Shopping
Hands Down, the 60 Strangest, Most Genius Things With Near-Perfect Amazon Reviews

Shoppers are raving about these genius finds.

by Rachel Bar-Gadda
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Hands Down, the 60 Strangest, Most Genius Things With Near-Perfect Amazon Reviews
Amazon
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

When it comes to life’s little problems, sometimes solutions take an unexpected shape. From creating better storage solutions to saving yourself time in the kitchen to efficiently nailing DIY repairs, products that may seem odd can, in actuality, be the answer. To see exactly what I’m talking about, browse this list of, hands down, the strangest, most genius things that will be sure to address all your pesky problems. Plus, they’re all backed up by near-perfect reviews on Amazon so you can rest easy knowing you’re firmly well-informed.

01A knee pillow that gives side sleepers a good night’s rest

If it’s side sleeping or bust for you, you will truly appreciate this knee pillow that offers major comfort overnight. Designed in a wedge shape, it sits between your knees, elevating one leg and alleviating pressure on your hips, back, and knee joints. Made of memory foam that retains its shape, it maintains spinal alignment and is also great for dealing with injuries.

02This under-sink mat made of waterproof silicone

Protect your cabinet surface with this 4.8-star-rated under-sink mat that provides waterproof protection from possible leaks. It’s designed with a raised edge to contain any gathered water and also features a textured bottom to provide extra grip for any supplies, storage bins, or canisters placed under the sink. Choose from two available sizes and easily wipe the mat down with a damp cloth when needed.

03A door draft stopper to make your home more energy-efficient

Make the most of your cooling or heating depending on the season when you install this door draft stopper that prevents any costly leaks. It’s made of durable silicone and can be cut to your specific dimensions. Peel-off self-adhesive provides a strong grip on the bottom of your door with the added benefit of less noise, dust, and pests making an entrance.

04A screen repair tape to seamlessly plug holes & tears

It couldn’t be easier to repair the tears, holes, and gaps in your window screen that can allow pests and the elements to enter unbidden. Made of durable fiberglass, this screen repair tape takes about five seconds to apply and quickly provides a protective barrier while allowing air to pass through. Simply cut it to your desired size and shape and the strong self-adhesive will keep it in place.

05This clever mini multitool that can handle any DIY project

Slay any DIY project around the house using this effective mini multitool with a high 4.7-star rating. Made of sturdy stainless steel in a sleek matte black finish, it offers you 12 tools in one including a serrated knife, a wire cutter, a nail claw, flat pliers, and even a powerful hammerhead. It folds up into a compact, lightweight shape and includes a handy safety lock for extra security.

06A stainless steel bar that rids your hands of intense cooking smells

Serve dishes laden with garlic and onions without smelling like them the rest of the night using this rub-a-way bar. Designed to be rubbed with your hands like a bar of soap, its stainless steel material helps to bond to the sulfuric compounds found in odoriferous (yet delicious) ingredients. Popular with over 14,000 five-star ratings, it can be used with or without water and popped into the dishwasher for easy cleaning.

07The desktop vacuum cleaner that fits into the palm of your hand

This strange yet efficient mini desktop vacuum cleaner quickly tidies small messes thanks to powerful built-in suction. Powered by two AA batteries, its cordless design gives you lots of flexibility while the small profile means it fits ergonomically into the palm of your hand. Quickly clean crumbs, dust, or eraser shavings no matter how tight the corner is with the help of 360-degree rotation.

08A panini grill for perfectly pressed sandwiches & more

Enjoy crispy and melty sandwiches daily with this ingenious electric panini grill. It can melt your sandwich in under five minutes and features a nonstick ceramic coating to release food easily. Built-in diagonal indentations automatically slice your sandwich into halves, and you can use the grill to make French toast or eggs as well.

