There are tons of products out there that will make you think, “Does anyone actually need this?” In the case of these weird items, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Sure, they might seem a little strange, but the below items are also incredibly useful and any one of them can quickly become a go-to you’ll reach for multiple times a day. I searched through Amazon to find these highly rated customer favorites, all of which will make your life a little bit easier.
These durable dish sponges that scrub the grime away
Asiopphire Silicone Dish Sponges (4-Pack)
Swap your old sponge for these silicone dish sponges. Not only are they durable and long-lasting, but they also have strong bristles that give a thorough, effective clean. The square sponges feature a textured pattern on one side for washing and degreasing and a more heavy-duty texture on the other for scrubbing. The oval sponges have round-tipped bristles that make them great for other housework. Hanging hoops also make them easy to store.
A car phone mount with a built-in charger
ESR for Qi2 15W MagSafe Car Mount Charger, Qi2-Certified MagSafe Car Charger, Air Vent/Dashboard Magnetic Wireless Car Charger, Car Phone Holder Mount for iPhone 15/14/13/12, Fast Charging, Black
This magnetic phone mount keeps your device in a convenient viewing spot so you can easily follow GPS directions and control the music. It’s compatible with MagSafe for iPhone 12 and up, and it offers fast charging and a sturdy hold. Easily install it on the dashboard or air vents.
A reusable bottle that will help you reach your hydration goals
Teentumn Time Marked Water Bottle
If you’re struggling to drink enough water each day, this reusable bottle can come in handy. It holds up to 30 ounces, with times marked on the side so you can track your input. It also has a secure, double lock cap with a seal ring to prevent leaks. Plus, those who prefer flavored water can use the removable filter to add a fruit infusion.
A versatile grater made from easy-to-clean ceramic
ONTUBE Ceramic Grater Plate (2-Pack)
This ceramic grater is functional and delivers a farmhouse chic look. Use the grater in the center of the dish for garlic, ginger, onions, and basically anything you want to grind into a fine paste. It’s easy to clean since it’s dishwasher safe and small enough to stow away almost anywhere — it also has a hole for hanging if you want it to double as rustic kitchen decor.
A gnome-shaped dish brush that is both functional & adorable
New!! Beardy Dish Brush by Ototo - Dish Scrub Brush, Gnome Gifts, Gnomes, Quirky Gifts, Dish Brush, Cute Kitchen Accessories, Funny Kitchen Gadgets, Vegetable Brush, Cute and Useful Gifts for Women
Who says your everyday cleaning products have to be boring? This dish brush looks like a tiny gnome, making this normally mundane item more whimsical. It’s also designed for functionality, with sturdy bristles that offer a thorough cleaning and a handle that is easy to grip. A storage tray is included to catch any drips.
A colorful brush that is flexible enough to clean any bottle
Rayhee Bottle Brush Cleaner
Cleaning reusable bottles has never been easier thanks to this silicone bottle brush. The bristles are strong enough to scrub away all stains and grime, and also flexible enough to get through narrow bottle openings. The long rotating handle makes it easy to navigate. And because you can remove each individual ring of bristles, you can give them a thorough cleaning that helps prevent mold.
This adjustable stand for propping up phones & tablets
Nulaxy Phone Stand
Adjustable and easy to use, this phone stand is ideal for convenient, no-hands-needed viewing. It can hold cell phones and tablets vertically or horizontally, offering height and angle adjustment for the best view. The sturdy base is designed to stay in place and the holder provides easy access to the charging port on your device.
A portable mirror with lights & magnification
wobsion LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror
Throw this compact mirror in your everyday purse or your travel bag. With over 10,000 positive ratings, it’s a customer favorite for on-the-go makeup applications. LED lights and a magnifying side allow you to see what you’re doing no matter where you are, and a magnet closure is convenient. “I bought this to take on a trip, but I will end up using it all of the time,” one reviewer wrote.
