The Better Report Editors’ Favorite February Finds

I didn’t become a commerce editor by accident. I’m simply obsessed with trying stuff, be it accessories for making your life easier, innovative cat products, or the perfect T-shirt. Whether for work or to satiate my own spending addiction, I’m constantly trying and testing new things, as are my fellow Better Report and Optimism editors. Below are some of the items we’re obsessing over right now.

_{Prices are accurate as of February 28, 2025. Subject to change.}

New Owala FreeSip Water Bottles

Before finding the Owala FreeSip, I went through several reusable water bottles looking for the perfect one that traveled well, didn’t leak, and looked cute too. The FreeSip checked all those boxes and it’s been my go-to for a few years now, thanks to its innovative two-spout top that lets you sip through a straw or chug. I then bought the 40-ounce tumbler for sipping at home. The brand recently updated its FreeSip with two versions that I’m as equally obsessed with. The FreeSip Sway gets a bigger, better handle for toting your bottle around and a new locking mechanism — plus a narrower bottom for fitting in a cup holder. The FreeSip Tumbler combines the two previous bottles into one. It has a handle like the traditional tumbler but gets the FreeSip’s two-in-one top that closes and locks. I didn’t think Owala could beat the original, but it’s continued to keep me hooked.

— Medea Giordano, Better Report Commerce Editor

Lillian Fluted Desk

Four years into working remotely, I finally caved and bought a proper desk. My budget was pretty tight (buying a new house will do that to you), but as an editor at House Outlook, I care deeply about aesthetics. The Lillian Fluted Desk from the Better Homes & Gardens collection at Walmart ticked all my boxes: large desktop, two good-sized drawers, sturdy feel, and a natural pine finish with trendy fluted detailing.

— Kelsey Morrison, House Outlook Editor

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment SPF 30

I’m celebrating the big 4-0 this summer, and I’m happy to receive compliments that my skin does not look like it will join the party. I’ll credit my mother’s genes and a lifelong respect for SPF — my current fave is this color corrector from Dr. Jart+. It’s probably not the best choice for someone with more melanin in their skin than I have, but I’m a fair ginger with plenty of redness and I love how this pale green shifts to my natural skin tone. It’s enough SPF for a normal day running errands or walking my dog, and it provides enough tint and coverage to serve as light makeup. 

Jennifer Freeman, Word Brands Senior Editor (Word Smarts, Word Daily, Word Genius)

Knix SculptRib Cotton T-Shirt

Knix is one of my favorite brands. The period underwear legitimately changed my life and over the last few months, I’ve started trying other items like bras, pajamas, and notably, this ribbed T-shirt. It can be surprisingly hard to find great basics. Women’s T-shirts are often too boxy, too cropped, and annoyingly, see-through. Not this one. It’s perfectly structured, thick but not hot, and keeps everything smooth and supported. I’ve been eying the SculptRib tank and long-sleeve now too. The brand is pricey, so I wait for sales or buy one item every few months.

— Medea Giordano, Better Report Commerce Editor

Brita UltraMax Elite Water Filter

The town I recently moved into is known to have high levels of microplastics in its tap water (yikes!). I did some research on the best water filters for reducing contaminants, and settled on the Brita UltraMax Elite Water Filter. The filter itself has an impressive lifespan of 120 gallons or six months, and it noticeably improves the flavor of the water (I’m very picky!). The UltraMax Elite Water Dispenser also has a much higher capacity than my last model — 27 cups — and I love how infrequently I have to refill it.

— Kelsey Morrison, House Outlook Editor

Ettitude CleanBamboo Comforter and Duvet Cover

I don’t care what season it is or what my thermostat is reading, if I’m on the couch, I have a blanket draped over me. I’ve already outfitted my bedding with Ettitude’s CleanBamboo sheets (spoiler: my temp is always perfectly adjusted at night), so I decided to make my couch experience an optimum cozy level with a twin-size CleanBamboo comforter and Signature Sateen Duvet Cover. Who said fluffy comforters had to stay on the bed? 

Jennifer Freeman, Word Brands Senior Editor (Word Smarts, Word Daily, Word Genius)

Featured Image Credit: Courtesy of Knix