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The 50 Coolest, Most Clever Things for Your Home Under $30

The genius tools & gadgets you’ll use every day.

Written by Veronika Kero
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
The 50 Coolest, Most Clever Things for Your Home Under $30
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No matter how long you’ve been settled into your home, there are always clever tools and gadgets you can add to make your life easier. The hidden gems on this list are just as useful as they are budget-friendly. Each one is less than $30 and will quickly prove itself to be worth every penny, whether you’re looking for something to make cooking a bit easier, keep your garage in order, or make your space more comfortable. Scroll on to see what’s actually worth the money.

01

A Set of Absorbent Towel Balls That Look Like Decor

Made of super absorbent microfiber material, these pair of towel balls will quickly dry your hands to keep counters and floors neat and dry. They have durable loops for convenient hanging and almost look like decor on the wall. A blue-toned pair is also available within the listing.

02

A Ceiling Fan Duster That Extends Up to 47 Inches

The detachable handle on this budget-friendly ceiling fan duster can be extended between 27 and 47 inches so that you’re able to reach fans in almost any room. The microfiber head is made of thousands of fluffy fibers that trap dust, reducing allergens. Best of all, it can be popped off and put in the washing machine to be used again.

03

A Plug-In Bug Trap That Doesn’t Use Insecticides

This clever plug-in bug trap uses a UV LED light to attract flying insects to a sticky glue trap that is hidden inside (also keeping the dead bugs out of sight). It can protect up to 400 square feet and can be reused by simply replacing the glue card; two come with your purchase.

04

This Drill-Powered Scrubber Set with 35,000+ 5-Star Reviews

At less than $10, this drill-powered set of four power scrubbers can completely transform your bathroom by effortlessly scrubbing tile, porcelain, tubs, showers, and more. Their nylon bristles won’t scratch surfaces and the set comes in six different varieties within the listing for uses outside the bathroom. The set comes with three different brush heads and an extended-reach attachment so you can reach various corners and tight spots with ease.

05

This Gadget That’ll Make Your Freezer More Efficient

To neatly store your leftovers and homemade sauces, these food block makers can form them into perfect rectangular blocks. Your freezer will be more organized and it will be easier to find what you need. Each block can hold approximately 2 cups of liquid. A version that holds 6 cups is also available in the listing.

06

These Genius Wooden Toaster Tongs to Prevent Burns

Avoid burning your fingers every time you make toast with these rabbit-shaped tongs. They’re made of beech wood so you’ll have a non-slip grip and they can also be used as tongs for a charcuterie board or for appetizers for guests. The tongs can stand independently when not in use to stay clean as well.

07

These Highly Rated Stainless Steel Skewers to Upgrade Your Grill

These durable stainless steel kebab skewers are a more eco-friendly way to grill kebabs and there’s no worrying about splinters in your food or burning skewers. The ergonomic handles make them easy to rotate and the set comes with 10 skewers that are 17 inches long and two that are 14 inches long, as well as a bag to store them in.

08

This Set of Storage Straps That Can Hold Up to 50 Pounds

These storage straps come in a six-pack with three different sizes that can be used to hang hoses, cords, and more. Each one can hold up to 50 pounds so you can stow your tools or sports equipment on the wall to free up floor space; hang them from their durable metal grommets.

09

A Drip-Free Utensil Rest That Comes in Tons of Colors

You’ll have less cleaning up to do after cooking when you make use of this handy utensil rest. By having a designated spot to keep your spoon, spatula, and other kitchen tools, you’ll prevent sticky drips from collecting on your countertop. Its raised edges keep liquids from spilling out and the silicone material is safe to clean in your dishwasher. Choose from tons of colors and two sizes within the listing.

10

A Set of Adhesive Shower Caddies That Can Hold 15 Pounds Each

Made of durable stainless steel, this pair of mesh shower caddies will resist scratches and rusting so that you won’t have to replace them any time soon. Despite the fact that they use an adhesive strip with hooks for a tool-free installation, they are strong enough to hold 20 pounds. Two matte color options are available within the listing, as well as a shiny silver.

11

A Silicone Cover That Helps Keep Sticks of Butter Fresh

Leaving that sliced stick of butter exposed to the air can cause it to spoil faster — but that’s where this cover comes in handy. It’s made from soft silicone that stretches to fit sticks of nearly any size, helping keep them fresher for longer. And unlike butter dishes, it takes up hardly any space inside your fridge or sitting out on your counters.

