Whenever a gift-giving holiday rolls around, my mom goes one of two routes: the classic “don’t get me anything,” or a list of practical staples she’ll end up buying herself anyway (think: notepads, a fresh tube of mascara—you know the type). Which makes finding 2026 Mother’s Day gifts for her feel like a challenge I’m determined to get right. The truth is, she doesn’t need a gift to feel my love—she gets that in the countless FaceTimes, texts, and love notes that keep us connected between coast
Whenever a gift-giving holiday rolls around, my mom goes one of two routes: the classic “don’t get me anything,” or a list of practical staples she’ll end up buying herself anyway (think: notepads, a fresh tube of mascara—you know the type). Which makes finding 2026 Mother’s Day gifts for her feel like a challenge I’m determined to get right. The truth is, she doesn’t need a gift to feel my love—she gets that in the countless FaceTimes, texts, and love notes that keep us connected between coasts. But that’s exactly why I want to find one that feels worthy of it. (Is my overthinking showing?)
I’m not a mom myself, but Mother’s Day still feels personal. It’s about the women in my life who show up, care deeply, and somehow make it all look effortless: my sister, who doesn’t just run marathons but wins them; a dear friend who hosts with the kind of ease I’m still trying to master; and my own mom, who deserves something far more thoughtful than anything she’d ever ask for.
The best gifts are the ones she wouldn’t splurge on herself—but once she has them, they elevate her everyday. Ahead, I’ve rounded up the gifts I’m actually giving this year. My style of Mother’s Day gifting is focused on thoughtful, beautiful finds for every kind of mom in your life.
This is where things get interesting. The best gifts here are the ones she wouldn’t buy for herself, but once she has them, she can’t imagine living without them.
This is what you get her instead of telling her to “take some time for herself.” Each mask comes with a meditation. I’m currently on my third set of these (obsessed) and I’ve started to tuck the little meditations into everything from letters to care packages for my loved ones.
Bedding, for Mother’s Day? Actually groundbreaking. She’d never buy this for herself, but she definitely has a Pinterest board dedicated to the color. It’s the kind of upgrade she’ll think about every night once she has it.
If she’s even a little into skincare, this is the tool she didn’t know she was missing. It’s quick, effective, and makes a visible difference. (This skincare-obsessive writes from experience.)
If she’s the type to reapply lotion three times a day and still not be satisfied, this is the upgrade. Skin feels softer, looks better, and actually stays that way.
A nostalgic, beautifully printed apron that turns everyday cooking into something you actually look forward to. (Shout out to everything Friend of Mine does—it’s Mother’s Day gifting gold.)
For when you want something that feels a little more personal—without veering into anything overly precious. These are the pieces she’ll actually always keep.
For the mom who can throw together a simple meal and still make it feel like a whole thing. A beautiful set that makes even a quick lunch look intentional.
A good mug is weirdly personal. Maybe that’s why I have 20 and always come back to the same one? This mug has just enough weight and shape to make it feel like hers from the first sip.
Not overly positive, not unrealistic—this is about staying grounded when things are hard. It’s the kind of book she’ll read slowly, underline, and come back to when she needs it most.
I trust Anima Mundi with pretty much every part of my routine, so this was an easy yes. It’s rich in botanical ingredients like helichrysum, aloe, and jojoba, so you actually wake up with hydrated, calmer, noticeably better-looking skin—not just the idea of it.
This is the one people stop her for. It’s light, floral, and somehow always reads as her skin, but better—not overpowering, just unmistakably good. The kind of scent she’ll wear every day and still get asked about.
For when she wants to slow down, but needs a reason to do it. This is the kind of book she’ll pick up, read a few pages of, and always keep on the nightstand.
One of those small additions that makes her feel like she has her life together—at least in the morning. Rich, slightly earthy, and packed with real antibacterial benefits, it’s the kind of upgrade she’ll actually stick with.
If she’s still waking up to her phone, this is the upgrade. It’s softer, calmer, and makes her mornings feel noticeably less chaotic. (Bonus: It doesn’t require a phone to operate—so she has no excuses for keeping it out of the bedroom.)
Some gifts just slip seamlessly into her life—no occasion required. These are the pieces that elevate her everyday style with ease, blending function, comfort, and just the right amount of polish.
I’m fully convinced every woman needs one incredible leather jacket, and this is it. It’s timeless, slightly oversized in the right way, and works with everything—from a clean, minimal look to something softer and more feminine.