This pressure-relieving cushion that makes any seat more comfy
5 STARS UNITED Office Chair Seat Cushion Pillow
While this cushioned pillow is especially great for uncomfortable desk chairs you have to be in for hours, it can be used anywhere you sit that needs to be more comfy. Made from memory foam, it’s firm and supportive, relieves pressure, and can help improve your posture, with an ergonomic shape that conforms to your body. Plus, the breathable mesh cover helps keep you cool.
These heavy-duty clips you can use with almost any bag
DAGONGREN Metal Clips (16-Pack)
These heavy-duty and versatile clips are great for having in your kitchen. Made from vinyl-coated metal, they’re built to last and easily close up food storage bags to help keep things fresh. Aside from that, the colorful clips are also helpful in the office.
A set of armrest pads that make your desk chair more comfortable
Aloudy Memory Foam Armrest Pads (2-Pack)
Desk chairs can sometimes be lacking in comfort. These memory foam armrest pads are one way to improve the experience — they offer a nice, cushioned spot for your arms, relieving pressure to help reduce pain. They can be used with almost any chair, are easy to put on and take off, and have removable covers for easy cleaning.
This couch organizer that doubles as a place to hold drinks
Holiberty Sofa Armrest Organizer
You’ll no longer need to search under your couch cushions for the remote once you have this item. Great for your next movie night or TV marathon, this soft organizer drapes over the arm of your couch and gives you a spot to stow all the essentials. There are multiple pockets on each side for remote controls, books, your phone, and more, and there’s a large tray top for resting drinks and food.
A magnetic box that keeps cables exactly where you want them
Smartish Magnetic Cable Manager
Use this magnetic cable manager box to keep your cables from slipping off tabletop surfaces. The strong magnet keeps them in place wherever you want them and has enough room for a few cables at once. Unlike other cable management options, it doesn’t need to be installed — instead, it has a grippy bottom to help it stay in place while remaining easily portable.
This holder that fits neatly in your sink to store sponges & more
Umbra Sling Kitchen Sink Sponge Holder
Instead of tossing your sponge into the sink, use this sponge holder to keep it in a convenient spot and allow it to dry between uses. The caddy is great for regular sponges, brushes, and even bars of soap. Made of flexible silicone, it forms around your sink or faucet and has a grippy texture to prevent slipping.
A super quiet essential oil diffuser with a convenient remote control
ASAKUKI Essential Oil Diffuser
This super quiet essential oil diffuser makes a great addition to any room in your home. Filled with water and the oil of your choice, it delivers a subtle fragrance, multiple mist options, and seven different LED colors to cycle through. You can control the whole thing with the included remote, and a timer feature and auto shut-off make it low-maintenance.
These handy hooks that keep your car so much cleaner
Amooca Car Seat Headrest Hooks (4-Pack)
Add these small hooks to your car’s headrest to offer a little extra organization. They go on easily with a universal fit and can be used to hang your purse, shopping bags, clothing, water bottles, and more, keeping all of these items off the floor and seats. They leave everything more accessible and make your car look impressively neat.
A heat-resistant dish scraper for getting rid of tough messes
KOHLER Dish Scraper
Heat-resistant up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, this durable dish scraper is essential for keeping your dishes, bakeware, and sheet pans super clean. It has a soft silicone edge for nonstick cookware and a hard nylon edge for scraping off stuck-on food messes. It’s easy to grip and a hook on one corner allows you to hang it for storage.
A handheld massager that targets pressure points
Gaiam Muscle Roller Massage Stick
Anyone with sore muscles will appreciate having this highly rated massage stick on hand. The three textured massage balls target pressure points to help alleviate pain and make tight muscles feel so much better. The large handles on either side are easy to grip and help you massage hard-to-reach areas. Reviewers say it effectively “stimulates pressure points” and “hurts but in a good way.”
A highly rated produce chopper that keeps all messes contained
Fullstar Vegetable Chopper
With nearly 100,000 positive ratings, this produce chopper is a popular pick that makes meal prep and cooking so much easier. There are large and small blades that chop your veggies instantly, saving you time and offering uniform cuts. Everything goes right into a large catch tray that minimizes messes and all parts are dishwasher safe for fast and easy cleanup.