12

A Surge-Protected Power Strip Tower with a Retractable Cord

Eliminate messy wires hanging from every outlet in your office with this power strip tower. It has 10 three-prong outlets and four USB ports — all of which have built-in surge protection. And to make things even neater, the power cord is retractable from within the base to avoid the eyesore of a too-long cable.

13

These Dishwasher-Safe Grill Mats to Keep Food from Sticking

If your food ever sticks or falls through the bars on your grill, you’ll want to grab these grill mats that cost less than $10. This pack comes with five mats that can be cut to any size. And because they’re dishwasher-safe, they’re easy to reuse. Plus, the set comes with two silicone brushes so you can spread your favorite sauces and keep your hands clean.

14

The Heavy-Duty Storage Bags That Slide Under Your Bed for Safekeeping

Running out of closet space? Open up some room by transferring your seasonal items into these storage bags. Their low profile makes it easy to slide them underneath your bed for safekeeping, while a zippered mesh top lets you see what’s inside without having to unpack everything. Plus, the reinforced handles are designed to last.

15

This $20 Privacy Screen That Doesn’t Block the Breeze

If you love making use of your outdoor area but wish it was a bit more private, add this easy-to-install balcony privacy screen to your cart. It’s made of weatherproof materials that provide 90% shading while still allowing the breeze to pass through; all you have to do is pull the zip ties through the durable aluminum grommets. It’s 3 feet tall and 10 feet in length and comes in lots of different sizes and colors within the listing.

16

A Pack of Reusable Toaster Bags to Keep Your Appliances Clean

Although they may look like paper, these reusable toaster bags are actually made from a fiberglass blend that allows them to be washed and reused up to 50 times each. They can be used to heat sandwiches, pastries, calzones, and more in the toaster, toaster oven, grill, traditional oven, or microwave up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Your appliances will stay clean and the bags are free of PFOAs and BPA.

17

Some Silicone Strainer Spoons That Can Mash, Mince & Whisk

In addition to being able to drain liquid without dirtying a large colander, these multi-functional cooking spoon strainers can also be used to separate and whisk eggs, mash softer foods, mince garlic, scoop rice, and more. Plus, they’re made of food-grade silicone that’s heat resistant up to 410 degrees Fahrenheit.

18

An LED Backlight That Can Help Reduce Eye Strain

Staring at a bright television while sitting in a dark room can leave your eyes feeling strained, which is why this LED backlight is worth a look. Each order comes with 3M adhesive that lets you easily stick it into place — and since it plugs into your television’s USB port, there’s no need to hide any dangling power cables.

19

These Fan-Favorite Meat Claws for Easier Shredding & Carrying

Made of strong metal, these meat claws can rip through brisket, chicken leg, chicken breasts, and more. It’s an easy way to shred your meat and make a delicious sandwich in just minutes. Plus, the wide handles are comfortable to hold as you work and can be used to lift slippery and awkward cuts of meat. They can be placed on the top rack in the dishwasher for cleaning.

20

An Ingenious Beard Bib to Keep Your Counters Clean

To keep cut hair from clogging your drain or making a mess of your bathroom counter, slip on this beard bib that suctions onto the mirror. If you get interrupted, you can fold and hang it from the suction cups to keep everything from falling. When you’re done, simply guide everything into the trash and fold it down into the pouch for storage.

21

A Cutlery Cleaner Brush That Makes Dishwashing Faster & Safer

The unique wraparound design of this cutlery cleaner brush has multiple functions. It keeps your fingers away from sharp edges and scrubs both sides of your knives, forks, and spoons at once. Plus, the outer surface is textured for a firm grip. It can stand on end or resting over the edge of your sink to drain.

22

These Airtight Food Containers That Come With Chalkboard Labels

Pasta, lentils, cereal, rice — these containers are great for storing all sorts of dry ingredients. Their airtight lids help keep everything inside fresh until you’re ready to cook. Plus, each order includes a set of chalkboard labels to help you keep your pantry organized.

23

These Underwear Organizers

Frying food can be incredibly messy — luckily, this splatter screen is an easy way to help keep your counters clean from hot oil pops. Simply place it over your pot or pan, and it’ll keep all that oil contained while also allowing steam to escape. And since it’s made from stainless steel, there’s no need to worry about it rusting over time.

