Category Archives: Product

October 8, 2024 · 4:25 pm

KFDC Picks for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days

As I mentioned yesterday, Amazon Prime Big Deal Days are today and tomorrow, offering some epic deals on items from allll the categories — home, electronics, travel and recreation, apparel, toys and games, wellness and beauty, and much more. Besides all of the deals to be had, a great thing about this sale is the timing. You can get ready for the cooler months and get a jump start on holiday gift shopping. There’s a LOT to browse, so I’m recommending some things that I think are good buys for a variety of reasons: some we have and love, some are great for the season, some would make excellent gifts, and some just seem like really good deals on handy items to have. Hope you think so, too. Happy Shopping (& Saving)!

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RECREATIONA category near and dear to the KFDC heart. Getting out for some active fun as a family is always recommended, and the right gear can often elevate it. (Even better when it’s on sale!)

Hiking Daypack – To carry keys, snacks, water, and rocks that kids find on your hikes and other outings.

Disc Golf Set – A great family sport to get into, so a set of discs is good to keep around. Read more about it here.

Lawn Games – A little competition is a fun way to enjoy family time outdoors, from corn hole to croquet to bocce to Toss ‘n Catch with littles to badminton.

Hammock – Not all outdoor recreation has to be active.

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ELECTRONICSIf you’re in the market for new electronics of any kind, this is the perfect time to purchase — the discounts are outstanding!

Apple Watch – This would be a great holiday gift for a teen or adult… or a nice treat for yourself.

MacBook Air – I’ve read that the Air battery life is so much better than the MacBook Pro, I’m considering a switch myself.

Beats Noise Canceling Headphones – Suggested during pevious sales, because they’re always such a good deal.

Amazon Fire 40″ TV – These TV deals are on fire (lol). Even larger sizes are on sale, too.

Earbuds – This JBL pair are 50% off, and I can attest they are good because I recently bought them (at full price 😕).

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CLOTHES & ACCESSORIESStock up on cool weather clothes for the kids or just snag some pieces that you love while they’re a good deal.

Kids PJ’s – Sooooo many cute, comfy options for kids’ sleepwear on sale.

Striped Sw eatshirt – This Free People dupe looks just like the loved original for a fraction of the price. More colors available.

Kids Winter Jacket – Get them set for cold weather while it’s on sale. This one has a detachable fleece, too. (Comes in more colors.)

Sweater Set – I have and love a short sleeve sort of version of this set… this one looks nice, too.

Adidas Sweatshirt – For the guys… adidas makes really nice sweatshirts, and this is a good deal on them. (More colors, but discounts vary.)

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TOYS & GAMESA few ideas for things that kids will love, plus games that the whole fam can enjoy together.

Marble Run – Our kids had a similar set, and they loved building new, fun configurations (so did I… kind of reminded me of this).

Magnetic Tiles – Another great building set that always got a ton of use in our house.

Azul – One of my verrry favorite games is over 50% off.

King of Tokyo – I have seen this family game on many a list of best new games.

Puzzles – A perfect time to pick out a puzzle… or a few. So many good ones in this sale!

Puzzle Board – How great is this to store and organize a puzzle?

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TRAVELMany of these have probably been recommended before, but with holiday breaks coming up and travel time on many calendars, it’s not a bad idea to suggest them again.

Packing Cubes – I have this exact set and can’t stress enough what a game changer it is for packing.

Microfiber Towel – This is great to have on hand for beach excursions or any swimming ops or if you just need an extra towel for some reason.

Packable Backpack – It squishes down into a pouch so you can pack in your luggage, then use it to carry stuff around once you reach your destination.

Luggage – This hardshell lightweight spinner set has over 29,000 ratings, most of them excellent.

Travel Neck Pillow – The right pillow makes such a difference on a long flight. This one has very good reviews.

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COMFORTS OF HOMESnuggle up! These suggestions are for things to make home life more cozy.

Bean Bag – A cushy lounging spot for kids (and you).

Down Comforter – Who doesn’t love snuggling under a soft, fluffy comforter, especially in winter?