You know them for their luggage—this is just as good. If she’s the kind of mom who leaves the house with no less than seven things in her hands, this bag is the answer. Big enough to carry everything without collapsing into chaos.
For those of you who need a translation “kess ekht hal balad” can be summed up as f*ck this country although that’s not what it literally means. It’s literal definition is…somewhat confusing. P.S that awkward moment when you ask your dad to proof read and he corrects your spelling of “kess”. Thanks dad.
For those of you who need a translation “kess ekht hal balad” can be summed up as f*ck this country although that’s not what it literally means. It’s literal definition is…somewhat confusing. P.S that awkward moment when you ask your dad to proof read and he corrects your spelling of “kess”. Thanks dad.
Looking to improve your macro photography? This guide explores techniques for capturing sharper close-up images of flowers, insects, products, food, and more, along with recommended camera settings, lighting setups, lenses, diffusers, focus-stacking tips, and creative tricks to take your macro shots to the next level.
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Looking to improve your macro photography? This guide explores techniques for capturing sharper close-up images of flowers, insects, products, food, and more, along with recommended camera settings, lighting setups, lenses, diffusers, focus-stacking tips, and creative tricks to take your macro shots to the next level.
There are many types of dads, and even more types of gifts you can buy them this Father’s Day. While the golf dads and stogie-smoking patriarchs aren’t entirely extinct, there’s an entire spectrum of fathers out there whose perfect gift is waiting for them. Here’s to the tech nerds and entertainment junkies; foodies and wine […]
There are many types of dads, and even more types of gifts you can buy them this Father’s Day. While the golf dads and stogie-smoking patriarchs aren’t entirely extinct, there’s an entire spectrum of fathers out there whose perfect gift is waiting for them. Here’s to the tech nerds and entertainment junkies; foodies and wine […]
Cement and concrete production accounts for about 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions, which is twice as much as in 1990 due to increased construction worldwide. The surfaces under your patio, walkway, or driveway contribute to this, especially when rainwater runs off instead of soaking into the ground.
Since Earth911 first published this guide seven years ago, it has become much easier to find information about sustainable paving. Permeable paver systems made from recycled plastic are now eas
Cement and concrete production accounts for about 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions, which is twice as much as in 1990 due to increased construction worldwide. The surfaces under your patio, walkway, or driveway contribute to this, especially when rainwater runs off instead of soaking into the ground.
Since Earth911 first published this guide seven years ago, it has become much easier to find information about sustainable paving. Permeable paver systems made from recycled plastic are now easy to find online and in stores. Carbon-cured concrete pavers are being used in more commercial projects, and there are more recycled-glass and recycled-rubber options than before. While some information is still missing, homeowners now have real choices. Here’s what to look for, what to avoid, and what’s worth buying.
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase an item through one of these links, we receive a small commission that helps fund our work.
Why Pavement Choices Matter More Now
Two environmental problems converge underfoot. The first is embodied carbon. Cement is responsible for roughly 90% of concrete’s carbon emissions, and the world produced more than 4 billion metric tons of it in 2022. The second is stormwater. Conventional impervious paving funnels rain into storm drains, picking up oil, metals, and tire residue along the way. Permeable pavement can reduce surface runoff by up to 85% compared to traditional pavement, and EPA-monitored studies have documented removal efficiencies of 82–95% for sediment, 65% for total phosphorus, and 80–85% for total nitrogen.
Some U.S. cities now require a certain amount of permeable paving in new parking lots and walkways. Many also offer stormwater fee credits or tax incentives for homeowners who install permeable surfaces. Before starting your project, check with your local stormwater utility. You might be able to save money.
The Greenest Paver Is Often the One You Don’t Buy
Using reused materials is still the most environmentally responsible choice. Salvaged brick, reclaimed flagstone, and broken concrete (also called “urbanite”) were made long ago, so their manufacturing emissions are already accounted for. You can find these materials at architectural salvage yards, through demolition contractors, or at Habitat for Humanity ReStores.
If you can’t use salvaged materials, look for options with three key features: high recycled content, permeability, and enough durability to last for decades and spread out the carbon impact.
