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60 gifts under $25 on Amazon that'll go over well no matter what

Gifts that are perfect for when you’re not quite sure what to get.

by Christina X. Wood and Cassandra Seale
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
GKCI touch lamp and COKA watering can products you can buy on Amazon for less than 25 dollars
Inverse/Amazon
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

We live in a world where many of us are flush with a large number of clever things for the home. So, when seeking thoughtful gifts that people actually want (or things you actually want, for that matter), what is an intrepid shopper to do? Fear not, brave seekers. For we also live in a world with a nearly endless array of unique and life-enhancing gadgets, doodads, and gizmos. The trick is to go clever-er. Regular cleverness can see its way out now, please.

I have traversed the deepest recesses of the Amazon-ian wilderness to come up with a list of items that are useful, unusual, downright transformative, and adorable — possibly all of these simultaneously. They’re sure to be welcome additions that enhance the lives of those who receive them. Meaning they’ll go over well.

There’s a much-loved, full-size body pillow (at a smashing price) for anyone who loves building the snuggliest nest on your side of the Mississippi. There’s a non-tipping can cooler for when cold beverages may need safety and temperature control outside the home. There’s a Bigfoot-shaped multitool that might help you snag that Sasquatch (actually, if you’re within multitool-striking distance, you should run).

But, whether the person you’re trying to bowl over with your gift-giving prowess is into nature, self-care, working from home, cocktails, or s’mores, there’s something fun and enjoyable for them below the fold. And, again, if that person is yourself, please scroll on — because you deserve to enjoy neat new toys that bowl you over, too.

1. This tool for making delicious dumplings at home

Enhance someone’s dumpling habit by putting this perfect tool for creating potstickers, won ton, ravioli, or even sweet little hand pies in their life. Use the rings to cut circles of dough, lie desired ingredients on top, and fold it closed to seal the goodies inside. They are easy and fun to use.

2. These insulated bowls so ice cream doesn’t melt

Scoop ice cream into this double-wall insulated bowl and it won’t be a race against melting to eat it. It will stay frozen for much longer, while hands remain comfy. If soup is your jam, this will keep it hot until you are ready to eat it — however long that takes. The shape is perfect for holding in one hand.

3. This buddy that wrestles beverages open

When opening a beverage, it can be done with a tool that’s boring — or with the skills of one of these Lucha Libre wrestlers. One of three — red, blue or black — luchadors put a lock grip on the bottle cap to get it off. They are designed by Andres Lhima as part of a Mexico design challenge and will brings flair to any kitchen.

4. A drink holder for your shower beer

Know someone for whom the best moment of the day is when they get home from work and have a beer in the shower? This is the cup holder that will make that even easier. It sticks to the shower wall and holds a beer within reach, while freeing up your hands and other surfaces for shampoo and soap.

5. This foot peel mask that exfoliates feet for crack-free heels

This weirdly satisfying foot peel begins working in just three to seven days to remove calluses and exfoliate dry skin and cracked heels. The painless process involves soaking feet and applying the foot masks for just 90 minutes at a time. The masks are free of sulfates, paraben, and silicone and they’re not tested on animals.

6. A pair of helpful bamboo salad hands

Making a delicious salad is much easier if with the right tools for tossing it. These bamboo salad hands make it super easy to toss even the most complex salad because they give terrific control. They go right to the table, for serving, and have a little knob that stops them from sliding into the bowl.

7. An adorable koala tea infuser

Every cup of tea will be fun and full of koala charm when it’s brewed using this smiling koala tea infuser. It grabs the edge of the glass so it’s easy to remove from the mug while its belly keeps the loose tea leaves submerged. Tea never looked so darling.

8. An easy-to-setup wireless doorbell with a huge range

A wireless doorbell doesn’t have to break the bank. This affordable option can be customized with 52 different chines and four different volumes, making this a truly unique option for your love one’s entryway. An ideal housewarming gift, this doorbell has a range of 1,000 feet and doesn’t need Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to work.

9. This insulated lunch tote with tons of space

Perfect for backpackers, travelers, and those who have to commute to work but hate to get takeout, this insulated lunch box is seriously spacious. It has a double decker design with two huge compartments, mesh pockets on the side, and two front pockets for small items. With a padded handle and comfortable fabric shoulder strap, this durable lunch box is easy to carry around.

10. These fun bookmarks that sprout from the pages

Anyone who is a serious reader is always looking for a bookmark — or their place in one of several books. These leafy silicone bookmarks will be a big hit. The slender stems hold a reader’s place while the leaves grow out of the top, reminding them where they left off. There are six leaves, in three shades of green.

