I Hate Spending Money, But These Black Friday Deals Are Actually Worth It

Save on affordable essentials and rare deep discounts while you still can.
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Amazon, Bombas, Wayfair
Even frugal shoppers would approve of these deals we found on products you'll use all the time.

As a frugal shopper, I save much of my spending for big sale events, and do research to hunt down the best deals. With Black Friday sales in full swing, there are so many discounts to sift through — but I’ve narrowed down the ones that are actually worth your time, if you hate spending money like I do.

Whether you’re looking for affordable essentials to restock or big-ticket items with deeper discounts than they’ve had all year, check out the sales below that are so good, they even impressed me.

1

Beckham Hotel Collection bed pillows (30% off list price)

The Beckham Hotel Collection pillows are a “miracle” for back and side sleepers, according to reviews, and are also beloved by hot sleepers.

“I like the firmness,” said editorial director Kristen Aiken of the famous bedding. “They're mid-firm – squishy but not rock-hard, and they're not too heavy/dense.”

You can buy a pack of two in a queen, king or throw size. The pillows are made with a 250 thread count cover and filled with down alternative that has a bounce-back design, so you won’t be stuck with a saggy pillow that can’t keep its shape as you sleep. They’re also machine-washable for easy maintenance, unlike many memory foam pillows. Over 170,000 5-star ratings on Amazon agree that these are the real deal, making these officially viral.

2

Mouthwatchers flossing toothbrushes 2-pack (40% off list price)

Taking care of your pearly whites now can save you some major coin in the long run. These clever toothbrushes sport extra-thin "flossing" bristles to help clean deeper and more gently into grooves and gums. They're 10 times thinner than typical bristles, making them more suitable for sensitive gums and teeth. It's never too late to get the freshest mouth ever.
3

A set of 17 glass food storage containers just in time for holiday leftovers (49% off list price)

With so much upcoming holiday meal prep to be done, you'll need somewhere to store ingredients or leftovers (if there are any). Don't settle for cheap plastic containers when you can score a discount on 17 glass containers of various sizes for under $30. You get square, round and rectangular containers of varying sizes, along with five sauce containers. The durable containers are airtight with lockable lids, and are useful year-round for hosting, meal prep and other kitchen needs.

4

A Shark StainStriker portable carpet cleaner (36% off list price)

After watching this Instagram reel of the Shark StainStriker carpet cleaner working its magic, I'm convinced this thing is a "game-changer," as reviewers have put it. The machine come with two cleaning solutions that it mixes to dilute, clean and wipe away stains with water and suction power. It also separates the dirty water from the clean, so when you’re all done, you can dump it without any mess. It also works as a vacuum to grab debris and scraps, plus with its attachments — an integrated crevice tool and a 3.5-inch reversible bristle tool — you can add abrasion as needed. The device is also less than 8 pounds, making it great for vehicle use.

5

Magna-tiles 20-piece set (40% off list price)

For any parents (or grandparents, aunts, uncles and others shopping for kids in their life this holiday season), Magna-Tiles are one of the most beloved ever. Reviewers wax poetic about these things, calling them the “best toy ever.” Some reviewers have gotten “10 years worth of daily use” out of the tiles, providing incredible value for the admittedly high price.

The sets include magnetic tiles in geometric shapes and bright, translucent colors that kids aged 3 and up can use to build different structures using their imagination. The toys aren’t just fun, they’re also helping kids develop fine motor skills, bilateral coordination, cognitive skills, executive functioning and creativity.

6
Erica Kam/HuffPost

My favorite vitamin C serum that's like "glowy skin in a bottle" (25% off list price)

I keep my skin care routine as simple — and cheap — as possible, and usually steer clear of expensive vitamin C serums, despite their promises for brighter, more even skin. That is, until I found Cocokind’s Vitamin C Glow Serum.

