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Maria Cassano

50 clever, cheap products that solve so many problems, it's mind-boggling

— Amazon

Amazon has just about anything you could possibly want or need — but for me, the most worthwhile buys are the products that solve real, everyday problems. From streamlining household chores to organizing your closet, car, and refrigerator, these will all make your life significantly easier and more efficient. The best news? Despite their ingenious designs, they’re surprisingly affordable, too.

This drain protector so I no longer have to snake my bathtub

TubShroom Tub Drain Protector

Amazon

After spending a few gross, tiring hours snaking my bathtub drain, I got a TubShroom and never looked back. This drain protector catches every hair thanks to its 3-D shape made of flexible silicone, which allows water to flow through from the sides and top. When it’s full, you just pop it out, wipe off the hair with a paper towel, and put it back.

  • Available styles: 6

These cabinet door bumpers that silently absorb shock

Vellax Cabinet Door Bumpers Sound Dampening - 256 pcs Silicone Clear Rubber Bumpers Self Adhesive Pads, Cabinet Stoppers, Rubber Bumpers for Drawers, Cutting Boards, Frames & Kitchen Furniture

Amazon

Protect your cabinets and dampen any slamming noises with these cabinet bumpers. On the front, they have soft, shock-absorbing silicone, and on the back, they have a strong adhesive so you can install them in seconds. You can also use them on door handles, toilet seats, or under laptops and appliances.

  • Available styles: 3

A food thermometer that takes the guesswork out of cooking meat (& making candy!)

KIZEN Digital Meat Thermometer

Amazon

I reach for my food thermometer every single time I cook meat and when I make homemade candy for the holidays. I also have a separate one for making candles. It takes all of the guesswork out of grilling, baking, and frying because it gives you an accurate temperature read (in Celcius or Fahrenheit) within a few seconds, so nothing is ever under- or over-done. This one is also waterproof and battery-powered.

  • Available styles: 3

This genius organizer that holds & dispenses your plastic bags

Utopia Kitchen Grocery Bag Holder

Amazon

I like to line my garbage pails with plastic bags — but I didn’t like how they were taking up an entire cabinet. This Utopia Kitchen grocery bag holder changed the game for me because it both condenses plastic bags into a compact container and dispenses them as needed for reuse. You can mount it to most walls or cabinets using the included screws or 3M adhesive strips.

  • Available styles: 6

This brilliant gadget that’s a magnetic flashlight & telescopic pickup tool

RAK Telescoping Magnetic Pickup Tool

Amazon

A magnetic light and a telescopic pickup tool in one, this brilliant gadget has been called “the best gift [reviewers] ever got” and has customers asking, “Where has this been my whole life?” The bright LED bulbs illuminate dark areas, the telescoping handle flexes 360 degrees and extends 22 inches, and the head and base are both magnetic, so you can grab fallen screws and mount the base to a car, barbecue, or electrical panel.

A cheap, effective wireless charger with almost 200,000 reviews

Yootech Wireless Charger

Amazon

Why does this wireless charger have nearly 200,000 reviews on Amazon? Buyers say it’s cheap, fast, and reliably does the job, which is why they’re “back for more.” It’s compatible with most wireless-charging-enabled phones, including certain iPhones, Samsung Galaxy phones, and Google Pixels, not to mention the AirPods Pro.

  • Available styles: 6

These silicone rack shields that prevent oven burns

LeeYean Oven Rack Shields (4-Pack)

Amazon

These oven rack shields ensure that you never again burn your arm when reaching into a hot oven for a pot, pan, or baking sheet. The silicone material is heat-safe up to 482 degrees Fahrenheit and has a slit so you can simply wrap it around the edge of the rack. You can also cut it to size if needed.

  • Available styles: 3

This versatile, waterproof trash bin for your car

Drive Auto Car Trash Can

Amazon

Mount this car trash can to the back of the seat or the side of a door. You can also place it on the center console, on the floor, or in the trunk. Either way, it holds up to 4 gallons of trash in its washable, waterproof interior, and it comes with disposable liners for easier emptying. The mesh side pocket holds essentials, while the magnetic lid prevents leaks.

