21 Home Favorites AT Readers Couldn’t Stop Buying in 2021 — Starting at $10

published Dec 21, 2021
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Credit: Sylvie Li

The end of the year is a time for reflection, and while we all have many feelings about 2021, here at Apartment Therapy we like to revel in the good as much as possible. From looking back at some of our favorite reader-submitted home makeovers to re-reading the stories that resonated with you the most, as we look back we see that this year was filled with lots of moments of learning and loving in our homes. With that being said, it was also a year of discoveries. Whether it was a fun gadget, a beautiful bedroom accessory, or a practical kitchen tool, the finds this year were vast and awesome. Below, we rounded up the 21 home buys that garnered the most love from both our editors and you, dear reader. With everything from luxe bedding and chic organization tools to new kitchen must-haves and even your new favorite cleaning product, these are the products that became home essentials in 2021.

1 / 21
The Green Laundress
$10.00

If there's one cleaning product AT staffers and readers fell in love with this year, it was The Green Laundress Tub Scrub. Affordable and eco-friendly, this powder-based, citrus-scented scrub proved to be a gamechanger for many. Assistant shopping editor Britt raves, "Between my bathtub and sink, the Green Laundress Tub Scrub has made cleaning seriously easy and unlocked the potential of just how spick and span my bathroom can be."

2 / 21
Macy's
$27.99
was $120.00

This comforter is a favorite among AT editors and readers, and after one night's sleep, you'll see why it's on our Best List. It's lightweight yet warm, high quality yet affordable, and minimal yet stylish. The polyester outside and hypoallergenic fiberfill make it cool to the touch but still warm and fluffy — which works for both hot and cold sleepers. What’s really great, though, is the sleek exterior and reversible colors. It comes in white, as well as a variety of contrasting tones and patterns to give you plenty of options.

3 / 21
Macy's
$35.99
was $120.00

These dreamy cotton percale sheets made our Best List, and for good reason — they’re made from 100 percent Egyptian cotton, lightweight, and incredibly soft. Offered in classic colors like dove grey, white, ivory, milky green, and pale indigo, this 400-thread-count sheet set is simply one of the best. And for a limited time, you can get your hands on a set for a steal.

4 / 21
Our Place
$99.00
was $150.00

One pan that does the work of eight pieces of cookware? It's easy to see why this kitchen wonder has been a hit for two years now! The game-changing Always Pan from Our Place functions as a frying pan, saute pan, steamer, skillet, saucier, and saucepan, and it also includes a spatula in its spoon-rest handle. The 2.6-quart pan has three-inch sloped sides, so you can braise, sear, saute, or fry with ease, making it super versatile and a dream for those with limited storage space for cookware.

5 / 21
Tempur-Pedic
$335.20
was $419.00

We’re totally suckers for a good mattress topper here at AT. A favorite of senior commerce editor Jasmine, the TEMPUR-Topper Supreme from the sleep experts at Tempur-Pedic helps her fall asleep faster. She also shared that, unlike other memory foam products, this cloud-like topper provides the support needed for restful sleep. “I’d actually forgotten how it felt to be nestled comfortably and fully supported in a bed, rather than plopping into the middle of a sinking mattress.”

6 / 21
Dyson
$449.99
was $499.99

Lightweight and slim, the V8 Absolute is a favorite for a reason. It has two cleaner head options for collecting hard-surface debris and tidying up carpets. You can also quickly switch it to the handheld mode for more versatile cleaning on couches or stairs. It's easily tucked away into closets and corners, making it ideal for small spaces, but it also includes a handy wall-mounted charging station to stay perpetually ready to unclip and clean up after you.

7 / 21
Harmati
$189.99

Every space needs at least one full-length mirror, and the Harmati Viv mirror was definitely our top pick this year. Featuring an arched shape that makes it a style element in its own right, it also features a handy built-in clothing rod that's great for storage.

8 / 21
Tempur-Pedic
$119.00
was $178.00

If you've been on the hunt for the ultimate investment pillow, let us tell you a little more about the TEMPUR-Cloud Pillow. Made from the same heavenly soft yet durable memory foam material as the rest of Tempur-Pedic’s products, this pillow is a favorite of senior commerce editor Jasmine who's not quite sure how she went so long without it. "The brand’s coveted Tempur material adapts to whichever position I’m sleeping in, so that I never wake up stiff or achy. Simply put, this is the Goldilocks of pillows."

9 / 21
Frontgate
$39.90
was $42.00

Is your idea of the perfect towel one that's super thick, plush, and cotton-candy soft? Then you're going to love Frongate's Resort Cotton Bath Towel. Made from 100 percent long-staple Turkish cotton woven to 700 GSM, these luxurious towels withstand lots of moisture and dry in no time. The best part? They hold up thanks to a “zero-twist” process that plumps and stabilizes the yarn to keep the cotton fibers from shedding. These towels are definitely ones you want, but be warned: As one editor shared, your household might fight over these towels.