I was immediately intrigued by the serum’s seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Association because of my eczema and sensitive skin. I haven’t broken out since adding it to my routine, and instead, the formula feels refreshing, light and gentle on my face (if a little sticky; just wait a few minutes to let it absorb first).

It contains a low concentration (2%) of ascorbyl glucoside, a stable and more gentle derivative of L-ascorbic acid, which is the chemical name for pure vitamin C. My face is nice and smooth after it’s fully absorbed, which is when I follow up with my regular moisturizer. I was skeptical at first, because I’m pretty averse to building a skin care routine with a ton of unnecessary steps, but using this couldn’t be easier.

Reviewers also love the “glowy skin in a bottle” for the non-oily, non-irritating feel and how “it layers really well under moisturizer and sunscreen,” something I agree with. Considering that so many vitamin C serums retail for well over $30, $50 or even $100, I’m so happy to have found this affordable alternative in Cocokind.

7

The Nori Press travel steam iron (25% off list price)

Whether you travel a lot, or just wear a lot of wrinkle-prone fabrics, this three-in-one tool can steam, iron and press clothing much quicker (since it's ironing both sides at once). HuffPost Executive Editor Kate Palmer swears by this genius gadget’s convenience for all kinds of clothing needs in her household.

“I love this little portable iron to smooth out dresses with lots of ruffles or layers, or on stiff collars,” she shares. “It’s less cumbersome to travel with than a steamer. It’s easy to use, portable and well-designed. It also works great for my daughters’ Girl Scout vests, so a win all around.” You can grab the Nori Press in five fun colors at Amazon, or two at Target.

8
Wayfair Sleep

Wayfair's all-season comforter (up to 69% off list price)

You can’t put a price on better sleep, but you can score accessories to assist you in the department for a serious discount. Depending on the size you choose, you can score up to 69% off this all-season down alternative microfiber comforter filled with hypoallergenic plush polyester. Whether you run hot or cold, this mid-weight comforter is a dream find for all sleepers.

9

A seamless, wireless, actually comfortable bra (20% off list price)

Why is it that so many bras are so expensive and so uncomfortable to wear? This Floatley Cozy Bra sale solves both problems, thankfully. The V-neck lounge bra is soft, seamless, supportive and has built-in pads. Grab it in a bunch of colors and sizes XS-2XL.

10

Philips Sonicare 5300 electric toothbrush (45% off list price)

With three modes — clean, white and gum care — this rechargeable electric toothbrush can do everything you need for exponentially better oral care than a manual toothbrush. It's even got pressure sensors to detect when you're pressing too hard, offers a two-minute timer so you can be sure you're brushing long enough, and has a two-week battery life per charge.
This set includes the Philips Sonicare 5300 machine, a charger, one G2 Optimal Gum Care brush head, a travel case, and two replacement DiamondClean brush heads. This is the lowest price we've seen it go for since Black Friday of last year, so a deal like this doesn't come around often.
11

LifeStraw personal water filter (43% off list price)

In the universe of HuffPost shopping, this LifeStraw personal water purifier would be its own planet. It's a compact, handheld tool about as long as a fork that turns nearly any water safe for drinking.

Survivalist Ky Furneaux first recommended it to HuffPost, saying that anyone venturing outside should keep one handy as a precaution. “It’s light and doesn’t take up much room so it isn’t a huge inconvenience for something that may save your life,” she said, adding that “just knowing that water purification is taken care of takes a load off your mind and allows you to fully focus on other needs.”

“It can remove microplastics, bacteria, parasites and more (including E. coli, salmonella and giardia) from just about any water source," wrote in our previous coverage. "One single filter has a long lifespan, providing about 1,000 gallons of clean and safe drinking water — making it well worth the price tag.”

While this is an easy “yes” for hikers and campers navigating water sources in the great outdoors, Uribe notes it can be a smart purchase for travelers and city slickers alike. "Even if you’re not big on the great outdoors, there’s no denying that there’s enough global instability to make one a bit nervous — and the existence of natural disasters alone is a good enough reason to have one in an emergency kit," she said. Over 120,000 Amazon reviewers have helped the product earn a rare 4.8-star rating.