How To Compare Pavers
Permeability
Pavement that lets rainwater Pavement that allows rainwater to pass through helps prevent flooding, refills groundwater, and filters out pollutants before they reach streams. The words pervious, permeable, and porous are often mixed up, but they mean different things. Pervious concrete and asphalt let water go through the material itself. Permeable pavers are solid blocks with gaps filled with gravel. Porous or open-cell pavers use grids that hold gravel or grass.specifics, not adjectives. “Eco-friendly” means next to nothing in legal terms, but “made from 100% post-consumer recycled HDPE” is a claim you can evaluate. Reputable manufacturers will state the percentage and source of recycled material on the product page or a downloadable spec sheet.
Embodied Carbon
Carbon-cured concrete pavers are a newer option. Companies like CarbonCure and Solidia add captured CO₂ to the concrete as it cures, locking it in permanently. A study in the journal PNAS found that each kilogram of these pavers keeps about 0.07 to 0.21 kg of CO₂ out of the air. This is helpful, but not as much as some “carbon-negative” marketing suggests. The same study found that pavers made with carbonated aggregates, from companies like Blue Planet and Carbon8 Systems, do even better, storing about 0.4 to 0.77 kg of CO₂ per kilogram.
End-of-Life Recyclability
Pavers can last for decades, but eventually they need to be replaced. HDPE plastic pavers can be recycled in some areas, depending on local programs. Concrete and brick can be crushed and reused as aggregate. Composite pavers made from mixed plastic and rubber are the hardest to recycle because most facilities can’t process them, and most manufacturers don’t have take-back programs.
Paver Types: 2026 Update
Permeable Plastic Grid Systems
Open-cell grids made from recycled HDPE or polypropylene are now the easiest sustainable pavers to find. They can flex with frost, support vehicles if installed correctly, and can be filled with gravel for a solid look or with soil and grass for a softer appearance.
Notable products available on Amazon:
TRUEGRID PRO LITE: Made in the USA from 100% post-consumer recycled HDPE, they are rated for 120,000 lb loads, and their surface infiltration rates exceed 800 inches per hour.
TRUEGRID PRO PLUS: Heavier-duty 1.8″ depth version rated for 250,000+ lb loads. These pavers are suitable for parking lots and equipment yards.
Vodaland EasyPave: 100% recycled PPE plastic available in 2″ depth in black, gray, or green, these pavers can be filled to handle up to 80,000 lbs., depending on base.
Vodaland HexPave: These hexagonal recycled-plastic grids feature an abrasion-textured top to prevent slips on slopes. They run shallower with a 1″ depth and support only a 27,000 lb load capacity.
ModuTile Permeable Pavers: Made with recycled HDPE, ModuTile are rated at 87% porosity and work well as grass or gravel pavers.
Permeable Concrete Pavers
Solid concrete blocks separated by aggregate joints. Best for homeowners who want a traditional paver look, these are solid concrete blocks with gaps filled by gravel. They are a good choice if you want a classic paver look while also managing stormwater. Unilock still offers permeable options on the East Coast and Midwest. Belgard now shares some sustainability data on its website, but details about recycled content are limited.
County Materials’ REJUVENATE pavers (launched in June 2025) and Techo-Bloc’s systems are also worth a look, and they allow water to drain through. GraniteCrete uses pre-consumer recycled aggregate, gypsum byproduct, fine clays, and organic pigments; the spent material can be pulverized and remixed. These materials perform best in moderate climates. To learn more bout pervious concrete in general and find local craftspeople, visit the American Concrete Pavement Association‘s contractor directory.
Carbon-Cured Concrete Pavers
CarbonCure’s technology is licensed to dozens of precast manufacturers in North America. Solidia’s low-lime cement is licensed to producers including CalPortland and is used in pavers and blocks across the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.
A note on claims: Peer-reviewed analysis is the most reliable filter for environmental claims. Carbon-cured concrete pavers are typically sold through commercial precast suppliers rather than retail; ask local masonry yards whether they stock CarbonCure-licensed product.
Recycled-Glass Pavers
More pavers are now being made from discarded glass. FilterPave’s Glass Series, for example, uses 40% recycled glass and 60% local stone, held together with a polymer binder. Each square foot of these pavers reuses about 40 beverage bottles. They have porosity rates of 38% to 48%, can handle foot traffic and light vehicles, and add a unique look to your yard. Wausau Tile’s Washed Glass and Blasted Glass series and Tile Tech’s Recycled-Glass pavers also use crushed glass in concrete, which can help your home or building earn LEED credits.
