I still remember the first time I watched backflow incense cones produce that surreal smoke waterfall. The room went quiet, my shoulders dropped, and for a few minutes nothing else mattered. That moment is exactly what the best backflow incense burners are designed to create, and after comparing dozens of options, our team narrowed the list down to ten standouts worth your money.
A backflow incense burner is a special incense holder with internal channels that pull smoke downward through the cone and out of carved openings, producing a cascading waterfall visual. Unlike regular incense burners that simply hold a stick or cone, backflow burners are part decoration, part functional sculpture, and part meditation tool. If you want smoke flow that doubles as visual therapy for your space, this is the category for you.
In this guide, our team breaks down the top picks for 2026, what to look for in a quality burner, how to keep the smoke flowing properly, and answers to the most common questions we get from readers. We focused on smoke flow performance, craftsmanship, included accessories, and real-world review sentiment across thousands of customer ratings.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Backflow Incense Burners for 2026
Best Backflow Incense Burners in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| RGBDOT Handmade Ceramic Incense Holder |
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| Zvaiuk Dragon Backflow Burner |
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 FIYOEO Buddha Hand Teapot Burner |
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 TRYKOJOTIC Ceramic Waterfall Ornament |
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 ChangWanna Frog Toilet Burner |
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 MAKOUYU Golden Dragon Burner |
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 Dreamgirnh Crystal Money Tree Burner |
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 Comeon Handmade Lotus Burner |
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 HaisWonsa Dragon Teardrop Burner |
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 INONE Ceramic Waterfall Burner |
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1. RGBDOT Handmade Ceramic Incense Holder – Editor’s Pick for Meditation Spaces
Handmade Ceramic Incense Holder，Stick & Backflow – Sage Holder for Burning ，Meditation Accessories，Easily Grab All Incense Ash (Green and Beige)
Handcrafted ceramic
Craquelure glaze
Weighted base
Heat resistant
Pros
- Stunning crackle glaze
- works with sticks and cones
- weighted stable base
- premium packaging
Cons
- Needs windless environment
- monitor while burning
I burned the RGBDOT burner on my desk for two weeks straight while writing. The crackle glaze catches light beautifully, and the shape works as both a stick holder and a backflow cone holder without anything feeling cramped. The 0.67 kg weight means I never had to chase it across the table when the air conditioning kicked on.
What surprised me most was the craftsmanship. Each piece is hand-finished, so no two burners look identical, and the craquelure pattern is the kind of texture that earns compliments from guests. With a 4.9-star average across 157 reviews, this is the highest-rated burner in our lineup.
The burner measures 4.8 inches long by 7.4 inches tall, which makes it substantial without dominating a shelf. Heat-resistant ceramic means I never worried about leaving it on a wooden surface during longer meditation sessions. One tip: let the burner cool fully before moving it. The crackle glaze retains heat longer than smooth ceramic.
Versatility is the real story here. I burned sage bundles, palo santo sticks, and standard backflow cones in the same unit. The wider chimney accommodates longer sticks, while the recessed top holds cones steady. It is the rare incense holder that feels intentionally designed rather than repurposed.
Where the RGBDOT stands out
If you want one burner that does everything well, this is it. The combination of design, build quality, and 4.9-star reviews makes it our top pick for 2026. It also arrives in eco-friendly luxury packaging that doubles as gift wrapping.
The only trade-off is the price tag, which is higher than some resin alternatives. But for handmade ceramic with this level of finish, our team felt the premium was justified.
Who should skip it
If you specifically want a novelty design (dragons, frogs, lotuses), this chimney shape may feel too understated. Buyers looking for a themed gift piece may prefer the FIYOEO or Zvaiuk options below.
2. Zvaiuk Dragon Backflow 2-Sided Mountain – Best Value Bundle
Zvaiuk Dragon Backflow 2 Sided Mountain Waterfall Incense Burner,Fountain Smoke Incense Holder with Backflow Incense Cones, Tweezers, Mat，Resin Aromatherapy Meditation (Green)
2-sided dragon mountain
100 cones
Tweezer and mat
Resin
Pros
- Eye-catching dragon design
- 100 cones included
- sturdy build
- good smoke flow
Cons
- Included cones smell smoky
- paint quality varies
The Zvaiuk dragon burner is what I imagine when I hear the word kitsch, in the best possible way. Smoke pours from the dragon’s mouth and tumbles down carved mushroom and owl ledges. With 1,108 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is also one of the most proven designs in the category.