12

The iconic Stanley Quencher H2.0 tumbler (up to 50% off list price)

This cup needs no introduction. The iconic Stanley Quencher H2.0 tumbler of TikTok fame has been on sale only a handful of times this year. So given how often this thing was selling out at full price, don't expect the stock to last too long during this super-rare sale. The insulated cup can keep your drink of choice hot or cold for hours, has a three-position lid for ultimate convenience and comes with an ergonomic grip handle for easy transport. It's dishwasher-safe, has a lifetime warranty and is available in so many fun colors and sizes.

13

An Apple AirTag (up to 38% off list price)

Apple's AirTags are on sale again which means it's a perfect time to re-up or snag some as stocking stuffers.

Each AirTag can ping its own location, so when it's attached to one of your belongings, you can track that item via Apple’s Find My app, which is available in the cloud and on Apple devices like iPhones, laptops and more. Through Find My, you can even tell your AirTag to play a sound so it’s easier to find.

14

My favorite slipper of all, the Bombas Sunday slipper (25% off list price)

One reviewer said the Bombas Sunday slipper feels "like having clouds" on their feet, and as a recent Bombas convert myself, I'm inclined to agree. The Sunday slipper is covered in sherpa for a softness that feels as cozy as it looks. The memory foam midsole and rubber outsole provide comfortable support that you — or your recipient, if you're gifting this — can wear outside (I have run down to my building's laundry room wearing these multiple times with no issue). Best of all, Bombas' "one purchased, one donated" business model means you're helping get clothing to people who need it when you buy. You can buy these in a bunch of colors, in women's sizes 5-11 or men's sizes 7-13.

Heads up: The BLACKFRIDAY25 discount code will automatically apply 25% off when you add to your cart.

15

Roborock Q8 robot vacuum and mop cleaner (72% off list price)

You’ll no longer have to lift a finger to score sparkling clean floors. Boasting powerful suction, smart navigation, voice controls and kid- and pet-safe features, this highly discounted and popular Roborock robot vacuum and mop cleaner takes the effort out of chore day. At 72% off, it’s a no-brainer, instant buy.

16

A 3-piece hardshell luggage set (81% off list price)

Yes, you read that right: This three-piece luggage set is on sale for a whopping 81% off, knocking $940 off its price tag and making the three suitcases together cheaper than even just one Away Bigger Carry-On at its sale price. Available in three colors, the set includes a carry-on, medium check-in and large check-in. All of the suitcases have 360-degree wheels, TSA combination locks, an expansion system and reinforced handles.

17

Tozo's popular noise-canceling Bluetooth earbuds (up to 34% off list price)

AirPods are an expensive purchase, but you don't have to shell out nearly that much for good earbuds. How about these affordable (and viral) Tozo NC9, noise-canceling and waterproof Bluetooth earbuds? Usually $39.99, this Black Friday sale drops them down to under $30.

Tozo, a budget-friendly tech brand, is a longtime reader favorite here at HuffPost. These noise-cancelling earbuds in particular have gained over 20,000 5-star ratings. These earbuds have an IPX8 waterproof rating, with reviewers saying they survive being worn in the shower and going through the washing machine — a feature that most AirPods and Beats don’t have.

18

Nutribullet personal blender (34% off list price)

Smoothie lovers, this is the blender for you. It's ideal for small, individual batches, is easy to use and pulses out a perfect smoothie. It includes the base, extractor blade, one cup, a to-go lid, a lip ring and a recipe book.

Through Dec. 1, you can save 34% on this handy, versatile everyday smoothie maker.

19

An anti-thinning shampoo and conditioner infused with biotin (30% off list price)

This shampoo and conditioner set is a bestseller among hair regrowth products on Amazon. The clinically tested set contains biotin to help thicken and strengthen hair, and reduce breakage and thinning. The aloe vera-based formula also contains many other nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, argan oil and more.

