Gross everyday problems you should stop ignoring because there are easy solutions
Life can be a little disgusting — luckily, there are plenty of ways to make it nicer.
Some everyday problems are just gross — think: grimy purses, gunked-up sinks, and litter box disasters. But here’s the good thing: You don’t have to live with them. There are ridiculously easy (and satisfying) solutions to these icky annoyances, and we’ve rounded up dozens of genius products to help. From the clever tools that help you clean to those that prevent the need to clean in the first place, these fixes make life tidier, fresher, and way less disgusting.
01
Problem: Your earbuds are getting nasty
Fix: A cleaning pen that makes them feel new
Keep your earbuds spotless, thanks to this three-in-one cleaning kit. It has a dual-head design that features a sponge for dust removal in the charging case, a high-density brush for sound outlet cleaning, and a metal pen tip for stubborn debris in the earphones. Compact and precise, this tool ensures your earbuds stay clean and perform at their best.
02
Problem: Clothes aren’t smelling fresh after they’re washed
Fix: These little tablets that clean grungy machines
Keep your washing machine fresh with these powerful and eco-friendly cleaning tablets. Designed for all washer types, they dissolve grime, eliminate odors, and break down detergent buildup effortlessly. Safe for septic systems, these effervescent tabs work instantly — no scrubbing needed. The result? Loads of laundry that smell fresh right out of the washer.
- Available options: 5
03
Problem: Dust has built up behind & under furniture
Fix: This extendable duster that gets in hard-to-reach places
Tackle dust in every hard-to-reach nook and cranny with this extendable microfiber duster. It features a bendable 8-inch head and a telescopic aluminum pole that extends up to 55 inches, so it can reach under appliances, cabinets, and even high surfaces with ease. The detachable microfiber cloth attracts dust, absorbs moisture, and is machine washable for reuse.
04
Problem: Hair keeps clogging the shower drain
Fix: Drain screens that prevent the problem before it starts
Keep your drains clog free with these disposable hair catchers. Featuring a strong, waterproof adhesive, each one sticks securely to your shower drain, trapping hair before it causes clogs. Simply peel and toss every few weeks and swap in a fresh, clean one. It’s a cost-effective, time-saving solution that eliminates messy cleanup and expensive plumbing bills.
05
Problem: Your sponges smell terrible
Fix: Odor-resistant scrubbers that smell like actual peaches
Ditch your stinky sponges and swap in these odor-resistant silicone scrubbers that keep your kitchen smelling great. With a light peach scent, they resist smell-producing bacteria buildup, thanks to the fast-drying material. Tough on grime yet gentle on cookware, these non-scratch scrubbers will tackle every kitchen task and smell fresh doing it.
06
Problem: Trash is building up inside your car
Fix: A mini trash can for all your garbage
Wrappers, receipts, stray fries — your vehicle can be a receptacle for all kinds of debris, but this car trash can is a genius way to hold it all. This mini bin clips onto your car door and features a push-top lid that keeps odors contained. Just dump it out whenever it gets full.
07
Problem: Your laptop is dusty & smudged
Fix: This cleaning tool that tackles crumbs, dust, & smudges
Keep your keyboard and laptop screen spotless with this double-sided cleaning tool. On one side, you’ll find a microfiber pad that wipes away fingerprints and smudges from the screen. On the other side, there’s a soft, retractable brush that sweeps away dust and dirt. Stash it in your desk drawer so you always have it handy.
08
Problem: The stove gets gunky between uses
Fix: A stove cover that keeps it clean & expands prep space
Protect and maximize your kitchen space with this versatile stovetop cover. It goes over your electric or glass cooktop and keeps it free from scratches, spills, crumbs, and dust. You can even use it as a drying mat or a heat-resistant trivet, since it can handle temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Available sizes: 4
- Available colors: 7
09
Problem: Dust is caking your car’s air vents
Fix: This cleaning gel that gets into small crevices
You can finally clean hard-to-reach spots with this versatile cleaning gel that’s perfect for detailing dashboards, vents, cupholders, and other tricky nooks. Just press it in to lift and remove dust, crumbs, and dirt with ease. It’s also reusable and effective on other surfaces, from electronics to furniture.
10
Problem: Your drain is running slow
Solution: Handy clog removers that get down & dirty (literally)
Handle pesky drain clogs all on your own with this six-pack of drain clog removers. The set includes five 25-inch snakes and one 24-inch drain cleaner perfect for tackling buildup — even in hard-to-reach areas. The sticks have barbs that trap hair and other debris, while the flexible metal cleaner has a handle-activated claw that can grab and remove larger bits of debris.