This space-saving colander that can be propped over your sink
QiMH Collapsible Colander with Extendable Handles
Replace your bulky colanders with this collapsible colander, which saves space and is so easy to use. It folds down nearly flat to be stored anywhere, with extendable handles that make it easy to hold and conveniently prop up along the length of your sink for hands-free use. It’s heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe too.
These absorbent & reusable dishcloths that will replace paper towels
Swedish Wholesale Swedish Dish Cloths (10-Pack)
The price of paper towels adds up quickly, especially if you use them for everything. You can save money and opt for something more sustainable with these Swedish dishcloths. They’re reusable and incredibly absorbent, holding up to 20 times their weight in liquid. Soft and gentle when wet and tougher for scrubbing when dry, they’re very versatile, and you can use them for cleaning dishes, surfaces, and more.
A space-saving soap dispenser with a built-in sponge holder
S&T INC. Soap Pump Dispenser and Sponge Holder
This soap dispenser is so genius you’ll wonder why it took you this long to start using it. The bottom holds your dish soap of choice, while the top is a tray for your sponge. When needed, press down on the sponge to dispense soap directly onto it, then start cleaning. It minimizes waste and contributes to a less cluttered space.
A pod holder that organizes coffee & saves on space
STORAGENIE Coffee Pod Holder
Make your coffee station more organized with these pod holders that attach to the side of your machine. Sold in three-pack, each holder has space for five coffee pods. This saves on counter or cabinet space and keeps your pods right where you need them — although you can also attach the holders to the wall or inside cabinets.
These rubber grippers that make opening jars a breeze
Human Intentions Rubber Jar Opener (4-Pack)
Keep these rubber jar openers in the kitchen to help release stubborn lids with ease. They are made of durable silicone that won’t rip, with a textured feel that really grips onto the lids. One reviewer said they “work perfectly,” adding, “I did not have to struggle or use much force” when opening new jars.
A mister bottle that allows you to make your own spray oil
PUZMUG Oil Sprayer
This spritz bottle instantly converts oils, vinegar, soy sauce, and other ingredients into an easy-to-control spray for cooking and making salads. It’s endlessly reusable and comes with a funnel to fill it easily. The set includes two glass bottles and a metal storage caddy.
These magnetic clips that won’t scratch your appliances
Papercode Magnet Clips for Fridge (12-Pack)
Noticing that a magnet you’ve been using for convenience has left a huge scratch on your stainless steel fridge is painful. Start using these magnetic clips, which not only offer a strong hold to keep hanging papers in place but also include adhesive stickers that prevent scratches on your appliances. A handy magnetic notepad is also included.
A gooseneck magnifying glass with a built-in light
iMagniphy 8X Desk Magnifying Light - White or Black - Magnifying Lamp for Reading, Crafts - Desk Magnifying Glass with Light and Stand, 6 LEDs, Base
If you find yourself straining your eyes while reading, working, or crafting, this desktop magnifying glass will come in handy. It has a sturdy base and a flexible gooseneck, while the lens offers 360-degree rotation. The built-in LED light offers some much-needed brightness and the base also has a phone stand for convenience.
A multifunctional cutting board that won’t take up precious counter space
Dexas Over-the-Sink Cutting Board and Strainer
This versatile cutting board is a necessity for anyone who is running low on counter space. Conveniently designed to sit over your sink, it acts as a cutting board and an extension of your counter. It also has a removable colander for cleaning produce and straining foods. The colander is collapsible and folds just as flat as the board, so storage is a breeze.
A car cup holder expander for your extra-large water bottles
Swigzy Car Cup Holder Expander Adapter
Large, high-capacity reusable water bottles are great for those who want to stay super hydrated. Unfortunately, they are often too wide for the standard cup holders found in most cars. Enter this cup holder expander which goes into the cup holder and acts as an extension that can hold 32 to 40-ounce water bottles with ease.
This handy tool that helps prevent burns when using the oven
Norpro Silicone Oven Rack Push/Pull Tool
Made of durable silicone, this small push/pull tool helps prevent burns when cooking with the oven. The side notches help you pull oven racks toward you and push them back in, and it’s heat resistant up to 645 degrees Fahrenheit. It may seem unnecessary, but don’t be fooled: One reviewer noted that while they initially thought it was a “frivolous purchase,” they found it “has come in very handy.”