  • Available sizes: 2 Gallons — 4 Gallons
  • Available styles: 3

A cape that catches the mess while shaving or trimming your bangs

Beard King Beard Bib Apron for Men - the Original Cape As Seen on Shark Tank, Mens Hair Catcher for Shaving, Trimming - Grooming Accessories & Gifts for Dad or Husband - 1 Size Fits All, BLACK

Amazon

Secure one end around your neck and mount the other end to the mirror using the included suction cups. The Beard King bib apron will then catch all of the hair while shaving your beard (or trimming your bangs), so you don’t clog your drain and clean-up becomes a breeze.

  • Available styles: 5

This viral pet hair remover & lint roller that people are obsessed with

Chom Chom Roller Pet Hair Remover and Reusable Lint Roller

Amazon

“Works better than sticky tape rollers which I will never buy again,” one reviewer said about the Chom Chom pet hair roller. Others wrote that it’s the “best pet hair remover ever” and it really “lives up to the hype.” The fabric roller creates an electrostatic charge that removes hair and lint from clothing, furniture, and car seats, while the interior compartment contains the mess until it’s time for emptying — and since it doesn’t require batteries or replacement sheets, you can reuse it indefinitely.

  • Available styles: 3

These Swedish dishcloths that I use constantly around the house

Swedish Wholesale Swedish Dish Cloths (10-Pack)

Amazon

After trying these Swedish dishcloths once, I finally understand the hype — and now I use them constantly for cleaning, sopping up spills, and wiping down the counter. I even use one to apply my facial toner at night. Like a paper towel, they’re extremely absorbent, but like a dish rag, they’re washable and reusable up to 100 times. They also dry super fast without getting that musty, damp smell.

  • Available styles: 9

This reusable clear, TSA-friendly toiletry bag that makes travel easier

BORSALI TSA Approved Clear Travel Toiletry Bag - Quart Size Cosmetic Bag for Travel - Carry On & Organize 3-1-1 Liquid Toiletries & More

Amazon

This clear toiletry bag comes in a TSA-approved size and is made from transparent plastic. As a result, it makes travel easier and helps you find your stuff faster. The reinforced zippers and waterproof material also encourage reuse and minimize messes.

  • Available styles: 9

This outlet extender with 2 USB ports and a night light

POWRUI USB Wall Charger

Amazon

Install this three-sided power strip over any outlet to triple your plug options and get two USB ports — not to mention an automatic night light with a dusk-to-dawn sensor. It’s especially helpful for charging stations, work areas, home offices, and media centers, and reviewers love it because it’s sturdy, safe, and effective.

An easy-to-use electric can opener that reviewers “can’t live without”

Kitchen Mama Electric Can Opener

Amazon

“We can’t live without our Kitchen Mama,” said one reviewer who called it “the easiest opener I’ve ever tried.” Tons of customers share that same sentiment, granted this electric can opener is a best-seller with over 90,000 reviews on Amazon. Just place it on top of the can and press the button, and the battery-operated design automatically opens the tin without creating any sharp edges.

  • Available styles: 4

These shower caddies that install in seconds with sturdy adhesive strips

KINCMAX Shower Caddy Bathroom Shelf (2-Pack)

Amazon

I finally got these wall-mounted shower caddies so I could clear up the clutter around the rim of my bathtub, and they’ve worked flawlessly so far. The adhesive strips are sturdy and easy to install, the rustproof stainless steel looks great and encourages self-drainage, and the hooks let me store my sponges, exfoliating cloths, and razors.

  • Available styles: 2

Some best-selling hooks that keep your bags from spilling

Amooca Car Headrest Hooks (4-Pack)

Amazon

Just slip these car hooks around the metal part of your headrest, and they’ll hold your groceries upright, prevent your purse from spilling over when you hit the brakes, or keep your coat off the floor. They easily swivel around as needed, so you can hang your stuff in the back and seat a passenger in the front — and they come in several color options, all made from durable ABS plastic.

  • Available styles: 10

This broom holder that optimized my entryway closet

Berry Ave Broom Holder Wall Mount

Amazon

This wall-mounted broom holder is the MVP of the closet I just built in my entryway. Its spring-loaded grips adjust to hold handles of all sizes, including my mop, steamer, and vacuum tube. It also has pull-down hooks to store smaller items, like brushes and gloves, and installation took me about 10 minutes with a cordless drill.