11
Problem: Food residue is all over your fridge shelves
Fix: Shelf liners that shield against drips
Keep your fridge spotless with these premium refrigerator liners that are designed to protect shelves from spills and messes. Available in five colors, the BPA-free mats save you time and effort on cleanup, making them essential for any kitchen. They’re made with a textured design that prevents slipping while still being easy to remove without leaving any residue behind.
- Available colors: 5
12
Problem: Dust is all over your blinds
Fix: This multi-prong brush that’s so genius
Make cleaning your window treatments a whole lot easier with this blinds cleaner that gets in between each panel to whisk away dust. The tool is designed with multiple prongs to clean the top and bottom of each blind at once, making dusting quicker and more efficient. Just remove the microfiber cover as needed to wash.
13
Problem: Your trash bags keep slipping down
Fix: These bands that keep them in place
Keep your trash bags secure and prevent slipping, thanks to this three-pack of trash can bands. They’re designed to securely hold garbage bags in place, and feature a durable, reinforced construction that won’t snap. This kit includes three elastic bands that fit most trash can sizes (10 to 33 gallons), making them convenient for any space.
- Available colors : 4
14
Problem: Mineral stains are making your toilet look bad
Fix: A cleaning pumice stone that works in a jiff
If you’ve got buildup that a regular brush can’t handle, try this pumice stone toilet cleaner instead. It’s tough on hard water stains and mineral deposits while still being gentle on surfaces, delivering a fresh and shiny toilet every time. Stock up on two and use the second one to tackle mineral stains in your shower.
15
Problem: Your sink drains don’t smell fresh
Fix: These deodorizer sticks that freshen things up, stat
Eliminate gross odors and prevent clogs with these drain sticks that are so low effort. Made with enzymes, they take on unpleasant smells and slow-moving drains, all while deodorizing pipes and breaking down grease, food, fats, oils, and other yucky stuff. Just drop one stick into your drain every month for freshness.
16
Problem: You have sweat stains on your pillowcase
Fix: Pillowcases that actually keep you cool
Hot sleepers can now get more comfortable rest, thanks to this two-pack of cooling pillowcases. They’re made with innovative Arc-Chill cooling fibers that help dissipate body heat and drop the temperature by up to 5 degrees. The silky finish feels soft to the touch, too. One reviewer wrote, “The cooling side instantly feels cool to the touch and really helps regulate my temperature throughout the night. No more waking up in a sweat!”
- Available sizes: 4
- Available colors: 12
17
Problem: There’s nowhere to store the litter scoop
Fix: A scoop that comes with its own holder
Make cleaning your cat's box a bit easier and less gross with this sturdy metal litter scoop, complete with a holder. It’s made from durable aluminum, is lightweight yet strong enough to handle tough clumps, and the deep shovel design allows for quick scooping. When finished, simply hang it on the included wall hanger.
18
Problem: You’re not really washing your hands enough
Fix: Paper soap sheets you can bring anywhere
Stay clean on the go with these portable soap sheets. Perfect for camping, road trips, and long days running errands, these offer a convenient alternative to traditional and clunky soap bars. They quickly dissolve into a light, moisturizing lather that effectively removes dirt without drying out your hands. Plus they come in several scents.
- Available scents: 4
19
Problem: It’s unpleasant to empty the drain
Fix: These strainer filters that make the job fast
Keep your drains clog free with these genius mesh sink bags. They’re made from a mesh material and are stretchy to fit all kitchen sink drain strainers. The fine mesh captures hair and food debris, and when it’s full, you can just pick it up and empty it out.
20
Problem: You hate touching the toilet seat
Fix: This handle that lifts it for you
Hate touching the toilet seat? The Lifty Loo handle eliminates the need to actually touch the seat, so you can keep your hands at a distance. It’s made with recycled ocean plastic with an adhesive backing to ensure a secure fit — even on toilet seats with a curved bottom. Just stick it on, and never touch the toilet seat again.
- Available options: 3
21
Problem: Straws & water bottles could use a deep cleaning
Fix: These brushes that get in those hard-to-reach places
Keep your water bottles and tumblers sparkling clean, inside and out, with this five-piece straw and water bottle cleaner set. The durable brushes feature stiff blue bristles that scrub hard-to-reach corners while remaining gentle enough for delicate glassware. The five-pack includes various brushes, like a 15-inch bottle brush for narrow necks, a 13-inch handle brush, and straw cleaners.