Recycled Rubber Pavers
These pavers are made from old tires. They are lightweight, slip-resistant, and comfortable to walk on. You can find them easily on Amazon.
Rubberific Dual-Sided Square Pavers feature 16″ x 16″ x 3/4″ tiles made from 100% recycled rubber, sold individually for small patios and walkways.
Aspire Pavers (formerly AZEK Pavers) are made from up to 95% post-consumer recycled tire rubber and plastics. The company reports diverting 500 tires and 1,500 plastic containers per 1,000 square feet of installed pavers. They are sold through DecksDirect and authorized dealers; also available in a permeable variant.
Recycled tire products carry an environmental and health asterisk. Peer-reviewed research published in 2024 showed that end-of-life tire materials, including pavers and crumb rubber, can release polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and 6PPD-quinone, a tire additive byproduct that is acutely toxic to salmon.
Two practical takeaways: don’t install tire-rubber pavers near vegetable gardens or salmon-bearing waterways, and choose rubber products that are tested and labeled for low VOC and metal release. The EPA’s tire crumb research is the most-cited federal source.
Reclaimed Brick and Stone
Reclaimed brick and stone are still the best low-carbon option. They are easier to find now at architectural salvage yards, through demolition contractors, and on online marketplaces. Try to find reclaimed materials from your area to cut down on transport emissions.
Buying Guide: Quick Comparison
Sustainable Pavers at a Glance
Type
Permeable?
Recycled Content
Best Use
Notes
Plastic grid systems
Yes with gravel or grass fill
Up to 100% post-consumer HDPE/PPE
Driveways, patios, parking, walkways
Most accessible DIY option
Permeable concrete pavers
Yes joint drainage
Variable; ask manufacturer
Patios, walkways, low-speed drives
Traditional look, broad availability
Pervious poured concrete
Yes through material
GraniteCrete: 100% recycled
Driveways in moderate climates
Requires specialty contractor
Carbon-cured concrete
Generally no
Embodies sequestered CO2
Standard hardscape applications
Sold via commercial precast suppliers
Recycled-glass pavers
Some series e.g., FilterPave
20–40% post-consumer glass
Decorative patios, plazas
Higher cost; LEED-eligible
Recycled rubber pavers
Limited
Up to 100% recycled tires
Rooftops, decks, play areas
Avoid near food crops & waterways
Reclaimed brick & stone
Yes with sand joints
100% reused
Patios, walkways, garden paths
Lowest embodied carbon
Recycled content figures reflect manufacturer disclosures as of May 2026. Verify current specifications before purchase.
Recycled content figures reflect manufacturer disclosures as of May 2026. Verify current specifications before purchase.
What You Can Do
Salvage first. Check architectural salvage yards, Habitat ReStores, and local demolition contractors for reclaimed brick and flagstone before buying anything new.
Choose permeable when stormwater is the issue. For driveways and parking pads in particular, permeable plastic grid systems filled with gravel are the most cost-effective DIY option.
Read recycled-content claims carefully. Demand specifics: percentage, source (post-consumer vs. pre-consumer), and material type. Vague “eco-friendly” labels aren’t enough.
Ask about end-of-life handling. Pavers last for decades, but eventually come up. Single-material pavers (HDPE, concrete, brick) are easier to recycle than composites.
Avoid tire-rubber products near food gardens or fish-bearing streams. The leaching risk is small but documented; site them where runoff doesn’t enter sensitive systems.
Check for stormwater incentives. Many municipalities offer fee credits or rebates for permeable installations. Call your local stormwater utility before you start.
Ask about carbon-cured concrete locally. CarbonCure and Solidia have licensed producers in many U.S. regions. Your local masonry supplier may carry it without prominently advertising it.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally authored by Gemma Alexander on May 20, 2019, and substantially updated in May 2026.
It’s time to celebrate the ladies who get it done. Mother’s Day is the best because it’s about the women who raised us, the sisters in arms who are raising us now, and of course, you and me. (Tip to avoid unmet expectations: Spend the day doing what your fam thinks you want to do, then take yourself on a solo date the next day to do what you actually want to do. Works every time.)
With so many people to celebrate, I’m always tracking affordable Mother’s Day gifts that still feel thoughtful.
