40 strange (but genius) things selling out fast on Amazon

Online shoppers are usually great at seeking out the good deals. When something is awesome and inexpensive, they find it. And then — somehow — the word gets out. After that, it flies off the shelves. In fact, tons of Amazon products sell out fast like that. Whether those are storage items, smart devices, or even cool toiletries, they're usually out of stock sooner than later. There's a good reason for it, though: All of those items are strange, but genius.

Sometimes, I'll end up with something quite odd in my shopping cart — and to my surprise, it usually ends up being one of my favorite products. For instance, I challenge you not to end up entirely rethinking homemade ice pops, condoms for wine bottles, and absorbent coasters (because, yes, they do exist). I also predict that you'll find storing seasonal blankets without taking up too much space is actually easy — and that purchasing a Green Gobbler will help whenever there's a clog in your sink.

I'm not making any of this up — these products are readily available. Many Amazon shoppers know how genius they really are, and if you don't add them to your cart sooner than later, they might sell out.

1. These absorbent coasters that stop drinks from dripping on you

Drippy drinks are a thing of the past thanks to these absorbent coasters. They have a removable felt pad at the center to absorb condensation from your drink glass, and a grippy silicone base helps keep the coasters in place. Each set includes six coasters and color options include black, sand, and red.

2. A car shade that blocks the sun and keeps your seats cool

If the sun heats your interior to intolerable temperatures, this dashboard shade will come in handy. The pop-open version is a big improvement over cardboard accordion-fold shades, because it folds up tiny and expands to cover the entire windshield. You can even stash it in a seat pocket when you aren't using it — but anytime you park in the blazing sun, it's readily available. It's also available in different sizes, and you can check if it'll fit your car's make and model before buying it.

3. An affordable graphics tablet with a battery-free pen

This affordable graphics tablet is ultrathin and compact, making it easy to create drawings, edit photos, and more while you’re on the go. The pen is battery-free and has various levels of pressure sensitivity for smooth drawing. The tablet is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Chrome — just connect it to your laptop whenever you want to use it.

4. A steering wheel desk that's great for quick lunch breaks

This in-car steering wheel desk can be your new corner office or a space to eat lunch during your work break. If you have a Zoom meeting and your house is too loud to tune in from your office, you can bring the meeting to your vehicle. But if you're trying to eat a quick lunch during your break, you can take this desk out, pull over, and eat before heading back to the office.

5. The keychain that cuts seatbelts and breaks car windows

This safety tool doesn't look like much — but if you have it on your key chain, it could possibly help you make a quick car escape. One side is made to shatter glass, and the other is meant to slice seatbelts with ease. In other words, it can help you or a passenger escape the vehicle with ease. They're available in tons of colors and have over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

6. This beard-trimming kit with 14 different attachments

Welcome to the world of DIY haircuts and beard trims. It saves time and money to do all (or some) of it yourself, which is why this inexpensive Groomsman trimmer tool has become a must-have accessory. The trimmer can help you clean up your beard, and since it comes with spacers that can handle 14 different lengths, it can also help you achieve a haircut. The nose hair trimmer is a free bonus, and the tip can be rinsed with water.

7. The tiny spy camera that helps you keep an eye on your valuables

This tiny spy camera is super easy to install, and it's motion-activated. You can easily set it up to keep an eye on your home while you're out. When it senses something is happening, it starts recording, so you can watch from a big screen wherever you are. It's a cheap and effective way to add security to your space without an entire home security system — and it even has night vision.

8. These cases that help keep your phone dry at the pool

If you're heading to the beach, water park, swimming pool, or boat, get this: You can bring your phone along without living in constant terror of dropping it into water and destroying your day and budget. Just put it in one of these waterproof bags. It's so easy to use; just put your phone into the pouch and secure it. You can use the phone's touchscreen right through the pack, and there's a built-in lanyard for easy carrying.