- Available colors: 2
22
Problem: Your activewear is smelling less than fresh
Fix: A detergent meant specifically for workout clothes
Keep your activewear looking, smelling, and performing its best with this best-selling laundry detergent. It’s specially formulated to remove stains and odors from synthetic fabrics that otherwise would hold on to oils and sweat. Just as good, it helps spandex retain its stretchiness, so you won’t wear out your workout wardrobe with a wash.
- Available scents: 2
23
Problem: You keep finding small mold stains
Fix: A gel cleanser that tackles mold on the spot
Dealing with mold inside your washing machine? Or along some tile grout? Tackle it once and for all with this mold stain remover gel. It has a powerful formula to effectively remove mold and mildew stains and eliminate unwanted dirt and grime in just minutes. It’s great for cleaning rubber gaskets, front-loading laundry drums, refrigerator seal strips, and bathroom surfaces, too.
24
Problem: The window tracks are dirty
Fix: Cleaning brushes designed specifically for the task
Achieve spotless window tracks with ease, thanks to this two-pack of window track cleaning brushes designed specifically for this task. Each one reaches into tough nooks and crannies, removing dirt, dust, and grime that accumulates over time. The ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip, making it easy to maneuver and reducing strain during extended cleaning sessions.
- Available colors: 5
25
Problem: Crumbs keep falling into your stove & counter gap
Fix: This heat-resistant cover that creates a barrier
It’s time to stop ignoring the fact that crumbs and sauce have fallen into the space between your stove and counter. Clean it out, and then install these gap covers and forget about it forever. Made from heat-resistant silicone, the covers can be trimmed to size for a perfect fit, so you can rest assured no food will sneak through again.
- Available styles: 5
26
Problem: Towels keeps falling to the (dirty) floor
Fix: Genius towel clips that keep them in place
Tired of dish towels falling to the dirty floor? These innovative towel clips are designed to keep them securely in place, even preventing pets from pulling them down. They’re clear and simple, easy to install, and fit on most kitchen and bathroom towel racks.
27
Problem: Your dog’s paws are filthy
Fix: A paw washer so you can keep your floors clean
Keep your four-legged friend’s paws clean while protecting your home from dirt and other debris, thanks to this portable dog paw washer. Just add water, insert their paws, and twist — the flexible bristles inside will whisk away mud and dirt. They’re available in three sizes for a customized fit to both chihuahua and mastiff paws alike.
- Available sizes: 3
- Available colors: 8
28
Problem: Certain areas don’t smell great
Fix: Odor-eliminating packs you can stick where it stinks
A convenient and effective solution for tackling tough odors naturally, these deodorizing packs will keep funky spaces smelling clean and fresh for up to 30 days. They release a scent through gentle diffusion and can be used anywhere: closets, bathrooms, litter box areas, or even cars. Just stick a holder wherever you want it, then pop in a sachet.
- Available scents: 3
29
Problem: Litter is getting tracked everywhere
Fix: This litter-grabbing mat that prevents scattered granules
Love your cat but hate finding kitty litter granules everywhere? Now you can keep your home clean and your cat happy with this litter mat. It’s designed with deep grooves and a dense mesh design to capture most escaped litter, preventing tracking and making cleanup a breeze. The best part? Reviewers raved that kitties don’t mind the feel of it under their feet.
- Available sizes: 3
- Available colors: 7
30
Problem: Your sneaker soles have seen better days
Fix: Erasing sponges designed specifically for white soles
Keep your footwear looking fresh and new with these sneaker cleaners that effectively work as erasers on bright white soles. The compact, pre-moistened sponges come in individual packages, making them perfect for quick touch-ups any time, anywhere. Each sponge features powerful micro-scrubbers to get the job done without leaving behind residue or damage.
31
Problem: You need a good way to freshen up midday
Fix: Deodorant wipes that are easy to pack
Freshen up no matter where you are with this 15-count pack of travel deodorant wipes. The individually wrapped wipes cleanse sweat, all while being hypoallergenic, pH balanced, and biodegradable. Plus, the compact design makes them easy to pack in your purse, gym bag, or car glove compartment.
- Available scents: 5
32
Problem: Your shoes smell less than fresh
Fix: Charcoal sachets you can toss in to deodorize
Tackle funky shoes and other smelly spaces with this 12-pack of deodorizers that last up to a full year for long-lasting freshness. Filled with activated bamboo charcoal, they absorb smells like a sponge and are a great alternative to scented deodorizers. Try them in closets, cars, and anywhere else you want to neutralize odors.