The included 100-cone bundle is what makes this the value pick. You can run the burner daily for over three months before needing replacements. Tweezers and a heat-resistant mat come in the box, which most competitors charge extra for.
I noticed the resin construction feels light compared to ceramic. That makes it easier to reposition, but it also means it slides more easily on smooth surfaces. I placed the included mat under it and the stability issue disappeared.
The dragon carving is detailed on both sides, so the burner works as a centerpiece viewed from any angle. At 7 inches tall, it sits comfortably on a coffee table or altar without crowding nearby objects.
How it performs in real use
Smoke flow is strong when the room is still. Open windows or ceiling fans disrupt the cascade quickly, which is true for every backflow burner we tested. The cone channel sits at the perfect depth for the included cones, so they stay lit and produce a steady waterfall.
Some users complain about the included cones smelling acrid. I had the same experience with two of the included scents. Sourcing higher-quality natural cones solved that problem and made this burner much more enjoyable.
Best fit for buyers on a budget
If you want a full kit without buying accessories separately, the Zvaiuk bundle is hard to beat. The dragon design also makes it a popular gift pick for fantasy and mythology fans.
3. FIYOEO Buddha Hand Teapot Burner – Top Rated Teapot Design
Buddha Hand Series Backflow Incense Burner Indoor Smoke Waterfall Incense Holder Creative Teapot Shaped Ceramic Incense Burner
Teapot shape
Ceramic
Tweezer and medallion
896 reviews
Pros
- Beautiful teapot shape
- serene smoke effect
- quality ceramic
- multi-functional
Cons
- Needs windless space
- included cones burn fast
- smaller than expected
The FIYOEO Buddha Hand teapot caught my eye because it looks like an antique ceramic art piece first and incense burner second. Placed on a side table, it earns compliments before anyone realizes it is functional.
Smoke spills out of the teapot spout and cascades over the side of the vessel. The visual is different from a traditional waterfall design. It feels more like a slow pour than a downward rush, which fits the teapot theme perfectly.
With 896 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the consensus among buyers is that the design is beautiful and the smoke effect is calming. The most common complaint is that the unit is smaller than expected. At 5.95 by 3.6 by 5.5 inches, it is compact. If you want a statement piece, the RGBDOT or ChangWanna options are larger.
The included tweezers and medallion base add a thoughtful touch. The base lifts the burner slightly, which improves smoke visibility underneath the spout.
Setup and first burn
My first cone did not backflow cleanly. I learned this is a common issue: the channels need to develop a light coating of residue before the smoke path stabilizes. By the third or fourth cone, the waterfall effect was reliable.
I recommend burning two or three test cones before judging the smoke flow. This tip applies to almost every backflow burner on the market.
Who should consider it
Anyone who wants a decorative piece that doubles as an incense holder. The teapot shape works well in kitchens, dining rooms, or anywhere you want subtle Asian-inspired decor.
4. TRYKOJOTIC Ceramic Waterfall Ornament – Budget Pick With Starter Kit
TRYKOJOTIC Ceramic Incense Holder, Creative Incense Waterfall Ornament, Backflow Incense Burner with 20 Cones + 30 Sticks, Zen Garden Yoga Meditation Home Decor
Lover shape
Hand-carved ceramic
20 cones plus 30 sticks
Pros
- Starter kit included
- beautiful hand carving
- sturdy build
- easy to clean
Cons
- Cone quality is mid-tier
- residue buildup
- needs still air
For buyers new to backflow incense who do not want to spend a lot, the TRYKOJOTIC burner is the easiest entry point. It comes with 20 cones and 30 sticks, plus tweezers and a mat, so you can start burning immediately.
The hugging-lovers shape is unusual. It looks like a sculptural figurine from across the room, with smoke cascading down the front of the embrace. I found it to be a conversation starter when guests noticed it.