09This self-cleaning bidet that will change your daily life

Even if you were previously hesitant, once you try this self-cleaning bidet, there’s no going back. It installs easily and quickly on any standard toilet and offers adjustable water pressure and a retractable nozzle for added cleanliness. Plus, it’s constructed with sturdy parts such as steel hoses and valves with metal-ceramic cores. In the words of one of the 69,000-plus five-star reviews, a customer commented, “Wow! I'll always use bidets from now on. Very easy to attach to toilet. Works well. Aim is accurate and the self-cleaning feature is handy.”

10A neoprene cup sleeve to keep icy beverages chilled

With over 25,000 ratings and a near-perfect 4.8 stars, this popular neoprene cup sleeve works to keep your iced drink cold for an extended period. Made of 4-millimeter thick insulating neoprene, the material stretches to fit around 22 to 28-ounce cups and will keep your hands free of cold or condensation. Choose from tons of different designs ranging from floral to animal print with five additional sizes on offer.

11These bamboo pillowcases to keep you cool as you sleep

There’s nothing like flipping your pillow in the middle of the night to relish in a cool surface — something that can be enjoyed all night long (no flipping required) with these bamboo pillowcases. Made of bamboo-derived rayon, the lightweight, breathable material wicks moisture and provides a temperature-regulated surface to keep you consistently cool. Designed with an envelope closure, choose from a range of versatile colors such as dark gray, sage green, or teal.

12A dry bag as essential outdoor gear

Perfect for kayaking or camping trips, this clever dry bag will keep clothing and essentials free from moisture. It comes in either a 5, 10, or 20-liter size and features puncture-proof material with a watertight closure. Several built-in straps allow you to carry it however it’s most comfortable, and a waterproof phone case is conveniently included.

13These power scrubbing cleaning brushes that attach to your drill

Generate serious cleaning power with these scrubbing brushes that attach to your power drill for maximum rotation. The kit comes with four brushes, all with non-scratching nylon bristles, and all in different shapes to address different kinds of surfaces such as grout lines or grill grates. One five-star reviewer shared, “I can't explain it, but I love these brushes. I love how well they clean as compared to using a hand brush. It's crazy, why isn't everyone cleaning with a cordless drill in their hand?!?”

14A UV flashlight to quickly locate dried pet stains

Though a seemingly weird pick, you won’t be sorry once you use this UV flashlight to locate the source of that stink your pet left for you weeks ago. The blacklight effortlessly illuminates dried urine so you can get to work to remove the stain (and smell). Three AA batteries are needed to operate this powerful yet compact light.

15This car seat gap filler to prevent losing your essentials en route

With over 66,000 ratings and 4.6 stars, this car seat gap filler prevents items like your phone or wallet from falling into that crevice between the seat and console. It comes in a set of two and features an opening to slip it neatly over the seat belt catch. Made from neoprene material, it fits snugly within gaps of various sizes.

16A stylish set of coasters made of brushed stainless steel

You’ll love using this set of coasters every day thanks to their minimal style that’s boosted by functional design. They come in a set of four and are made of brushed stainless steel with silicone grips lining the top to keep your drink in place. A small lip prevents any drips from touching table surfaces with a nonslip base for added security.

17This lint roller that’s reusable forever

This ingeniously designed lint roller has earned over 22,000 five-star ratings for its ability to be used for a lifetime. It features a sticky surface that can be renewed again and again by simply washing it with soap and water. Use it to remove pet hair or lint from clothing, upholstery, and your car interior, and pop on the included case for easy portability.

18A roller stamp set that protects your identity

There’s no need for a cumbersome shredder when you have this roller stamp at your disposal. Roll the stamp over any personal identifying information and it will leave a pattern that obscures the writing or barcode you wish to hide. Then, you can simply recycle the paper without needing to cut, shred, or burn anything. Each set comes with three ink refills.

19These cut-resistant gloves to protect hands from sharp edges

Shuck oysters or saw pieces of wood wearing these clever cut-resistant gloves with over 28,000 five-star ratings. They’re made of material that’s four times stronger than leather and even include additional reinforcing using stainless steel thread on the first three fingers. Despite being so durable, the gloves are also breathable and machine-washable, making them extra handy in the kitchen.