10 / 21
Loftie
$119.99
was $159.99

We know — an alarm clock? In 2021? Hear us out: This gadget is much more than an alarm clock. With features including a clock, sound machine, breathwork exercises, and a nightlight, the Loftie is a bona fide wellness device. But the real kicker is its two-stage alarm system that gently lulls you out of a deep sleep instead of jolting you awake. Personally, it was my favorite find of 2021. As a heavy sleeper, I was initially worried that the tones might not be ‘alarming’ enough to wake me, but what I found was that instead of getting an unwelcome adrenaline rush first thing in the morning, I awoke calmly and, some might even say, correctly for the first time in years.

11 / 21
Parachute
$39.20
was $49.00

Ah, the Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Bath Towel. A staff favorite, this towel tops our Best List for good reason. It’s warm, soft, and plush yet absorbent and textured enough to get you dry quickly. Out of all the towels we tried, this is the one we kept reaching for weeks later — and it only gets better with washing. Managing editor Ivy called it "the weighted blanket of bath towels," adding that it gave her a "luxe post-spa feeling, almost akin to being in a robe."

12 / 21
My Sheets Rock
$199.00

Hot sleepers rejoice! We finally found the perfect cooling sheets. Say hello to the "The Regulator" Sheet Set from My Sheets Rock. A favorite of staffers and readers alike, these sheets are made from high-grade, sustainably sourced Oeko-Tex-certified bamboo rayon and boast eight heat-fighting benefits, including breathable construction, moisture-wicking technology, and a lightweight feel that won’t weigh you down. As for the feel, let's just say they combine the smoothness of silk (sans the slip) and the lightweight, classic design of cotton for a feel you won't ever want to live without.

13 / 21
Zwilling
$129.99
was $386.00

Staub's iconic cocottes are beloved for their durability and versatile use, and this 4-quart version was one that readers couldn't get enough of in 2021. This Dutch oven is compact but still large enough for that delicious soup you plan to make all winter long. Its sturdy cast iron construction has exceptional heat-conducting abilities, making it perfect for browning, braising, and even baking. Our favorite part, however, is the glass lid that allows for maximum visibility during cooking. Right now, you can score the cocotte for just $129.99 (normally $386). Yes, you read that right. — that’s nearly 70 percent off!

14 / 21
Gravity Blankets
$65.00

We know what you're thinking: these are slippers? They sure are! And they just might be the best pair you ever own. Traditionally styled they are not, but with a canvas sneaker design and faux sheepskin lining, The Faux Fur-Lined Slippers from Gravity Blankets are the ultimate cozy house shoe — and perfect for transitioning from couch to corner store (at the farthest... ).

15 / 21
Tuft & Needle
$100.00

The Tuft & Needle Original Foam Pillow made our Best List as the Best Memory Foam Pillow, so if a foam pillow is typically your go-to, you have to try this one out. Comfortable, cool, supportive, and suitable for pretty much any sleep position, this pillow checks all the boxes. Managing editor (and side sleeper) Ivy adored this pillow, sharing, "As soon as I started testing a few pillows, I couldn’t stop turning to the Tuft & Needle for an amazing night’s sleep. I know it’s still a pricey pick for some, but if you’re looking for a truly high-quality cooling pillow, this is it!"

16 / 21
Nordstrom
$31.50
was $45.00

This roll-up dish rack is a favorite of our home editor Danielle, who considers it a total game changer. That's because it's designed to sit right over your sink while it airs out dishes, cups, and flatware, leaving your counter clutter free. And with an included utensil holder and a skid-free design (essential when drying delicate dishes and glassware), it's the ultimate small-kitchen accessory.

17 / 21
Open Spaces
$184.00

An Instagram mainstay, the Open Spaces Entryway Rack has developed something of a cult following as of late thanks to its clean, modern design. Made from powder-coated steel and available in five chic colors, this durable rack is extremely easy on the eyes and can be used for everything from shoes to plants and more.

18 / 21
West Elm
$124.99
was $175.00

This sheet set from West Elm was a bonafide TikTok hit this year. Soft and luxurious, these sheets are made with Tencel (aka Lyocell), an absorbent, breathable, eco-friendly fabric that wicks away moisture to help keep you cool. Available in a host of rich colors, they're also naturally smooth for less wrinkling. Could they be any more perfect?

19 / 21
Onsen
$75.00

Fans of waffle weave towels, we have a treat for you! When one of our editors first wrote about Onsen's bath towel set, readers were obsessed. With a textured appearance thanks to the waffle weave and amazing absorbency, these towels were impressive, even to those who typically opt for towels of the fluffier, variety. The best part? These lightweight beauties are absolutely made for small spaces, taking up half the space of a traditional towel.

20 / 21
Overstock
$75.95
was $79.95

Laundry hampers might feel a dime a dozen, but this double bamboo version from Overstock really struck a chord with AT staff and readers. Featuring two 19-inch-tall sliding baskets, carrying handles, and a handy storage shelf, this hamper is great for those looking to maximize a small space and keep laundry out of sight and out of mind.

21 / 21
World Market
$179.99

Looking for a fake fiddle leaf fig tree but overwhelmed by your choices? Lifestyle director Taryn tested several and declared this six-foot beauty from World Market to be the best around, citing its "strong faux features, including a dense variety of leaf shapes, good texture, and realistic branching." It comes potted in a simple, unassuming container, or you can transplant it into a vessel that's more your style.