  • Available styles: 4

This best-selling knife organizer that fits in a drawer

Joseph Joseph DrawerStore Kitchen Organizer

Amazon

Whether you want to keep knives out of the way or you’re trying to minimize the visual clutter on your kitchen counter, this Joseph Joseph DrawerStore knife organizer is the answer. It safely holds up to nine knives in its space-efficient, two-tier design and it fits in most drawers that are at least 3 inches tall. No wonder it’s a best-seller with more than 25,000 reviews.

A container that filters out food bits so you can reuse the grease

Aulett Home Bacon Grease Container

Amazon

This grease container not only looks better than an old aluminum can, but it comes with a stainless steel strainer. That way, you can remove the food bits to collect clean bacon grease or duck fat for reuse. It also has a handle for burn-free gripping and a lid to prevent leaks in the fridge.

This adjustable phone mount that fits inside most cup holders

bokilino Car Cup Holder Phone Mount

Amazon

If you’d rather not mount your phone to your windshield with a suction cup or stick it to your dashboard with adhesive, this cup holder phone mount offers a quick, cheap, damage-free alternative. The base adjusts from 2.3 to 3.3 inches to fit most cup holders, while the adjustable arms and silicone pad grip most phones. It also has a flexible gooseneck and a quick-release button.

Some silicone baking mats so you can stop buying parchment paper

Kitzini Silicone Baking Mat Set. Non-Stick Silicone Mats for Baking. 3 Half Baking Sheets. BPA Free. Professional Grade Silicon Baking Sheet. Silicone Baking Mats for Cookies, Macarons & Pastry

Amazon

Swap out the single-use parchment paper or aluminum foil for these reusable baking mats. They are made from BPA-free, oven-safe silicone, so they can be reused up to 3,000 time each. They’re also non-stick for easy clean-up and promote even heat distribution for quality cookies, pastries, and macarons.

  • Available styles: 5

This sleek cable management box that comes in 2 sizes

D-Line Cable Management Box

Amazon

Use this cable management box to hide and organize power strips and extension cords while also keeping them away from pets and children. It’s made from electrically safe ABS plastic and has a sleek curved design that comes in three colors and two sizes. “Looks 100% better than a power strip full of wires laying in the floor,” one reviewer said.

  • Available sizes: Small — Large
  • Available styles: 3

Some stretchy silicone lids that covers almost any bowl

Unwasted Reusable Silicone Lids (Set of 7)

Amazon

In my quest to use less single-use plastic in the kitchen, I got these reusable silicone lids. They come in various sizes from 3 to 12 inches, and they stretch to cover most containers, including bowls, jars, cups, and pots. They also create an airtight seal to minimize leaks and boost freshness, and they’re freezer- and microwave-safe.

  • Available sizes: Large — X-Large

This silicone freezer tray that changed the way I meal prep

Souper Cubes Extra-Large Freezing Tray

Amazon

Before Souper Cubes, I used to freeze my leftover soups and sauces in mason jars — which meant I had to defrost the entire thing to use just a little bit. Fortunately, this flexible silicone tray lets you freeze and pop out 1-cup portions (or less) at a time, so you can meal-prep more conveniently and use smaller portions without waste.

  • Available styles: 3

These vent deflectors so you can make your AC or heat more efficient

Home Intuition Adjustable Magnetic Vent Deflector (2-Pack)

Amazon

If your heating or air conditioning vents aren’t as well-placed as they could be, these vent deflectors are an easy, affordable, and brilliant fix, according to reviewers. They attach to metal vents using magnets and adjust length-wise for a customized fit. The plastic then directs the hot or cold air upwards or downwards, so you feel more (or less) of it.

This compact, effective knife sharpener that even sharpens serrated blades

AnySharp Pro Knife Sharpener

Amazon

“Outstanding sharpener and it is perfectly sized to fit in any kitchen drawer,” one reviewer raved about this knife sharpener. “I can't believe how sharp my knives are.” The tungsten carbide is angled at 20 degrees to quickly and easily sharpen almost any blade (serrated or not), while the suction cup base attaches to your counter to keep it steady while you work.

