The odd hidden gems you’ve been missing.
Browsing through Amazon will introduce you to a plethora of odd gadgets that, while interesting, may seem a little unnecessary. And while some aren’t worth your money, there are plenty that are. I’ve scoured Amazon to find the coolest, weirdest things you can think of that actually serve a very useful purpose. They’ll come in handy so often you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. Even better? They all cost less than $30. Keep scrolling and start adding to cart.
01A portable compressor that fills your tires with air fast
Keep this portable air compressor on hand at all times in case of an emergency. It can plug into your car’s 12-volt power outlet with a 10-foot power cord, inflating a car’s tire in just minutes. It has an accurate tire pressure gauge, and automatically shuts off when it’s reached the desired tire pressure. A bright display allows you to check the pressure easily and LED lights help you see even in the dark.
02A compact lockbox for keeping valuables safe no matter where you are
This portable safe comes in a compact size that makes it ideal for keeping in your car or bringing along when traveling. You can set your own four-digit passcode, and it comes with a cable you can use to secure it to another object. It’s made with shock-absorbing foam and is water resistant, and as a bonus, it has a port so you can charge your device while it’s locked away.
03These deodorizing bags that take away that stinky shoe scent
If your shoes emit a funky scent the second they’re off your feet, try these shoe deodorizer pouches. Pop them into your shoe once you’re not wearing them — they’re designed to absorb odors and work for up to six months. Nearly 12,000 positive ratings back up their claims, with one shopper writing, “These are super neat and actually do the trick.”
04An Apple Watch charging stand shaped like a colorful dinosaur
When it’s time to charge your Apple Watch, pop it onto this dinosaur-shaped charging stand. Made from soft silicone and available in a variety of colors, the stand has a cable management channel on the bottom to keep the cord contained — so not only is it fun, but it also keeps cable clutter to a minimum.
05A handy device that opens letters quickly & efficiently
This electric letter opener is one of those gadgets you didn’t realize you needed until you started using it. It’s super simple: Just put the envelope you want to open by the arrow, and the machine turns on automatically, smoothly slicing it open. There’s no effort on your part, and it works faster and more efficiently than a manual letter opener.
06These little apples that keep your produce from going bad
Toss these reusable produce-saver balls into your produce drawers to help your fruits and veggies last longer. They absorb the ethylene gas that produce can give off, slowing down the ripening process. Each packet can last for up to three months and requires almost zero effort on your part, saving you money in the long run.
07A helpful word clock that acts as unique & functional decor
This light-up electronic word clock is an interesting piece of decor that’s also functional. It tells the time in words rather than numbers and is made of sleek metal (choose from a few different finishes) that makes it a standout piece. The LED glow behind each word makes it super easy to read the time even when it’s light out.
08These durable gloves that help prevent burns when cooking
Heat resistant with a nonslip grip, these heavy-duty gloves are ideal for wearing when cooking on the grill or even using inside the kitchen. They’re built to last, are easy to clean in the washing machine, and have a universal fit. They take a little stress out of cooking or baking and can help prevent burns and other incidents.
09A soap pouch that helps give you softer skin
If you swear by bar soap in the shower, this soap pouch is a must-have. Place your favorite bar of soap inside, then use it to suds up — it offers two levels of exfoliation for getting rid of grime and dead skin cells. It’s also a great place to stash your soap to keep it from getting icky in the shower (and it works for on-the-go too).
10A hot dog-shaped stapler that adds some personality to your workspace
Why have a regular stapler when you could have one that looks like a hot dog? This novelty stapler is fully functional and makes your desk space a little more fun. “This simple office gadget has brought us so much joy even when just sitting on the desk!” one shopper writes. “It is lightweight, fits in your hand well, and makes such a mundane task a little more joyful.”
11These socks that offer a discreet zippered pockets for valuables
Whether you’re hiking, traveling, or jogging, these anti-theft socks will come in handy. They have a small and discreet zippered pocket that is the ideal size for storing some cash, cards, and maybe a piece of jewelry. It allows you to keep some of your most important items with you in a secret spot no one will think to check.
12This sandwich maker for quicky, easy breakfast at home
This sandwich maker makes it so simple to create your own perfect breakfast sandwiches at home. With a layered design, you can easily cook your egg and meat of choice at the same time you’re toasting bread and melting cheese. It’s compact and easy to store, and all removable parts are dishwasher-safe for fast cleanup.