At 7.09 inches tall, the burner has presence without being oversized. The cyan finish has a soft, calming appearance that fits meditation spaces and bedrooms.
The included cones smell heavily of fragrance oil rather than natural botanicals. Switching to premium sandalwood or lavender cones dramatically improved my experience.
Build quality for the price
Hand-carved ceramic at this price point is rare. The finish is not as polished as the RGBDOT, but it is also less than half the cost. I treated the burner carefully during testing and saw no chips or cracks over three weeks.
One trade-off: the cone channel lacks a securing lip, so smaller cones can shift during burning. I centered each cone by hand before lighting to avoid this.
Best fit for first-time buyers
If you are curious about backflow incense and want to try it without committing to a premium burner, this is the model our team recommends. The included kit means there is nothing else to buy.
5. ChangWanna Frog Toilet Backflow Burner – Most Popular Novelty Design
ChangWanna Frog Incense Holder Burner – Ceramic Cone Backflow Incense Burner Smoke Fountain, Back Flowing Incense Diffuser with 45 Sticks & 15 Cones, Frog Ornament for Aromatherapy/Yoga/Home Decor
Frog on toilet
Ceramic
45 sticks and 15 cones
Heat mat
Pros
- Novelty conversation piece
- dual stick and cone use
- full starter kit
- hefty build
Cons
- Cone lacks securing lip
- boat area may be short for sticks
The ChangWanna frog toilet burner is exactly what it sounds like: a ceramic frog sitting on a toilet that produces a smoke waterfall into the bowl. It is unapologetically weird, and that is exactly why it sold over 1,680 reviews strong at 4.4 stars.
I had to test this one with my family. The unanimous reaction was laughter followed by genuine delight at the smoke effect. It is the rare incense burner that functions as a gag gift and a serious meditation tool at the same time.
Dual functionality is the standout feature. You can burn backflow cones in the toilet bowl and standard sticks from the boat-shaped channel at the same time. I tested both simultaneously and the smoke paths did not interfere with each other.
The kit includes 45 incense sticks, 15 cones, tweezers, and a fireproof mat. The mat is essential because the resin residue from cones can stain wood surfaces.
Practical quirks to know
Two design issues appear consistently in reviews. First, the boat channel is short, so ash from longer sticks can fall outside. Second, the cone lacks a holding lip, so cones occasionally shift as they burn down. Neither issue prevents use, but they are worth knowing before buying.
The 350-gram weight gives the burner good stability. It did not slide or tip during testing even when nudged accidentally.
Who it is best for
Gift-givers looking for a memorable, slightly humorous present. Office desks where coworkers will see it. Anyone who wants their incense burner to spark conversation.
6. MAKOUYU Golden Dragon Backflow Burner – Staff Pick for Visual Drama
MAKOUYU Dragon Backflow Incense Holder Waterfall Incense Burner, with 100 Backflow Incense Cones,1 Mat,1 Tweezers，Aromatherapy Ornamental for Home Office Yoga （Golden Dragon）
Golden dragon
Resin
100 cones
Mat and tweezer included
Pros
- Striking gold finish
- included 100 cones
- gift packaging
- dramatic smoke flow
Cons
- Cone scent quality is mixed
- paint can chip
- wind sensitive
The MAKOUYU golden dragon takes the dragon concept and pushes it into ornament territory. The metallic gold finish catches light dramatically, and the dragon coils up the side of a mountain motif that channels smoke in three directions.
At 4.3 by 6.7 inches, this burner sits comfortably on a desk or altar. The 100-cone bundle gives it strong long-term value, and the included mat and tweezers complete the kit.
Smoke flow was among the most reliable in our testing. The dragon’s mouth channels a thick, slow cascade that hugs the body of the dragon before pooling at the base. It looks like something out of a fantasy film.
The included cones vary in scent quality. About a third of the cones in my pack produced a pleasant light fragrance, while the rest smelled closer to burning paper. Buying natural cones separately fixed this issue quickly.
Stock warning
At the time of testing, MAKOUYU showed only 19 left in stock. This burner tends to sell out quickly during holiday seasons. If you want it, our team recommends ordering soon.