11. A hands-free leash that lets you hike & jog with your dog more comfortably

This hands-free leash from SparklyPets lets you exercise more comfortably or carry extra things without worrying about keeping hold of a leash. If you’re concerned about your dog breaking free, it’s designed with extra reinforcement using two stainless steel clasps that remove tension from the buckles and distribute the pulling equally on either side of the belt. Made for medium- and large-sized dogs, the leash is also designed to absorb shock for both you and your pet, as well as alleviate the wrist and hand pain that can happen while walking your dog.

12. A multi-color touch lamp that goes anywhere

This rechargeable table lamp is so versatile that it can be used for everything from a table lamp to a bedside lamp to a nightlight, or even a camping or emergency lantern. Just touch the top to cycle through its five brightness levels or choose the color (there are 13) or mode (there are 3) you prefer, using the remote.

13. This sleek wireless charging pad

This slim wireless charging pad does not look a bit like the piece of high-tech convenience it is. Plug it in and set a phone or other tech that’s capable of Qi charging down on it and it will charge it right up, while looking like a coaster from your favorite space opera. It comes in 12 colors, is capable of three charging modes, and works with most phones.

14. A pretty glass syrup dispenser that saves you from mess

The brunch fiend in your life is sure to love this glass syrup dispenser, which pours out the perfect amount of syrup with the simple press of a top button. Known for making a sticky mess on the table and in cabinets, this aesthetically-pleasing dispenser also comes with a cap and glass container, which catch any rogue drips.

15. This small nonstick pan that’s perfect for eggs

Fry up a perfect egg in this little nonstick pan and cut lots of oil and butter from your diet at the same time. The eggs won’t stick to the ceramic surface, so you hardly need any fat to cook your breakfast. You can use metal utensils with it and it won’t scratch, disintegrate, or leach toxins into your food.

16. A running armband that allows your phone to rotate

No more straining the neck and twisting the arm to be able to switch up tunes or podcasts while jogging when using this rotatable running armband. It has the ability to shift the phone 180 degrees for easy handling and includes an elastic harness that stretches to fit any model. Store keys and headphone cables easily in the integrated pocket and strap.

17. The cup holder that fits any couch

This gadget makes lounging in an easy chair (or couch) even easier by neatly holding a beverage of choice within reach. This silicone cup holder slings over the arm of a couch or armchair, and the weighted arms hold it in place. Removeable cups in the cup holder portion accommodate most sized bottles, cups, glasses, or cans. A cutout in the holder even lets you sip from a mug with a handle. It comes in four colors.

18. This curtain of lights that transforms a room

Create an ethereal ambience by hanging this curtain of lights behind a bed, in a window, or wherever you want to place a lighting element that seems to be made of magic. There are eight modes — wave, twinkle, fade, and more — shine with a warm white color and are waterproof.

19. A barbecue scraper tool that cleans any kind of grill

Barbecue fanatics will be obsessed with this super portable barbecue scraper tool that has different-shaped grooves to clean any kind of grate. It’s as thin as a credit card and comes with six notches for round grates, five for v-shaped grates, as well as three for grates found on campground barbecues. It’s made of stainless steel and even includes a bottle opener and griddle scraper just to make it even more versatile.

20. This universal socket tool that can loosen any screw & tighten any nut

Get your favorite home improvement enthusiast one tool to rule them all with this universal socket tool. It’s made with 54 hardened steel spring pins that adjust to any sized nut, bolt, hook, or screw, as well as even the most oddly-shaped fasteners. It comes with its own power drill adaptor to make it even more useful.

21. A sleek mirrored alarm clock

This slick alarm clock blends into modern decor so beautifully, you will wonder why you lived with that black plastic thing for so long. It displays the time on the mirrored face in your choice of three brightness levels, has two USB ports for charging devices, comes in five colors, and sits in the included stand or hangs from the wall.

22. This garlic crusher in the shape of everyone’s favorite vampire

Though it might seem kind of cruel to use a Dracula-shaped tool as a garlic crusher, there’s no denying this classic vampire gets the job done while keeping fingers odor-free. Simply add one or more cloves to the crusher and manually press the top down as little or as much as you like for textures ranging from chopped to minced. Use it additionally for peppers, nuts, or ginger.

