I enjoy compiling these annual roundups of favorite purchases—an eclectic mix of practical items and small luxuries that made daily life a bit cozier and more manageable during a turbulent 2021. From heating pads to rings to salt shakers, these were the things I reached for most often.
Those one-of-a-kind doors for the new house are genuinely my top purchase from 2021, so I had to include that photo above. The rest of the list leans toward useful but lovely items that improved my routines or just made me smile.
Heating Pad: This heating pad is one of the best things Jeff ever bought me. I use it daily—on my stomach, around my neck, on my back—and it has an auto-shutoff for safety. It’s become a small comfort habit: calming, soothing, and reliable.
Bippy Toilet Paper: Switching to a bamboo-based, three-ply toilet paper subscription simplified a basic household need and made it more sustainable. The subscription model means never running out, and bamboo’s environmental profile is better than traditional tree-based paper. It’s 100% biodegradable, too.
Disclaimer: I know a bidet is even more eco-friendly, but I tried and couldn’t get on board with it.
Emerald Ring: I bought this ring for myself as a reward after two surgeries and as a reminder of my resilience. It felt empowering without being overly extravagant—beautiful, meaningful, and a special everyday piece.
Elfa System: Elfa closet systems are an investment, but after using a few, I truly love them. We installed units in Arlo’s closet and our hall closet. The single wall-mounted track makes installation simple, everything hangs off that piece, and the system is fully customizable. It’s flexible, efficient, and easy to reconfigure—worth the extra cost if it fits your budget.
A few friends and I agreed: if it’s feasible, spending more on a quality closet system pays off in convenience and longevity.
Tissue Box Covers: These simple covers solved a small annoyance—ugly tissue boxes. They’re well made, come in muted colors, and add a tidy, finished look to shelves and counters. Little upgrades like this make home life feel more intentional.
Remedium Candle in Sweet Tobacco: Jeff bought this candle and we liked it enough to put it on subscription. The scent is warm and comforting, and the wood wick adds a subtle crackle that evokes a fireplace without the expense or upkeep. It’s a small, cozy luxury we light often.
Mask Chain: I can’t believe I waited so long to use a mask chain—what a game changer. It keeps your mask handy around your neck when you need to remove it briefly. Simple, practical, and one of those items you wonder how you lived without.
Ornament Storage Boxes: These storage boxes with removable trays transformed our holiday storage. Unlike bulky plastic tubs where you have to remove everything to reach ornaments at the bottom, these have stackable, removable trays and take up less space. I use models with deeper sections for larger ornaments and fold cardboard dividers to create taller compartments when needed. There are also versions with mixed-depth trays and side compartments that hold garlands and tree toppers. I even bought a smaller box for bottle brush trees.
Salt & Pepper Grinders: I’ve been intentionally replacing cheap everyday items with better-made versions that will last. These salt and pepper grinders allow me to buy spices in bulk and refill instead of repeatedly replacing plastic containers. They’re both functional and attractive on the counter.
What were your standout purchases in 2021? I’d love to hear about anything that made your year easier, more comfortable, or more beautiful.