60 Wackiest, Most Genius Things Under $20 With Amazing Reviews
Shopper faves that are weird & wonderful.

Some of the best things in life are weird, and it turns out a lot of them are also less than $20. The shopping editors at Inverse packed this list full of finds that are wacky, but also genius — and sure to come in handy without breaking the bank. Better yet? Every pick is backed by glowing reviews from people who were just as thrilled as you’re about to be. And since these wacky finds start at just $5, feel free to fill your cart until it overflows.
01Weird sticky notes that like a little dumpster fire
Don’t be surprised if your co-workers ask where you bought these sticky notes. Not only are they designed to look like a tiny dumpster fire, but the adhesive strip at the top of each note also removes cleanly — so you won’t have to worry about wiping away sticky residues when it’s time to throw them out. Each order comes with 300 notes in total to get yo ustarted.
02Mini scissors you can actually take through airport security
Whereas standard scissors will almost certainly be confiscated by airport security, these miniature ones are small enough to be approved for travel by the TSA. They’re great for trimming away loose threads, cutting paper, and everything in between. Plus, the stainless steel blades are unlikely to rust over time.
03A funky dry erase board that makes your to-do list glow
Not only is this dry erase board great for displaying notes to your co-workers or housemates, but it even lights up in seven different colors: red, yellow, pink, and more. You can adjust its brightness up to three levels, making it great for use as a night-light. Each order also includes one white dry erase marker to get you started.
04A waterproof phone mount so you can watch videos while you shower
I’m a huge fan when it comes to this phone holder — and not just because the waterproof design makes it suitable for use in the shower. Each order includes adhesive for easy mounting, and the bond is so strong that the holder can even support up to 4 pounds. Plus, the holder can be turned so that you can use your phone horizontally as well as vertically.
05A genius ceiling fan duster reviewers awarded 4.6 stars
Don’t bust out that heavy ladder when you need to clean your ceiling fan. Instead, reach for this duster. The handle can be adjusted from 13 inches to 48 inches in length, making it easy to clean ceiling fans, tall shelves, and more. “I have vaulted ceilings in the home I purchased a year ago and the dust was getting ridiculous [...],” wrote one reviewer. “This got them clean in less than 30 minutes.”
06Sleek waterproof pathway lights powered by the sun
Elevating your home’s curb appeal is as easy as adding these lights to your outdoor pathways. Installation is as easy as pressing them down into the ground — and their built-in solar panels keep them lit for up to 10 hours at night. Plus, the waterproof design means you won’t have to worry about how they’ll fare on rainy days.
07The tissue holder that straps onto your sun visor
Don’t go digging through your glove compartment when you need a tissue. Instead, keep a few conveniently within reach inside of this holder. Two straps on the back let you mount it onto your sun visor without using any tools. Plus, the faux leather finish makes it seem way more expensive than $7.
08Anti-theft zipper clips that are “a simple but smart upgrade”
Use these clips to connect the dual zippers on your bag together, and they’ll help keep everything inside safe from pickpockets. Or, if your pull falls off the zipper, you can also use them as replacement pulls in a pinch. “I’ve used them for luggage, gym bags, and even camping gear,” wrote one reviewer. “Overall, a simple but smart upgrade that combines style, functionality, and peace of mind.”
09Erasable capybara gel pens with a 4.7-star rating
Unlike some gel pens, these ones are filled with erasable ink, making it easy to fix written mistakes as you jot down notes. The cartoon capybaras printed all over their handles also make them a cute addition to any collection of office supplies. “They write well, no skipping,” wrote one reviewer. “Erase completely, no marks or spots left behind.”
10Helpful patches that support sagging ear lobes
Wearing heavy earrings can cause your ear lobes to stretch out over time. Enter: these patches. They stick onto the back of your ear, giving your lobes the extra support they need in order to help prevent stretching. Their transparent appearance means there’s a good chance no one will even notice you’re wearing them.
11A brilliant hands-free light that hangs around your neck
Trying to read in poor lighting can put strain on your eyes, making this neck light a smart buy. It’s completely hands-free, with flexible ends that you can bend into nearly any position — and the battery delivers up to 80 hours of light before it needs to be recharged. Plus, the lightweight frame won’t put uncomfortable pressure on your neck.