13A compact & adjustable night-light that looks like a mushroom
Go for fairy garden vibes with this mini mushroom lamp that acts as the perfect night-light. It has a dimmable LED light so you can get the exact amount of brightness you’re looking for, it’s easy to recharge as needed, and it’s cordless. As for the size? It’s slightly bigger than an iPhone 12, making it super portable.
14This grounding mat that promotes relaxation
Designed to transfer electrons from the earth to your body, this grounding mat may help boost circulation and energy levels and promote relaxation. It’s easy to plug in with a 15-foot cord and you can use it throughout the day while cooking, practicing yoga, working at your desk, or resting. Made from vegan leather, the mat comes in two styles and has nonslip backing to help it stay in place.
15A shower caddy that keeps your bathroom essentials organized
Make your morning shower routine more efficient and neat with this silicone toiletries holder. Waterproof, durable, and easy to install with strong adhesive backing, it offers compartments for your toothpaste, toothbrush, razor, and even an extra blade. It takes up barely any space and is a breeze to remove if needed.
16These functional & funky pot holders shaped like pasta
Choosing a whimsical design for a basic cooking essential is an easy way to add some personality to your kitchen. These pasta-shaped pot holders are perfect for the pasta lover and are fun to use. They’re made of durable silicone, so they’re heat and steam-resistant and you can throw them in the dishwasher to keep them clean.
17A travel bidet that gives you a thorough clean & saves you money
Once you start using a bidet, it’s hard to go back. This handheld portable bidet is easy to use every day and is convenient enough to take with you, whether you’re traveling or just heading out for the day. It doesn’t require batteries, since you just squeeze it to use it, and it’s lightweight and leakproof. Not only does it keep you clean, but it can also reduce your use of toilet paper, saving you money in the long run.
18This magnetic screen door with over 70,000 positive ratings
Skip the pricey screens and instead opt for this budget-friendly magnetic screen door. With over 70,000 positive ratings, this is a customer favorite because it works so well. The magnet seals it shut nicely, keeping bugs out of your home, but opens easily enough for people and pets to walk through. “Keeps it totally closed with no gap,” one shopper writes, while another adds, “The quality is impressive,” noting the heavy-duty feel.
19This spray that instantly turns toilet paper into a flushable wet wipe
Wet wipes might be more comfortable and effective than standard toilet paper, but they can also wreak havoc on your pipes. Instead of taking that chance, start using this popular toilet paper spray. A few spritzes on your toilet paper transform it into a wipe you can safely flush, and it’s made of soothing ingredients such as coconut oil, aloe, and witch hazel for a hydrating feel.
20These moisture-wicking handkerchiefs that absorb sweat
These compact handkerchiefs are great for dabbing away excess sweat on the go. Made of soft microfiber, these absorb up to seven times their weight in moisture and dry quickly, effectively getting rid of sweat with just one swipe. They’re small enough to keep in your bag or pocket and can be machine-washed and reused.
21This lightweight portable charger pad that works with MagSafe
Charge your phone at home or on the go with this super portable charger pad. It securely attaches to the back of an iPhone (series 12 and up) with built-in magnets and offers a fast charge. A reinforced cable base and strong nylon outer casing keep the 5-foot cord from wearing out quickly.
22A clever diffuser pen that keeps you relaxed at work
Dealing with stress on the daily? Swap out your regular pen for this essential oil pen. A tiny diffuser inside releases a blend of lavender, chamomile, and jasmine oils as you write, helping you to feel calm and focused. Plus, the ballpoint pen comes with a black ink refill.
23This AirTag holder that attaches to your dog’s collar
An Apple AirTag is an ingenious way to track your dog at all times, and this AirTag holder makes the process simple. Place the device inside, then slip this onto your dog’s collar (it should fit over most buckles). It’s secure, keeps the device hidden and protected from moisture, and your dog won’t even realize it’s there.
24A portable steamer & iron that keeps clothing wrinkle-free
Clothing that’s been packed neatly into a suitcase and packing cubes almost always comes out wrinkly. This travel-sized steamer is the solution — it’s compact enough to bring just about anywhere and also works as an iron. It heats up in under a minute and can steam for up to seven minutes before it needs a refill.
25A circular drying rack that saves on counter space
This circular drying rack is a compact way to air dry your dishes on the counter — and it looks pretty cool, too. Made from stainless steel, the rustproof rack is durable and easy to clean. “Absolutely my favorite dish rack ever!” wrote one reviewer. “It’s very well made, and perfect for a clean sleek look on the countertop.”