  • Available styles: 4

This rolling caddy that transforms an under-sink area

YouCopia RollOut Caddy Under-Sink Organizer

Amazon

This roll-out storage caddy might seem simple at first glance, but it actually has tons of features that makes it “perfect for organizing under [the] sink,” one reviewer said. The dividers are adjustable, the basket clips onto the side to hold sponges or dishwasher packets, and the smooth-rolling wheels and built-in handle make it easy to grab whatever you need.

  • Available styles: 3

A desktop magnifying glass with a built-in light

iMagniphy 8X Desk Magnifier with Light- Desktop Magnifying Glass with Light and Stand- Great to Repair Tech Gadgets & Hands-Free Reading, Crafts- Magnifying Desk Lamp with 6 LED Lights & Sturdy Base

Amazon

Magnify and illuminate your book, crafting project, or crossword puzzle with this desktop magnifying glass. The 5.5-inch lens rotates on its flexible gooseneck and has built-in LEDs with two brightness settings. The base also has a slot to hold your phone and a compartment for your reading glasses or loose odds and ends.

  • Available styles: 2

These camping lanterns with near-perfect ratings that’s also great for emergencies

GearLight Sunlit Camping Lanterns (2-Pack)

Amazon

With an overall 4.8-star rating from more than 6,000 reviewers, it’s clear that buyers love these portable camping lanterns. Most importantly, the battery-operated design gives off hours of bright, 36o-degree illumination, but they have plenty of other convenient features, too: The base is magnetic, the fold-out hook lets you hang them from branches and tent frames, the collapsible design saves space in storage or in your pack, and the water-resistant durability lets you use them in any weather.

This magnetic running pouch that’s been called a “game changer”

Running Buddy Magnetic Buddy Pouch Mini

Amazon

Unfortunately, not all athletic clothing comes with secure, practical pockets, but the Running Buddy has been called a “wonderful accessory” and a “game changer.” The back flap secures behind the waistband of virtually any pants (without the need for a belt), while the magnetic closure locks it in place. It then has a water-resistant pocket that securely holds your phone, keys, or credit card while keeping them dry.

  • Available styles: 3

Some stick-on LEDs for under-cabinet lighting without an electrician

Brilliant Evolution LED Lights (3-Pack)

Amazon

Thanks to Amazon, you don’t have to hire an electrician in order to elevate your kitchen with under-cabinet lighting. These LED puck lights mount with the included tape or screws and use AAA batteries, so you don’t have to worry about wiring. They also come with a remote control that lets you adjust the brightness levels or set timers.

This versatile set of kitchen tongs with stellar reviews

Hot Target Non-Stick Tongs (Set of 3)

Amazon

Use them to flip meat, serve side dishes, and toss salad, these kitchen tongs are one of the most versatile utensils you can have — and this set has earned an overall 4.7-star rating from more than 15,000 reviewers. They come in a pack of 7-, 9-, and 12-inches, and each is made with a durable stainless steel body and a heat-resistant silicone head with a scalloped texture for easier gripping.

  • Available styles: 4

These rug grippers that stop corners from curling when nothing else will

NeverCurl Rug Corner Gripper (4-Pack)

Amazon

“Tried solving the problem of the corners of my rug rolling up with many products and hacks,” one reviewer said. “Only this one worked.” These V-shaped rug grippers use a waterproof adhesive to stick to the rug (not the floor), so the corners stay down without damaging your hardwood or leaving a residue on your tiles.

These shelf liners that make cleaning the fridge so much easier

MayNest Refrigerator Shelf Liners (8 Pack)

Amazon

“Where have these been all my life?” asked one reviewer who hates cleaning the fridge. Fortunately, these food-grade EVA shelf liners are much easier than getting down on your hands and knees or removing the shelves themselves. Instead, they come right out and rinse clean of any spills and residue — plus they’re non-slip and make wire shelving more stable, too.

