Achieving smooth makeup coverage depends heavily on the applicator you select. Using the wrong sponge or brush leads to patchy layers, visible streaks, and wasted cosmetic formulas. Exploring the best face blenders helps home cooks and busy people maintain a clean, polished routine without unnecessary friction.

Much like selecting reliable countertop gear to save meal prep effort, choosing the right blending applicator streamlines your daily routine. Exploring our review of the best blender for hot soup in 2026 shows how proper design creates smooth purees, and cosmetic blenders function on that same principle of even distribution.

1
Best Seller

Unfovi 7-Pack Makeup Sponges

Unfovi
In Stock
9.9 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Quick Verdict This seven-piece, latex-free polyurethane sponge set supports wet or dry application of liquid, cream, and powder makeup. Buy it if you want multiple contour-friendly applicators with a monthly replacement supply.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Seven-piece rotating supply
  • Latex-free polyurethane foam
  • Wet and dry application
  • Precision tip for narrow areas
  • Quick-drying material

Cons

  • Monthly replacement recommended
  • No stated sponge dimensions
  • No hands-on durability evidence
Specifications
ColorPastel Solid Colors 7PCS
Size1 Count (Pack of 7)
Product GroupBeauty

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • Seven sponges provide rotating applicators for daily makeup routines
  • Latex-free polyurethane foam suits users avoiding latex materials
  • Precision tip reaches eye corners and nose bridges
  • Rounded side blends foundation across larger facial areas
  • Micro-fine pores help reduce cosmetic absorption and product waste
  • Mild-soap rinsing and quick-drying material simplify cleanup
Best For / Avoid If

Best for buyers prioritizing

  • Seven-piece rotating supply
  • Latex-free polyurethane foam
  • Wet and dry application

Consider another option if

  • Monthly replacement recommended
  • No stated sponge dimensions
  • No hands-on durability evidence
2
-23%
KESHIMA Flat Top Kabuki Brush
Editor's Pick

KESHIMA Flat Top Kabuki Brush

KESHIMA
In Stock
9.9 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
$12.81 Save $2.96
$9.85
Quick Verdict KESHIMA Flat Top Kabuki Brush uses dense synthetic fibers and a flat head for buffing and blending liquid, powder, mineral, and cream foundation. Buy it if you want easy cleaning, low product absorption, and broad foundation compatibility.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Dense flat buffing head
  • Soft synthetic fibers
  • Low product absorption
  • Multiple foundation formula compatibility
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Flat head offers less detail control
  • No hands-on durability evidence supplied
  • Broad head may not suit small areas
Specifications
ColorBlack Regular
SizeRegular
Dimensions5.71 x 0.91 x 0.91 inches
Weight0.0625 Pounds
Product GroupBeauty
BindingHealth and Beauty

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • Dense flat head supports even, streak-free foundation application
  • Soft synthetic fibers feel gentle while resisting foundation absorption
  • Works with liquid, powder, mineral, and cream formulas
  • Synthetic fibers clean easily for simpler brush maintenance
  • Seven-step manufacturing process targets shedding reduction
  • 5.71-inch length and 1.2-inch head suit controlled buffing
Best For / Avoid If

Best for buyers prioritizing

  • Dense flat buffing head
  • Soft synthetic fibers
  • Low product absorption

Consider another option if

  • Flat head offers less detail control
  • No hands-on durability evidence supplied
  • Broad head may not suit small areas
3
Limited Time

BEAKEY 12-Piece Makeup Brush Set

BEAKEY
In Stock
9.8 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Quick Verdict BEAKEY combines 10 synthetic-fiber brushes with two latex-free blending sponges for cream, liquid, powder, and eye makeup. It suits beginners and budget-focused users who want broad daily coverage, though the set offers limited specialization.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 12-piece brush and sponge setup
  • Synthetic, vegan-friendly fibers
  • Latex-free blending sponges
  • Soft, dense bristles
  • Broad everyday makeup coverage

Cons

  • Limited specialized brush selection
  • No storage case listed
  • Requires sponge wetting for expansion
Specifications
Color10+2pcs Black and Silver
Size12 Piece Set
Dimensions6.89 x 5.12 x 0.59 inches
Weight0.028125 Pounds
Product GroupBeauty
BindingHealth and Beauty