20

Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects (34% off list price)

Having a pack of Crest Whitestrips in one’s bathroom has become as ubiquitous as a bottle of shampoo and now’s the perfect time to stock up on this beloved oral care item. The Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects Plus teeth whitening strip kit contains 20 teeth whitening treatments each with one upper and one lower whitening strip (totaling 40 strips), plus two bonus one-hour express whitening treatments (totaling four strips). That’s 44 strips for 24 daily applications that will leave your teeth more sparkling for the next full year and beyond. All you need to do is use them once a day for 30 minutes. They are comfortable enough to wear while talking and drinking water, so you can simply pop them in and go about your day. These are on sale from Nov. 20 through Dec. 1.

21

A set of reusable Stasher silicone storage bags (30% off list price)

Stasher bags are made with food-safe silicone and can be frozen, microwaved, boiled, and even placed in the oven. The non-porous nature of the silicone material inhibits the growth of bacteria, so you can feel better about endlessly reusing them. Plus, you'll never have to spend another cent on plastic Ziplock bags ever again. Get them on sale at Amazon from Nov. 27 through Dec. 1.

22

The ADA-approved Waterpik Aquarius flosser (50% off list price)

Considered by many to be the gold standard in water flossers, the Waterpik Aquarius is a countertop system that features enhanced pressure with 10 cleaning settings and a 360-degree rotating tip that ensures the pressurized water reaches all surfaces of the teeth. It uses a pulse-modulation technology for maximum plaque removal and has a hydro-pulse massage mode to help stimulate gums and improve circulation. It's also earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance, confirming its ability to remove up to 99.9% of plaque. It's on sale at Amazon from Nov. 20 through Dec. 1.

23

A 3-pack of the Bug Bite Thing suction tools (35% off list price)

"I'm almost too embarrassed to admit how much I believe in this thing, but I'm convinced it works," said HuffPost's news director, Paige Lavender, in a previous story.

The Bug Bite Thing uses suction to extract insect venom and saliva left under the skin after you get a bug bite. Those irritants cause the itching and other annoyances of dealing with a bug bite, so getting rid of them provides relief. The tool has a built-in keychain hole so you can take it on the go. We recommend grabbing a three-pack while the set is at its lowest price ever on Amazon; you can keep a couple in the house and take one with you for travel.

24

Tineco's Floor One S7 Stretch Ultra cordless vacuum (39% off list price)

This Tineco wet and dry cordless vacuum cleaner can seemingly do it all: It has a 180-degree lay-flat design to fit underneath furniture, can run on a single charge for up to 50 minutes, is equipped with a self-cleaning system and has an anti-tangle design to truly make floor care as painless as possible for you. The dual-sided edge cleaning can also help in tight corners and along baseboards, along with the 45-degree swivel, and the suction power and water flow automatically adjust based on the detected amount of mess.

25

A 16-pack of Liquid I.V. electrolyte drink mix (30% off list price)

"May I just say, I am very INTO Liquid I.V. hydration packets," said HuffPost shopping writer Griffin Wynne. "I learned about it from old party animal friends who use it for hangovers. I'm not a big drinker, and just use it on really hot days or when I'm under the weather to get extra hydration in. It's also been great for traveling." These also come expert-recommended for preventing heat exhaustion.

Each powder stick contains eight vitamins and nutrients and can hydrate you more quickly than just drinking water. The sticks are also travel-friendly, since they're single-serving and come in a ton of delicious flavors.

It may not be summer anymore, but staying hydrated is never a bad idea. I personally drink one most mornings, as someone who gets dehydrated easily, and they set me up for success throughout the day. Plus, as Wynne put it, "My only qualm with the stuff is its price tag so when it goes on sale, I snatch it up quickly!" I'm planning to stock up, too.

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