New and improved! Despite sounding like an informmerical, it's true that last years' version of the sensor pump from Simplehuman is now, well, new and improved.

The 1.0 version tended to leak soap, making it a tad messy. 2.0 features a flexible silicon valve to prevent drips and a high-efficiency pump for faster, more consistent dispensing. Easy-to-use buttons control how much soap or lotion to dispense, and the wide opening makes refills fast, easy and mess-free.

Simplehuman has also - smartly - come up with their own line of soaps , which are the optimum consistency for sensor pumps. We like the moisturizing vitamin E-enriched soap which has a subtle lavender scent. (. $6.99 for 34 fl. oz.)

At $39.99 (for the 13 Fl. oz. brushed nickel) it makes a nifty hostess gift.