It’s time to celebrate the ladies who get it done. Mother’s Day is the best because it’s about the women who raised us, the sisters in arms who are raising us now, and of course, you and me. (Tip to avoid unmet expectations: Spend the day doing what your fam thinks you want to do, then take yourself on a solo date the next day to do what you actually want to do. Works every time.)
With so many people to celebrate, I’m always tracking affordable Mother’s Day gifts that still feel thoughtful. My Notes app is basically a running list of ideas, constantly updated throughout the year when I spot something someone I love would appreciate. I’ve dropped some of those gold-mine finds here, alongside a few current faves from the mommas on our team.
28 Affordable Mother’s Day Gifts Under $50 for Every Type of Mom
Whether you’re shopping for your mom, your sister, your friend, or yourself (because yes, solo date = solo shopping), you’ll find something here worth gifting. Let’s unpack it—the best affordable Mother’s Day gifts under $50 are here.
For Her Home
Gifting for the home can be tricky—it can easily veer into “here’s something to help you do more chores.” And if there’s one thing moms don’t need, it’s another reminder of everything on their plate (though, to be fair, there are caveats—I freakin’ love the blender I got last year).
The key is choosing pieces she’ll use often and enjoy every time she reaches for them. Think: a handmade mug that feels special in her hands, the cutest citrus squeezer she’ll actually leave on the counter, or a set of bowls destined for nightly ice cream. These are joy gifts: functional, but never just functional.
When it comes to edible gifts, going budget-friendly just means getting a little creative. I love a high-low pairing, for example. A good bottle of white wine with her favorite movie theater candy. Or, try something elevated paired with something equally thoughtful—like Alison Roman’s pasta sauce with bronze-cut pasta in the fancy bag. It’s simple, a little indulgent, and guaranteed to be used (and enjoyed) immediately.
There’s a phase of motherhood when facemasks start collecting dust—little reminders of a time that once was. Instead, I like to give wellness gifts that she can incorporate into her daily routine, so she can enjoy some deep breaths even in the midst of the chaos. A weighted eye mask she can slip on at the end of the day. A bath soak for Sunday nights. A journal that doesn’t require a 5 a.m. wake-up call. These are small ways to build in a moment of pause, even when life feels full.
Our team tests a lot of products, and these are the ones that consistently make the cut. A mix of current favorites and longtime staples, each one earns its place in her routine—easy, effective, and a little bit luxurious.
One of the best affordable Mother’s Day gifts is something that taps into what she loves right now. A puzzle that’s almost too pretty to put away. A book for the aspiring birdwatcher (we all know one). The water bottle that replaces all others. A cookbook for the baker who treats every recipe like an occasion. Because sometimes the best gift is the one that reminds her she’s more than just “mom.”
We would all like to buy the most environmentally friendly appliances available. But in real life, energy efficiency is only one of many factors we need to consider when we’re making major purchases. If you’re dealing with a narrow galley kitchen, living in a tiny house, or dealing with any number of awkward kitchen configurations, the dimensions of your new refrigerator might be your top priority. Fortunately, if a counter-depth refrigerator is non-negotiable, there are extremely efficient opti
We would all like to buy the most environmentally friendly appliances available. But in real life, energy efficiency is only one of many factors we need to consider when we’re making major purchases. If you’re dealing with a narrow galley kitchen, living in a tiny house, or dealing with any number of awkward kitchen configurations, the dimensions of your new refrigerator might be your top priority. Fortunately, if a counter-depth refrigerator is non-negotiable, there are extremely efficient options.
The refrigerators in the original 2021 version of this guide are either discontinued, superseded, or now five years into an appliance lifecycle that averages 10–14 years. A lot has changed — and not just the model numbers.
Counter-depth refrigerators have closed much of the capacity gap with standard-depth models. In 2024, LG and Samsung introduced counter-depth models reaching 26.5–27 cubic feet, nearly matching standard-depth capacity without jutting past your cabinets.
Even better, refrigerant reform is also essentially complete: R-600a, which has a global warming potential 500 times lower than previous refrigerants, is now the industry standard across virtually all new household refrigerators sold in the U.S. You no longer need to check the door sticker for refrigerant type — it’s almost certainly R-600a. One new nuance: R-600a is flammable. This doesn’t create meaningful safety risk in normal use, but it does mean sealed-system repairs must be performed by a technician with hydrocarbon-rated recovery equipment. Ask before scheduling service.
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase an item through one of these links, we receive a small commission that helps fund our Recycling Directory.