20A chic portable food warmer for hot lunches at the office

Not only does this portable food warmer plug in to heat your lunch to the perfect temperature, but it also comes in a surprisingly chic design. It has a capacity of 20 ounces and includes a removable inner container for easy filling. Tote the warmer using the built-in handle and choose from four colors (black licorice, blush pink, faded blue, and moonshine green), all with a soft matte exterior.

21This ingenious whisk wiper to leave no batter behind

If you’re ever dismayed by how much batter or frosting is left on your whisk with no easy way to return it to the bowl — you’re in luck. This ingenious multifunctional whisk wiper slips onto your whisk and removes all the accumulated food as you pull it off, making it easy to transfer it back into the bowl. As a bonus, the wiper allows you to rest your whisk on the side of the bowl or the countertop without leaving a mess.

22A set of cable labels to keep your cords organized

Keep track of exactly which cord goes where with these cable labels that are not only color-coded but also feature a writable surface. Each pack comes with 36 labels available in multiple shapes including oval, rectangular, and circular. They securely wrap around the cable using a nonsticky hook and loop closure so you can remove them easily at will.

23This electronics cleaning kit to keep your tech functioning & looking good

Keep all of your tech in tip-top shape using this ultra-portable electronics cleaning kit. It comes with eight tools including a keycap remover, a retractable keyboard brush, a lens-cleaning pen for your phone, and a metal pen tip to remove wax from your earbuds. It also features a screen cleaning solution and cloth to leave a streak-free crystal clear surface. Best of all, the kit can be popped into a backpack or bag thanks to its slim profile.

24This cordless power scrubber to make your grout lines sparkle

Elbow grease is all well and good, but consider giving those arms a rest by opting for this cordless power scrubber instead. It features a scrubber head that can oscillate up to 60 times per second, making it perfect for removing built-up grime and scrum from your bathroom’s grout lines. Power it with four AA batteries and use it on any small, hard-to-clean area around the home.

25A migraine relief wrap that stores in the freezer

When you feel that beast of a headache coming on, grab this clever migraine relief wrap to offer immediate cold therapy. It’s made of black, light-blocking material and fits snugly around the entire head and eyes to provide the optimum amount of pressure. Store it in the freezer (or heat it in the microwave if you prefer) for 360-degree relief.

26This mop & bucket set with a built-in wringer

This mop and bucket set not only features a stylish, minimalist design but also includes a built-in wringer for incredible functionality. The mop includes an adjustable handle and can swivel up to 360 degrees, allowing you to access every corner as well as get underneath low furniture. Simply dip the mop into the compartment with your cleaning solution and slip it into the second compartment to wring it dry of excess liquid.

27A silicone freezing tray to prep all kinds of food

This silicone freezing tray is decidedly popular with over 18,000 ratings and a near-perfect 4.8 stars. With four molds, it allows you to prep and freeze all kinds of food from bone broths to soups to pizza-making ingredients, with measurement markings on the inside for easy filling. The flexible silicone material releases food with ease and, without its lid, is even oven-safe up to 415 degrees Fahrenheit.

28This car trunk organizer with expandable compartments

Prevent items from noisily rolling around the back of your car by simply using this car trunk organizer. It’s earned over 70,000 ratings and 4.7 stars for its ability to collapse or expand from two to nine compartments depending on your needs. Secure it even further by attaching the tie-down strap to any available anchor points or directly to the backseat.

29A tiered bar glass rimmer for expertly made cocktails

Take your average margarita night up a notch with this bar glass rimmer made with three tiers. Designed to store compactly, it rotates outward to reveal three trays: one for sugar, one for salt, and one for lime juice. First, place your glass’s rim onto the foam that’s been soaked in lime juice, then opt for either salt or sugar, depending on the cocktail. And don’t hesitate to get creative on your flavors (I mean, who doesn’t love a spicy habanero salt rim?).