9. The magnetic phone mount with a built-in finger ring

If you love your phone, put a ring on it. This particular cell phone ring is wildly popular because it makes your phone so functional without changing the way it looks or how you access it. Slip your finger through while you're texting, and your phone will be easier to hold. When you set it down, the ring acts as a kickstand so you can watch videos or follow recipes. And if you have a magnetic phone mount in your car, you can easily stick your cell on the dash. For something so small and simple, it's amazing how functional it is.

10. This wireless charging dock for all of your devices

So many Amazon customers are buying this inexpensive-but-genius wireless charging dock because it lets you charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods at the same time. Your phone charges in a handy upright position on the adjustable bracket while your other devices charge on the base. Plus, the bracket folds down for compact storage. Choose from silver and black.

11. A stretchy wallet that attaches to your phone

Keep essential credit cards, cash, and even your earbuds attached to your phone with this adhesive wallet. The stretchy Lycra wallet has an interior strap for added security and it’s available in more than 60 colors and styles, including basic black, gray, and paw print designs. A phone stand, screen cleaner, and other extras are also included.

12. The laptop pad that helps keep your device cool with fans

If you've ever gone deep into a game on your laptop and started sweating, it probably wasn't the adrenaline. Your laptop probably got warm, especially if it wasn't connected to a fan of some sort. This powered cooling pad helps chill the heat coming from that fancy processor. Simply plug it into your laptop to power the two fans. It even has two USB ports that you can use for your accessories.

13. These reusable silicone lids that stretch to fit bowls, pots & more

Storing leftovers is easy with these reusable silicone stretch lids. The 14-piece set includes lids in various sizes, with the largest one able to stretch to 12 inches in diameter. You can use them to cover food in jars, bowls, and pots before putting them in the fridge, and they’re also dishwasher- and microwave-safe.

14. The digital thermometer that quickly reads the temperature of meat

With this instant-read digital thermometer, you’ll never have to wonder if meat is cooked to the right temperature. The foldable thermometer has a stainless steel probe that quickly reads the temperature of your food and shows it on an easy-read digital display. It’s waterproof for easy cleaning and has a built-in loop for convenient storage.

15. The quick solution for foggy glasses and mirrors

If you pull up your face mask up and your glasses get foggy, it could be maddening. But this Fog Gone is the solution. Spray it on your glasses and they'll stop doing that. Once you have it — according to many Amazon reviewers — you'll find yourself spraying it on the mirror in your bathroom, the windshield of your car, your snorkeling mask, and everything else that fogs up easily. There are up to 400 sprays in one bottle.

16. This vacuum-sealed storage packs for your seasonal clothes

Space: It's in short supply. All those sweaters and blankets are taking up more of it than they need to. These vacuum storage bags squish them down by removing all the air inside and around them so they fit in a compact space, which frees up space for other things. This package comes with five large bags, which is probably enough to cram your entire winter wardrobe into.

17. The airtight food storage containers for fresh spices

The salt is solid. The spices are stale. Your storage system hogs the whole kitchen. Thankfully, this pop-top container solves all of that (which is why people on Amazon are stocking up). Push the pump to create a seal that keeps air out while keeping the contents dry and fresh. These canisters stack neatly, too — even with the other container sizes (which are all listed in the dropdown menu). The opening is large enough for your spoons or fingers to get inside — but since it's small, it makes a great travel container for liquids.

18. This natural lip balm made with nourishing ingredients

Not only does this natural, bourbon-themed lip balm have a vintage-looking label, but it’s also handmade with nourishing ingredients. Some of them include vitamin E, shea butter, aloe butter, cocoa butter, and more. Many reviewers wrote about how it makes a great gift.

19. A cherry and olive pitter that makes it easier to prepare snacks

Did someone say cherry pie? Anyone willing to make one of those should be immediately gifted with this cherry and olive pitter. It makes the job of removing pits from these delicious foods so much easier (and cleaner). Put the cherry or olive inside of it and close the handle. Then, the pit will come out. It's ergonomic, too.