Memory Foam Cooling Pillows – I have a similar pillow, and it was a sleep/life changer for me.

Smokeless Fire Pit – Sitting around a fire pit is such a cozy way to hang out on a chilly evening. The above Solo Stove on sale is 15″, but for something larger and the same price, there is this one.

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HANDY HOUSE THINGSA mix of things that you might not realize you need (or maybe you do) at home.

Nutribullet Personal Blender – Make a solo smoothie and take it with you in the handy to-go cup with lid.

Silverware Set – This one is kind of random, but I need to refresh my silverware, and maybe you do, too? (This black set is cool, too.)

Patio String Lights – For twinkly fall evenings outside.

Garlic Press – An essential gadget to have, so why not make it fun?

Bath Towels – Over 40% off a set of 4. Comes in many more colors.

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ORGANIZATIONFinding systems for making the house more tidy and organized has to be one of the most satisfying things (or just me?). Here are some simple ways to do that, all in the sale.

Drawer Organizers – This set has been helpful. I use some of the pieces here in drawers and cabinets, and Owen took a bunch to use in his desk at college.

Rolling Utility Cart – We also sent one of these with Owen, and it’s been so handy for him, I’m getting one to use at home.

Spice Drawer Organizer – I recently cleaned out the kitchen junk drawer and turned it into a spice drawer (and freed up a whole cabinet shelf for more space!). This expandable spice drawer organizer completes it.

Pretty Storage Basket – If you need a place to put things away easily, make it a pretty one.

Stackable Storage Drawers – These were the perfect solution for helping tidy up my closet shelves.

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BEAUTY & WELLNESSLots of “self-care” products in the sale, and these are a few that stood out to me.

Caudalie Serum – This French brand always gets raves, this serum in particular. At 40% off, I just put two in my cart.

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion – Always see this recommended for treating blemishes, a good one for teens.

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer – If you’ve been coveting this, now is the time to buy — it’s $100 off!

Collagen Peptides – The exact brand I have…a scoop in my coffee every morning.

Weighted Vest – Highly touted lately for its benefits of building bone density, increasing muscle mass, and improving balance and core strength. I bought one a few months ago and wear it on long walks and around the house.

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POSH PRESENTSThese gift ideas are on the splurgy side, which is why they’re in a category of their own. If you want to surprise someone with something they wouldn’t buy for themselves, consider one of these.

Fancy Coffee Maker – For those really into their coffee… I know people who swear by their Breville. UPDATE: It looks like this was a lightening deal that sold out, but here is deal on a very similar coffee maker by another brand.

Oura Ring – I’m so intrigued by these! (See even more less pricey, off-brand options here.)

Outdoor Pizza Oven – How fun would it be to have one of these? Not all cookouts require a grill.

Smoker – For those who are really into cooking meat.

Red Light Therapy Mask – Not the female version of Michael (iykyk). These masks supposedly have great anti-aging benefits for skin. (On my birthday wishlist, not that anyone asked. 😉 )

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This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may get a small commission. This helps me continue to produce KFDC, all completely free to readers. Thank you so much for the support!

Prime Picks for Amazon’s Big Summer Sale

The summer installment of Amazon Prime Day, the big sale when you can score amazing deals on all kinds of products, has begun! And when I say “all kinds of products,” I mean everything from housewares to electronics to clothing to games and toys to travel essentials and accessories to beauty and personal care products… and much, much more. It can be a bear to navigate it all, so a little guidance can be helpful. Thus, I’ve once again done some of that for you and found items that I think are worth adding to cart and checking out. Some have summer in mind, others are practical all the time, and even more just look fun and useful and are great deals. Perhaps you’ll think so, too. Happy Shopping (& Saving)!

PICKS FOR SUMMER
Products to help you keep cool and comfortable on hot days, elevate your fun, and generally make the most of the season.

* Yeti Cooler – The brand that is the king of cool(ers) for it’s durability and because it can keep ice solid for days is on major sale in at least one color. More sizes here and here. If you’re not up for the splurge, this rolling cooler gets good reviews.

