Pretending a problem doesn’t exist can feel easier than tackling it. But when the issue is something gross — like a weird smell coming from your kitchen sink — ignoring it is almost guaranteed to make it worse. Luckily, there are tons of clever solutions for the gross problems you’re probably ignoring, and they can be found right on Amazon. From deodorizing garbage disposal tablets to handy pet hair removers, these clever finds banish ickiness fast.
Problem: Your toothbrush is out in the breeze
Solution: Clip-on protectors that help keep toothbrushes clean
Pop one of these protectors onto your toothbrush, and it’ll help shield the bristles from dirt, dust, toilet flushes, and more. Their universal design makes them suitable for use with just about any type of toothbrush, electric or standard, and they’re ideal for home or traveling.
Problem: Gross mold & mildew stains
Solution: Stain remover gel that tackles mold, grime, & discoloration
Whether the grout lines in your shower are stained or the rubber gasket in your washer is grimy with mold, this gel is an easy fix. It’s just as effective at powering through stains as it is at eliminating dirt — and the thick, viscous formula lets you apply it to vertical surfaces without having to worry about it dripping downwards.
Problem: The dog tracks in dirt
Solution: An absorbent door mat designed for muddy paws
Don’t let your dog sully up your home. Instead, place this mat by your front door. The high-pile chenille latches onto dirt and moisture, pulling it off your dog’s paws to help keep your floors clean. Plus, the nonslip underside works to keep it from shifting around on smooth surfaces.
Problem: You’ve never cleaned your earbuds
Solution: This earbud cleaning pen that gets in deep
Consider this pen a must-have if you own a pair of earbuds or AirPods. It features three cleaning tools built into one (a flocking sponge, soft brush, and pointed metal tip), all of which help you clean deep into tight crevices. Or, if your earbuds are already looking pristine, you can also use it to clean camera lenses, binoculars, and more.
Problem: Window screens covered in dirt
Solution: The clever screen cleaner tool with long microfibers
Wiping your dirty window screens using a rag does an all right job at cleaning them — though this tool is sure to work much better. The long fibers on its head dig deep into mesh, latching onto dirt, dust, and more. It also works just as well dry as it does when doused with cleanser.
Problem: Funky odors from the washing machine
Solution: Cleansing tablets that help eliminate smells
Got a funky odor coming from your washing machine? Then these tablets are worth a look. Simply put one through a regular wash cycle, and it’ll help cleanse away all the grime, hard water residues, as well as bacteria that can build up inside of your machine. And unlike some tablets, these ones are formulated to work inside nearly any type of washer.
Problem: Your stovetop is visibly dirty
Solution: Cleaner spray that gets all stove types sparkling
Unlike some stovetop sprays, this one features a nonabrasive formula that won’t leave behind scratches on stainless steel, porcelain, glass, or nearly any other type of kitchen surface. The best part? It also delivers a streak-free shine without leaving behind any oily residues.
Problem: The Keurig has never been cleaned
Solution: Keurig cleaning pods that freshen your machine fast
Anyone who owns a Keurig can appreciate these cleaning pods. Simply pop one into the pod holder and then set your Keurig to brew on the largest cup size. The nontoxic formula will quickly work to remove any oil, residue, or debris that’s been lodged inside — and each order comes with enough pods to keep your machine clean for more than three months.
Problem: Streaks & prints all over your stainless steel
Solution: Spray that leaves a streak-free shine
Using regular cleanser to wipe down stainless steel can leave it riddled with streaks. Enter: this spray. Not only is it formulated to deliver a streak-free shine on stainless steel, but it also has a lavender scent that leaves your home smelling oh-so-refreshed. Each order also includes a microfiber cloth to get you started.
Problem: Unsightly disposable pee pads
Solution: Washable pee pads that look like area rugs
Don’t waste money on disposable pee pads. Instead, grab these washable ones. A waterproof backing helps keep pet urine from leaking onto your floors, while the nonslip underside prevents them from moving around on smooth floors. The best part? The stylish pattern makes them look more like area rugs than pee pads.
Problem: Your shoes smell awful
Solution: Plant-based deodorizer spray that works fast
Uncle Todd's Odor Stomp Shoe Deodorizer - Proven & Powerful Enzyme Shoe Spray for Odor Elimination in All Footwear (Midnight Rain)
Amazon -Shoes starting to smell a little funky? Then this deodorizer spray is worth its weight in gold. It’s formulated with enzymes that break down the odor-causing bacteria inside your shoes, eliminating the smell at the source and replacing it with a zesty lime scent. Each bottle comes with enough inside for up to 400 spritzes.