30This plastic bag dispenser that mounts to the inside of your cabinet

Quickly control those voluminous bags that take up half your cabinet space with this plastic bag dispenser. It mounts directly to the inside of your cabinet door or to the wall to make it easy to grab a bag as needed from the wide slot. Featuring a brushed stainless steel finish, it resists fingerprints and will stay looking chic no matter the high usage.

31A refrigerator deodorizer that stops smells at their inception

Instead of treating smells after they’re already in full swing, use this long-lasting refrigerator deodorizer that nips stink in the bud. It trumps your usual baking soda or activated charcoal and does it while looking chic in a stainless steel housing. Place it on the shelf or in the fridge door to keep your kitchen smelling fresh for up to 10 years.

32A deodorizer spray that can be used on feet & gear

When your workout gear emits that classic funk, reach for this well-reviewed deodorizing spray that can also be used directly on the source (your feet). It’s formulated with organic ingredients including essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and tea tree, in addition to those that moisturize the skin such as aloe vera, coconut, and vitamin E. It’ll quickly freshen and cool your feet and gear for a result that your gym buddies will be sure to appreciate.

33This white noise machine that offers a variety of sounds for peaceful sleep

No matter if it takes the soft sounds of rain to get you to sleep or the sweet hum of a fan, this white noise machine can do it all. It provides a rich, robust sound that will fill your room and offers a choice of 17 nature sounds, seven fan sounds, and seven white noise sounds. Featuring a warm wood finish, it comes in six additional colors and even includes automatic timer options ranging from one to three hours.

34A burger press that freezes individual patties

Be ready for any impromptu grilling when you utilize this strange but ingenious burger press that doubles as a freezer container. It features molds to make up to eight quarter-pounder burgers with the lid acting as an efficient press. Store it in the freezer to be ready to go for any burger night, simply popping out the individual frozen patties onto your grill or frying pan.

35This memory foam seat cushion to make your desk more comfortable

With over 77,000 five-star ratings, this seat cushion is the clear choice (and one this writer can attest to) for supporting your spine and lower back while you work. It’s made of 100% memory foam and features a distinctive cutout at the rear that alleviates pressure on the tailbone. It comes in six color options such as navy blue or gray with the removable cover able to be machine-washed as needed.

36A pair of herb scissors to save time in the kitchen

Instead of taking ages to prep your parsley, chives, or scallions, use these herb scissors to quickly get the job done. It’s constructed of five stainless steel blades that efficiently chop herbs into small pieces and can be used as a fast prep or directly over your finished dish to garnish. They’re easy to clean thanks to an included brush and a cover is provided for safe storage.

37This 3-in-1 charging station that folds up for easy portability

Effortlessly power your phone, smartwatch, and earbuds no matter where you are with this foldable wireless charger. Perfect for preventing that tangle of multiple cords, it features individual charging pads for each device and folds up into a compact shape to be stored within a small footprint. Plus, it can be configured to act as a convenient phone stand.

38A set of versatile storage drawers made of clear acrylic

See exactly what’s stored where with these storage bins made of crystal clear acrylic. They come in a set of four and feature a stackable design with built-in handles to easily open the drawers. Their versatile shape and size means they can be used anywhere from the pantry to the bathroom. Nonslip rubber feet are provided to be applied to the bottom of the bins, keeping them neatly in place.

39This grease container to store delicious cooking fat

There’s no better way to add serious flavor to a dish than cooking it with bacon fat and that’s where this grease container comes in. Made of stainless steel, it comes with a strainer to filter out any large food pieces, with a subtle spout making it easy to pour fat into the pan. A lid is also included, and each part can be popped into the dishwasher for easy cleaning.

40An enzymatic stain remover that smells like fresh citrus

Rid your home of smelly pet odors with the help of this stain remover that utilizes powerful citrus enzymes. Use the spray on anything from upholstery to carpet to turf as the enzymes eat away at the odor-causing compounds, destroying them at their source. As a bonus, ingredients such as cold-pressed orange oils leave a fresh scent behind that’ll make you feel as if you wandered into a fruit orchard.

