Best Basic

Melody Angle Broom With Clip-On Dustpan, $9
Problem: Gravity. Stuff falls on the floor, and you have to pick it up.
Solution: This basic, inexpensive, hardworking angle broom does the job. Among other sweep-resistant refuse, strands of hair cling easily to the dense polypropylene bristles without getting tangled up in them, as they would in straw. The chromed stainless-steel broomstick weighs a mere 16 ounces, which cuts down on upper-arm and shoulder strain.
To Buy: Linens 'n Things, www.lnt.com for store locations.