Launched all the way back in 1943 by 17-year-old Ingvar Kamprad, IKEA is now the world's largest furniture retailer—and for good reason. Loved for its stylish designs, affordable prices and clever solutions to everyday issues around the home, this iconic Swedish company sells everything from cushions to entire kitchens. Indeed, there are some things we'd only ever buy from IKEA. From light bulbs to photo frames, these are the top 21 items you should add to your shopping list.

Also known as heat mats or pot stands, IKEA's cork trivets (HEAT) protect worktops and tables from heat damage. But that isn't their only use—these clever little creations can also be affixed to walls to create a custom pinboard. Formed from natural cork, the trivets are highly durable, lightweight, waterproof and naturally fire resistant. Plus, as cork is sustainable, no trees need to be cut down during the manufacturing process. Available in two sizes and shapes, the mats start from just £2.50 ($4.99) for a pack of three.

Truly iconic, IKEA's blue bags (FRAKTA) have become synonymous with the store—indeed, they've been around for 30 years. While some might see them as just another reusable shopping bag, we see them as a durable, ultra-strong and extremely versatile item that everyone should have in their home. Made from 60% recycled polypropylene, these extra-large bags can be used for doing laundry, storing your recycling or carrying just about anything. Plus, they cost just 75p ($0.99).

LADDA, IKEA's range of rechargeable batteries, is absolutely essential for anyone looking to reduce their impact on the planet. Cut costs and waste by making the switch, and you'll never run out of working batteries again. They're compatible with most high-energy items, like portable speakers, toys and torches, and amazingly, you can charge and reuse them up to 1,000 times. You can obtain a charger (STENKOL) and four batteries for £12 ($15.98), which we think is an absolute bargain.

Did you know that IKEA sells an incredible range of real, potted plants? They start from as little as £2 ($2.99) and there's everything from succulents to large floor plants that can be placed in gorgeous pots. You could buy a few to add colour to a windowsill or fill your rooms with lush greenery. Not exactly green-fingered? IKEA also offers some lovely faux options, including the FEJKA, an artificial house plant that hangs down like ivy—perfect for bathrooms and shelving units.

Of course, IKEA also sells some beautiful plant pots and stands, to suit all styles and budgets. You can get hold of cute steel pots for just 50p ($0.79) or opt for something bigger like the black OLIVBLAD plant stand that's priced at £10 ($15.99). IKEA also stocks ceramic pots, woven bamboo baskets and impressive hanging planters that will make a real statement. Don't forget, the plant stands can also double up as a cocktail bar or coffee table.

There's nothing like some candles to create a cosy interior and IKEA's range is vast. Whether you're looking for simple tealights, scented candles, pillar candles or elegant taper candles to decorate your dining table, there's something for everyone. Of course, IKEA also stocks plentiful candlesticks, glass holders and lanterns, so you can get creative with your display. What's more, prices start from as little as 75p ($0.99), so they won't break the bank either.

IKEA's gorgeous range of tea towels (or dish towels, if you're from across the pond) is extensive. From bold geometric prints to simple linen options, there's a design to suit all kitchens. You can get your hands on a plain one for as little as 75p ($0.89) or go for a set of four from £2.50 ($3.99). We particularly like this stylish set from the KRÖSAMOS range, which includes matching placemats, serving plates and oven mitts.

Affordable, sustainable and versatile, IKEA's string tote bags are a fantastic purchase. Formed from cotton from more sustainable plantations, KUNGSFORS will help you avoid plastic bags. Throw one in your handbag so there's always one to hand or hang them up to create a chic storage solution. Plus, they keep fruits and vegetables fresh for longer, since air circulates through the holes in the bag. What could be better? A set of two will set you back a mere £5 ($7.99).

The MOSSLANDA picture ledge is a must-have for anyone looking to create an impressive feature wall. Available in two sizes and six colours, including black and walnut, the floating shelves can be used to display paintings, photos or anything else you choose. Install them alongside your stairs to create a gallery wall, or use them for storage in your hallway. Prices start from just £5, or $16.99 in the US, and each one features a little ledge to stop anything from sliding off.

Everyone needs a tool kit to hand and the FIXA series from IKEA has all the tools you need to get your home just the way you want it. Compact and fully equipped, the set comes with 17 pieces, including plyers and various screw heads. The hammer can also be used as a rubber mallet since a separate rubber casing is included. The ultimate DIY starter kit, FIXA will set you back just £10 ($12.99).