24

This Oven Rack Push Tool with a 4.8-Star Overall Rating

At 11 inches long, this fan-favorite silicone oven rack push tool keeps your hands a safe distance from the hot racks of your oven, air fryer, or grill. It has hooks on either side so you can push or pull without needing to rotate the handle. And it’s made of durable silicone that resists heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

25

Some Rug Corners to Prevent Curling Indoors & Out

If curled corners are ruining the aesthetic of your home or you constantly find yourself putting your rugs back in place, these rug corners will save the day. The four thick rubber pieces adhere to the bottom of your rug to keep it from sliding and lifting. And because it’s weatherproof, it can be used outdoors as well.

26

This Rotating Shower Mirror That Won’t Get Foggy

To avoid covering your counter in shaving cream and trimmed hair, use this shower mirror to do your grooming while in the shower. It has a strong suction cup and rotating base that allows you to move it 360 degrees. It remains fogless for a clear view and you can hang your razor from the bottom hook for your convenience.

27

This Wireless LED Light That Can Be Put on a Timer

This wireless battery-powered LED light can be put nearly anywhere with the included adhesive tape or screws. Stick it inside your closet or underneath your kitchen cabinets for a better view of your cutting board when cooking. It projects a warm white glow that can be tapped on and off or put on a timer for up to two hours.

28

These Foldable Organizers That Help Tidy Up Messy Drawers

Consider these organizers a must-have for messy underwear drawers. Each one features 24 medium-sized cells that are perfect for underwear, scarves, socks, and more. They also fold down for easy storage when not in use — and if your drawers are already looking good, they also work well for storing Christmas ornaments.

29

This Glass Oil & Vinegar Dispenser Set with Built-In Measurements

Made of shatterproof glass, you can keep this oil and vinegar dispenser set out at all times. The smaller bottle holds 10 ounces while the larger one holds 18. They both have wide openings that make them easy to refill and non-drip spouts. Plus, the top has a built-in measuring cup so you can see exactly how much you’re pouring.

30

An Electric Whisk That Whips Milk Into a Delicious Froth

Tired of drinking the same cup of Joe every morning? Try using this electric whisk to beat milk into a delicious froth. Its powerful motor runs at an ultra-silent level, making it unlikely that you’ll disturb others if you use it at the office — and the whisking attachment is even made from rust-resistant stainless steel.

31

An Adjustable Soap Dispenser That’s Hands-Free

To prevent the spread of germs, add this automatic soap dispenser to your bathroom or kitchen. It detects motion and releases an amount of soap that depends on how close your hand is to the sensor (the closer your are, the less soap you get). And because the container holds 17 ounces, you won’t have to refill it very often.

32

These $7 Flat Tongs That Let You Flip Food with Ease

Durable enough to resist rusting and bending, these stainless steel tongs will find lots of uses in your kitchen. They offer a non-slip hold on meats, fish, grilled sandwiches, and more. Because they have slots in the center, any excess grease will be drained as you lift or flip your food.

33

This Digital Meat Thermometer With a Backlit LCD Screen

Not only does this digital meat thermometer take the guesswork out of cooking protein, but its LCD screen is also backlit, making it easy to see when grilling outside at night. And since it’s waterproof, there’s no need to worry about damaging it when it’s finally time to rinse it off in the sink.

34

A Clip-On Strainer That Takes Up Half the Storage Space

With strong clamps on either side and flexible construction, this silicone strainer can be clipped onto pots and pans of any size so you don’t have to transfer food back and forth. Its nonstick grip will keep your pasta, veggies, or fruit from falling out, and it will take up less room in your cabinet compared to a regular colander.

35

The V-Shaped Rug Grippers That Work Indoors & Outdoors

Place these grippers at the corners of your rugs, and they’ll help keep them from curling upwards. Unlike straight pieces of tape, their V-shaped design prevents them from twisting out of place — and the adhesion is strong enough that you can use them outside as well as indoors.

36

These Ultra-Absorbent Dishcloths That Can Be Reused 100 Times

If you want to be friendlier to the environment and your wallet, pick up this 10-pack of Swedish dishcloths. They can be reused up to 100 times each, making each one the equivalent of about 15 rolls of paper towels. Use them wet to wipe away spills or dry to scrub away stains and grime. They can be used on marble, wood, glass, stainless steel, and more without leaving scratches.

37

A Citrus Toilet Spray That Reviewers Say Eliminates Odors

Made with natural oils including tea tree, clove, and lemongrass, this toilet spray can actually destroy odors instead of just masking them. It’ll leave behind a subtle citrus smell whether you use it in the bathroom or on your shoes and gym bag. “It [...] completely eliminates restroom odors. It doesn't take much product for it to work, so it lasts a good amount of time,” wrote one reviewer.