A super portable fan you can keep in your pocket
Aluan Handheld Mini Fan
Use this handheld mini fan when spending time outdoors, while traveling, or at work. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, offers adjustable speeds, and works at the touch of a button. It’s also USB-rechargeable for convenience and is available in a variety of colors.
An oil strainer for storing bacon grease & more
Aulett Home Bacon Fat Container
This little cooking oil container is a must for anyone who loves the flavor of bacon. It’s meant to strain bacon grease (or other used oils) to get rid of food particles, then store it so that you can use it to infuse other foods with the flavor. You can also use it as a way to safely toss the grease and oil without clogging your pipes.
These nonstick dividers for cooking with sheet pans
ZIP STANDING Nonstick Bakeware (3 Pieces)
Made of durable silicone, these nonstick dividers help protect your sheet pans from getting dirty and organize your food into their own compartments. The set comes with three pieces (one is divided into two smaller sections) and each can be used on a sheet pan, in an air fryer, or on their own. They can be put in the dishwasher for fast cleaning and stacked for easier storage.
A clever bar that gets lingering odors off your hands
AMCO Rub-a-Way Odor Absorber Bar
If you’ve ever handled raw garlic with your bare hands, you know that some scents tend to linger no matter how hard you scrub. This stainless steel odor absorber looks like a metal bar of soap, which seems odd, but rubbing it along your hands helps to remove unwanted odors for good.
This portable power strip that is perfect for travelers
Ceptics USB Power Strip
Whether you stay in a rental home or a hotel, outlet options for charging devices tend to be sparse. This portable power strip is ideal for bringing on trips — it has two USB ports, two outlets, and two USB-C ports and delivers high-speed charging. It’s compact, lightweight, and features a 5-foot extension cord, so it works great with hard-to-reach outlets.
These comfortable oven mitts that offer a nonslip grip
HOMWE Silicone Oven Mitt, Oven Mitts with Quilted Liner, Heat Resistant Pot Holders, Slip Resistant Flexible Oven Gloves, Gray, 1 Pair, 13.7 Inch
If you haven’t already swapped out your cloth oven mitts for silicone oven mitts, consider this your sign to do so. Heat-resistant up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, the textured silicone offers a protective, nonslip grip for handling bakeware. They also feature long wrists to help protect your forearms from heat.
A collapsible bin for organizing all the random items in your car
DRIVE AUTO PRODUCTS Compact Car Trunk Organizer
Your car can quickly turn into a dumping ground of random items you need when on the go, especially if a family is sharing it. This trunk organizer offers plenty of space to stow those items neatly, with multiple pockets and compartments. A tie-down strap system keeps it from toppling over when in motion, and it collapses to be nearly flat when you’re not using it.
A supportive knee pillow that makes slide sleeping more comfortable
Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Knee Pillow
Slip this memory foam pillow between your knees when sleeping on your side. The supportive, firm feel assists with proper spinal alignment, helping you get into a more comfortable position and reducing pain in your hips, legs, and lower back. The adjustable strap also keeps it in place throughout the night.
This stain-removing spray that truly gets rid of pet odors
Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator
Anyone who has pets should also have this stain and odor eliminator spray in their home. As someone with two cats who like to pee everywhere to mark their territory, I swear by this enzyme spray. It gets rid of stains easily and genuinely removes that lingering odor without leaving behind any type of residue. It’s designed for carpets, furniture, clothing, litter boxes, and more, and I’ve used it on multiple surfaces with success.
A heat-resistant spoon rest with space for multiple utensils
Zulay Silicone Utensil Rest with Drip Pad
A utensil rest like this one is great to have on the stove or your kitchen countertops. It has slots for up to four utensils and features a large tray to catch messy drips. Available in an assortment of colors, the utensil rest is made of heat-resistant silicone and can be placed in the dishwasher for easy cleaning whenever needed.