26These durable playing cards you can use literally anywhere
Pack this deck of playing cards whether you’re planning on playing outdoors, at the beach, by the pool, or on a boat. They’re made of a strong, waterproof material that makes them flexible and smooth, but they’re still easy to shuffle. You don’t need to worry about spilling anything on them — they hold up great. “Very high quality,” one shopper wrote, adding, “has a near perfect thickness.”
27These highly rated silky pillowcases that offer a pleasantly cool feel
You won’t have to worry about flipping to the cool side of the pillow anymore once you try these silky pillowcases. Each side is made of tightly woven cooling fibers that absorb heat and leave you feeling more comfortable. They’re also anti-static and have a silky feel that may help reduce pillow creases on your face and tangles in your hair.
28An adjustable drink organizer for neatly stowing cans & bottles
Keep this drink organizer in your refrigerator or pantry to neatly stash your favorite cans and bottles. The width of each compartment can be adjusted to hold most standard-size bottles and cans. Once you remove a beverage, it automatically pushes another to the front, so it always looks neat.
29An easy-to-use level with a bright laser & measuring tape
This multifunctional laser level is a great tool to have on hand in your home. Bright laser lines allow you to hang items and take measurements accurately, and it’s simple to set up. It also has measuring tape on the side so there’s no guesswork required.
30A Nespresso coffee pod tower that saves on space
Free up counter and drawer space by storing your Nespresso coffee pods in this tower holder. It can hold up to 40 of the original pods and rotates 360 degrees, keeping each one on display so you can find exactly what you’re looking for. The iron base makes it extra sturdy.
31An alarm clock that projects the time onto your wall
This digital alarm clock is packed with cool features, the main one being that it can project the time onto the wall (or ceiling) in your room in huge, bright numbers. It also allows you to set dual alarms, has a large and convenient snooze button, adjustable volume that will gradually get louder the longer the alarm goes off, a dimmer switch, and a USB output to charge a device.
32A vacuum attachment that removes lint buildup from the dryer
An excessive amount of lint and dust in your dryer isn’t just gross to think about — it can make your machine less efficient and create a fire hazard. This dryer lint vacuum attachment makes it so easy to remove all of the lint and dust buildup in your dryer with little work on your part. Compatible with most vacuum cleaners, it’s a cinch to use.
33A multifunctional cutting board you’ll use every time you cook
This multifunctional cutting board doesn’t just give you plenty of clean space to cut up your produce — it also has a built-in draining basket, a container for holding food, and a long carry handle that makes it easy to move from surface to surface. Made with outdoor use in mind, it’s easy to clean and durable.
34This tongue cleaner & scraper that can help give you fresher breath
Up your dental hygiene game with these tongue cleaners that many shoppers love because of their two-in-one design. One side is a brush with ultra-fine bristles for loosening debris, and the other side is a gentle tongue scraper that removes excess buildup. These are small, easy to clean, and reusable.
35These easy-to-install hooks for storing all your hats
These hooks offer an easy and efficient way to store a large hat collection. They have a strong adhesive backing so you can place them pretty much anywhere, and the little lip on the hooks keep your hats in place and help them retain their shape. They come in packs of eight, 16, or 32 in several colors.
36A set of compact silicone bowls with leakproof lids
Keep leftovers and meal-prepped food fresh with these silicone storage bowls. They offer plenty of space for a variety of things, with leakproof lids that have an air vent hole for easy microwaving. When not in use, these collapse to be nearly flat, making storage a breeze.
37A fun spoon holder that prevents utensils from sliding into the cooking pot
This silicone spoon rest is the kitchen helper you never realized you needed. Shaped like a person giving a hug, it’s meant to hold your utensils in place when they’re resting in a pot or pan, preventing them from sliding into the food. The holder is steam and heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe, and it’s just fun to use.
38This Buddha-shaped meditation tool that helps with guided breathing
This rechargeable visual meditation tool is aptly shaped like a small, smiling Buddha. Designed to help with guided breathing, its fade-in and fade-out color prompts show you when it’s time to inhale, hold, and exhale. “Wonderful addition when meditating and a calming visual with the lights when doing breathwork alone,” one shopper raves.
39A weighted holder that keeps cables & cords neatly in place
Add this weighted cord holder to your nightstand, desk, or anywhere you’re charging several devices at once. It has notches to hold six different cords in most sizes, keeping them neatly in place so they don’t slide off the surface and disappear. It’s also multifunctional: Use it as a phone holder, a place to stow earbuds, and wrap cords around it for travel.