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • 10 brushes cover foundation, concealer, powder, and eyeshadow application
  • Synthetic fibers provide gentle use for sensitive skin
  • Dense bristles support even, streak-free coverage
  • Two latex-free sponges expand when wet for smoother blending
  • Non-absorbent sponge design helps reduce product waste
  • Ergonomic PP handles support controlled application
Best For / Avoid If

Best for buyers prioritizing

  • 12-piece brush and sponge setup
  • Synthetic, vegan-friendly fibers
  • Latex-free blending sponges

Consider another option if

  • Limited specialized brush selection
  • No storage case listed
  • Requires sponge wetting for expansion
4
Top Rated

Scartink 12-Piece Makeup Sponge Set

Scartink
In Stock
9.8 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Quick Verdict Scartink’s latex-free set includes 12 reusable sponges in teardrop and beveled shapes for powder, foundation, BB cream, and concealer. Wet use can improve blending and reduce dry, flaky application, making it suitable for shoppers wanting varied applicators for everyday makeup.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 12-piece assortment
  • Latex-free material
  • Teardrop and beveled shapes
  • Wet or dry application
  • Reusable design

Cons

  • No storage case listed
  • Limited to two shapes
  • Cleaning needed between uses
Specifications
ColorMulti Color - 12 Pcs
Size1 Count (Pack of 12)
Dimensions1.574803148 x 0.9842519675 x 1.574803148 inches
Product GroupBeauty
BindingHealth and Beauty

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • Twelve sponges provide backups and multiple applicators
  • Latex-free material suits users avoiding latex
  • Teardrop shape supports broad, even face coverage
  • Beveled edges reach around eyes and nose
  • Wet use helps spread foundation more smoothly
  • Dry use works with powder products
Best For / Avoid If

Best for buyers prioritizing

  • 12-piece assortment
  • Latex-free material
  • Teardrop and beveled shapes

Consider another option if

  • No storage case listed
  • Limited to two shapes
  • Cleaning needed between uses
5
-13%
e.l.f. Ultimate Blending Brush

e.l.f. Ultimate Blending Brush

e.l.f.
In Stock
9.6 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
$8.00 Save $1.00
$7.00
Quick Verdict e.l.f. Ultimate Blending Brush uses a dense, dome-shaped head for blending foundation, bronzer, and blush across facial contours. Best for shoppers wanting one vegan brush that works with powder, liquid, and mousse formulas.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Multi-formula compatibility
  • Dome-shaped contour coverage
  • Vegan bristles
  • Foundation, bronzer, and blush use
  • Dense ultra-fine fibers

Cons

  • No supplied hands-on durability results
  • Large head may limit precision
  • No supplied cleaning guidance
Specifications
ColorBlack - Ultimate Blending
Size1 Count (Pack of 1)
Dimensions2.31 x 5 x 19.71 inches
Weight8.81849048E-5 pounds
Product GroupBeauty
BindingHealth and Beauty

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • Dense dome-shaped head reaches facial contours for even application
  • Works with powder, liquid, and mousse makeup formulas
  • Supports foundation, bronzer, and blush application
  • Builds coverage while helping blend product smoothly
  • Ultra-fine vegan fibers provide a soft application surface
  • Hand-cut and assembled fibers support consistent brush shaping
6

Kolavia 14-Piece Makeup Sponge Set

Kolavia
In Stock
9.5 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Quick Verdict Kolavia's latex-free 14-piece set includes full-size sponges, mini sponges, and triangle powder puffs for foundation, concealer, blush, and powder. Buy it for flexible wet-or-dry application and multiple precision tools, but expect routine cleaning and replacement.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Latex-free sponge materials
  • Wet-and-dry application
  • Full-size and mini sponges
  • Triangle powder puffs included
  • Protective plastic storage jar

Cons

  • No cleaning method specified
  • No replacement schedule specified
  • Container adds storage footprint
Specifications
ColorPink
Size14 Count (Pack of 1)
Dimensions3.1 x 3 x 5.9 inches
Weight0.2 pounds
Product GroupBeauty
BindingUnknown Binding

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • Latex-free materials suit users seeking a softer-feeling applicator
  • Wet use creates softer, more elastic sponges for liquid makeup
  • Dry use helps apply powder and absorb excess facial oil
  • Multiple shapes support broad blending and precise application
  • Works with foundation, concealer, blush, and loose powder
  • Plastic storage jar helps keep sponges protected from dust
Best For / Avoid If