20. This jar opener with tons of sizes for different containers

I have actually hurt myself trying to get jars open — and I'll admit, there may have been swearing involved, too. This simple tool could have saved me from all of that. And unlike the people I turn to for help, it'll always be in the drawer, available to open whatever jar is standing between me and its contents. It has multiple rings for jars of different sizes, and it even comes with a bottle opener.

21. The cold brew coffee maker that doubles as a pitcher

Cold brew coffee is delicious in the summertime (or any time of the year, really). But that pre-made stuff? That isn't within my budget — and it's just too much effort get. I'd much rather make my own, and this cold brew coffee maker is so simple to use. Just put ground coffee in the center column and add water to the carafe. Then, wait 12 hours and enjoy. It works just as well for making iced tea.

22. The electric spice grinder that does the work for you

Sometimes, clever engineering changes something you do every day for the better. If you're a fresh salt and pepper connoisseur, this battery-powered grinder will be a true pleasure to use. Just tilt it over, and that's all you'll have to do. Then, it'll grind the peppercorns or salt that you've filled it with to the exact grind you want. Your wrist won't do all the work, and it won't leave a mess on your table. Reviewers are thrilled with it.

23. This sink basket that holds your sponge to avoid wet counters

You need a sponge near the kitchen sink, but it usually leaves a puddle. That's why this basket goes inside the sink, not near it. Drop the sponge in here and let gravity and plumbing take it from there. It's big enough to drain fruits and vegetables as you wash them, or even leftovers before putting them in the trash. It's very convenient, to say the least.

24. The pot lid stand that also holds your saucy spoon

The lid. The spoon. Where do you put them when they're waiting to be used again? This clever stand is like a tiny helper who stands there and holds them until you're ready to stir. That way, they won't leave a mess on your counter (and you won't lose them and burn dinner while you hunt them down again). This holder also saves space while you work by holding lids and pans vertically.

25. The splatter screen that's easy to store in your drawer

If you like to fry anything, a splatter screen is a necessary kitchen item, but they're usually big and hard to store. Not this one, though. The handle actually folds up for storage, and it can fit right inside a drawer. It's also made of silicone and can be cleaned in the dishwasher. Plus, it doubles as a strainer, eliminating the need to keep bulky colanders around.

26. These wine condoms that keep your bottles fresh

When you open a bottle of vino, wrap this wine condom around the opening to keep it fresh in between glasses. It seals tight, so you can lay the bottle down in the fridge without worrying about spills. It comes in a pack of six and makes a great gag gift, but it's also very useful. One person even wrote that "the packaging is adorable" and that "the little messages inside are hilarious."

27. These goggles that help keep your eyes safe from onions

Tired of your eyes watering whenever you chop up an onion? Just pop these goggles on. The soft foam around the eyes seals them away from onion vapors, and the lenses are even fog-resistant. Plus, they come in a bunch of fun colors to suit any style: white, tortoise, black, pink, and red.

28. A jar scraper that'll help you get all the peanut butter out

This long-handled spatula will help you clear the peanut butter jar, dig the last scrap of Nutella out of its hiding spot, or slather frosting onto a cake. It’s heat safe up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit and is dishwasher safe as well. Super simple, but super useful.

29. A splash guard to prevent wet shirts by the sink

Wash the dishes. Change your shirt. It happens to me every day, and I think you can always tell who did the washing from the dampness of their clothes. Thankfully, this splash guard is the solution. Suction it to the counter in front of you while you wash the dishes and it'll create a splash guard that keeps the water in the sink. It's sleek enough to leave there, too — and it comes in three muted colors that'll match your decor.

30. This mini bag sealer for snacks you didn't finish yet

Once that bag full of yummy snacks is open, all bets are off. It's either finished in one sitting or needs to be closed back up for later, and this bag sealer can help. Just press the bag closed with it slowly, and it'll create a new factory-like seal. It's small enough to take with you, so you can seal your on-the-go snacks without worrying about them getting stale. Each order contains two bag sealers and you can choose from four colors.