40A cozy beanie with a built-in rechargeable headlamp
This LED beanie hat will come in handy when you’re outside at night, whether you’re hiking, walking, jogging, or working. The removable LED light on the front is super bright and can provide up to four hours of continuous use (or six to eight hours of intermittent use). The light can be recharged through a USB port, and the hat itself is soft, warm, and available in several different colors.
41A sleek reusable water bottle with a protective silicone sleeve
Skip the single-use water bottles and start using a reusable one instead — it’s more sustainable and saves you money over time. This glass water bottle is a sleek option, with a protective silicone sleeve around it that adds color and protects it from breaking. It’s lightweight and slim, so it fits in most cup holders.
42A nonslip bamboo bath mat that’s stain-resistant
Unlike the typical fabric rugs in many bathrooms, this bamboo bath mat won’t easily stain, sag, and stay wet for hours on end. It also has a nonslip backing that keeps it firmly in place. “I love this mat, super sturdy well made. It makes a great statement by the bathtubs,” wrote one reviewer.
43This compact machine that seals food for long-lasting freshness
This multifunctional vacuum sealer machine seals food storage bags and has a built-in cutter that makes it easy to open the bags when needed. It offers several different suction modes (like dry, moist, or canister), allowing you to get the right vacuum seal options for meats, seafood, and dry goods. It’s easy to use and clean and small enough to make storage simple.
44These silicone molds for making fun, cactus-shaped treats
Use these nonstick molds for making your own chocolate, candy, cookies, cakes, and more. They’re made of flexible silicone, which is not only waterproof and heat-safe but is also easy to bend so you can pop the finished treats out without breaking them. This set of three includes various cactus shapes for a fun themed dessert.
45A colorful utensil rest & pot lid holder
Add this silicone spoon rest to your stovetop or countertop to keep things organized and prevent stains and drips on surfaces. It has space to hold various large utensils and pot lids, with three slots to keep things organized, and is both heat and water-resistant. Toss it in the dishwasher to easily keep it clean.
46A sleek dock that charges 3 devices at once
Set up a charging dock in a convenient spot in your room (like your nightstand) with this wireless charging station. It can charge up to three devices at once, including various iPhones, AirPods, Apple Watches, and Android devices, with a silicone base on the bottom to prevent any slipping. Three indicator lights on the front turn on to let you know your device is charging then turn off so you’re not bothered by the LEDs at night.
47This bacon grease collector that stays cool to the touch at all times
This silicone grease collector offers an easy way to hold onto bacon grease you might want to use for infusing flavor in other dishes. It has a removable strainer to catch bits of food, with a chamber that holds the grease neatly without the risk of leaking. The silicone stays cool to the touch even when the grease is hot, and the lid has an adorable pig face.
48A clever brush that makes cleaning your utensils so much easier
Shoppers love this clever cleaning brush that is meant to efficiently scrub utensils. It has bristles on both sides for a quick, thorough clean, and it’s closed on one side to help prevent any accidents when cleaning a sharp knife. “I like that this tool keeps my sponges from getting ruined,” one reviewer notes, while another writes, “Once you’ve cleaned a carving knife with this brush, there’s no turning back.”
49These sticky notes that look just like ramen noodles
If you love a bowl of ramen, then you need this ramen sticky notepad. With 155 sheets, these notes are great for reminders and each one is covered in an image of ramen noodles. The package is even resealable, making it look like these faux noodles are fresh from the store.
50These wipeable placemats that help protect your tables & counters
These super functional placemats are sure to replace any other placemats you have at home because they’re so convenient and smart. They’re water-resistant and wipeable to easily clean any stains or spots, with a thick feel that is heat resistant to protect your table. The double-sided faux leather material also makes them nonslip and gives a textured look, and they’re available in a variety of colors.
51These cactus-shaped taco holders for easy filling & serving
You need these cactus-shaped taco holders for your next at-home taco night. They’re designed to hold hardshell tacos, keeping them intact and preventing any breaking or spilling while you’re filling the shell. Not only are they fun, but they also make serving tacos so much easier and less messy.
