9 Popular Products Our Readers Are Shopping Ahead of Valentine's Day
These are the cutest gifts for your SO or BFF.
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In the Readers' Faves edition of What's In My Cart, we reveal the top products our readers can't stop buying right now, selected from our editors' latest gift recs, trending new launches and the best products tested by Good Housekeeping Institute experts.
Besides being the shortest month of the year, February is most arguably known for being the month of celebrating love — whether that means romantic, familial, platonic or self-love. That theme seemed to resonate as I rounded up the most popular products of February 2025, including recurring favorites that experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test and recommend. In the past 30 days, our readers have been snagging goodies left and right for their Valentine, taking advantage of upcoming Presidents' Day sales on bedding, fashion accessories and lip products. Below, shop top-rated Valentine's Day gifts that all fall under $40!
You may think silk pillowcases are synonymous with "expensive bedding," but our research shows the best silk cases fall somewhere between $20 and $60. This 100% Mulberry silk pillowcase is on the low end of that spectrum — without sacrificing quality. In Lab testing, the fabric proved to be shrink-resistant and sweat-wicking.
What testers are saying: One consumer tester described it as
"smooth and more comfortable than the cotton ones I was using."
Our best overall fanny pack, the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag has reached cult-favorite status among our readers who shop it each month. It's also a favorite among GH staffers who have described it as a versatile and convenient bag they can wear while walking the dog or playing outside with their kid. The belt bag is available in 11 colors — but we recommend the "passionate" color pictured, Pink Haze or Lavender Luxe for the special gal in your life.
What testers are saying: "I bought this bag a few years ago, but it still looks just as good," reported one tester.
RELATED: Lululemon Presidents' Day Deals
While Netflix is almost always a good time, sometimes it's even more fun to switch up your and your partner's routine. Enter: The Big Activity Book. Filled with games, quizzes, puzzles and more, this activity book will entertain you both whether you are at home or waiting for food at a restaurant.
What shoppers are saying: "My partner and I love this book and pull it out when we’re bored of TV or our usual routine," wrote one five-star review.
Gamers of all ages will be entertained for hours thanks to this retro arcade machine that comes pre-loaded with 300 games. It's just under 6 inches tall and is powered by three AAA batteries (not included). The 2.5-inch screen is in full color so you can race cars and play virtual sports in bright hues.
What shoppers are saying: "Bought two of this arcade, one for my son, the other for his best friend. My son loves it! He played it for hours," said one satisfied Amazon shopper.
RELATED: Best for Gamers
To avoid tangled necklaces and bracelets while traveling, opt for this affordable jewelry box that features three necklace hooks, an elastic pocket, six slots for rings or earrings and a removable divider that can create up to four sections. Choose from nine colors and personalize the box with her name and birth flower.
What shoppers are saying: "Absolutely love this little jewelry box. It is great for traveling. The customization was perfect and added the sweetest touch for a personable gift," said a five-star reviewer.
RELATED: Best Jewelry Organizers
A box of preserved roses can cost hundreds of dollars, but you can gift her these four blooms for just under $30. Choose from nine different colors, including classic red to a more vibrant pink (pictured). These elegant roses are meant to last two to three years.
What shoppers are saying: "To my surprise, it was so cute and such good quality that I bought two more as gifts and both recipients loved them," reported a satisfied customer.
RELATED: Best Online Flower Delivery Services
This compact handheld warmer is a recurring favorite among Good Housekeeping readers who have been shopping it non-stop since the holiday season. If you spend time outdoors during the winter, whether skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing, this rechargeable hand warmer is a game changer. Per the brand, it warms up in less than two minutes and can last up to four hours on a full charge.
What shoppers are saying: "Living in a cold climate, I like to have warm hands, which can be... complicated. I bought this on a whim and I'm so happy I did. It's much nicer than the one-time-use products out there. It charges quickly and seems to last a long time," reported one five-star reviewer.
Axolotl toys are all the rage these days. The adorable creatures are trending — even if they are rare to see in the wild. When placed in water, this baby axolotl paddles its limbs to look like its swimming. And when your child holds the toy, it changes color to match their mood. Plus, it wiggles its tail and makes cute sounds. It's on major markdown right now, so we recommend bringing this axolotl home (along with its included pool).
What shoppers are saying: "The cute axolotl has been singing and playing in the bathtub and inflatable pool all the time. Even at bedtime the cute light-up gills are just adorable," said one happy Amazon shopper.
RELATED: Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Kids
Our beauty editors love swiping on a tinted lip balm when they want a pop of color that leaves their lips feeling hydrated. This popular balm from Summer Fridays has a 4.7-star rating on Amazon across almost 3K five-star reviews. Available in nine shades, the Lip Butter Balm is formulated with shea and murumuru seed butters to help moisturize lips.
What shoppers are saying: "This has quickly become my go-to lip product. The balm is incredibly hydrating and leaves my lips feeling soft and smooth," reported one satisfied customer.
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