33
Problem: Hair keeps clogging the sink drain
Fix: A drain protector that prevents clogs to begin with
Say goodbye to clogged sink drains and stop problems before they start with the SinkShroom, an innovative drain protector that fits securely inside your bathroom sink. Hidden out of sight, it collects hair and debris around its center cylinder, while still maintaining optimal water flow. It’s a great way to ditch the need for expensive plumber visits.
- Available colors: 4
34
Problem: There’s a smell coming from your dishwasher
Fix: Tablets that remove food & detergent residue
If you’ve never cleaned your dishwasher, you might notice some odors or dishes that are left with residue after a cycle. Now is the time to clean it with these easy-to-use tablets that eliminate grease and detergent buildup. They’re compatible with all dishwasher models and are septic safe.
35
Problem: Pet hair is absolutely everywhere
Fix: A large lint roller for your floor & couch
Clean deeper than ever before with this large lint roller for your floor and furniture. It has an extendable handle that adjusts for comfort and reach, making it easy for anyone to use. It features super sticky sheets that tackle tough pet hair, lint, and dust effortlessly, leaving your home spotless (or at least close to it).
36
Problem: Fingerprints are all over your stainless steel
Fix: A special cleaner that won’t leave streaks behind
Get your stainless steel appliances spotless and fingerprint free with this stainless steel cleaning kit. The set includes a 16-ounce bottle of plant-powered cleaner that delivers a streak-free shine, along with a soft microfiber cloth. The formula even leaves behind a protective barrier that guards against future fingerprints and smudges.
37
Problem: Food residue has taken over your microwave
Fix: These steam cleaners that work fast
Make cleaning your microwave so much easier, thanks to these steam cleaners. Just combine water and vinegar (or add a splash of lemon juice for a fresh scent), then microwave for five minutes. The steam released will effortlessly tackle grime and odors, so you can simply wipe it all away.
- Available colors: 2
38
Problem: Your breath feels stale
Fix: These mini tongue brushes that freshen things up fast
Keeping your tongue clean is an important part of oral hygiene, so make it easy with this soft-bristle tongue brush. The wide head features gentle bristles designed to effectively remove debris for a fresher mouth. It features a comfortable, nonslip handle and comes with a brush cover to protect it between uses.
39
Problem: You can smell a pet accident, but can’t see it
Fix: This UV flashlight that illuminates everything
For an even deeper clean, uncover hidden stains in your home with this powerful UV flashlight that’s perfect for detecting pet urine stains on carpets, rugs, and clothing. Revealing what the naked eye can’t see, it’s made with 51 UV LEDs — simply turn out the lights and shine it wherever you suspect stains might lurk.
40
Problem: Laptop & phone screens are grimy
Fix: A screen cleaner kit that restores a crystal-clear view
Achieve crystal-clear screens on your laptops, tablets, and phones with this screen cleaner kit that includes a powerful cleaning solution and microfiber cloth. The powerful formula effectively removes smudges and dust without leaving any residue, ensuring your devices look brand new after every use. The gentle cloth also protects delicate surfaces from scratches while maximizing cleaning coverage.
41
Problem: Your shoes are getting nasty
Fix: Shoe-washing bags that go right in the machine
Keep your kicks looking fresh and brand new with these innovative shoe-washing bags that effectively removes stains without leaving lint or dye behind. Each bag features soft chenille fibers that “scrub” your footwear — and the included shoe trees help maintain shape. Just toss your shoes into the bag, zip it up, and place it in the washing machine for a hassle-free clean.
- Available colors: 4
42
Problem: Small spaces are overly humid
Fix: This mini dehumidifier that keeps them dry & fresh
Keep small spaces (like your pantry, closet, or bathroom) dry and odor free with this mini dehumidifier. Ideal for areas up to 333 cubic feet, it boasts a sleek design you can hang or stash out of the way. It delivers up to 30 days of moisture absorption before you’ll need to recharge the silica gel beads — simply plug it in.
43
Problem: Food residue has burnt onto your oven floor
Fix: Oven liners that prevent messes in the first place
Keep your oven spotless and clean it less often with this set of two nonstick oven liners. They’re designed specifically to protect against spills and drips that naturally occur while cooking, and they can withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re BPA free and a breeze to rinse clean.