  • Available styles: 5

Some packing cubes that make travel more efficient & organized

Shacke Pak - 5 Set Packing Cubes - Travel Organizers with Laundry Bag (Black/Blue)

Amazon

I’m a huge believer in packing cubes: They decrease my stress levels and boost my organization while I’m traveling. Use them to condense and separate your clothing into squared compartments, so you can fit more in your suitcase and find what you need without rifling through (and wrinkling) everything you brought. This set also comes with a free drawstring shoe bag.

  • Available styles: 10

This silicone mat that protects your floors from messy pets

Reopet Silicone Bowl Mat

Amazon

Whether your dog is a sloppy eater or your cat likes to play with their drinking water, this silicone mat protects your floors and keeps the mess contained. It’s dishwasher-safe and has raised edges, plus it comes in plenty of sizes and color options to suit your pet and your home.

  • Available sizes: 18.5” x 11.5” — 34” x 23”
  • Available styles: 27

These silicone oven mitts that are waterproof, non-slip & stain-resistant

HOMWE Silicone Oven Mitt, Oven Mitts with Quilted Liner, Heat Resistant Pot Holders, Slip Resistant Flexible Oven Gloves, Gray, 1 Pair, 13.7 Inch

Amazon

Reviewers are “never going back” to fabric pot holders after trying these silicone oven mitts. Because they’re made from silicone, they’re flame-retardant for grilling, heat-resistant up to temperatures of 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and waterproof so you don’t have to worry about boiling water or steam seeping through. Plus, they rinse clean of any stains and securely grip pots and pans without slipping.

  • Available sizes: 14.7 inch — 13.7 inch
  • Available styles: 12

The best, most satisfying way to get baby-soft feet, according to reviewers

DERMORA Foot Peel Mask - 4 Pack of Regular Size Skin Exfoliating Foot Masks for Dry, Cracked Feet, Callus, Dead Skin Remover - Feet Peeling Mask for baby soft feet, Original Scent

Amazon

According to reviewers, these best-selling foot peel masks (which come in lots of scents) work better than pedicures, pumice stones, foot graters, and creams. Plus, they’re way more satifying. Soak your feet, slip the booties on, and wear them for at least 60 minutes before tossing them out and rinsing your feet. The dead skin and rough calluses will peel off in sheets within the next two weeks, so you’re left with baby-soft feet.

  • Available sizes: Regular — Large
  • Available styles: 12

This over-the-sink drying rack that rolls up when you’re done

Seropy Roll Up Dish Drying Rack

Amazon

Maybe you hate unnecessary countertop clutter, or maybe you don’t want to waste valuable prep space on a permanent dish drain. Either way, this roll-up drying rack has an overall 4.6-star rating for a reason: Its stainless steel rods with silicone grippers extend over most sinks, so you can transform the space into an impromptu drying rack for glassware, cookware, or produce. When you’re done, it rolls up for compact storage.

  • Available sizes:17 x 11.8 in — 20.5 x 13.7 in
  • Available styles: 4

This adjustable shelving unit to store boxes in your pantry

YouCopia UpSpace Adjustable Box Organizer

Amazon

If your pantry is an avalanche of boxes waiting to happen, this YouCopia UpSpace organizer makes a “huge difference,” and “really saves space,” according to reviewers. The adjustable shelves let you choose the ideal height so you can fit aluminum foil, plastic wrap, food storage bags, and garbage bags — or you can use it for pasta and snacks. Either way, the vertical design maximizes storage and helps you grab what you need without upsetting everything else.

  • Available styles: 4

A travel mug that makes rich, delicious coffee anywhere

Coffee Gator Stainless-Steel Coffee Travel Mug

Amazon

“I am so happy I get good coffee when I go camping!” one reviewer said about this coffee-making travel mug, which just requires coffee grounds and hot water. Others use it for tea, when they’re late for work, when the coffee machine at their office sucks, when they’re traveling, or every day — the results are that delicious. The stainless steel mesh filter is reusable, the vacuum-insulated design retains temperature for hours, and the leakproof lid prevents any spills.

  • Available styles: 4

This aluminum laptop riser that promotes better posture

SOUNDANCE Laptop Stand, Aluminum Computer Riser, Ergonomic Laptops Elevator for Desk, Metal Holder Compatible with 10 to 15.6 Inches Notebook Computer, Black

Amazon

Compatible with most laptops and notebooks between 10 and 15.6 inches, this computer riser encourages better posture and promotes a more ergonomic viewing angle. “Stable as can be and provides the right ergonomics to avoid neck and shoulder pain,” one reviewer wrote. Since it’s made out of aluminum and comes in 10 color options, it’s also lightweight and stylish.