12The clever drain protector that hides hair out of sight
Unlike some drain protectors, this TubShroom features a tower-like design that traps hair underneath the drain, and still allows water to pass through it. The result? You’ll be able to procrastinate longer when it comes to emptying it out — and when the time finally arrives, a quick swipe around the base is all it needs.
13A 2-speed fabric shaver with almost 110,000 5-star ratings
Whether your leggings have started to pill or that one sweater is a little too fuzzy, this fabric shaver is a clever way to breathe new life into tired garments. The sharp stainless steel blades easily slice through excess fabric — and you can adjust the shaving grate height so that it’s suitable for use with nearly any type of fabric.
14The sun visor extender described as a “game changer”
Ever wish your sun visor was just a little bit longer? Then this extender is worth a look. It’s great for when the sun sits low in the sky, as the polycarbonate window helps shield your eyes from those harsh UV rays. “This sun visor extender is a total game-changer!” raved one reviewer. “It blocks out glare perfectly while driving, especially during sunrise and sunset.”
15A fan-favorite whisk that collapses down flat
Standard balloon whisks can take up a ton of kitchen drawer space, making this highly rated collapsible version a smart upgrade. It can be used balloon- or flat-style depending on what you’re cooking. And since the steel wires are coated with silicone, you can even use it on nonstick cookware without having to worry about chipping away at the coating.
16Privacy film that makes windows look like botanical stained glass
Preventing outsiders from being able to see into your home is as easy as adding this privacy film to your windows. It’s been 3-D printed to look just like stained glass, adding a gorgeous pop of color wherever you use it. The vinyl material is thick enough to block eyesight, yet not so opaque that it keeps light from shining through.
17Wacky gloves to shield hands from UV nail lamps
Anyone who regularly gets gel manicures is sure to appreciate these gloves. They block up to 99% of the UVA and UVB rays that are produced by nail curing lamps, helping shield your fingers from the harsh rays. Plus, the soft fabric contains a good amount of spandex for some comfortable stretchiness.
- One size fits most
- Available colors: 4
18A strong magnetic phone mount with more than 21,000 5-star reviews
Staring down at your phone when driving can be dangerous. Instead, keep your phone right around eye level by popping it into this mount. You have the option of sticking it to your dashboard or clipping it to an air vent — and ultra-powerful magnets inside hold your phone securely via Magsafe. One reviewer raved, “The magnetic strength is crazy good, my phone doesn't fall whatsoever, even driving on verrry bumpy roads.”
19Elegant coat hooks that fold up to keep things sleek
These coat hooks are a genius way to add storage space to small entryways and closets. Not only do they fold up when not in use, but each one is also so strong that it can easily support up to 40 pounds. “They were super easy to install and look so elegant in my bathroom,” wrote one reviewer. “I use them to hang clothes while steaming, and they hold up perfectly.”
20A funky carabiner clip that combines 6 tools into 1
Whether you’re camping, hiking, or even simply packing an emergency preparedness kit, this carabiner clip is a must-have. It combines six tools into one, including a bottle opener, glass breaker, Phillips/slot screwdriver, carabiner clip, as well as a knife blade. “For the price, it’s a great value,” wrote one reviewer. “Simple, useful, and easy to keep within reach when you need it.”
21Brush & fine-tip markers with more than 5,300 5-star ratings
Whether you’re kicking back with an adult coloring book or want to add some pizzazz to your notes, these markers are a must-have. Each one features two tips: one brush, and one pen. “Having both a fine tip and a brush tip on each marker is really convenient,” wrote one reviewer. “The fine tip works well for writing and details, while the brush tip is nice for coloring, shading, and lettering.”
22Ergonomic memory foam wrist rests that look like angel wings
Ever notice how your wrists can grow sore after a day of typing at your desk? Then this rest is worth a look. It’s filled with soft memory foam that contours to the shape of your wrists, giving them extra support where they need it. The surface is also water-resistant — so there’s no need to worry about how it’ll fare if you spill a drink on it.
23A paint-by-sticker book that walks you through recreating classic art
Looking for soothing ways to relax after a long day? Search no further than this paint-by-sticker book. It walks you through recreating 12 different classic pieces of art using a variety of fun stickers, making it a cleaner, easier alternative to standard coloring books. “It's a phenomenal book and the quality of the stickers is fantastic!” raved one reviewer.
