Butter left exposed to the air in your refrigerator will turn sour quickly, picking up off flavors. This lovely Japanese porcelain and bamboo butter container seals tight enough to prevent your butter from absorbing off odors in the refrigerator. The angular, compact shape won’t command too much space on the shelf, and both the bamboo and porcelain are easy to wipe clean. Take your pick of crisp white or glossy black.

From breakfast in bed to backyard barbeques, there’s much to be said for the utility of a good serving tray. We found this beautiful pressed-wood tray with a terrific secret: a non-slip coating. The top has a thin, invisible layer of polymer that prevents slippery glasses, mugs and plates from shifting during transport. Choose between sizes or pick up both for varying loads. Established in 1972 in Shiga, Japan, Kinto incorporates Japanese principles of simplicity and subtle elegance into its tableware designs.

It's hard to find glassware that is both sturdy and delicate. We like the simple, appealing design of Kinto's iced tea glasses, which are heat-resistant and sturdier than traditional glass. The subtle lip on the rims of the glasses emphasize their sleek tapered shape and also make for easier drinking. Established in 1972 in Shiga, Japan, Kinto incorporates Japanese principles of simplicity and subtle elegance into its tableware designs.

I have tried dozens of travel mugs/thermoses, and they all have shortcomings. They are either too big or too small; the coffee is cold after an hour; the pouring mechanism is awkward, making drinking a delicate act and effective cleaning nearly impossible. The elegant Kinto Vacuum Insulated Travel Tumbler solves these problems and more. It is not only aesthetically appealing but also smartly designed. There are two tops—the inner top allows one to drink coffee like a normal human while also keeping it hot. (There isn’t a spout, per se, but rather a narrow circular opening that directs a good flow of coffee so you don’t have to slurp!) And if you use the outer screw-top lid, this thermos won’t leak if you put it in a knapsack or car. Finally, the diameter is just right for picking up comfortably, even with smaller hands. Simple. Divine.

Kinto's CAST storage canisters have the same neat aesthetic as glass Mason jars without the bulkiness. The canister is made from lightweight borosilicate glass that looks delicate but is very strong. The airtight gasket is very secure and will keep food fresh, but the lids are also easy enough to put on and off. We also like that the slightly flared lip makes for easier pouring and that the jars are stackable so they save pantry space. This small storage jar is perfect for spices, salts or condiments, and they're pretty enough to be serveware on your table.

• Dimensions: Diameter: 4.13 inches, Height: 2.83 inches
• Capacity:  12.5 fluid ounces
• Material: Glass, silicone gasket
• Use: Glass: Heat-resistant up to 248℉ | Silicone: Heat-resistant up to 284℉
• Care: Microwave- and dishwasher-safe.

If you want smooth, flavorful, iced coffee without a bitter bite, cold brewing is the way to go. This cleanly designed, durable glass carafe is fitted with a fine-meshed insert to hold and filter the liter’s worth of coffee. The filter pulls right out and the coffee can be refrigerated in the carafe. A unique top allows for spill-proof pouring from any angle. The Kinto also works for cold-brewed tea.

It's hard to find glassware that is both sturdy and delicate. We like the simple, appealing design of Kinto's iced tea glasses, which are heat-resistant and sturdier than traditional glass. The subtle lip on the rims of the glasses emphasize their sleek tapered shape and also make for easier drinking. Established in 1972 in Shiga, Japan, Kinto incorporates Japanese principles of simplicity and subtle elegance into its tableware designs.