12 Amazon buys our shopping writers bought in 2024 that are 'worth every penny'

Looking for Amazon Prime Day inspiration? Many of our team's top picks of the year so far - from Fire TVs to water flossers - are already on sale

Amazon is like that friend you can always rely on - whether you're panic-ordering a last-minute gift or treating yourself to something you didn’t know you needed (but now can’t live without). With Amazon’s Big Deal Days running on October 7 and 8 and offering shoppers a whole slew of tempting deals, we’ve taken a look back at our individual order histories for 2024 and picked out our top buys - and you might just find your next favourite thing on the list.

Our shopping team spends hours browsing deals both during sale events and throughout the year, so know a good offer when we see one. Between us, we’ve racked up an impressive number of orders this year, from late-night impulse buys like lint removers and white noise machines to carefully planned purchases like TVs and walking pads.

After endless scrolling, adding to cart, unboxing, and testing, each of our team members have picked out their three most loved Amazon buys of the year so far, which span a range of categories. From beauty and tech, to home and fitness, these are the products we can’t stop talking about and are totally worth every penny.

READ MORE: One thing Amazon shoppers need to do to get the best Prime Big Deal Days offers

READ MORE:Best beauty advent calendars for 2024 that are available to buy now from Boots, Liz Earle and more

Bethan’s top Amazon picks: dog treats, jewellery and smart TVs

As someone who leaves everything to the last minute, I rely heavily on Amazon for things like birthday presents that can be delivered directly to the recipient, or an emergency order of dog treats when the jar runs dry. I am also easily influenced by social media and have picked up a plethora of products thanks to TikTok videos, like my beloved water flosser or the viral A Court of Thorns and Roses book series. But then there’s also the repeat purchases I make every few months, like eyebrow dye and my favourite shampoo, because I know they’ll be in my hands within 24 hours without having to leave the house.

As a result, I’ve racked up 52 orders on Amazon this year so far - more than one a week - having spent a grand total of £1,089.11 on various items like Loop earplugs, a matchstick holder shaped like a cowboy boot and Franco’s Margarita salt. But if you asked me what my top three purchases were, this is what they’d be:

Sekonda Classic Ladies Quartz Watch - £20.47, was £24.49

I’m a sucker for being influenced by Instagram creators and I purchased this watch after spotting it on someone’s stories, and it quickly became one of my most-worn accessories. Sekonda is a trusted brand known for its affordable price points, and while this one is usually £24.49, it’s currently got 16% off and is now £20.47.

The timepiece boasts a black strap with leather upper, complete with a gold case and white face with a vintage-style face which looks far more expensive than its price tag would suggest, nailing the ‘quiet luxury’ and ‘old money’ trends that have been so popular this year. Because of its minimalistic design, it goes with any outfit, dressy or casual, and feels like it perfectly finishes off a look.

Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-series 4K UHD smart TV - £299.99, was £499.99

Our old TV had been giving up the ghost for some time with a screen that always had a blue tint to it, no matter how many times we adjusted the settings. We had thought about getting a new one during Black Friday sales, but last Amazon Prime Day in July, I spo]tted this Amazon Fire TV deal that was too good to miss.

The 50” 4K Ultra HD device was originally £499.99, but was reduced to £299.99 - an offer that is currently running ahead of this week’s Big Deal Days. It’s actually the same price as the 43” version, making it more cost effective to opt for the larger screen - and when even our tech writer Harriet tipped the price as ‘amazing’, the deal was sealed. The screen has a really crisp, vibrant picture which makes watching films and shows feel incredibly immersive. Other cool features include the Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote, which you can press and ask to find favourite apps, films and programmes, plus check the weather, sports scores and more.

Having everything from Netflix to Prime Video and Disney all integrated in one place makes watching our favourite shows so much easier, and the quality is amazing. For an even more cinematic vibe, we’ve mounted it to the wall and added LED lighting to the back.

And if you really need some help justifying the price, it works out at less than £1 a day for a year - and seeing as a TV of this spec and quality will last years if well cared for, it’s a fantastic price for such a high quality device.

2kg of Chicken Feet - £20.65, was £29.99

I’m a dog mum and so many of my Amazon purchases are actually for my two rescue Staffies, Phoebe and Frank. I’ve ordered various bits and pieces for them this year, from birthday cakes to those little pens that stop their quick bleeding if you accidentally clip a nail too short. But by far the best thing I’ve bought my four-legged companions is a 2kg box of chicken feet from Hollings.

We love to give the dogs natural chews and after catching ourselves short one evening, I made a quick Amazon order. When they arrived the following day, I couldn’t believe the size of the box. I’d paid £20 for them on offer, down from £29.99, and for that, received a huge 2kg bag which lasted them more than four months, which means it would easily last an only-dog household eight months, if they were having around 4-5 a week (we don’t let them have one every day).

Not only have these been an incredibly tasty, healthy treat for Phoebe and Frank, they’ve also done a fantastic job at getting any tartar build up off their teeth. Girl math would tell you that means I’ve saved money on vet bills, too. I’ve actually just re-ordered them a second box, which should easily see us into the New Year.