Problem: The bath mat never dries
Solution: A stylish bath mat made from absorbent diatomaceous earth
Step onto this mat after taking a shower, and it’ll quickly dry your feet so that you don’t have to worry about tracking wet footprints throughout your bathroom. It’s made from absorbent diatomaceous earth that dries within just a few seconds — which means the chances of it developing mildew are incredibly low. Plus, the nonslip underside works to keep it from shifting around on smooth floors.
Problem: Burnt crud in the oven
Solution: A nonstick liner that helps keep your oven clean
Cleaning out all the burnt crud stuck to the bottom of your oven can be a real challenge — unless you’ve put this liner down. Its nonstick surface makes it easy to clean, and you can even put it into the dishwasher if you like. The best part? Feel free to trim it to fit smaller ovens as needed.
Problem: The lawn is brown & patchy
Solution: Liquid fertilizer suitable for use on any type of grass
Unlike some types of fertilizer, this one is formulated so that it can help nourish nearly any type of grass, including Bermudagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and more. Application is a total breeze once you’ve attached the bottle to a garden hose. The best part? Each bottle has enough fertilizer inside to cover up to 2,000 square feet.
Problem: Pet hair all over
Solution: A clever pet hair remover that’s infinitely reusable
Consider this pet hair remover a much-needed upgrade from the wasteful lint roller you’ve likely been using. It features hundreds of tiny bristles that latch onto hair, pulling it off your clothes, furniture, and more with just a few gentle swipes. Once finished, a button on the handle pops open the dustbin so that you can dump all the collected hair into the trash.
Problem: You never clean the shower
Solution: Daily shower spray with a refreshing eucalyptus scent
Don’t let grime build up inside your shower. Instead, spritz it down with this spray every time you finish bathing. The biodegradable formula gently cuts through grease to help keep your shower clean — and the eucalyptus scent is an oh-so uplifting touch.
Problem: The trash cans smell funky
Solution: Deodorizer packs that help refresh for up to 30 days
Drawers, closets, trash cans — these deodorizer packs are great for refreshing all sorts of small spaces. They work for up to 30 days, replacing unwanted odors with an oh-so-refreshing lavender scent. One reviewer raved, “placed this inside our diaper pail and it has been the single most effective odor eliminator we have found in 21 months!”
Problem: Your pet is a messy eater
Solution: An absorbent mat that helps keep feeding areas tidy
My little dog is a messy eater, which is precisely I have a mat like this one sitting underneath his food bowls. The absorbent material soaks up splashing water, drying within seconds to help keep it mildew-free. Plus, the stain-resistant design means you won’t have to worry about kibble leaving behind grease marks.
Problem: Fruit flies & gnats buzzing around
Solution: An indoor fly catcher that doesn’t use harsh chemicals
Fruit flies, gnats, moths — this fly catcher is designed to attract all sorts of pests. Unlike some catchers, it doesn’t utilize any harsh chemicals, instead relying on a bright UV light to draw bugs inside before trapping them onto a sticky glue board. Each order also includes three glue boards to get you started.
Problem: Neglected bathroom surfaces
Solution: Potent cleanser that powers through soap scum, limescale, & more
From soap scum to limescale, this cleanser is so potent that it can cut through nearly any type of grimy mess. Simply spray it wherever you need, let it sit for a few seconds, then wipe with a damp cloth — it’s that easy. Plus, many reviewers even wrote about how it “smells good.”
Problem: Ancient sponges
Solution: Washable microfiber sponges in a big 6-pack
Not only are these sponges made from absorbent microfiber, but they’re also suitable for use on nearly any surface. Each one features two sides: one for wiping away grime, as well as a second with a lightly gritty texture that’s better suited for scouring pans. They’re also machine-washable so you can give them an easy refresh when needed.
Problem: Funky smells from your garbage disposal
Solution: Garbage disposal cleaning tablets that refresh & deodorize
Rockin' Green Garbage Disposal Cleaner and Deodorizer (8 Tablets) - Garbage Disposal Cleaner Tablets Kitchen Sink Cleaner and Deodorizer - Sink Drain Cleaner and Deodorizer (Sweet Child O'Lime Scent)
Amazon -Can’t figure out where that funky smell in your kitchen is coming from? It could be your garbage disposal — in which case, you’ll want to grab these tablets. They’re formulated to help deodorize nearly any type of disposal, replacing that unwanted odor with an invigorating lime scent. Plus, you only need to use one tablet per month for best results.