* Neck Fan – A hands-free way to cool off outside on a heatwave day.

* Beach Chair with Shade – Not only does this chair have a sunshade to help stay cool at the beach, at sports games, or other events, it also comes with an attachable footrest for extra relaxing.

* Patio Umbrella – Keep your outdoor space shaded and looking pretty.

* Water Bottles – We have a bunch of these… they keep water really cold and are easy to grab for sports, the gym, and other activities. And they fit nicely in my car’s cupholder.

* Water Hammock – For maxin’ relaxin’ in the pool (or other water spot).

PICKS FOR TRAVEL
The right gear can really elevate a trip. These are some things we’ve found particularly useful.

* Packable Day Pack – This bag that squishes into a little pouch is perfect to bring on your travels to use as a small, light daypack.

* Packing Cubes – I recommend these all the time because they are that great and have revolutionized my packing. They help keep everything organized, and something about the different compartments weirdly helps me figure out what to pack.

* Microfiber Towel – These lightweight, packable towels really came in handy on our recent Europe trip in several situations — for the beach, to dry off after rain, and a coffee spill in a train station.

* Luggage – If you need new luggage, this sale is a great opportunity to get it. This three-piece set of expandable, hardside bags with spinner wheels is a good deal. If you prefer soft bags, this set is over 50% off!

* Resistance Bands – Great to bring along on a trip for workouts if you don’t have access to a gym.

* Travel Scavenger Hunt – Fun for kids on a long road trip.

PICKS FOR HOME
Just about all of these suggestions are things I can vouch for because I have and love them.

* Ninja Personal Blender – I love our Ninja blender — use it all the time for smoothies and cold soups — and have wanted to get the small one for single, to-go servings. (FYI: The full-size blender with to-go cups isn’t in the Prime Day sale, but it is on sale right now).

* Pillow – A shredded memory foam pillow has been a game changer for sleep. (Mine is a different brand not included in the sale, but sounds exactly the same.)

* Bath Towels – If you need to refresh yours, this highly rated set is a great deal at over 50% off.

* Electric Kettle – We received ours as a gift, and it has become one of the most handy items in our kitchen. Great for tea and quick soups for kids.

* Portable Steam Cleaner – Recommended in a previous sale, and it’s back in this one and still getting rave reviews.

* Sous Vide Cooker – Not only does it cook things so well (the best steaks), it won’t heat up the whole kitchen.

ELECTRONICS & DIGITAL PICKS
Prime Days always include amazing deals on gadgets and devices. Here are a few good ones…

* Apple Watch – If you want to get one, it’s a “prime” time to take advantage of a good deal — there are some over 30% off in this sale.

* Ear buds – Yes, I always include ear buds in these posts, but given they are the kind of item easily lost, it’s a good one to include. This pair are recommended by Wirecutter as the best value. These are even cheaper and have a decent rating.

* Headphones – If you prefer over-the-ear, these Beats are fantastic deal (40% off).

* Portable Projector – So good to have for outdoor movie nights and kids’ sleepovers. Consider a portable screen to go with it.

* Galaxy Folding Phone – Levi has this, and it’s truly awesome. It has a dual screen that folds, so it opens to a larger screen that he can actually do work on. It’s a splurge , but over 35% off in this sale

PICKS FOR FUN & GAMES
If you like a little competition or just things that entertain…

* Portable Cornhole – A fun one for everyone that’s easy to tote around.

* Calico Board Game – This one sounds fun for the whole fam to play and gets really good reviews.

* Azul – One of my very favorites is on sale.

* Toss & Catch – A beach or lawn game set perfect for little kids

* Left Center Right – A simple, fun party game, great for big groups and all ages.

* Tennis Racket – Be a rebel while everyone else is pickleballing!

* Jigsaw Puzzle – This “Mom’s Pantry” flashback puzzle would be fun for the family to do together.

PICKS FOR KIDS
Suggestions especially for them.

* Beach Chair – An adorable little chair for a little person. Our kids loved theirs when they were small.