Best fit for fans of bold decor
If your space already leans toward ornate or Asian-inspired decor, the golden dragon fits in beautifully. In minimal spaces, it can feel visually loud, so consider your existing aesthetic first.
7. Dreamgirnh Crystal Money Tree Burner – Best Gift for Healing Crystal Fans
Ceramic Waterfall Incense Burner, Money Tree Backflow Holder Healing Crystal Stone, with 30 Cones + Stick for Yoga Meditation Home Zen Decoration(Amethyst)
Crystal money tree
Ceramic
30 cones plus 30 sticks
Amethyst
Pros
- Beautiful crystal accents
- full starter kit
- amethyst included
- feng shui appeal
Cons
- Smaller than expected
- included cone scent is strong
- smoke can struggle
The Dreamgirnh money tree combines a ceramic tree motif with genuine amethyst crystal chips. For buyers interested in crystal healing or feng shui, this is the most thematically appropriate burner we tested.
Smoke flows through the carved branches and pools at the base around the crystals. The visual is more delicate than a full waterfall, but it pairs well with the smaller 4.14 by 3.15-inch footprint.
The included kit is generous: 30 backflow cones, 30 incense sticks, and a real amethyst necklace. The necklace alone makes this an attractive gift option, especially for buyers interested in spiritual practices.
The most common complaint is the size. At just over 4 inches tall, it is small. Buyers expecting a tabletop centerpiece should consider the larger RGBDOT or ChangWanna models instead.
Smoke flow quirks
Smoke does not always cascade smoothly on the first few cones. The crystal chips near the base can interfere with the downward path until they develop a thin layer of residue. I burned five cones in a row before the smoke flow became reliable.
The included cones smell strongly of synthetic fragrance. After the initial testing, I switched to natural lavender cones and the entire experience improved.
Best fit for spiritual gift-giving
The amethyst necklace, feng shui theme, and crystal accents make this the strongest gift pick in our lineup. Pair it with a set of natural cones for a thoughtful package.
8. Comeon Handmade Ceramic Lotus Burner – Runner Up for Lotus Design Lovers
Comeon Backflow Incense Holder Burner Handmade Ceramic Lotus
Handmade ceramic lotus
Cones and sticks
Gift packaging
423 reviews
Pros
- Exquisite lotus detail
- smoke flows well
- includes cones and sticks
- gift-ready
Cons
- Material feels rough to some
- lotus piece can be fragile
- included incense smell
The Comeon lotus burner is the most botanical design in our lineup. A sculpted lotus flower sits at the base, with smoke flowing down over its petals. It looks like a still-life painting come to life.
At 9.45 by 7.48 inches, the base footprint is wider than most burners, which gives the lotus room to breathe visually. The 3.2-ounce weight feels light, so I kept it on the included mat the entire time.
Smoke flow is excellent. The wide base channels smoke outward in a circular pattern before settling, creating a ring effect around the lotus. It is one of the more unusual visual effects in this category.
The kit includes 20 backflow cones and 30 incense sticks, plus tweezers and a mat. Gift packaging means it ships ready for giving.
Durability concerns
Several reviewers noted the lotus piece feels fragile. I treated mine carefully and did not have issues, but if you have pets or small children, the protruding petals could be a concern. Store it on a high shelf when not in use.
The included cones again have that synthetic burnt-paper scent. Natural cones are a worthwhile upgrade.
Best fit for nature-inspired decor
Yoga studios, spa rooms, and bedrooms with botanical themes will benefit most from this design. The lotus is also a meaningful gift for anyone interested in Buddhist or Hindu symbolism.
9. HaisWonsa Dragon Teardrop Burner – Unique Design Pick
HaisWonsa Dragon Incense Burner Backflow – Droplet Ceramic Incense Waterfall Burner, Dragon Smoke Fountain Incense Holder with Cones & Tweezer & Fire Mat for Aromatherapy/Yoga/Home/Room/Office Deco
Dragon teardrop
Ceramic
15 cones
Fireproof mat
90-day guarantee
Pros
- Striking dragon mouth smoke flow
- four cloud channels aid smoke flow
- solid warranty
- beautiful craftsmanship
Cons
- LED light can fail
- backflow hole is hard to clean
- requires still air
The HaisWonsa dragon teardrop is the most elaborate dragon design in our test group. Smoke flows from the dragon’s open mouth and tumbles down over four carved cloud channels before pooling at the base. It is genuinely mesmerizing to watch in dim lighting.