Problem: Never cleaning your water bottles
Solution: Handy bottle brushes with extra-long handles
Scrubbing all the way down into tall water bottles can be difficult when you only have a sponge. Enter: these brushes. Their extra-long handles make them great for cleaning deep into tall bottles. And since they’re made from a combination of stainless steel and plastic, there’s no need to worry about them rusting over time.
Problem: Stubborn cat pee smells
Solution: Concentrated odor-eliminator spray with a citrus scent
Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator for Home - Enzyme Deodorizer for Strong Odor - Dog or Cat Pee Smells on Carpet, Furniture & Floors - 8oz Concentrate makes 128oz of Liquid - Fresh Clean Scent
Amazon -Anyone who has a pet can appreciate this spray. The bottle contains enough to make 128 ounces of cleaner, and a few spritzes is all it takes in order to replace funky pet odors with an invigorating orange scent. You can even use it to remove pet stains from carpet as well as non-leather furniture. “A little goes a long way but still smells great,” wrote one reviewer. “Reminds me of an orange grove. Definitely worth the money.”
Problem: Lingering cigarette stink
Solution: Eliminator spray that gets rid of stubborn smoke odors
From cigarettes to campfires, this spray is formulated to eliminate stubborn smoke odors from cars, basements, kitchens, or nearly anywhere else you can think of. It’s also completely cruelty-free — and several reviewers even wrote about how it “works fast.”
Problem: Your screens are covered in smudges
Solution: Wipes that power through smudges & fingerprints
Computers, phones, televisions — these wipes are formulated to get all sorts of electronic screens looking oh-so clean. They’re effective on dust, fingerprints, smudges, and more. Plus, the quick-drying formula means you won’t have to worry about your screens being wet.
Problem: Kitchen surfaces are so greasy
Solution: Degreaser spray that helps kitchens sparkle
Stoves, microwaves, ovens — this degreaser spray is great for cleaning all sorts of grimy kitchen appliances. It gets to work within seconds of being sprayed, and the formula is so potent that you likely won’t need to do much scrubbing in order to get your kitchen looking clean. But if you need proof? One reviewer wrote, “It cleaned the microwave, and other greasy objects quickly with absolutely no elbow grease needed.”
Problem: Ratty hand towels
Solution: Ultra-soft towels that dry quickly when wet
Every bathroom needs at least a few high-quality hand towels, so why not grab these ones? They’re made from soft microfiber that dries quickly when wet, with a waffle knit that’s right on trend. The best part? You even have the choice of eight colors: blue, gray, beige, and more.
Problem: Dings & scratches on the walls
Solution: Refillable paint pens for easy touchups
Don’t bust out an entire can of paint when you need to make a few touchups around the house. Instead, reach for these paint pens. You can fill them with whatever paint you like — and the airtight chamber can even help keep the paint inside fresh for years. Plus, the brush-tip applicator makes it easy to paint directly onto walls, or any other surface in your home.
Problem: You’re unprepared for toilet trouble
Solution: This toilet brush & plunger set in a sleek caddy
Throw out the crummy plunger and toilet brush you’ve likely been using in favor of this sleek set. The included caddy is made from rust-resistant stainless steel — so there’s no need to worry about it corroding inside of humid bathrooms. Plus, the dual-canister design is great for saving space.
Problem: Slipping trash bags make a mess
Solution: Bands that secure trash bags in place
Few things are as annoying as having to constantly fix your trash bag back into place. Enter: these rubber bands. They stretch to fit trash cans between 13 and 33 gallons in size, holding the bag in place so that it doesn’t slip down into the can. Choose from three colors: gray, black, or blue.
Problem: Dirty shoes mess up your floors
Solution: This extra-wide boot scrubber for your doorway
Help keep your floors clean by using this scrubber on your boots before heading indoors. The extra-wide design makes it suitable for use with boots of nearly any size — and since it’s weather-resistant, there’s no need to worry about how it’ll hold up when left outside.
Problem: Your phone is filthy
Solution: A powerful sanitizer box for phones, glasses, & more
You wash your hands all the time, but what about your phone? Enter: this sanitizer box. A powerful UV light on the inside eliminates up to 99% of the bacteria on anything you can fit inside, including phones, coins, glasses, and more. Plus, a single cleaning cycle only takes about six minutes to complete.