* Lunch Box – Plan for the school year and snag these while they’re a deal.

* Scrabble Junior – One of the classics for the younger set.

* Bakugan Set – Are kids still into these? Owen was obsessed! (Storage case on sale, too.)

* Summer Rompers – So cute and easy to throw on, and they come 3 in a set.

* Shirt & Shorts Sets – Sweet outfits for kiddos.

* Magnatiles – This mega set has 100 pieces!

*Magic Set– Nat Geo always has the best activity kits for kids. (See more!)

* Pimple Patches – For the teen kids.

PICKS FOR THE LADIES
From clothes to accessories to beauty products, there are some good ones to get deals on right now.

* Sweater Set – Have and love, and can’t recommend enough. It’s exactly like a Free People set that costs four times as much.

* Linen Pants – Loose, linen drawstring pants… so comfy for summer and very on trend right now.

* Laneige Lip Balm – A fave on sale.

* Havianas – The best basic flip flops.

* Pistola Jeans – Such a great deal on this brand.

* Crossbody Purse – Compact, super cute, and over 40% off.

* Straw Tote – Summer bag when you need more room.

* Supergoop Glow Screen – This really is a great product.

* Hair Dryer Styling Brush – Sasha uses this and really likes it.

PICKS FOR THE GUYS
Just like for women, these include a mix of recs that are a score in this sale.

* Chacos – Super comfortable and durable water/walking sandals.

* Linen Shirt – Nice and light for summer, these are 100% linen.

* Sun Hat – These wide brim hats are breathable and have UV protection.

* Athletic Shorts – With a special phone pocket and lots of good reviews.

* Fleece Pullover – Great deal on a Marmot.

PICKS FOR COLLEGE
I realize this category doesn’t apply to everyone, but we’re shopping for it, so thought I’d include some on-sale essentials here.

* Shower Caddy – They haven’t changed much since I was in college.

* Mattress Topper – I hear this is the number one must-get for the dorm room.

* Laundry Bag – With shoulder straps for easy carrying and compartment for detergent.

* Desk Lamp – With charging dock and pen/desk supplies holder.

* Moving Bags – They have shoulder straps, plus they fold up for space-saving storage.

RANDOM PICKS

The things that didn’t fit into any other categories, but look like they’d be cool to have.

* Telescope – How cool would it be to own one?

* Cold Plunge Tub – I suggested this as a Father’s Day gift, and now included it here for anyone who might like a good cold plunge.

* Supplements – A good time to stock up on the essentials: Fish Oil, Vitamin D, B-12, Magnesium, Collagen.

* Portable AC – On a 100-degree day, this looks like an excellent pick.

* Ice Cream Maker – On a 100-degree day, this looks like an excellent pick. 😉 (And here’s a less fancy one.)

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Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may get a small commission. This helps me continue to produce KFDC, all completely free to readers. Thank you so much for the support!

Amazon Picks for Spring & Summer Adventures with Kids

[Note: This post was written by KFDC Contributor Emily Moise, a local writer and mom of three kids, ages 6, 5, and 9 months. She always has excellent recommendations for kids’ gear as well as local explorations with little ones. See more of them here.]

Spring brings so much anticipation for warm-weathered adventures. Whether you’re beach bound or backyard bound, here are Amazon picks that will get you and your kids in gear from here to September. Most of these recommendations are best for the 8 and under crowd, but some range all ages!

WHEELIE FUN
Dust off the scooters and bikes and get ready to roll. Here are some ways to spruce up your kids’ favorite set of wheels.

Bike (& Scooter!) Basket – This basket zips closed and detaches as a shoulder bag. Here’s one for the traditionalists.

Bike Wheel Spoke Beads – Like Croc charms for your bike! Add some handlebar streamers for extra flair.

Lights & Sounds Attachment – Choose from 25 kid-friendly sounds – like “race car” and “magic carpet” – to alert pedestrians and drivers.

Bike Lock – This has a simple self-coiling design, comes in a variety of colors, and has a mounting bracket that would work with scooters.

