers

"I'm a big fan of house slippers, but every pair I've gotten in the past few years have flattened out relatively quickly. These slippers have enough support on the bottom where that doesn't happen. My feet tend to get cold really quickly, but the shearling lining keeps them extremely warm, even when not wearing socks. I often find myself looking for these slippers, only to find them on one of my sisters feet because they also love them as much as I do." - Kamari Stewart, SEO Editorial Assistant

Hoka Rincon 3 Running Shoes

"Ever since I started running, I have been a Brooks fan through and through. However, I was due for a new pair and had heard great things about Hokas from co-workers, friends and family members who have tried them and loved them. When trying them on for the first time, I was immediately impressed with the cushiony sole and how supportive, yet lightweight they are. I opted for a pair with a little less of a platform and have loved running in them since." - Sierra Hoeger, SEO Editorial Assistant