Problem: Corroded caulk
Solution: Adhesive trim for caulking bathtubs, sinks, & more
You don’t have to call a handyman in order to caulk your bathtubs and sinks. Instead, grab this roll of trim. The adhesive backing makes installation a total breeze — simply press it into place, then smooth it out. And since it’s waterproof as well as stain-resistant, there’s no need to worry about how it’ll hold up over time.
Problem: Spills in the fridge
Solution: Simple fridge liners that are *so* easy to clean
Wiping up spills inside your fridge is almost always a pain — unless you’ve put these liners down. Not only do they help protect your shelves from mess, but cleaning them is as easy as wiping them down with a damp rag. The best part? The non-adhesive backing makes putting them down a total breeze.
Problem: Crusty microwave
Solution: The dinosaur that steam cleans microwave messes
OTOTO NEW Dracowave Microwave Cleaner - Dragon Microwave Steam Cleaner, Cleans Grime in Minutes with Water and Vinegar - Cute Kitchen Gifts Accessories, Funny Kitchen Gadgets, White Elephant Gifts
Amazon -Anyone with crud stuck to the inside of their microwave can appreciate this little dinosaur. Simply fill it up with water, then send it for a spin inside the microwave. Steam will erupt out of its head as it heats up, helping loosen up all that crud — and you can even add a touch of lemon juice to the water for an extra-refreshing touch.
Problem: Dirty nooks & crannies
Solution: An electronic spin scrubber that handles all the surfaces
Unlike some electronic spin scrubbers, this one features a waterproof design that helps keep it in good working order if it gets wet while you’re cleaning. The powerful battery delivers up to two hours of use before it needs to be recharged — and each order comes with four brush heads to help you tackle a variety of surfaces.
Problem: Mystery pet smells
Solution: Odor eliminator spray with a stain-revealing flashlight
Some foul-smelling pet stains can be invisible to the naked eye. Luckily, this odor eliminator kit comes with a UV flashlight that causes pet urine to glow, making it easy to find the source of that unwanted scent. Plus, the odor eliminator spray even features a citrus scent that’s derived from fresh orange peels.
Problem: Weird smells in the fridge
Solution: The deodorizer that helps keep fridges fresh up to 10 years
Throw out that crummy box of baking soda in the back of your fridge and upgrade to this deodorizer. It’s designed to work for up to 10 years — no need to change out any cartridges or purchase filter replacements. And since the outside is made from stainless steel, you won’t have to worry about it corroding over time.
Problem: Yellowed bathroom grout
Solution: A waterproof paint pen that helps you brighten tired grout
When no amount of scrubbing seems to help refresh your grout lines, it may be time to try out this paint pen. The narrow tip makes it easy to “color” inside the lines. Plus, each pen comes with enough paint inside to cover up to 150 feet of grout.
Problem: Visible cable clutter
Solution: The subtle box that lets you stylishly conceal cords
Got a mess of cables sitting out in plain sight? Consider hiding it inside of this box. Multiple slats in the back let you thread wires through as needed, while ventilation holes on the top help keep power strips from overheating. Choose from three colors: black, white, or white with a faux wood top.
Problem: Detergent drips dirty up the laundry room
Solution: Easy-to-install drip catcher trays
Large bottles of laundry detergent are prone to dripping. Luckily, this platform is an easy fix. It sits underneath the bottle spigot, catching any stray drips that fall its way while simultaneously giving you somewhere to rest a detergent cup. The best part? Its universal design makes it suitable for use with nearly any economy-sized detergent bottle.
Problem: Sliding door or window tracks are grimy
Solution: Narrow brushes that help you clean deep into tight spaces
Sliding door tracks, grout lines, shower drains — these brushes are great for cleaning deep into all sorts of tight spaces. Each one features two ends: one with extra-long bristles, as well as a second scraper end. And unlike some brushes, these ones are made with an ergonomic handle that fits comfortably in both hands.
Problem: The couch looks tired
Solution: Soft & stretchy cushion covers in over 20 colors
If the upholstery on your couch is looking a little worse for wear, consider taking a look at these covers. They stretch to fit couch, loveseat, and armchair cushions, giving them an affordable refresh that’ll set you back less than $30. And with more than 20 colors to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that suits your home.
Problem: Wood furniture looks dirty & dull
Solution: A wood cleaner & polish kit that imparts lustrous shine
Wood furniture looking a little dull? Try wiping it down with this polish. The non-sticky formula is made without any beeswax or orange oils — so there’s no need to deal with any leftover residues. Each order also includes a microfiber cloth to get you started.