Best for buyers prioritizing

  • Latex-free sponge materials
  • Wet-and-dry application
  • Full-size and mini sponges

Consider another option if

  • No cleaning method specified
  • No replacement schedule specified
  • Container adds storage footprint
7
-5%
BS-MALL Triangle Puff Non-Latex Set

BS-MALL Triangle Puff Non-Latex Set

BS-MALL
In Stock
9.5 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
$5.98 Save $0.30
$5.68
Quick Verdict BS-MALL offers a 14-piece non-latex makeup sponge set with multiple shapes, a mini sponge, and a travel case. Best for sensitive-skin users, beginners, and travelers who need versatile application tools with compact storage.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Non-latex construction
  • Multiple shapes for detailed blending
  • Includes travel storage case
  • Works with cream and powder products
  • Soft, lightweight application feel

Cons

  • Limited independent review information
  • Cleaning routine not specified
  • Durability claims lack supporting details
Specifications
ColorA-Purple
Size1 Count (Pack of 14)
Dimensions1.8 x 1.4 x 1.2 inches
Weight0.1 pounds
Product GroupBeauty
BindingHealth and Beauty

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • Non-latex material suits users avoiding latex-based makeup sponges
  • Soft texture supports foundation, concealer, cream, and powder blending
  • Multiple sponge shapes reach facial contours and eye areas
  • Mini sponge helps with detailed application around smaller areas
  • Travel case keeps sponges stored and protected from dust
  • Sponges expand when soaked for softer application
8

e.l.f. Total Face Sponge Duo, Latex-Free

e.l.f.
In Stock
9.5 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Quick Verdict This two-piece makeup sponge set uses angled, rounded, and pointed surfaces for highlighting, blending, and concealing. Best for makeup users who want latex-free sponges compatible with liquid and powder products.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Multi-sided angled and rounded design
  • Precision point for concealing
  • Works with liquid and powder makeup
  • Latex-free construction
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • Small dimensions may limit larger-area application
  • Requires regular cleaning for hygienic reuse
  • No supplied durability or longevity information
Specifications
ColorPink
Size2 Count (Pack of 1)
Dimensions1.6141732267 x 3.2283464534 x 4.0157480274 inches
Weight0.05 pounds
Product GroupBeauty
BindingHealth and Beauty

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • Multi-sided design supports blending, highlighting, and targeted concealing
  • Angled sides help apply highlighter with more controlled coverage
  • Rounded sides blend liquid or powder makeup across larger areas
  • Precision point reaches small imperfections and narrow facial areas
  • Latex-free construction suits users avoiding latex makeup sponges
  • Two-spongе set provides a backup or separate product options
9

Sinen 4-Piece Makeup Sponge Set

Sinen
In Stock
9.4 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Quick Verdict Sinen's four-piece non-latex sponge set applies liquid, cream, and powder makeup with rounded surfaces and precision tips. Buy it for home or travel use if you want reusable applicators with wet and dry flexibility.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Four reusable sponges
  • Non-latex construction
  • Wet and dry use
  • Rounded surface and precision tip
  • Storage box included

Cons

  • Requires cleaning after each use
  • Recommended replacement every two months
  • No user review history provided
Specifications
Colorassorted color
Size1 Count (Pack of 4)
Dimensions3 x 2 x 1 inches
Weight0.110231131 pounds
Product GroupBeauty
BindingHealth and Beauty

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • Non-latex material provides soft, elastic application
  • Four colors help distinguish individual sponges
  • Wet use expands sponge for even blending
  • Dry use suits powder and other cosmetics
  • Rounded surface speeds foundation application
  • Contoured tip reaches smaller facial areas
Best For / Avoid If

Best for buyers prioritizing

  • Four reusable sponges
  • Non-latex construction
  • Wet and dry use

Consider another option if

  • Requires cleaning after each use
  • Recommended replacement every two months
  • No user review history provided
10
-40%
Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

Real Techniques
In Stock
9.4 /10
ACMS Score
ACMS Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Last update on Oct 3, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
$11.59 Save $4.59
$7.00
Quick Verdict This dense foundation brush uses a domed head and synthetic UltraPlush bristles to blend cream and liquid foundation or skin tint evenly. Best for home cooks? no, best for makeup users wanting controlled, streak-free coverage with a vegan, cruelty-free brush.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Dense domed brush head
  • Liquid and cream product compatibility
  • Synthetic UltraPlush bristles
  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Controlled blending

Cons

  • No stated powder-product compatibility
  • Single-brush package
  • No included storage case
Specifications
ColorOrange
SizePack of 1
Dimensions1.751965 x 0.999998 x 8.251952 inches
Weight0.083996121822 pounds
Product GroupBeauty
BindingHealth and Beauty

Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.