24Genius hanging hooks that work just like push pins
You don’t have to bust out a toolbox if you want to hang up a picture — just grab these hooks. Installation is as easy as pressing them into drywall using your thumb, and each one is so sturdy that it can easily support up to 4 pounds. “I was surprised at how sturdy they are,” wrote one reviewer. “They can hold larger items as well as lightweight art, photos, or décor.”
25Multitool pens that pack 11 gadgets into a tiny package
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself constantly reaching for these ultra-compact multitools during your next DIY project. They combines 11 gadgets into these two little pens, including an LED light, bubble level, ruler, flathead/Phillips screwdriver, and more. And, the frames are made from heavy-duty aluminum that’s built to last.
26Sturdy bag clips that look like sardines & come in a can
There’s no denying that these sardine bag clips would be an oh-so freaky upgrade from the standard ones you’ve likely been using. The springs are made from tough stainless steel that’s resistant to rust — and the iridescent finish on the sardine gives them an upscale vibe. Or, if you aren’t into fish, you can also grab them as ladybugs, skulls, pidgeons, or cowboy boots.
27The 3-D puzzle flower pot with a 4.7-star rating
Don’t be surprised if guests ask where you bought this flower pot. The outside features a 3-D jigsaw puzzle that you’ll have to put together — and since it only consists of 80 pieces, it isn’t so challenging that you’ll find yourself stumped. One reviewer who rated it five stars also wrote that it “looks cute and artistic on a windowsill, desk, or shelf, especially with small succulents or cacti inside.”
28A Bluetooth printer that transforms phone photos into stickers
I’m a huge fan when it comes to this little Bluetooth printer — and not just because it lets you transform the photos on your phone into fun stickers. It uses cheap thermal tape to print rather than ink cartridges, making it an affordable alternative to full-sized printers. Plus, the downloadable smartphone app lets you customize your stickers with a variety of borders, images, and more.
29Squishy jelly keycaps that feel good to type on
I’m a huge fan when it comes to these keycaps — and not just because their wacky jelly texture feels delightfully soft when typing. They’re transparent enough that any fun backlighting you have on your keyboard should be able to shine through. Plus, installation is as pressing them into place overtop of your existing keys.
30Tiny mushroom stakes that water your plants for you
Not only are these plant watering stakes shaped like cute little mushrooms, but they’re also a clever way to help keep your potted plants from wilting while you’re away from home. The best part? Each mushroom holds enough water to keep a plant hydrated for up to a full week.
31Wacky cable clips reviewers bestowed with 4.7 stars
Every home has at least one corner that’s devolved into a mess of cables, so why not get organized using these clips? Their adhesive backing lets you mount them onto nearly any smooth, flat surface — and each clip is even designed to look like a cute turtle. “These are the perfect solution to constantly having to reach on the floor or wherever to source my power cords,” raved one reviewer. “I know where they are, and it keeps them so handy.”
32This scrubby sponge with an ergonomic handle attached
Dirty bathrooms and kitchens are no match for this scrubber brush. The stiff blue sponge bristles easily scrub away everything from limescale to grime — yet they aren’t so harsh that you’ll have to worry about them leaving scratches on tile or porcelain. Plus, the ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to use in either hand.
33Gel pens in 6 scrumptious coffee-inspired aromas
You don’t need to be a coffee aficionado in order to appreciate these gel pens. The scented ink comes in six coffee-inspired aromas, including mocha, espresso con panna, caramel macchiato, and more. But if that isn’t enough? The scent lasts for up to two years — so don’t be surprised if yo uget a whiff of French vanilla the next time you open that journal.
34Freaky socks that make it look like you have chicken legs
You’re sure to get more than a few laughs out of your partner when you wear these chicken socks around the house. And while quirky, don’t be fooled — they’re still made wth high-quality cotton, with a touch of spandex for some comfortable stretch. Each order comes with two pairs: one mid-calf and one knee-high.
35A seat cushion that looks like an angry slice of toast
Searching for weird ways to decorate your office or gaming setup? Look no further than this seat cushion. It’s designed to look just like a slightly perturbed slice of toast, and features an ultra-soft, breathable cover made from high-quality cotton. Plus, the nonslip underside works to keep it from shifting out of place while you’re seated.
