Whether you’re replacing a worn-out product, looking to try something new or researching gift ideas, you should consider items that not only fit your budget but also offer some value in life. Perhaps they save time, make everyday tasks less frustrating or offer comfort.
In a recent video, financial expert Rachel Cruze shared how seven products have improved her life. They all cost under $50 and are available through Aldi or Amazon.
Sensarte Nonstick Skillet (12.5-Inch)
- Price: $42.99 to $44.99 (Amazon)
Cruze discussed how she prefers using a nonstick skillet, like this 12.5-inch one, to a stainless steel version, especially when she’s cooking scrambled eggs. She also liked how it doesn’t take long to clean.
While this product’s price is close to the $50 limit, Cruze’s experience has shown that the skillet typically lasts for five or six years. You can pick from gray granite and white ceramic options.
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YCWZZH Phone Charging Cables (2-Pack)
- Price: $7.64 to $11.89 (Amazon)
You’ve probably dealt with the frustrating experience of your phone taking too long to charge. Cruze was impressed when she picked up a new long cable and saw how quickly it charged compared to her old one.
She explained, “So, I bought it, and then I came back to my room like two minutes later, and it was like already 20% charged, and I was like, ‘Wait, what?'”
She linked to this affordable pack of two USB-C to USB-A cables available in lengths from 3-10 feet. However, check compatibility with your device and research alternatives if needed.
Folex Instant Carpet Spot Remover (32-Ounce)
- Price: $26.99 (Amazon)
Buying a bunch of cleaning supplies isn’t only bad for your wallet but also takes up your limited space at home. Cruze highlighted Folex cleaner, which is sold as a carpet stain remover but is actually much more versatile for handling difficult stains on fabrics.
She explained how it removes wine, mud, marker ink and other substances and mentioned cleaning her outdoor furniture and couch with the product. You might especially appreciate Folex if your children often make messes.
Aldi Mac and Cheese Cups (4-Pack)
- Price: $4.09
In a blog post, Cruze ranked Aldi as the nation’s cheapest grocery store, and you’ll sometimes find some gems if you’re open to trying the private brands. Cruze discussed how the store’s convenient mac and cheese cups are her son’s favorite, even beating out restaurant versions.
She said, “He was eating it, and he literally said, ‘Mom, this is the best mac and cheese I’ve ever had.'”
You’ll also like that Aldi’s version saves you almost a dollar compared to Kraft’s pack sold at Walmart.
Feierya Automatic Card Shuffler
- Price: $17.99 (Amazon)
Whether you like to play card games with the kids or your friends, having to shuffle the cards by hand can get tedious. Cruze’s husband got the family a card shuffler, which has come in handy for games like Uno and Monopoly.
She linked to this battery-powered shuffler that works with one or two decks and requires a simple button press. It will be a time-saver if you use cards often.
Touchland Glow Mist Revitalizing Hand Sanitizer Spray
- Price: $16 (Amazon)
While you might have a habit of picking up basic hand sanitizer, it doesn’t smell great and can be rough on your skin. Cruze said she learned about the fancier Touchland hand sanitizer from her daughter, who splurged on the product, and then tried it herself.
“Instead of the sticky, nasty hand-sanitizer feel, it’s silky,” explained Cruze. “It’s really smooth, and it doesn’t smell.”
While Touchland has a premium price tag, its product listing on Amazon notes that you can use your health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) for the purchase.
Saucony Women’s No-Show Cushioned Socks (8-Pack)
- Price: $11.62 to $15.06 (Amazon)
No-show socks are great for when you want something more discreet, but slippage can be annoying. After being happy receiving these no-show socks as a stocking stuffer from her mother-in-law, Cruze picked up some more on Amazon.
They’re made with a silicone gripper to prevent slipping and contain comfortable cushioning. While Cruze linked to a pack with eight pairs of white socks, you can get them in various colors, sizes and quantities at different prices.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Items That Improve Your Life for Under $50, According to Rachel Cruze