31. The scrubbing brush for washing your new veggies

This little scrubber is a kitchen multi-tool because it can be used on different types of vegetables. It has a scrubbing brush on one side that tackles produce surfaces — and unlike the sponge that you're probably familiar with, it has a nonslip handle. There are two in the package.

32. This clip-on umbrella that provides more direct shade

Clamp this UPF 50+ umbrella to your beach chair, and you'll be able to read and relax under the bright sun. The unique shape covers you, specifically — but not the sand behind you. That also makes it great for strollers and wheelchairs because it covers the rider without getting in the way of the person pushing. The umbrella withstands wind and is adjustable, so you can angle it as needed. It also folds down small enough to pack up when you travel.

33. A pack of moisture-wicking headbands for heated workouts

You can wear one of these headbands under your bike helmet, to the gym, while working in the yard, or just to change up your hairdo. It's super lightweight and stretchy — and since it wicks away moisture, it keeps the sweat from dripping into your eyes while you work or work out. This is a great deal because you'll get four of them with one purchase, all in basic colors.

34. This wooden nightstand organizer with room for everything

Whether you’re trying to organize your watches, keys, or glasses, this nightstand organizer can help. It’s made of wood and even specific places for your phone and wallet. The bottom portion is lined with velvety material to help prevent scratches, and it’s available in different shades.

35. A magnetic screen door that helps keep the bugs out

You can stop putting up a screen door every summer and taking it down again in the fall. This screen curtain is a much better idea. It opens when you walk through it and closes behind you. And that means it opens when the dog or cat walk through it and closes behind them. So you can sit down and enjoy yourself instead of getting up 200 times to let the pet in or out. It's fast and easy to install. And the magnets down the middle strip make sure it closes when no one is walking through it.

36. This spooky drain tool that'll help unclog your sink

You don't have to pour drain-clearing chemicals down your sink anymore. This clever piece of plastic will get into your drain, grab the clog, and pull it out. It's easy to do, and you can use it over and over again. Also, there are five of them in this package — so your $7 will go a long way. These have over 1,100 positive reviews on Amazon, and one customer gave it an A+ in unclogging.

37. These wall grips for your house with long handles

Sure, your parents used something like this to store garden tools. But what about the mop? The toilet scrubber? The vacuum cleaner attachments? The duster? You see where I'm going here? These wall-mounted grips are brilliant, non-slip, easy-to-use ways to store anything with a handle. Mount each one to the wall and stick the handle into it. No more mops or brooms flopping around, falling over, or taking up the entire closet. The dusters are in order. The scrubber restrained. There is order in your house.

38. A bamboo tray that clamps onto your sofa

Keep your drinks, snacks, and remote control within reach with this clamp-on bamboo armrest tray. The durable tray is easy to place on the sofa and remove as needed, and it’s especially handy if you don’t have room for a full side table or coffee table. One reviewer wrote that it has a “strong enough grip to handle mugs of coffee and glasses of wine with confidence.”

39. The wearable light that helps you read without the lamp on

You're reading a good book, but your partner has to get up early. Coming to an agreement on whether the lights go on or off can be tough. Don this neck light, though, and you can both have your way. The light's bright enough to read with, and it can be directed at your book or tablet so the rest of the room is dark. You can quickly choose from three light temperatures, including one in an amber (non-blue) spectrum. It's also rechargeable and lightweight.

40. These durable water shoes that feel like socks

These sleek water shoes fall somewhere between a sock and a shoe. They're perfect for walking on the beach or snorkeling — and for people who feel more comfortable going barefoot, they're a delight. They have rubber outsoles that'll help protect your feet from rough surfaces, coral, and rocks in the sand. They're also stretchy and pull on like socks. Plus, they're available in tons of colors.