A slim charging dock that fits all your Apple devices at once
Anlmz 3-in-1 iPhone Charging Station
Charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at once and in one neat spot with this three-in-one charging station. It offers wireless charging so you don’t have to see lots of cables strewn across a surface and the compact size looks sleek. One reviewer raves that it “combines style, functionality, and convenience,” calling it “an essential addition to any Apple enthusiast’s setup.”
This faux leather ottoman that doubles as extra storage
SONGMICS Folding Storage Ottoman
This ottoman adds a chic minimalist look to your pace, making any chair or couch a little more comfortable. It’s also functional, with a top that comes off and enough storage space for extra pillows, blankets, and other small items. The faux leather material is available in several neutral colors such as coffee brown and dark gray.
A tiny tabletop vacuum that makes cleaning so much easier
ODISTAR Desktop Vacuum
A tabletop vacuum seems like an entirely unnecessary luxury until you get one. This little device offers 360-degree rotation, allowing it to reach every corner of your table or desk. It cleans away excess crumbs, dirt, and other tiny particles quickly and efficiently, and it’s oddly adorable to look at. It’s also cordless and portable, so you can use it almost anywhere.
An expandable hot plate that is great for serving
Joseph Joseph Stretch Folding Silicone Trivet
This adjustable silicone trivet comes in handy when laying out hot plates of food. It expands to hold multiple dishes at once depending on their size, and then folds into a compact size for easy storage. Heat-resistant up to 464 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning if there are any food spills.
These versatile & reusable lids you’ll use every time you’re in the kitchen
Goodful Universal Silicone Lids (3-Piece Set)
These universal silicone lids come in a pack of three different sizes and can be used so many different ways. Place them over pots, pans, and dishes to store leftovers, keep food warm, and prevent splatters in the microwave. They’re heat-resistant and stackable, and the little handle on top makes them easy to grab. Reviewers call them “super convenient” and say they “stay in place and keep the moisture in the pan.”
A multipurpose drying rack you can place right over the sink
Seropy Roll-Up Dish Drying Rack
Add this space-saving drying rack to your list of kitchen essentials. It fits directly over the sink and has silicone edges that keep it in place, creating a place to dry dishes and drain freshly washed produce. On the countertop, it makes a great nonslip trivet for hot plates. When not in use, roll it up for easier storage.
These silicone utensils that make cooking with nonstick pans easy
Zulay Kitchen Non-Stick Cooking Utensils (5-Piece Set)
Nonstick pots and pans tend to be a bit high-maintenance — the wrong utensils can scratch and damage them. These silicone utensils with wood handles are safe to use on pretty much any cooking surface and they look nice to boot. This set of five includes a slotted spoon, ladle, spatula, slotted turner, and a food turner and comes in a variety of colors.
A durable glass pitcher with an easy-pour lid
County Line Kitchen Jar Pitcher
Store ice-cold water, fresh juice, iced tea, lemonade, and more in this glass pitcher. With a large mason jar design, it is both stylish and functional. The top comes with an easy pour spout and a handle for safe gripping and seals shut tight to keep contents fresh. You can also opt for the infuser lid if you want to make fruit-infused water and tea.
A detangling brush with almost 75,000 positive ratings
Crave Naturals BIGGIE Glide Thru Detangling Brush - Detangler Hairbrush & Comb for Curly, Natural, Straight, Wet or Dry Hair (MINT)
Thousands of five-star ratings and happy reviews prove this inexpensive detangling brush is just as effective as it promises. The cone-shaped bristles won’t bend and pull through hair gently without snagging or creating more of a knotty mess. An ergonomic handle makes it easy to hold. One reviewer wrote, “This brush went straight through my thick hair with not one tug, I was impressed,” while another noted it gives your hair “a nice massage” as well.
These colorful prep bowls that come with lids for storing food
COOK WITH COLOR Prep Bowls (Set of 4)
You’ll use these colorful prep bowls a million different ways in your kitchen. They’re useful for baking and cooking, aesthetic enough to be placed on the table as serveware, and come with convenient lids to make them great for storing leftovers. They also nest into each other for compact storage.