Detailed Review

What stands out in the currently available product data:

  • Dense domed head supports controlled, even foundation blending
  • Works with liquid foundation, cream foundation, and skin tint
  • Tapping and sweeping motions help create a smooth finish
  • Synthetic UltraPlush bristles support product pickup and laydown
  • Custom-cut bristles suit users seeking sensitive-skin-friendly materials
  • Vegan and cruelty-free construction

Applicator Material and Skin Sensitivity

The core material of any blending tool dictates how smoothly cosmetics sit on facial skin. Modern beauty sponges rely primarily on hydrophilic polyurethane foam, a latex-free compound that expands with moisture and maintains soft elasticity. Avoiding natural rubber latex reduces allergic irritation while providing a pliable cushion against dry or sensitive skin zones.

Dense synthetic fibers serve as the standard for blending brushes. Synthetic bristles do not possess a porous cuticle layer, meaning they resist absorbing oils and liquid pigment. These soft filaments glide over textures without causing friction or micro-abrasions across sensitive facial tissue.

Choosing hypoallergenic, latex-free construction prevents unexpected flaking and skin redness. Evaluating material quality ensures you spend less time treating surface irritation caused by rough, deteriorating sponge materials.

Pore Density and Product Absorption

Pore architecture directly controls how much cream or liquid foundation stays on your face versus inside the tool. Open-cell foam structures with micro-fine pores create a tight surface barrier that presses cosmetics outward rather than soaking them deep into the core. High product retention wastes expensive formulations and requires excessive soap to rinse clean.

Wetting polyurethane sponges prior to use occupies the interior cells with water. This saturation forces liquid makeup to stay on the exterior perimeter, ensuring minimal cosmetic waste during blending. Fine pore configurations produce an airbrushed, sheer layer across facial contours without heavy product build-up.

Brushes with ultra-dense head configurations perform a similar function by packing thousands of fine synthetic hairs together. The tight bristle spacing prevents liquids from settling into the ferrule base. Just as an efficient kitchen motor handles dense blends without leaking, as seen in the best blender for nut butter guide, a dense brush head keeps thick creams on the bristles where they belong.

Tool Shape and Contoured Geometry

Applicator geometry determines how efficiently you reach both expansive and recessed facial planes. Classic teardrop sponge formats supply a broad, bulbous base for sweeping across cheeks, foreheads, and necklines. The rounded silhouette minimizes blunt stamping marks to create natural transitions.

Modern blenders often include angled, beveled planes alongside pointed micro-tips. Beveled flat facets allow precise pressing under the lower lash line and around nostril crevices. Triangular velour powder puffs complement standard drop sponges by laying setting powders firmly over smile lines without moving wet base products.

Flat-top kabuki heads and domed buffing brushes offer structured planes for circular buffing movements. The wide diameter speeds up base coverage across larger skin zones, making them excellent choices when working against tight schedules.

Formula Compatibility Across Liquids, Creams, and Powders

Not all blending implements behave identically across diverse cosmetic viscosities. Damp foam sponges excel when handling water-rich skin tints, serum foundations, and emollient liquid concealers. Moisture in the sponge emulsifies heavy creams to prevent thick, cakey deposits along textured skin.

Dense brushes perform remarkably well with medium to full coverage liquid foundations and mineral powders. The rigid bristle resistance pushes pigment smoothly into microscopic pores, offering higher overall opacity with fewer product pumps. Brushes also transition well to pressing powder bronzers without leaving wet patch marks.

Assessing your preferred daily makeup formula narrows down the tool category you require. Pairing heavy stage or studio foundations with a flat-top kabuki ensures strong coverage, whereas everyday tinted moisturizers respond best to water-expanded sponges.