Phoebe's top Amazon picks: A treadmill, noise machine and an epilator

Whenever I have to buy something, Amazon is the first place I turn to. As a Prime member, the online giant has unbeatable offers and the free next day delivery is incredibly useful. I'm quite a sensible shopper in that I usually think about buying a product for a couple of days before ordering it. I rarely spot an item and hit 'buy now' without thinking it through, unless it's an essential.

It's safe to say my Amazon purchases this year have been quite an eclectic mix. Some items have been a want more than a need, such as the PS5 game The Last Of Us and the R2-D2 Lego Set. Others I've had no choice but to order, like this wrist support which I wear every day to help with my ongoing repetitive strain injury.

So far this year, I've placed 21 orders through Amazon totalling £670. I know it sounds dramatic, but three of the items I've bought have transformed my life - here's why.

Sperax Walking Pad Treadmill - £229.99, was £299.99

I never thought I'd ever own a treadmill, but when I spotted the Sperax Walking Pad Treadmill on sale for £199.99, down from £299.99, I suddenly realised how handy it would be as a home worker. I'm a member of a gym and I love going on walks outdoors, but sometimes I feel too exhausted to drag myself out of the house. Plus, when it's dark and rainy, it's handy having a basic treadmill at home that I can walk, jog and run on.

My main motivation for buying the treadmill was to hopefully lose a bit of weight, but it's given me so much more than I expected. It gets me away from my desk for a much-needed screen break at lunchtime, and I've had less pain in my back, neck and shoulders that was caused by being slumped at my desk all day.

The gadget is still on sale on Amazon, however it currently doesn't have as big of a discount as when I bought it. The retailer is offering 23% off the treadmill at the moment, giving you a £70 saving.

Easysleep White Noise Machine - £19.99, was £24.99

I'm a light sleeper which isn't ideal as I live in a village where tractors and horses pass early every morning, and our friendly neighbourhood cockerel likes to announce a new day has dawned at 5am without fail. Amazon's Easysleep White Noise Machine was the perfect solution to ensure I'd have a good night's sleep, and I've been using it nightly since it arrived.

It has 25 sound effects - including fan sounds, soothing waves, lullabies and white noise - and has 32 volume levels. Although I bought the gadget to help me sleep, I often use it while practising yoga at home, too, as the nature sounds are perfect for creating a peaceful environment.

The machine also has a night light function and comes with five timer settings, including continuous play which is what I use to ensure I sleep right through. The machine still has a lovely little discount, with Amazon knocking £5 off the device that has truly transformed my quality of sleep.

Braun Silk-epil 9 Epilator - £134.61, was £199.99

After years of using disposable razors and trying different hair removal methods, I finally found the answer for long-lasting smooth skin while browsing Amazon. I wasn't familiar with epilators before I spotted the Braun Silk-epil 9 Epilator on sale, which prompted me to read up on the gadget before purchasing it.

I can honestly say it's a game-changer for me - every time I use it, not a single hair grows back for at least three weeks. The hair that does eventually grow back is lighter and thinner, and there's far less of it. The gadget is currently available with a 33% discount, giving you a saving of £65.

The epilator has two speed settings and a wide, pivoting head which is particularly useful for going over your knee caps and backs of the knees. I have to admit it's slightly painful compared to razors, but it's totally worth it in my opinion - I haven't used a razor on my legs since the gadget entered my life.

Eve's Top Amazon Picks: Water Flosser, De'Longhi Coffee Machine and Lint Remover

I'm a relatively busy person and with a variety of different hobbies and social commitments, I rarely have time to do a spot of in-person shopping, even for important household items. Amazon, therefore, is my go-to be it cat food, sponges, protein powder (Free Soul, to be precise, which is currently on offer for £22.49 from £24.99), my favourite Iconic London mascara, and even an outdoor hose.

But there are a few Amazon buys that have been absolute game-changers for me, my lifestyle and my home. And luckily, they're on sale as part of Amazon's Prime Day Deals.

The Hangsun Water Flosser - £29.99 down from £42.99

Before getting this water flosser, I'd always been one to avoid flossing my teeth (don't judge). The thought of putting a thin string in between my gnashers still makes me shudder, despite knowing full well it is something I should be doing to achieve impeccable dental health. I was recommended this device, which uses powerful jets of water to remove debris your toothbrush can't quite reach instead of the aforementioned satin floss, by a friend and since getting it have not looked back.

I've been using it a few months now and can honestly say that my mouth and teeth feel amazing and deeply cleansed; like I've just been to the dental hygienist. It takes some getting used to (ease in on the 'soft' level so you're not quite so shocked by the water pressure that one first use may give you a bit of a soak) but once you're hooked, your mouth will feel so much better for it. With this water flosser, you get a number of different coloured heads so that multiple people can use it and its long-lasting battery life means you don't need to charge it for months.

It's impressive star rating of 4.3 and 20,000 plus reviews are testament to its quality.