38

Some Self-Draining Soap Dishes That Will Stay in Place

This set of two durable and non-slip silicone soap dishes will stay exactly where you place them and their ridges will keep your soap from sliding off while the built-in spouts drain excess water. Because it comes in a two-pack, you can use one for your soap and one for your sponge to truly organize your kitchen.

39

These Airtight Vacuum Storage Bags with 24,000+ 5-Star Reviews

A hand pump is included with this 10-pack of vacuum storage bags so you’ll have everything you need to store extra pillows, bedding, or out-of-season clothing. After sucking out the air with the pump and reducing the volume of the contents by 80%, the triple-seal turbo valve will keep it all locked in. It’s also great for traveling. These are medium-size bags and other sizes are available within the listing.

40

A Chrome-Plated Shower Head That’s Easy to Install

Installing this rainfall shower head is so easy that you won’t need any tools to get the job done, as its twist-on system makes replacing filtered, angled, or standard shower heads a total breeze. Its silicone nozzles are also less likely to clog with limescale — and many reviewers raved about its impressive water pressure.

41

A Budget-Friendly Bidet Attachment That’s Fast & Easy to Install

For an elevated and more hygienic cleansing, take a few minutes to install this budget-friendly bidet attachment that has a universal fit. It features a retractable spray nozzle and the pressure can be adjusted from the side panel. Each piece is made of durable plastic that won’t rust and will blend in with your toilet.

42

These Reusable Baking Mats That Can Help You Save Money

Instead of wasting money on parchment paper and nonstick sprays, why not start using these baking mats? Not only are they reusable, but their nonstick surface also makes them great for rolling out pastries and doughs. Plus, each one features helpful guide markings you can follow when baking macaroons.

43

A Bluetooth Speaker That Will Still Work When Wet

Enjoy singing in the shower? This Bluetooth speaker is so waterproof that you can drop it in the tub without having to worry about it breaking. Despite its small size, it still delivers rich bass sound — and the battery even lasts for up to 12 hours before you need to recharge it.

44

These Extra-Long Oven Mitts With Textured Palms

Unlike the oven mitts you’ve likely been using, these ones also cover part of your forearms to help keep you safe from burns when reaching into hot ovens. They’re made from tough silicone that’s heat-resistant up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit — and their textured palms also help you keep a firm grip when handling hot pans.

45

The Nonslip Refrigerator Liners That Are Easy To Clean

Cleaning up spills inside your fridge can be a real pain — unless you have these liners on your shelves. Not only do they easily wipe clean with a damp rag, but their nonslip surface also helps prevent condiment bottles from tipping over. Simply trim them to fit if needed and they’re ready to go.

46

An Over-the-Sink Drying Rack That Doubles as a Trivet

Whereas traditional drying racks require you to clean out a grimy drip tray, this over-the-sink one is designed so that stray water drops to fall right into your sink. The rungs are made from tough stainless steel that’s resistant to rust — and since they’re also heat-resistant, you can even use it as a trivet for hot cookware in a pinch.

47

This Universal Socket Adapter for DIY Projects

Your toolbox will not be complete until you have this socket adapter. You’ll no longer need to dig around searching for the right fit. This piece has 54 individual steel spring pins that transform to the exact shape, size, and fit you need. You’ll be glad you have it around when you start your next home improvement project.

48

This Collapsible Popcorn Popper That Makes Enough for a Crowd

This popcorn popper can make (and hold) enough popcorn for a crowd — 15 cups. It evenly distributes heat so that kernels don’t end up burned or unpopped and it’s also designed with built-in handles, making it easy to transport from the microwave to the couch. And because it’s made of BPA-free silicone, you won’t have to worry about it shattering if dropped.

49

A Meat Injector Kit with 3 Different Sizes of Needles

To season and apply marinade like a pro, add this meat injector kit to your cart. The set comes with three needles so you can season everything from large turkeys and roasts to a simple chicken breast. Each piece is made of high-quality stainless steel, so the entire kit can be placed in the dishwasher.

50

A Pack of Leakproof & Debonair Bottle Stoppers

Made of high-quality and food-grade materials, this pack of three silicone bottle stoppers is safe to use with any beverage your want including wine, beer, kombucha, bottled soda, and more. They can withstand temperatures between -40 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. They create a leakproof closure and can be used time and time again after cleaning them in the dishwasher.

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