23. A memory foam seat cushion for the car

Make the car more comfortable (and less sweaty) by installing this memory foam seat cushion on top of seats. It stays put because anchor hooks go between the seat and seat back to hold it in place. It’s soft and breathable, so you stay cool and comfortable no matter how long the drive.

24. These 10 reusable straws in handy drink-identifying colors

Keep these reusable silicone straws handy when you’re handing out water and juleps and, in addition to being friendly to the environment, folks can ID their beverages based on straw color (provided they remember them). This set comes with a convenient cleaning brush to keep things flowing, and the soft silicone doesn’t clink on teeth like the metal ones.

25. This wearable blanket with sleeves

Pull this blanket on and curl up on the couch with a good book. Your shoulders stay covered, even when holding a book, and there’s a pocket in the front for a phone or remote. It’s also great for working at a desk that’s too cold because you can be warm and use your hands at the same time.

26. A gorgeous, relaxingly-scented candle with a 45-hour burn time

This handsome rose and sandalwood candle looks as elegant as it smells. The hand-poured candle is made of soy wax blended with essential oils — soft, floral notes of fresh-cut roses and soothing, woody sandalwood. It arrives in a lovely black and gold box that’s just begging to be gifted.

27. This battery organizer that neatly stores 180 different-sized batteries

Change someone’s life when you gift them this battery organizer that will clean out the junk drawer of those old slash new batteries that keep everyone guessing. It stores up to 180 batteries of all shapes and sizes within an organized case and even comes with its own battery tester.

28. A jar opener that mounts under the cabinet

Everyone knows the physical struggle (and emotional pain) of not being able to get the lid off that delicious jar of pickles or peanut butter. Enter this clever jar opener that mounts easily to the underside of the cabinet and features a v-shape that is lined with metal teeth. Lids large and small will release instantly, letting you dive into that nut butter asap.

29. This fun collection of decorative fridge magnets

Stick notes, lists, or photos to the fridge or a metal bulletin board with this sweet collection of 12 refrigerator magnets that look like a diverse assortment of tiny cacti in pots. The super-strong magnets won’t slip or mar metal finishes. If cacti aren’t your jam, there are 14 magnetic options.

30. A charcoal soap bar that treats lots of skin issues & is better for the environment than bottles

This pair of charcoal soap bars is packed with bamboo charcoal along with organic tea tree oil, peppermint, eucalyptus, and other essential oils which work together to gently cleanse all skin types. The magic mix is said to help combat athlete’s foot, acne, blackheads, eczema, and psoriasis and soothe dry skin, all while smelling divine.

31. A stainless steel tumbler that fits in your cupholder

This 18-ounce stainless steel tumbler is highly rated on Amazon, boasting a 4.5-star overall rating. It’s double-wall insulated to keep drinks hot or cold for hours, and it comes with a leakproof flip-top lid with a protective mouthpiece cover. Plus, it fits in all standard cupholders and comes in seven colors and styles.

32. A diminutive diffuser that fits in the car

When the air in a car, bathroom, or other small area is dry or stale, refresh it with a cool mist and a hit of your favorite essential oil using this tiny, USB-powered diffuser. It is sized to fit in a cup holder but looks nice on a desk or vanity. It works continuously or intermittently, serves as a night light, and will shut off automatically when out of water.

33. This LED light strip that elevates TV viewing

This simple hack transforms a TV-watching experience from ordinary to downright theater-like. Just peel-and-stick this LED light strip to the back of the TV and plug it into one of the set’s USB ports. When you turn the TV on, it will throw lights behind that enhance and expand your view to reduce contrast, beautify the room, and display a wide range of colors on the wall behind the TV. Choose from 15 colors and 10 brightness levels using the included remote.

34. These ice-cube shaped stones for sipping whiskey on the rocks

Anyone who enjoys a nice whiskey understands the dilemma. You want that whiskey cold as ice but you don’t necessarily want the ice that makes that possible to dillute your spirits. These whiskey stones let you sip that distilled elixir on the rocks with actual stones instead of ice. All the cold. None of the water. They look amazing in the glass, too.

35. These olive oil dispensers that make any kitchen fancy

Made of gorgeous amber glass, this set of two olive oil and vinegar dispensers are slim and sleek, so they’ll look great on any table. The pouring spouts allow you to control the flow of oil or vinegar, which makes them ideal for the chef in your life. When not using the pouring spouts, this set actually comes with two airtight lids too, which help lengthen the life of oils.