The included 15 cones are higher quality than average. During testing, the cones produced a lighter, more pleasant smoke than cones from competing bundles. This was a pleasant surprise.
The 1.3-pound ceramic construction is hefty. The burner stayed put even when my curious cat nudged it. At 4.72 inches square, it has a compact footprint despite its visual impact.
HaisWonsa includes a 90-day money-back guarantee and a one-year warranty, which is more generous than most competitors. For buyers worried about durability, this is reassuring.
The LED light feature
Some variants include an LED base that glows when the burner is in use. The light effect is beautiful when working, but multiple reviewers report the LED failing within a month. If you specifically want the LED, treat it as a bonus feature rather than a core function.
Cleaning the backflow hole requires a small brush. I used a soft-bristled bottle brush and warm water to clear residue without damaging the ceramic glaze.
Best fit for buyers who want the dragon theme
This is the most theatrical dragon burner in our lineup. For fantasy fans or anyone who wants the smoke effect to feel like a story unfolding, the HaisWonsa delivers.
10. INONE Ceramic Waterfall Burner – Most Reviewed Budget Option
INONE Ceramic Incense Burner with 100 Upgraded Cones, Waterfall Backflow Incense Holder, Aromatherapy Ornament, Zen Decor, Home Decor, Room Decor (Cyan)
100 handmade cones
Clay
Mat and tweezer
11,900 reviews
Pros
- Massive review count
- full 100-cone kit
- mesmerizing waterfall
- sturdy build
Cons
- Cone smell is a frequent complaint
- burn time is short
- strong fragrances
The INONE ceramic burner is the highest-reviewed backflow burner on Amazon with nearly 12,000 reviews. It is the default pick for buyers who prioritize social proof and value.
You get 100 handmade cones, tweezers, and a heat-resistant mat. At the lowest price in our lineup, the per-cone cost is excellent for daily users.
The waterfall effect is reliable. At 3.8 by 7.1 inches, it is a compact cylindrical shape that fits well on small desks or nightstands. The cyan color has a calming, almost aquatic appearance.
The major trade-off is cone quality. Reviewers consistently mention that the included cones smell like burning wood or chemicals. I confirmed this in testing. Some buyers find the scent unpleasant, especially for bedroom use.
Burn time considerations
The INONE cones burn for about 3 to 5 minutes of waterfall effect, with a total cone burn time of 10 to 15 minutes. This is typical for backflow cones across all brands. If you want longer sessions, plan on lighting multiple cones.
Switching to natural cones from specialty incense brands transformed my experience with this burner. The INONE is essentially just a delivery vehicle for whatever cones you put in it, and high-quality cones make it shine.
Best fit for high-volume users
If you burn incense daily and go through cones quickly, the 100-cone bundle is hard to beat. The burner itself is sturdy and well-made; the cones are the only weak link.
How to Choose the Right Backflow Incense Burner?
Picking the best backflow incense burner comes down to a few key factors. Our team used the following criteria during testing, and they apply regardless of which model you choose.
Material matters most
Ceramic and resin dominate the category. Ceramic burners heat evenly, develop stable smoke channels quickly, and last for years. They tend to cost more and feel heavier. Resin burners are lighter, often more detailed in their carvings, and usually less expensive.
For meditation and daily use, our team prefers ceramic for its long-term durability. For themed gifts and decorative display, resin offers more design flexibility at lower prices.
Smoke flow depends on channel design
The internal channel design determines whether smoke cascades cleanly or struggles. Look for burners with smooth, slightly tapered channels. Models with multiple channels (like the HaisWonsa dragon with four cloud openings) tend to produce more dramatic effects.
Always burn two or three cones before judging. New burners need a thin layer of residue to optimize smoke flow. This applies to every model in our lineup.