41This microfiber cleaning cloth roll that’s washable & reusable

Feel like the resident genius when you opt for a more sustainable alternative to paper towels with this 4.8-star-rated microfiber cleaning cloth roll. It comes with 75 tear-away cloths that can be used on almost any surface without leaving streaks or lint behind. Use them to wipe up spills, clean glassware, absorb dust, and more, then simply toss them in the washing machine to be reused up to 50 times each.

42A USB-rechargeable book light with a slim profile

Read comfortably at night with this cleverly designed USB-rechargeable book light that takes up a small footprint yet casts a wide band of light. Choose from five brightness levels and three lighting modes and rotate the lamp head side-to-side and up or down to get the light just where you need it. Available in multiple colors such as white, green, or purple, simply fold up the light to pop it into your bag or pocket.

43This waterproof phone case that lets you take pictures underwater

Make beachy vacations or island cruises that much more special by adding this waterproof phone case to your list of must-bring items. Made of certified IPX8 waterproof material, the case features a triple locking mechanism to make sure your phone stays safe from water, sand, or any other weather element. The best part? This case is touchscreen-sensitive which means you can take as many amazing underwater photos as you please.

44A set of highly rated measuring spoons that store magnetically

Having earned a near-perfect 4.8-star rating over 3,800-plus reviews, this set of measuring spoons is popular for several reasons. First of all, they store magnetically, helping them stay together and organized neatly in your drawers. Secondly, they go down to the 1/8-teaspoon size with equivalent measurements in milliliters provided as well. Thirdly, they feature a double-sided design — a circular side that’s better for measuring liquids and an oval side that can easily access narrow-necked spice jars.

45This plant-based cooking oil solidifier that creates biodegradable waste

Make it easier and more eco-friendly to dispose of used cooking oil with this ingenious plant-based oil solidifier. Sprinkle it onto your used hot oil and wait for it to cool down, and the oil is changed into a solid state that will naturally decompose within 30 days. Each packet in the four-pack can transform up to 2 cups of oil.

46A mop & broom holder for a tidy utility room

Make it feel like a dream to enter your utility room (instead of a nightmare) when you mount this mop and broom holder to the wall. It has five spring-loaded slots to hold long items such as brooms, mops, or rakes, and six retractable hooks for smaller tools like dustpans, brushes, and spades. It can hold up to 38 pounds in total and comes with everything you need for a seamless installation.

47The pickle & olives container that flips for easy retrieval

Easily retrieve any brined item without dirtying your hands when you store it in one of these pickle and olive containers. It stores the pickled item in its juice, and, when flipped, drains the brine toward the bottom chamber, making the food easy to grab. The lid is designed to be leakproof with the help of a silicone gasket and the whole thing can be cleaned in the top rack of the dishwasher.

48This collapsible travel cup to easily stow in your bag

One of the difficulties in opting for a reusable cup for your daily iced coffee or cappuccino is the amount of space it can take up in your bag. Enter this collapsible travel cup that’s not only stylish but also takes up barely any space. Made of food-grade silicone, it can handle both hot and cold beverages and comes with a leakproof lid and a heat sleeve. Choose from over 20 shades.

49A back & neck massager that helps you reach those achy spots

Never have to depend on the schedule of a buddy, partner, or masseuse when you need some fascia or muscle relief. This neck and back massager is designed in an S-shape to enable you to access trigger points along hard-to-reach areas. Small notches line the hook to help you dig into tissue and muscle, providing relief and helping you recover quickly from workouts.

50This battery organizer that comes with its own helpful tester

It can be such a pain to comb through that bunch of loose batteries in your junk drawer, wondering which ones are used and which ones are fresh. This ingenious battery organizer changes all that by providing you with 93 slots for several different types of batteries and, most importantly, a tester to know which ones are ready for action. It comes in five colors such as blue or light green and can be conveniently mounted to your garage wall or stored in a cabinet.