36. These travel bottles that make every flight easier

If every flight you take is preceded by a mad dash to the sample size aisle at the drugstore, these squeezable silicone bottles are the perfect life upgrade. Each of them holds three ounces and has a flip top for dispensing, along with a wide-mouth screw top for easy filling. They come with their own transparent bag to make the trip through airport security go without a hitch.

37. The sharpening stone that makes knives like new

Everyone has kitchen knives. And unless your recipient is a super handy perfectionist, those knives probably need to be sharpened. Help everyone master this essential life skill by setting them up with this premium whetstone knife sharpener. Sharp knives make every food-prep project so much easier and this tool makes getting them that way — and maintaining that edge — easy to do at home.

38. This universal car mount for safe & easy in-car phone use

Driving while holding a phone is dangerous and illegal so make sure your people are never tempted to do that by putting this slim, cute, and super functional magnetic car mount in their vehicle. It clips to the air vent so installation is easy. And it firmly clings to the phone with no awkward or bulky clamps. Stick the phone to it in any orientation and go.

39. A personal blender for smoothies anywhere

If your mornings would go better with a smoothie, this little blender is here to help. Not only is it simple — with just one button — and easy to clean, but you can drink right out it. It easily travels with a lid designed for sipping, and is sized to fit in your car’s cup holder.

40. This three-in-one cable for all the gear

This super strong cable has three plugs ends so can be used to charge USB-C, micro-USB, or Lightning devices with a quick reconfiguration. And the cable is so durable that Anker gives it a lifetime warranty. So, this could be the last cable you ever buy. It’s three feet long and comes in white or black.

41. This sponge that solves all foggy window problems

Keeping a car window from fogging up is, in some conditions, a calculation too complicated to do while driving at high speeds. Keep this windshield cleaner within reach and you can wipe and see quickly without leaving streaks or fingerprints. Everyone in your life will appreciate this quick solution to an irritating and dangerous problem. “This product is a lifesaver!” said one reviewer. “ When your windshield becomes a science project[,]...grab this little miracle eraser and give that foggy glass a quick swipe.”

42. This mortar & pestle set made from solid marble

Not only can this mortar and pestle grind spices and herbs, it will also look darn good on the counter. Made from 100% marble, this set is just so pretty. Beyond that, it can help you take your guacamole, pestos, and dressings to the next level.

43. A multitool that looks like Bigfoot

This multitool is handy. It clips to a keychain or backpack with the included carabiner, and has a multitude of tools built in. There are several hex wrenches, a bottle opener, a cord cutter, a 1-inch ruler, a flat-head screwdriver, a Phillips screwdriver, a butterfly wrench, and a can opener. Obviously, though, the best part it that it looks like a silhouette of Sasquatch. If Bigfoot is not your obsession, there are 31 other options. You just hit gift-giving mecca with this one handy, inexpensive, tool.

44. These dryer balls that replace fabric softeners

Anyone who is still using fabric softener will love these dryer balls. They are a permanent, reusable replacement that adds no chemicals to the laundry. They bounce around in the dryer, aerating clothes so they don’t wrinkle, dry faster, and come out soft and fluffy. They save money and make for a greener wash day. “Each load comes out wrinkle-free and perfectly dry in much less time,” confirms one reviewer.

45. A set of telescoping roasting sticks for tastier campfires

When you have a campfire — in the back yard, at the beach, or at your campsite — what’s the first thing you want to do? Cook over it, right? And these telescoping forks make that clean and easy. They hold a hot dog or a couple of marshmallows a safe distance from your hands, won’t catch on fire, and store in their own zippered pouch so they’re easy to find next time.

46. This breathable, heat-resistant steering wheel cover

Need a gift for a car lover? Made from microfiber leather and breathable mesh, this steering wheel cover fits wheels with an outer diameter between 14.5 and 15 inches and helps provide a better grip. The cover is heat-resistant (so it’ll help the wheel stay cool on sunny days) and sweatproof, and there are four colors to choose from.

47. A digital meat thermometer that takes accurate readings in seconds

Over 67,000 reviews on Amazon show this is a go-to digital meat thermometer that any serious home chef will appreciate. It gives accurate readings in under three seconds and is made with a foldable probe that keeps your hands at a comfortable distance. A backlit display allows it to work just as well during a nighttime barbecue and a built-in magnet means it can be kept handy on any metal surface.

48. A long-spouted watering can for hard-to-reach roots

It can be a messy challenge to get water to the roots of succulents and other big-leaved potted plants, but this watering can has a long, needle-like spout. It pours from the bottom of the pitcher so all you have to do is tuck the spout under the leaves and tip slightly, and water effortlessly flows onto soil without spilling. It holds almost 34 ounces and comes in three colors.