How to Choose a Counter-Depth Refrigerator
Counter-depth isn’t a single spec, it’s a range. True counter-depth refrigerators, which are 24- to 25-inches deep, offer a counter-flush look but are relatively rare. Most models marketed as counter-depth run 27–30 inches deep are still meaningfully shallower than standard-depth units, which range from 32 to 36 inches. Be sure to measure your space carefully before shopping.
Fit first. Measure the opening width, depth (including door swing clearance and handle protrusion), and height. Leave at least 1 inch on each side and top for ventilation. Note any door swing obstructions, such as islands, adjacent cabinets, dishwasher handles.
Right-size for your household. The commonly cited rule is that each person needs 4 to 6 cubic feet of total capacity. A household of two can usually work with 16–20 cubic foot fridge; three to four people generally need 20–26 cubic feet. Don’t oversize, as a mostly empty refrigerator is less efficient than one that’s three-quarters full.
Freezer configuration. Top-freezer models remain the most energy-efficient configuration per cubic foot. Bottom-freezer designs put fresh food at eye level but add mechanical complexity. French-door models are most popular and offer the widest variety but use more energy and generate more service calls than simpler designs.
Energy consumption, not just certification.Energy Star certification means a model uses at least 10% less energy than the federal minimum. That’s a floor, not a ceiling. Check the yellow EnergyGuide label on the appliance for estimated annual kWh; typically the difference between the best and worst Energy Star-certified counter-depth models can be 200+ kWh per year, a $20–$40 annual gap at annual utility rates.
Refrigerant. As of 2025, R-600a is effectively universal in new U.S. refrigerators. Verify on the data plate inside the fresh-food compartment.
Features that raise energy use. Through-door ice and water dispensers, in-door ice makers, anti-sweat heaters, and smart screens all increase electricity consumption. If you don’t need them, the most efficient models skip them. Internal water dispensers are a reasonable middle ground that provide convenience without an exterior mechanism that uses electricity.
Reliability data. French-door models with ice makers generate significantly more service calls than simpler designs. Yale Appliance’s 2026 service data, based on 33,190 service calls, ranks LG and GE as the most reliable counter-depth French-door brands, with Bosch leading on temperature stability. Consumer Reports members can find long-term predicted reliability rankings by brand at consumerreports.org, where GE brands and Bosch consistently rank near the top for long-term predicted reliability.
Service access. A reliable brand is only as good as the technicians who can fix it. GE has the broadest national service network. Bosch and LG are well-supported in most metros. Samsung has historically had longer repair wait times, a real consideration for a decade-long appliance relationship.
Don’t forget disposal. When your old refrigerator goes, the R-600a refrigerant must be recovered by a certified technician before recycling. Use Earth911’s recycling search to find appliance recyclers near you, and confirm that they are an EPA Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) partner to ensure proper refrigerant handling.
The Best Counter-Depth Refrigerators in 2026
The original article featured models from 2021, most of which are discontinued. Here are current alternatives organized by configuration, prioritizing Energy Star certification, current availability, and documented reliability.
Best for Energy Efficiency: Frigidaire FFTR1835VW (Top Freezer)
Top-freezer models remain the most efficient configuration available. The Frigidaire FFTR1835VW is an 18.3 cu. ft. Energy Star–certified top-freezer with a 30-inch depth, which is significantly shallower than standard models. It uses approximately 369 kWh/year, forgoes energy-intensive features like an ice maker and through-door dispenser, and includes humidity-controlled crisper drawers and an auto-defrost function. It’s also garage-ready (tested from 38°F to 110°F) and ADA compliant. No smart features, no ice maker; just efficient, reliable cold storage.
Depth: 30 in. | Capacity: 18.3 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~369 kWh/yr | Price range: $600–$750
Best Value French Door (33″): Samsung RF18A5101SR
For smaller kitchens that want a French-door design without a full 36-inch footprint, the Samsung RF18A5101SR is a 33-inch-wide counter-depth model with 17.5 cu. ft. total capacity. Its Twin Cooling Plus system uses two independent evaporators to keep refrigerator and freezer air separate to extend food life and limit odor transfer. It includes an ice maker, Wi-Fi connectivity via Samsung’s SmartThings app, Power Cool and Power Freeze modes, and Energy Star certification. The 33-inch width is a significant advantage for kitchens with narrower openings. Note: Samsung’s service network can have longer wait times in some regions — check availability before purchasing.