51This handheld milk frother for coffee shop-worthy drinks from home

This elegant handheld milk frother will have you indulging in lattes and cappuccinos from your very own kitchen — no coffee shop required. Battery-operated and cordless, it features a powerful motor that can whip up any dairy or nondairy milk of your choice in just 15 seconds. The silicone handle comes in eight colors and the frother is stored in an accompanying stainless steel stand to add to your coffee station’s aesthetic.

52A touch-up paint pen to quickly fix little scuffs & scratches

Instead of lugging out an entire paint can to fix a small scuff, reach for this touch-up paint pen featuring a precision tip. Available in a pack of two, the pen can be easily filled with your color of choice and will last for years thanks to the airtight chamber. Quickly deal with small scratches or imperfections on all kinds of surfaces and tight spaces.

53This LED headlamp for hands-free illumination

Work on repairs with the use of both your hands when you slip on this LED headlamp with over 33,000 five-star ratings. It features an adjustable headband to get a comfortable fit with the lamp able to tilt 45 degrees to get the light focused as needed. Battery-operated, the bright LEDs offer a white or red light option with multiple modes including strobe settings to enhance your visibility.

54A pizza rocker to replace your less efficient wheel

Slice up your homemade pizza like a real pro with this stainless steel pizza rocker. When comparing it to a traditional roller, this five-star reviewer commented, “I purchased this after some discomfort in my hands and wrists from your typical pizza cutter, roller style. Frustration from toppings and cheese being pushed across my crust was the last straw for me. This cutter is very well made, easy to hold, easy to clean, and cuts like butter.” The handle is comfortable to grip and there’s even a cover provided to store it safely in your drawer.

55A digital meat thermometer that gives you an accurate reading in seconds

This well-reviewed digital meat thermometer will be up your cooking game with precise temperature readings delivered in only two to three seconds. It features a rotating probe that allows you to take readings at difficult angles and protects your hands from heat. The large backlit screen is easy to read in low light and a magnetic backing means you can store directly on your grill or fridge.

56This stylish Turkish beach towel that packs up compactly

This Turkish beach towel is a great option for days spent sunbathing on the sand thanks to being both highly absorbent and portable. The material is pre-washed, making it incredibly soft, and features a classic striped design with traditional tassels at the end. Choose from 42 color options such as beige, mint green, and light coral, and fold it up to take up barely any space in your beach bag.

57A car trash can with a waterproof lining

Keep your ride’s interior clean of mess and potential spills when you utilize this car trash can that’s fully waterproof. It can be placed in multiple locations such as hanging from the seat headrest or around the center console and comes with 20 plastic liners that secure using side clips. A mesh side pocket can be used to store the liners and the whole thing folds up compactly when not needed.

58This bagel slicer that provides a perfect down-the-middle cut

Instead of taking your life into your hands with a free-wheeling serrated knife, opt for this bagel slicer that will safely give you the perfect cut. Place your bagel of any size into the bottom compartment and slide the top piece down over your food. The two serrated blades will deliver a smooth, clean cut right down the middle of your bagel with acrylic sides protecting your hands the whole time.

59A corner wall shelf to creatively display decor

Use this clever corner shelf to take advantage of under-utilized space, highlighting pictures, artwork, plants, and more. Having earned over 44,000 five-star ratings, it features five tiers and comes in eight finishes to perfectly match your home such as natural, rustic turquoise, walnut, or white. All the installation hardware is included for a result that will be sure to spark conversation.

60These indoor herb garden seeds to enjoy fresh, homegrown flavor

Enjoy fresh rosemary, cilantro, basil, and more grown in your own kitchen with the help of these indoor herb garden seeds. The set comes with 10 packets of non-GMO culinary herb seeds as well as customizable bamboo seed markers. Spend a little more to get the whole kit which includes jute bags for planting, soil disks, and pruning shears. Both options provide lots of growing instruction to ensure your future as a decidedly green thumb.

This article was originally published on

Related Tags