De'Longhi Dedica Style, Traditional Pump Espresso Machine - £179.99 down from £229.99

I am guilty of being a bit of a coffee snob. Having worked in a plethora of cafes (both indie and chain) from a young age, I like to think I know a thing or two about coffee - and how to make a good one. Naturally, one item I needed when I moved into my own home was a coffee machine because I couldn't face spending all my money on takeout flat whites and lattes and, admittedly, instant coffee just did not do it for me. And despite my snobbery, I didn't need a coffee machine with the bells, whistles, baubles, sparkles and more on - just one that made a delicious cup of joe, just like a cafe.

My De'Longhi Dedica Style Traditional Pump Espresso Machine does the trick and is possibly my favourite appliance in my kitchen. Plus, it's relatively affordable - compared to the likes of Smeg, Sage and KRUPS, whose prices are £300+ - and simple to use. It doesn't have a gazillion buttons for the different types of coffee, it doesn't grind coffee (I get mine pre-ground), nor does it have a touch-screen; it has three buttons. One for a single espresso shot, one for a double espresso shot and one for the steam wand (so you can create the frothiest or silkiest, smoothest, steamed milk). And as a former barista, in my humble opinion, that is all you need. Of course, creating the perfect milk may take a few attempts, but once you've cracked it, you're on your way to making yourself a home-brewed latte that is just as good as your nearest Starbucks (or independent alternative).

Plus, its sleek design means it not only looks elegant in your kitchen but it slots neatly into the design without being an eyesore - it's only 149mm wide and 330mm deep. Whilst it's on sale, it's a great investment that won't break the bank too much.

Lint Remover for Carpet - £4.99

While this lint remover does not look like the most exciting device, it has changed my life . As cat owners will attest, our beloved pets' hair gets everywhere and if you have carpets, even more so. This nifty little gadget is the answer to ridding your carpets of cat hair and is incredibly satisfying to do. Not just because you can see all the debris it picks up in real time, it leaves your rugs spotless and super fluffy.

It's the ultimate device to help your carpets look sparkling new - and for a fiver, it's a total bargain.

Narin's top Amazon picks: A wedge pillow, the ultimate tablet gadget and an olive oil spray bottle

This might sound counter-intuitive for a shopping writer, but I hate going to the shops for anything other than a meandering mooch. If you have something a bit out of the ordinary you need to buy immediately then shops are infuriating. They're busy and tend to have less choice and be more expensive than buying online, even if you can track down what you're after without traipsing up and down town. Enter online shopping - preferably done on my phone while winding down watching TV after the kids are in bed.

A look through my Amazon orders gives a (possibly slightly depressing) insight into my life. The two main recurring themes are a range of children's costumes bought last minute for book weeks and themed days at school (£3 for a fake laurel headband anyone?) that make me think I really should get organised before Christmas Jumper Day and a long list of 99p Kindle books which are my guilty pleasure because I keep the app on my phone and will snatch a few minutes to read while waiting in the car or struggling to sleep. But in amongst those are several other gems I'd happily recommend to people

Bobety Multipurpose Wedge Pillow - £25.99

As someone who spends a lot of time on Reddit my favourite item bought this year is something that I saw posted there. What's more, as someone who struggles getting comfortable, I was excited enough when I saw it to immediately hit 'buy now' despite it being in a post packed with items being mocked by Redditors as being ridiculous. Spoiler: To me it is not.

This £25.99 cushion is the most comfortable one I have ever owned. It's wedge shaped, made of the kind of memory foam that is firm enough to support you but with enough give to relax into with a sigh of bliss. I've used it to prop myself up in bed to read, I use it on the floor to lie on my tummy reading a book or watching TV. I've even slept on it when I had a bad cough and found myself struggling to breathe when I lay down.

It has a machine washable cover and versatile enough to be used in many different ways. While I fully admit some people might find it useless, if - like me - you're someone who struggles getting comfy you might just find this pillow game-changing.

Samhousing tablet stand - £19.99

If you want to take your TV lounging to the next level, the pillow is a perfect companion for another of my favourite buys, this tablet stand which clips to a bed or table and allows you to watch your device at the optimum angle. The £19.99 gadget is actually an upgrade from a flimsier version we previously owned and, while it might look like you'll lose a finger when trying to put it in position, it holds both my iPad and my husband's Samsung larger-screened Samsung tablet securely.

It's perfect for late night TV binges at home or, on several occasions, at hotels we've stayed in a room with our children and wanted to watch something while they slept without disturbing them with the big TV.

EUIOOVM Oil Spray Bottle - £8.99

My last top pick is one of the cheapest but most effective kitchen items we use. The EUIOOVM olive oil bottle is £8.99 and allows you to either spray or pour olive oil when cooking.

I bought it on a whim at a point when I realised the rising prices of oil made it seemingly the grocery equivalent of liquid gold. I appreciate the health benefits of using the oil rather than a convenience style spray but, even going to Lidl which has been consistently the cheapest place I've found decent olive oil, prices were creeping up.

There's no leakage or drips (so no annoying oil smears on the counter when I use it) and it definitely helps make the oil go further and last longer in the cupboard.