52An aromatherapy stick that can help ease muscle pains & headaches
These migraine relief sticks contain peppermint and spearmint essential oils that may help relieve muscle pains and headaches — one shopper notes they offer some much-needed relief while waiting for pain medications to kick in. The roller ball applicator makes these so easy to use on your temples, neck, shoulders, and anywhere else you might need relief. Plus, the compact size makes them easy to throw in your bag or pocket.
53A chrome bottle opener that doubles as very cool decor
Add this sculptural chrome bottle opener to your bar setup and impress guests when they come over. Its modern design easily doubles as a decor, but it also really works. One shopper raved, “It's exceptionally made and is functional beauty,” adding that it looks way more expensive than its under-$30 price tag.
54These fun pizza coasters that protect surfaces from water rings
Keep damaging water rings and heat off your tables by using these felt pizza coasters. Each one looks like a mini pizza, and the presentation includes a tiny pizza paddle, with everything contained in a pizza box. This would make the perfect housewarming gift for pizza lovers.
55This highly rated hair removal tool that every pet owner needs
This reusable pet hair remover is going to be your new favorite way to get rid of the endless amounts of cat or dog hair in your home. Instead of using brushes or sticky paper lint rollers that you need to replace eventually, this tool has an edge that catches dust and fur on fabric, collecting it all into one ball you can toss in the garbage. Customers call it a “genius invention” and “the most satisfying brush/hair removal tool I’ve ever used.”
56An ab roller that won’t damage your floors for efficient at-home workouts
Expand your home gym with this ab roller that doesn’t take up much storage space. Wide wheels on the front and back offer control and stability, while the nonslip material absorbs shock and reduces wear. It has a built-in brake system and sweat-absorbing sponge grips that won’t damage your floors or leave moisture behind.
57This wall-mounted garbage can with a lid that opens 2 ways
This 2.4-gallon mini garbage can doubles as a compost bin and offers super convenient features. The lid can be flipped up or slid down the side to be kept fully open, and it also features a tight seal that keeps odors inside. You can mount the trash can to the wall or hang it on a cabinet door, keeping it within easy reach of the sink. Lastly, the removable bag retainer ring makes it a breeze to place and secure a new bag as needed.
58An amusing egg separator that makes cooking more fun
This ceramic egg separator looks like a cute little chick and features a clever design. You can crack the egg inside, then pour the egg whites out of the chick’s mouth while the yolk stays where it is. This makes it simple to separate your eggs while also keeping the yolk intact — and, as a bonus, it’s fun enough to display.
59This all-in-one cup holder adapter & phone mount
Giant reusable water bottles are great for staying hydrated all day — until it comes to fitting them inside the cup holder of your car. This convenient adapter fits into most cup holders and is compatible with water bottles up to 40 ounces. It also comes with an adjustable universal phone mount so you can easily access your device.
60This claw that helps thaw frozen meat faster
Thawing frozen food in cold water can take a long time because it often floats to the surface. Enter: This claw-shaped tool with a suction cup that attaches to the bottom of your sink so it can hold the package of meat in place. Once the food is securely held down, it stays submerged underwater for a faster thaw.
61A funky slotted spoon that’s more functional than it looks
This leaf-shaped ladle isn’t just a piece of funky kitchen decor — it actually works as a helpful utensil. Use it as a slotted spoon to drain water and excess liquid from pasta and other foods and to toss salads. It’s heat resistant, safe to use on nonstick cookware, and made of sturdy and durable nylon.
62A fidget toy that works with & without noise
Use this fidget toy with or without noise depending on your surroundings. Some components of the cube are silent while others offer audible feedback, allowing you to have the best of both worlds in one toy. Pop the cube in its protective case to take it on the go.
63This dustpan that looks like a mustachioed man
Make your cleaning basics a little more exciting with this slightly ridiculous dustpan and brush set. The dustpan features eyes, and the brush and brush handle look like a nose and mustache, so when placed together, it ends up looking like a mustachioed man. It’s fun yet functional and easy to hang on a hook when not in use.
64A hard scrubbing brush that will clean just about anything
Add this scrubbing brush to your cleaning lineup for your home. With dense bristles and a comfortable, nonslip grip, this can be used on a variety of objects: cast iron pans, showers, bathtubs, and more. It’s durable and long-lasting, and you’re going to want more than one at this budget-friendly price.
65A mini light that clips onto your devices for much-needed brightness
Use this clip-on LED light with your tablet, laptop, computer, or phone. It adds some much-needed brightness to your space, allowing you to take clear photos and improving the look of video chats. It’s convenient to use and small enough to keep with you at all times.