36Simple terracotta discs that help keep brown sugar soft
Tired of your brown sugar turning into a brick between uses? Then these discs are a must-have. Simply soak them in water, then place them into your brown sugar container — the added moisture will help keep the sugar soft without causing it to dissolve. Or, if you don’t bake with much brown sugar, you can even use them to help keep bagels, cakes, marshmallows, and more from hardening as well.
37A weird pasta portioning tool with an impressive 4.8 stars
Eyeballing your pasta portions can be a challenge. Instead, use this tool. It’s suitable for use with spaghetti, and each hole is sized to fit either one, two, three, or four servings. “I constantly mis-judge the portion amounts and always end up with too little or too much cooked spaghetti [...],” wrote one reviewer. “Now, I have a consistent method of gauging how much to make per the amount of people eating.”
38Colorful tumbler cups that stack into a freaky fish
Not only are these tumbler cups made from sleek, scratch-resistant glass, but you can also stack them on top of each other so that they resemble a freaky fish. But if that isn’t enough? The stackable design also makes them a clever way to help save space inside crowded cabinets.
39Clever soap sheets easy to take with you anywhere
You’ll be glad you grabbed these soap sheets the next time you’re caught in a public bathroom that’s run out of soap. It only takes a small amount of water to get them to lather up into a rich foam — and the compact packaging makes it easy to take them with you when traveling. You also have the choice of three refreshing scents: jasmine, rose, or orange.
40A light switch cover that looks like retro arcade buttons
Sometimes the smallest home upgrades make the biggest impact — like swapping out your light switch covers with these retro arcade buttons. There’s no hardwiring necessary, and the only tool you’ll need for installation is a standard Phillips/flathead screwdriver. “The quality is exceptional, and installation was a breeze,” raved one reviewer. “My son absolutely loves it, and it's become the highlight of his room.”
41Meat shredder claws with an overall rating of 4.7 stars
Home and professional chefs alike are sure to appreciate these meat shredder claws. They’re great for pulling pork, chicken, and more, as their prongs are sharp enough to shred meat — yet they aren’t so sharp that they’ll puncture skin. One reviewer also raved about how they “shredded my pulled pork perfectly, doesn't take up any storage space, easy to hold, didn't get hot from working over my heat source.”
42DNA-inspired trellises for climbing plants
Got a potted plant that could use a little extra support? Then these trellises are worth a look. They’re designed to look like DNA strands, making them a unique addition to any pot. Plus, their metal frames are so sturdy that they’re suitable for indoor as well as outdoor use.
43Mini flower vases that look like a cactus family
Propagating stems is a clever way to increase the number of plants in your home without spending money, so why not grab these little propagation stations? Each cactus is made from sleek glass — not plastic — and their compact design means you shouldn’t have any trouble putting them on a window sill for display.
44The freaky box cutter shaped like a cat’s paw
From opening stubborn clamshell packaging to trimming loose threads off your shirt, this box cutter is sure to come in handy on a daily basis. The retractable blade is made from sharp steel — and a loop on the end of the handle lets you attach it to your bag or keyring so that it’s always within reach when you need it.
45A space-saving laundry basket that mounts onto walls
Don’t have a ton of floor space in your bedroom? Not a problem when you have this laundry basket. It mounts onto your wall to help save space, and features a collapsible design that flattens down to just 4 inches when it isn’t filled with clothes. Plus, dual handles in the front and back make it easy to carry from bedroom to mud room.
46Towel puppies made from soft, absorbent chenille
Ditch those threadbare hand towels you’ve been using and upgrade to these cute puppies. They’re made from soft chenille fabric that’s just as absorbent as it is fluffy — and each puppy is structured enough that they can stand upright on their own. Or, if you aren’t into puppies, you can also grab them as little bunnies.
47Whimsical mushrooms that hide unsightly toilet bolts
Not only are these little mushrooms great for hiding those unsightly toilet bolts, but they also add a delightful touch of whimsy to any bathroom. Each one is made from sleek ceramic — not plastic — and their universal design makes them suitable for use with nearly any toilet.