- Available colors: 3
44
Problem: Your desk & keyboard have seen better days
Fix: This mini vacuum that suctions up all the gunk
Keep your workspace spotless with this powerful mini desktop vacuum. Designed for precise cleaning, it features a detachable nozzle that reaches between the keys to remove dust, hair, and crumbs — then you can remove the nozzle for tackling wider spaces. It charges via USB to give you four hours of cleaning time.
- Available colors: 3
45
Problem: Hard water buildup is getting out of control
Fix: This mineral stain remover that works in a flash
Transform your cleaning routine with this calcium, lime and rust remover that’s perfect for areas with hard water. EPA certified, it’s safe for many surfaces including stainless steel, glass, and ceramic tile. Simply spritz it on and watch the stains disappear.
46
Problem: Detail cleaning takes too much elbow grease
Fix: A mini power scrubber that gets right in there
Experience powerful cleaning in a jiff with this fan-favorite power scrubber by Rubbermaid. The handheld cleaner features a multipurpose head that scrubs a whopping 60 times per second, tackling grime twice as fast as manual scrubbing. It’s water resistant and perfect for tight spaces like sink fixtures, tiles, and even tires.
- Available options: 5
47
Problem: Your pet makes it impossible to keep your floors clean
Fix: This dog doormat that absorbs mud & dirt
Keep your indoor floors clean, even if you have pets, with this dog doormat. Available in an array of sizes and colors, the chenille mat absorbs dirt and moisture before messy paws can track it on your floors. It has a soft, cozy feel, so your furry friends won’t mind stepping on it.
- Available sizes: 13
- Available colors: 22
48
Problem: Detergent has dripped all over your laundry area
Fix: Drip catchers that help keep floors clean
Keep your laundry area clean and mess free with these genius detergent cup holders with a 4.7-star overall rating. Designed to attach to most economy-size detergent jugs, they help catch drips while also serving as a spot to rest the measuring cups. Simply remove the tray inserts and rinse off any soap as needed.
49
Problem: Pantry moths are eating your food
Fix: Glue traps that will fend them off
Protect your pantry from pesky food moths with these easy-to-use sticky traps. Just peel, fold, and place them in your cupboards to catch moths that target grains, cereals, and pet food. They’re designed to provide discreet yet effective protection from those flying pests.
50
Problem: Your garbage disposal stinks
Fix: This brush that cleans out the gunk
Keep your garbage disposal fresh and odor free with this universal cleaning brush designed with stiff bristles that break up tough grime and food buildup. Designed for deep cleaning, the 11-inch brush reaches where hands and other scrubbers can’t. It’s complete with a sturdy handle and easy-to-clean design.
51
Problem: Scrubbing the toilet just... isn’t happening
Fix: These toilet gel stamps that clean with every flush
Keep your toilet fresh and clean with every flush, thanks to these gel toilet stamps. This hands-free method fights toilet rings and buildup — no scrubbing needed. The set includes 24 gel stamps and a dispenser — simply apply below the rim for continual cleaning.
52
Problem: Your purse’s interior has seen better days
Fix: This sticky little ball that cleans things right up
Keep your bag crumb and dust free with this reusable sticky cleaning ball. Just put it in your purse, backpack, or handbag, and let it effortlessly pick up dirt, dust, and crumbs throughout the day. It’s also easy to clean — just rinse it and reuse.
- Available colors: 6
53
Problem: Your coffee isn’t tasting right
Fix: This descaling solution that gets rid of flavor-altering mineral buildup
Keep your appliances running like new with this powerful descaling solution. It’s specifically designed to remove lime scale and calcium buildup that could otherwise influence the way your coffee tastes. Besides working on your coffee machine, you can use it on ice makers, tea kettles, and even showerheads.
54
Problem: You touch your soap pump with dirty hands
Fix: This hands-free soap dispenser you never need to touch
Upgrade your handwashing routine and keep things extra clean with this touchless soap dispenser. It has a 17-ounce capacity and adjustable volume control to dole out just the right amount every time. Its hands-free sensor ensures a mess-free experience, while its sleek construction complements any space.
- Available colors: 6
55
Problem: The ceiling fan needs a good cleaning, but you can’t reach it
Fix: A ceiling fan duster with an extendable arm
Effortlessly clean ceiling fans, blinds, and other hard-to-reach spots with this extendable duster. The soft, dense polyester head traps dust with ease, while the adjustable pole eliminates the need for a ladder. It has a slanted, double-sided design that ensures thorough cleaning of both sides of the blade — simply remove the cloth to wash between uses.
- Available colors: 15