It's always worth having a pack of napkins in the cupboard, for when guests come around for dinner. And what could be better than some jazzy paper ones from IKEA? We love the company's unique designs—such as HAJMAL and VARSIKLOJA—and there are so many colours to choose from. You can get your hands on a pack of 30 for just 75p ($2.99), which is fantastic value when you consider how much they'll add to your tablescape.

Tile hooks come incredibly handy and IKEA's range is both affordable and easy to install. You can choose from the zinc-plated KROKFJORDEN (£6.50/$8.99 for two) or the white plastic TISKEN (£3.50/$4.99 for two) to suit your home décor. But the best thing about these handy hooks is that they can be installed without having to drill into your walls, thanks to their tight-grip suction cups. They stick to glass or tiles, and can easily be moved to a new position, making them versatile and perfect for fledgling DIYers.

BUMERANG, IKEA's wooden coat hangers, are cheap, well-made and far more stylish than plastic alternatives. Aside from using them in your closet, BUMERANG can be used in various ways. Use them to hang up herbs or paint them to create a unique wall decoration. What's more, they cost £5 ($8.99) for a pack of eight and come in various styles, including hangers suitable for coats and trousers. They might be simple, but these handy little essentials are extremely adaptable.

We adore a belly basket and FLÅDIS by IKEA is a favourite. These handwoven, braided baskets are ideal for storing your belongings but they also look fantastic. They're made from seagrass, a material with natural colour variations, so each basket is just a little bit different. You can turn the handles up to hide your things, or turn them down to display the contents. The 25mm FLÅDIS basket costs £13 ($9.59) and you can place just about anything inside.

When it comes to giving gifts, presentation is everything. And, luckily for us, IKEA offers a brilliant selection of gift wrap to help make your presents look even more enticing. Formed from paper, you'll also be doing good for the environment by forgoing plastic alternatives. You can buy a three metre roll for as little as 50p ($1), and there are countless designs and prints to choose from, as well as twines, ribbons, bags and tags.

As iconic as their big blue bags, IKEA's meatballs (HUVUDROLL) were launched in 1985 and are an absolute staple when you shop in store. But you don't need to visit the canteen in order to enjoy them, because the company sells these little treats in freezable bags, so you can whip them up at home whenever you like. You can choose from either meat (£6.95/$12.99) or vegetarian plant balls (£3/$4.89) and serve them up in any way you choose—but mashed potatoes, cream sauce and lingonberry jam is the Swedish way.

Extremely handy to have in the house, scissors can be used for various tasks. IKEA sells an array of scissors, for both crafting and use in the kitchen. Made from stainless steel with either a synthetic rubber or wooden handle, many of IKEA's scissors are designed both for right-handed and left-handed people. You can get hold of a pack of three for just £2 ($3.99), and children's scissors are also available.

Perfect for decorating your shelves, or for creating a gallery wall of dreams, IKEA's collection of photo frames is sure to offer something you like. From basic black frames to wooden options and ones with decorative gilded accents, there's a style to please all homeowners. Frames come as cheap as 75p ($1.29) and there are dozens of sizes, colours and shapes to pick from. 

Even if you don't do a lot of cooking, it's likely you have a chopping board in your kitchen. And we hope it's an IKEA one! The brand's range is fantastic—from large wooden styles that can be used for chopping and cheese boards to price-savvy plastic models that double up as lids for food containers, there's a product to meet all requirements. IKEA even makes bendable boards and ones that hook onto the worktop for extra stability. Prices begin from just £1.50 ($1.89), too.

Did you know IKEA sells their own range of light bulbs? And what's more, they're all energy-saving LED bulbs that can help you reduce energy usage and cut your bills. IKEA stocks a wide variety of bulbs, in various colours and brightnesses. They also offer some dimmable options, too. They're far more affordable than most other brands, with prices starting from just £1 ($1.99). We don't know about you, but our love for IKEA is stronger than ever!

From everyday water glasses to celebratory champagne flutes, IKEA is the place to head if your glassware collection is looking a little sorry for itself. POKAL is a classic design that comes in small, medium and large sizes, not to mention several fun colours—in addition to clear—and can be used with cold or hot drinks. Starting from £4 for a pack of six, that's pretty impressive value for money.

Loved this? Discover more great home hacks and tips