These Iconic Sponges Are the Key to Flawless, Even Makeup

If you're on the hunt for a tool that applies your makeup evenly, quickly and flawlessly, chances are you've come across a Beautyblender or makeup sponge. Makeup sponges are small pieces of foam used to apply makeup to the face, often resembling a teardrop shape. They're loved by makeup users for their ease of use when applying foundations, concealers and other products for an airbrushed and non-cakey finish.

The Good Houskeeping Institute Beauty Lab has a long history of testing beauty products, including tools that make applying makeup easier than ever, like makeup mirrors and makeup brushes for factors including ease of use, feel on skin, and application results. Using this categorical expertise from our GH editors and GH Beauty Lab scientists, plus recommendations from celebrity makeup artist Judi Gabbay, we chose our favorite beauty blenders and makeup sponges all $20 and under.

Our top picks:

Wondering how to use and clean a beauty blender? You can read more about all of that, including how we choose beauty blenders and makeup sponges — plus everything you need to know to shop for one — at the end of this guide. And if you're looking for more ways to improve your makeup routine and keep your makeup tools clean, check out our guides on how to apply foundation flawlessly and how to clean makeup brushes.