Problem: Sleeping with makeup on
Solution: The reusable cloth that removes makeup with just water
Going to bed with a face full of makeup can leave your pores clogged come morning. Luckily, this cloth is an easy fix. Simply get it wet with water, and it’ll gently remove everything from foundation to waterproof mascara — no need for any cleanser. And since it’s reusable, it can even help you save money over time when compared to single-use wet wipes.
Problem: The mop is gathering dust
Solution: Cleaner you squirt right onto the floor
Not only is this floor cleaner derived from plant-powered ingredients, but it also has a citrus-mint scent that leaves your home smelling so, so refreshed. It’s suitable for use around kids as well as pets — and the nozzle lid even lets you squirt it directly onto the floor, no need to dilute it with water.
Problem: Dirty dishes in the clean dishwasher
Solution: A magnet that tells you the dishwasher status
If your housemates are always putting dirty dishes into a clean dishwasher, consider grabbing this magnet. It slides back and forth so that it’s easy to see whether the dishes are clean or dirty. But if that isn’t enough? Each order also includes adhesive so that you can secure it to non-magnetic washers.
Problem: The pets are dirty between baths
Solution: Wipes for cleaning your pet’s paws, coat, & more
ANGRY ORANGE Dog Wipes, Cleaning, Unscented, for Paws and Butt, Wipes for Dogs & Cats, Pet Wipes Ideal for Removing Dirt & Grime, Strong, Gentle, Hydrating Grooming Wipes, Puppy Essentials, 80 Count
Amazon -You never know what your pet stepped in while you were out for a walk, making these unscented wipes a smart buy. A touch of aloe vera and chamomile oil infused into each wipe helps keep them from drying out your pet’s paws — and you can just as easily use them to wipe down their coat, butt as well as facial wrinkles.
Problem: Hot oil dirtying up your kitchen counter
Solution: The handy splatter screen that helps prevent messes
While frying food can be delicious, it can also be incredibly messy — which is only part of the reason why I’m a fan of this splatter screen. Simply place it overtop of your pot or pan, and it’ll help prevent hot oil pops from dirtying up your counters. The best part? The mesh screen still allows steam to escape, ensuring that your fried ingredients come out crispy rather than soggy.
Problem: Wood furniture is scratched up
Solution: Furniture repair markers that are easy & permanent
Hiding the scratches on your wooden furniture is as easy as coloring them in using this repair kit. Each order comes with eight markers as well as eight wax sticks, all in wood-friendly colors: mahogany, oak, maple, cherry, and more. Though if you’re unconvinced that they’ll work? One reviewer wrote about how “they worked amazing and I am still in shock about the before and after!!!”
Problem: Stubborn stains in the toilet
Solution: A pumice stone that tackles hard water stains & mineral deposits
From grimy pool tile to water rings in your toilet, this pumice stone is great for getting rid of all sorts of buildup. The built-in handle makes it easy to maneuver around awkward spaces. And while tough on crud, it’s still gentle enough that you won’t have to worry about it leaving behind scratches on porcelain, ceramic, and more.
Problem: Dirty utensils make a mess
Solution: A colorful spoon rest with room for 3 utensils
Funny Spoon Holder by OTOTO - Spoon Rest for Stove Top - Cooking Gadgets, Cooking Gifts, Cool Kitchen Gadgets, Cool Gifts, Cute Kitchen Accessories, Funny Gifts, Random Stuff
Amazon -Don’t waste a paper towel every time you need somewhere to place that dirty utensil. Instead, place it on this spoon rest. There’s enough room for it to hold up to three utensils — and the wide pad catches any stray drips that fall its way. Plus, the nautical design is a fun addition to any kitchen.
Problem: Cloudy shower doors & windows
Solution: The silicone squeegee with an ultra-wide 11-inch blade
Water droplets that have dried on your glass shower walls can leave it looking dirty, making this squeegee a smart buy. The silicone blade easily wipes away water for a streak-free shine — and the stainless steel core helps keep it in good working order over time. But if that isn’t enough? Each order also includes an adhesive hook so that you can hang it up when not in use.
Problem: A mess of shoes in your entryway
Solution: This expandable shoe rack that can hold up to 33 pounds
With the ability to expand from 22 out to 32 inches, this shoe rack is perfect for large entryways, cramped closets, and every space in between. The sturdy metal frame can hold up to 33 pounds — so feel free to load it up with everything from boots to flip-flops. Plus, assembly is so simple that no tools are required in order to get the job done.