Depth: 28.5 in. | Capacity: 17.5 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~448 kWh/yr | Price range: $1,100–$1,500
Best Large-Capacity Counter-Depth: LG LRFLC2706S (Counter-Depth MAX)
The LG LRFLC2706S resolves what was long the core counter-depth trade-off: it delivers 26.5 cu. ft. of storage in a counter-depth footprint — previously only achievable with a standard-depth unit. The Counter-Depth MAX uses thinner walls and advanced insulation to achieve this. It includes an internal water dispenser (no exterior mechanism, which reduces complexity), an ice maker, Door Cooling+ for even temperature distribution, a PrintProof stainless finish, and Wi-Fi via LG’s ThinQ app. Energy Star certified. Yale Appliance’s 2026 reliability data ranks LG as one of the top performers for first-year service rates in this category.
Depth: 29.25 in. | Capacity: 26.5 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~632 kWh/yr | Price range: $1,700–$2,200
Best for Food Preservation: Bosch 800 Series B36CT80SNS
No other freestanding counter-depth refrigerator matches Bosch’s food preservation system. The B36CT80SNS uses dual compressors and dual evaporators, keeping refrigerator and freezer air completely separate to prevent humidity fluctuations that accelerate produce spoilage and limits odor transfer. Bosch’s FarmFresh System includes VitaFreshPro automatic temperature and humidity balancing for different food types and SuperCool/SuperFreeze modes for rapid chilling of new groceries. The adjustable FlexBar adds organizational flexibility. Energy Star certified. Yale’s 2026 service data shows Bosch’s first-year service rate at 12.7% — higher than LG but with notably fewer cooling failures; its strength is sustained temperature stability rather than low failure probability.
Depth: 24 in. (case); 29 in. with handles | Capacity: 21 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~530 kWh/yr | Price range: $2,800–$3,500
Best Premium Option: GE Profile PVD28BYNFS (4-Door French Door)
The GE Profile PVD28BYNFS is a 4-door, 27.9 cu. ft. French-door model with a door-in-door design for quick-access storage without opening the main compartment — reducing cold air loss on high-traffic items. GE’s TwinChill dual evaporators maintain optimal humidity and temperature in fresh-food and freezer sections independently. Includes a hands-free, sensor-controlled AutoFill water dispenser, an adjustable-temperature middle drawer with four preset modes for meat, beverage, snacks, and wine, as well as an LED light wall and Wi-Fi. Energy Star certified with an estimated operating cost of approximately $91/year. GE has the widest service network of any major appliance brand, which matters over a 10+ year ownership horizon.
Depth: 36.75 in. (standard depth; counter-depth version also available) | Capacity: 27.9 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~760 kWh/yr (est. $91/yr operating cost) | Price range: $2,400–$3,200
*GE Profile PVD28BYNFS is primarily standard-depth; a counter-depth version is available at select retailers.
Getting the Most From Your Refrigerator
The most efficient refrigerator you can buy is the one you already own, as long as it’s working properly. To make your fridge last longer, take these simple steps:
Set the refrigerator to 35–38°F and the freezer to 0°F. These are the optimal food-safe temperatures.
Clean condenser coils 1–2 times per year. Dusty coils force the compressor to work harder.
Check door seals. If a dollar bill slides out easily when the door is closed, the gasket needs replacing.
Keep it three-quarters full. Both overfilled and mostly empty refrigerators are less efficient.
Turn off the anti-sweat heater if your climate doesn’t require it, as it’s one of the bigger phantom draws.
Editor’s Note: Originally published on March 24, 2021, this article was substantially updated in April 2026.
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Variety
Earth911
Depth: 30 in. | Capacity: 18.3 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~369 kWh/yr | Price range: $600–$750
Depth: 28.5 in. | Capacity: 17.5 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~448 kWh/yr | Price range: $1,100–$1,500
Depth: 29.25 in. | Capacity: 26.5 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~632 kWh/yr | Price range: $1,700–$2,200
Depth: 24 in. (case); 29 in. with handles | Capacity: 21 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~530 kWh/yr | Price range: $2,800–$3,500
Depth: 36.75 in. (standard depth; counter-depth version also available) | Capacity: 27.9 cu. ft. | Est. energy: ~760 kWh/yr (est. $91/yr operating cost) | Price range: $2,400–$3,200