Radio Flyer Scoot to Scooter – This one’s for the little ones who want to keep up. Love a grow-with-me item!

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WATER-READY
It’s never too early to prep for three months of water life. If your suits are pilling, dive toys dulling, and goggles snapping, refresh your pool bag with these items.

Two-Piece Swimsuit – Two-piece for the bathroom break win. Here’s another one chosen by my almost seven-year-old. P.S. These are still our winning swim trunks.

Seek & Splash Number Dive – A to-dive-for game for any little swimmers in their math era.

Giant Gator Ride-On – This was one of my son’s favorite birthday presents this year, and he cannot wait to take it for a swim.

Bungee Strap Goggles – Bungee strap is the frustration-free way to go.

Travel Size Shower Set – We have this set in a plain (now boring after seeing these) style. Just irresistible.

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SMART FASHION
I’m a sucker for kids fashion that’s cute and practical. These are items that I’m doubling down (and up) on.

Butterfly Shorts – Flowy bottoms with built-in bike shorts (with pockets!). Perfect for little athletes, or just for the playground hangs and cartwheeling.

Waterproof Slip-On Shoes – My kids love their Crocs, but Native’s closed-heel shoes are so practical, especially in this go-with-everything rainbow print. Here’s a lower cost option.

Unbreakable Sunglasses – For kids who want a “cool” pair of shades. This polarized, unbreakable (!) pair looks like a winner for everyone.

Ponytail Hats – Great for windy beaches, sports, or just for some extra sun protection. Here’s another cute option.

Baby Booties – The best button-close, gripper-soled baby booties in the sweetest print for the season.

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ORGANIZED CHAOS
Half the battle is a great bag! Here are my picks for bags that’ll make you and your kid [appear] organized for any outdoor occasion.

Freezable Snack Bag – Eliminate the need for separate ice packs! There is a smaller pouch size as well as a classic lunch box size.

Bogg Bag XL – A standing, waterproof carry-all for parents. I’m eyeing the add-ons too: phone holder, wallet, and keychain.

Sling Bag – Perfect for encouraging self-sufficient kids during travel or every day outings. My son loves his Pokémon version.

Snacks Bag – Make your “snack lady” job a little more appealing with this appropriately-sized bag. Here’s a smaller version for an emergency stash.

Mess-Proof Wet Bags – Swimsuits and wet clothes will have their place! These are machine washable and have a strap to attach to bags or strollers.

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Well Played
When my outdoor toys don’t hold up or hold attention, they get the axe. Here are my minimalist musts for outdoor play, plus one to give a swing at.

Lightweight (Don’t Hurt!) Frisbees – We’ve had these for years now and they are still flying strong.

Pump & Splash Water Table – This is a totally worth it price tag. The water table phase is a long one, so invest in something good!

Collapsible Beach Bucket Set – The most compact set for on-the-go adventures. This set of 3 includes buckets, shovels, and mesh bags for carrying and collecting. Here’s a set of 2.

Family Pickleball Set – Something to consider if your kids are old enough to rally. The paddle rabbit hole is a good one too – so many designs to choose from.

Extra Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket – Make sure you have a good-sized lounge area for all of the outdoor play time viewing!

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SEASONAL SAVIORS
Don’t let the best laid plans get spoiled by the small stuff. Here are some ideas and products to help weather the elements of the season.

Sunscreen Applicator Brush – IYKYK! Here’s another fun option. I am also restocking our supply of this “clearscreen” for face and the spray version for body.

Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion – This is a highly-rated insect repellent from a reputable children’s brand. It’s fragrance-free which is great for sensitive skin (and noses!).

Sand Remover – The sand whines will be defeated! This one has great reviews too.

Race Car Bandages – Get ready for more outdoor falls! These should help end the tears quickly, and there are lots of styles to choose from, like mermaids and rainbows.

Tangle Teezer Brush – Beach hair, do care…at some point. These brushes are so gentle on brush-sensitive kids. Add some highly-rated, tangle-free hair care products.

 What’s on your warm-weather shopping list? Tell us in the comments!