48Funky slippers that clean your floors as you walk
Unlike the slippers you’ve likely been wearing, these ones feature chenille fibers on the bottom that latch onto dust, dirt, and more, helping you clean your floors simply by walking around. The soles can also be detached for easy cleaning — and many reviewers even described them as “comfy.”
49A quirky goose that holds onto your keys for you
Always misplacing your keys? Not a problem when you have this goose. A magnet hidden inside of the beak holds onto keys, nail clippers, or any other small metal item you’d like to keep easily within reach. The compact base also makes it easy to find space for it on your desk or nighstand.
50Sunflower throw pillows that add a fun pop of color
If your bedroom or living room could use a fun pop of color, consider taking a look at these throw pillows. The bright colors combined with the plush covers make this two-pack a total steal for the price — and they’re large enough that you can even use them as floor cushions in a pinch.
51A freezable beer glass that helps keep drinks icy cold
Keep this glass in the freezer, and it’ll always be ready to go whenever you’re in the mood to sip on an ice-cold beer. The freezable gel inside of the walls works to keep your drinks deliciously chilled — and the silicone band around the center gives you somewhere comfortable to grip. One reviewer even described it as “a smart and fun product for anyone who enjoys cold drinks, especially beer lovers.”
52The bendable flower light with a powerful rechargeable battery
Whether you use this flower light to read or create a bright bouquet is up to you — but either way, there’s no denying that it’ll be a playful addition to any space. The battery can deliver up to 8 hours of light before it’ll need to be recharged, and the flexible stem can also be bent into nearly any position, allowing you to use it handsfree, or even stand it upright on a table.
53The cat-shaped heating pad that adorably soothes
You don’t need to be a cat person in order to appreciate this heating pad. You only need to heat it up in the microwave for about 60 seconds in order for it to stay warm for as long as 20 minutes — and the plush fabric cover feels oh-so soft against skin. One reviewer even raved, “I’ve seen pricier electric heating pads and wraps that claim advanced features, but this one competes with them in effectiveness while costing a lot less.”
54Personal safety alarms that can help emergency responders find you
These personal safety alarms are one of those rare items that’s best to have and not need, than need and not have. Simply press the button on the top, and it’ll instantly begin sounding an ultra-loud alarm, making it easier for emergency personnel to find you when you need help. Batteries also come included.
55A mini lamp that doubles as sculptural decor
This sculptural lamp might be small, but it definitely catches the eye. Made of resin, three LED tulips in the center glow when switched on and look equally charming when they're off. It’s battery powered (one is included), so it can live anywhere without needing an outlet, and at under 5 inches tall it fits on even crowded shelves or nightstands.
56This quirky coffee mug with a friendly face
With its smiling face and sleek ceramic build, don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for this coffee mug just about every morning. It’s dishwasher- as well as microwave-safe — and the 12-ounce capacity makes it great for use as a small cereal bowl in a pinch. But if that isn’t enough? With five vibrant colors to choose from (chocolate, orange, pink, and more), there’s a good chance you’ll be tempted to grab more than one.
57A rustic chime that lets you know when someone opens your door
Mount this rustic chime on your door frame, and it’ll let out a little ring every time someone opens the door. The solid dark walnut frame combined with the golden bell make it a stylish addition to any space. And if you aren’t into birds? You can also grab it as a tree, circle, or C-shape.
58An outlet extender with a handy shelf for devices
Not only does this extender add four extra outlets to any standard wall outlet, but it also features two USB ports as well as one type-C port. A shelf on the top gives you somewhere to rest your electronics while they charge — and built-in surge protection works to shield your gadgets from damage in the event of an electrical spike.
59Safety hammers that can help you escape your car
Keep one of these safety hammers in your glove compartment or center console, and it’ll always be ready to go if you ever need to escape your car during an emergency. The tungsten steel head is strong enough to shatter windows — even if your car is submerged in water. Plus, the U-shaped blade built into the side can also slice through your seatbelt if needed.
60Mushroom-shaped measuring cups that nest together
These measuring cups are just as fun as they are functional. Not only are they designed to look like tiny mushrooms, but they also nest inside of each other to help save space in storage. “They save space, keep my kitchen organized, and add a fun, decorative element to my countertop,” raved one reviewer.