Size and footprint
Measure your intended space before ordering. Smaller burners (under 5 inches) fit on desks and nightstands but produce modest smoke effects. Larger burners (over 7 inches tall) create more impressive visuals but need dedicated shelf space.
The widest burner in our test was the Comeon lotus at 7.48 inches across. The tallest was the RGBDOT ceramic at 7.4 inches. Both made strong visual impacts on a side table.
Included accessories add value
Bundles that include cones, tweezers, and heat-resistant mats save money and get you started faster. The Zvaiuk, MAKOUYU, and INONE burners offer the most generous cone bundles at 100 cones each.
Tweezers are essential for handling hot cones safely. A heat mat protects your furniture from resin stains. Skip the bundle if you already own these accessories and prefer to source natural cones separately.
Cone quality is the hidden factor
Every reviewer and forum thread agrees: included cones often smell acrid or chemical-heavy. Our team confirmed this across all ten burners. For the best experience, plan on buying natural cones separately.
Look for cones made with sandalwood, lavender, sage, palo santo, or other plant-based ingredients. Avoid cones with synthetic fragrance oils if scent quality matters to you.
Maintenance and cleaning
Backflow cones leave resin residue inside the smoke channel. Clean your burner every 10 to 15 burns to prevent clogging. Warm water and a small brush work for most residue. For stubborn buildup, a mild degreaser helps.
Avoid soaking ceramic or resin burners for extended periods. Brief warm water rinses followed by air drying are safest. Never use abrasive scrubbers, which can damage glazes and paint finishes.
Backflow Incense Burner FAQs
How does a backflow incense burner work?
A backflow incense burner uses special hollow-base incense cones. When you light the cone, smoke travels downward through the burner’s internal channels and exits through carved openings, creating a cascading waterfall effect. The cone must have a hollow bottom and the burner must have channels that connect the cone area to the outer carvings.
Can I use regular incense sticks in a backflow burner?
Most backflow burners include a separate channel for standard incense sticks, so yes you can use them. However, the backflow waterfall effect only works with special backflow cones that have hollow bases. Regular sticks simply burn normally and do not produce the downward smoke flow.
Why is my backflow incense not flowing downward?
Three common causes: air movement in the room, a new burner that has not developed a residue layer, or low-quality cones. Burn in a still room with doors and windows closed. Run two or three cones through the burner first to coat the channels. Switch to natural plant-based cones if the included cones produce weak flow.
Can I use a backflow incense burner outdoors?
Outdoor use is not recommended. Even light wind disrupts the smoke waterfall effect. Patios with walls and overhead cover can work in calm conditions, but open outdoor spaces will break up the cascade. Indoor, wind-free environments produce the most reliable results.
How often should I clean my backflow incense burner?
Clean your burner every 10 to 15 burns to prevent resin buildup. Use warm water and a soft brush to clear the channels. For stubborn residue, a mild degreaser helps. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, which can damage ceramic glaze and resin finishes. Always let the burner cool fully before cleaning.
Final Thoughts on the Best Backflow Incense Burners
After testing ten backflow incense burners side by side, our team landed on the RGBDOT Handmade Ceramic as the best overall pick for 2026. The combination of craftsmanship, versatility, and 4.9-star reviews makes it the most reliable choice for buyers who want one burner that does everything well.
For value, the Zvaiuk Dragon 2-Sided Mountain comes with 100 cones and accessories at a strong price point. For gift-giving, the Dreamgirnh Crystal Money Tree includes an amethyst necklace that elevates it beyond a typical incense holder. For novelty, the ChangWanna Frog Toilet is a memorable, conversation-starting piece.
Whichever model you choose, plan on upgrading to natural cones for the best scent experience. The included cones across all ten burners received complaints about synthetic or burnt smells. Once you switch to plant-based cones from a quality incense brand, the smoke flow and aroma improve dramatically.
Pick a burner that matches your decor style, set it up in a still, draft-free space, and enjoy the meditative cascade. The best backflow incense burners turn a simple cone into a small ritual, and that ritual is what makes them worth adding to your space.