49. This collection of fine-point markers in beautiful colors

The 18 colors in this collection of fine-point markers takes journaling, note-taking, sketching, or planner rituals to the next level. They deliver a fine and precise line and don’t bleed through the paper. The price can’t be beaten either, which is probably why they get almost 57,000 five-star reviews.

50. A bird feeder that sticks to the window

Suction this clear acrylic bird feeder to the outside of the windows and watch as the birds sidle right up close to feed. A tall roof keeps the birds and seed dry, while letting larger feathered friends inside, and a padded grip gives them a comfy place to perch. They’re basically pets without the nighttime squawking.

51. A cable organizer bag that’s great for travel

With a variety of mesh pockets and elastic loops, this travel cable organizer bag is great for keeping cords and devices easily accessible on the go. It’s made from lightweight, waterproof nylon, measures 9.8 by 7 inches, and comes in five colors. Five handy cable ties are also included.

52. These LED coasters that light up your car’s cupholders

These cool LED coasters make it easier to find your car’s cupholder in the dark, and they even turn on automatically when they sense the vibration of a moving vehicle. The USB-rechargeable coasters offer seven colors and three modes to choose from, and they’ll run for up to eight hours on a single charge. Each order includes two waterproof, dustproof coasters.

53. This toiletry bag to organize your away ablutions

This lightweight, flat-packing toiletry bag has a plethora of pockets to organize everything from your shampoo and lotions to your cosmetics and toothbrush, all in one bag. It’s a cinch to grab and take into the bathroom when traveling. It hangs from a shower hook or door, has an easy to grab handle when closed, is big enough for all your gear, and has a flat base so it can sit up on its own.

54. These cut-resistant gloves that keep hands safe

Cut vegetables, saw wood, and chop trees with complete peace of mind using these level-five cut-resistant gloves. They’re made with a non-slip nitrile coating that provides total protection from sharp edges while still providing dexterity. And the material is both lightweight and breathable to keep hands comfortable while working away at demanding tasks.

55. This garbage can that attaches to the car’s floor mat

The Carbage Can isn’t just a clever name — it’s also a super easy way to keep any car mess-free. The heavy-duty trash can attaches quickly to the car’s floor mat, providing a convenient place to toss coffee cups and all the trash that accumulates during your commute. “The Carbage Can lives up to the hype!” raved one reviewer.

56. A lens collection that boosts your cell phone pics

That friend who snaps a pic of every meal and sunset will love this phone camera lens kit with five lenses (in a carrying case) to make those shots so much more IG-worthy. They clip right over the phone so they are easy to deploy and they make every shot — from that macro shot of a hummingbird to the landscape at sunset or even the distant wildlife shot — clearer, closer, and more spectacular. “The pictures you get are simply amazing!” said one reviewer.

57. This cocktail shaker set for bar-worthy drinks from home

You might be tempted to snag one of these cocktail shaker sets for yourself when you realize just how many amazing drinks can be made right from home. It comes included with everything you need including a double jigger, bottle pourers, a bar spoon that flips to be a muddler, a bottle opener, and, of course, a 26-ounce shaker with an accompanying lid that has a built-in strainer. Every piece is made from stainless steel and can be popped into the dishwasher for easy cleanup.

58. A water-, sand-, and sweat-repelling towel that packs up tight

If you’re backpacking to set up camp for the night or heading to yoga on the beach (or studio), this quick-drying travel towel makes a handy companion. It packs down compactly into its included carrying bag, and has a suede-like feel that’s soft, absorbent, and durable. Choose from five sizes and four colors.

59. A screen magnifier that turns the phone screen into a TV

When the phone screen is too small for the video you want to watch on it, pull out this screen magnifier, drop the phone into the stand, and connect the speakers and — just like that — you are watching on a TV-sized screen. It’s the perfect gift for teens, frequent travelers, and anyone who depends on their phone for everything. “I bought this for my husband, who is a long-haul truck driver,” said one reviewer. “He didn't want to buy a small TV for his sleeper, so I hoped this would be a good alternative, and it didn't disappoint.”

60. These reusable silicone lids that can cover most food containers

A set of these reusable silicone lids can save so much trouble in the kitchen. They promise to be leak-proof, they can replace multiple sizes and styles of container lids, and they’re safe for the fridge, freezer, and microwave. And the best part? You can pop them in the dishwasher for quick and easy washing.

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