Cleaning Ease, Hygiene, and Drying Speed

Hygiene remains the most demanding operational factor when maintaining soft blending tools. Beauty sponges retain moisture internally, which can encourage mold growth and bacterial accumulation if stored wet in dark vanity drawers. Routine washing with mild bar soap removes pigments and surface oils effectively.

Open-air drying stands or breathable vented travel cases allow sponge cells to release trapped water vapor quickly. Denser sponges take upwards of twelve hours to dry completely in humid room environments. Brushes require horizontal drying to prevent liquid from loosening glue within the bristle ferrule.

Multi-pack sets solve sanitation problems by enabling regular weekly rotation. Replacing daily sponges every one to two months ensures optimal bounce while preventing degraded foam particles from pulling at your skin barrier.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our editorial approach focuses on structural design, material integrity, and daily utility rather than beauty marketing claims. We examine manufacturer specifications, fiber composition, cell pore architecture, and ergonomics across popular blending tools. Our goal is providing straightforward recommendations that improve your everyday self-care routine.

We analyze user feedback patterns, material safety disclosures, and functional durability without commercial bias. By focusing on verified product characteristics, we provide clear guidance tailored to your specific technique, maintenance preferences, and personal makeup requirements.

Final Thoughts

For individuals seeking maximum coverage with minimal product absorption, the Flat Top Kabuki Foundation Brush By KESHIMA serves as the best overall pick. Its dense, non-shedding synthetic bristles spread liquid, cream, and mineral foundations smoothly without dragging. This brush creates a streak-free canvas while avoiding the damp prep time required by conventional cosmetic sponges.

When multi-piece utility and budget efficiency are top priorities, the 7-Pack Makeup Sponges Set stands out as our best value selection. Featuring soft, latex-free polyurethane foam, these sponges expand with water to blend liquid and cream makeup gently. The generous pack count allows hygienic monthly rotation without breaking your routine.

For specialized detailing and targeted coverage, we recommend the Real Techniques Expert Face Brush for Foundation. Its domed head profile provides exceptional hand control around facial angles and eye contours. Pairing dedicated precision tools with efficient habits keeps mornings smooth, much like keeping counter routines compact with our guide to the best compact toaster oven for apartments.

FAQs

What makes the best face blenders in 2026 superior to using your fingertips?

Fingertips transfer natural skin oils and warmth to the face, which can break down liquid foundation formulas prematurely. Specialized blending tools diffuse pigments evenly without depositing skin oils, producing a streak-free layer across delicate facial pores.

Should you always wet a beauty sponge before applying foundation?

Yes, dampening non-latex sponges fills inner pores with water, preventing the tool from soaking up liquid cosmetics. Squeezing out excess water leaves the sponge moist, allowing it to glide across the skin and deposit foundation smoothly.

How often should you replace a makeup blending sponge?

Most cosmetic sponges require replacement every one to three months depending on frequency of use and cleaning routines. Over time, foam cells lose rebound elasticity and harbor internal cosmetic residues that become difficult to sanitize thoroughly.

Are synthetic brushes better than sponges for full coverage makeup?

Dense synthetic brushes generally deliver higher coverage than sponges because their bristles do not absorb excess liquid product. Brushes press pigments firmly onto facial skin, whereas damp sponges sheer out formulas for a more natural, translucent finish.

How do you wash blending tools to prevent bristle damage or foam tearing?

Clean tools gently using lukewarm water and mild, unscented soap or solid brush cleanser. Avoid twisting sponges aggressively or submerging brush handles completely, as water can weaken internal adhesives inside metal ferrules.

Can you use setting powder with a damp face sponge?

While a dry velour puff works best for baking, pressing loose setting powder with a lightly damp sponge locks liquid base makeup firmly in place. Ensure the sponge surface is not excessively wet to prevent powder clump formation.

What is the benefit of a beveled edge on a face blender?

A flat, beveled edge provides a planar surface for stamping creams under the eyes and setting contour lines beneath the cheekbones. It combines the broad coverage of a flat brush with the soft blending properties of a foam sponge.

Which tool is best for quick morning routines among the best face blenders in 2026?

A flat top kabuki foundation brush provides the fastest application because it eliminates the step of dampening and squeezing out a sponge. Just like keeping morning food prep efficient with small appliances reviewed in our best toaster oven under $100 in 2026 breakdown, choosing quick-working tools saves valuable time.