  • Available styles: 10

These magnetic twist ties with so many uses

Smart&Cool Magnetic Twist Ties (20-Pack)

Amazon

Because of their stretchy, magnetic design, you can use these magnetic twist ties to organize wires, hold a pack of markers together, clip notes to the fridge, bundle curtains, and hang lightweight tools, headphones, and utensils. “This is the thing I never knew I always needed!” one reviewer said. “I am blown away by these things!”

An insulated water bottle that rivals more expensive brands like Yeti & Hydro Flask

Triple-Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw Lid - Flip-Top Lid - Wide-Mouth Cap (32 Oz) Insulated Water Bottles, Keeps Hot and Cold - Sports Canteen Water Bottle Great for Hiking & Biking

Amazon

Reviewers have compared this stainless steel water bottle to expensive brands like Yeti, Columbia, Hydro Flask, and RTIC. The consensus? It’s “just as good,” if not “better.” It’s triple-insulated to keep coffee hot for up to 12 hours and water cold for up to a day, plus it comes with three individual lids: A straw top, a flip top, and a screw top.

  • Available sizes: 25 Oz — 64 Oz
  • Available styles: 18

This car organizer that attaches to your sun visor

Da by Car Sun Visor Organizer

Amazon

This sun visor organizer optimizes your overhead storage so all of your most important essentials are within reach — without cluttering up your car. It has plenty of exterior compartments to hold your phone, glasses, pens, and cards, as well as a zippered interior with pockets and elastic bands to hold documents and wires.

  • Available styles: 3

A supportive memory foam pillow that packs down for compact travel

Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow - Backpacking and Travel Pillow for Sleeping and Traveling - Compressible Memory Foam Travel Pillow - Small/Medium

Amazon

A number-one best-seller in its category, this Wise Owl Outfitters camping pillow is a reviewer favorite when it comes to achieving comfort and support on the go. It’s filled with memory foam that expands to 4 inches thick, but when it’s time to hit the road, it compresses down into its small stuff pack for lightweight, compact travel. It also comes with a micro-suede cover (in several color options) that’s removable and washable.

  • Available sizes: Small — Medium
  • Available styles: 6

A “must-have” gadget that makes it easier to keep plants alive

Dr. Meter Hygrometer Moisture Sensors (2-Pack)

Amazon

This hygrometer sensor has been called a “must-have” for those who always seem to under- or over-water their house plants. It takes all of the guesswork out of the equation by reading the moisture level of the soil and displaying the results in an accurate, easy-to-see meter — and it doesn’t even require any batteries.

  • Available sizes: 11 Inch — 15.23 inch

This best-selling tool that easily mixes, mashes & muddles

Farberware Heat Resistant Meat Stirrer

Amazon

This multi-purpose utensil is a best-seller helps you mash potatoes, stir sauces, muddle herbs, crush jams, and chop up meat — without scratching your cookware. Its five angled blades make quick work of mashing and mixing, while its heat-resistant material can handle temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Available styles: 2

An absorbent bath mat that looks so sleek

MontVoo Faux Suede Bath Mat

Amazon

“Best shower mat I have ever had,” one reviewer said. “I didn’t think it would absorb much, but it does!” The suede-like material may look thin and sleek, but it actually has five layers to absorb moisture and create a cushioned, non-slip surface. It comes in several colors as well as ample sizes, so you can also use it in the kitchen, laundry room, or hallway.

  • Available sizes: 16" x 24" — 24" X 70"
  • Available styles: 11

This rechargeable, hands-free fan that you wear around your neck

JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan

Amazon

For those who tend to overheat, this portable neck fan might just be the “single best Amazon purchase this year,” according to reviewers. The lightweight, rechargeable design sits over your shoulders to deliver up to 16 hours of cordless, cooling airflow with its bladeless fans. It’s also hands-free, low-noise, and has three speed settings to choose from.

  • Available styles: 5
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