70 Clever Things Under $30 on Amazon That Are Effing Dope
Things that are actually worth your money? We love to see it.
There are heaps of ways to spend your money on the internet, so it can be a challenge to sift through the noise to find the really cool products that actually fill a need — and it’s harder still to do it on a budget. Thankfully, the collection here is full of carefully selected products that make cooking and cleaning simpler, organization easier, and everything else just a bit more fun. And better yet, you can score all the items on this list for $30 or less.
01This surge protector tower with 12 outlets plus USB ports
Ensure your workstation has all the juice it needs with this power strip tower. Each of the four sides has three AC outlets (for a grand total of 12 sockets), and they can be turned on and off individually to save power. On top of that, there are three USB-A ports and one USB-C port. Choose from options with 10- and 16.4-foot extension cords.
- Available colors: 2
02A handheld shower exfoliator that gives you a great lather
Even your showering routine can be made better, and this soap sudser proves it. Made from a textured sponge-like material, this sudser pulls double duty by both gently exfoliating skin and working your soap up into a rich lather. It straps around your hand for easy maneuvering as well.
03The genius toilet paper rack that keeps spares within easy reach
If you’re constantly left stuck without a new roll, this over-tank toilet paper holder is the solution to your problem. Made from steel with a chrome finish, this holder hooks over the tank, then has space to store two spare rolls.
04These picture-hanging claws that you can install with your thumbs
No need to exhaust yourself trying to find studs in your wall, because these drywall picture hanger from 3M lets you mount artwork anywhere. Each one features two unique claws — simply use your thumbs to push them through the drywall for a sturdy installation that doesn’t even require a hammer. You can choose from sets that hang items weighing anywhere from 15 pounds all the way to 65 pounds.
- Available weights: 5
05A rechargeable & weatherproof lighter that doesn’t require fluid
Snag this electric lighter that makes creating ambience with candles or getting a fire going so much easier. It’s completely rechargeable via USB (so no lighter fluid refills required) and has a flameless plasma ignition source that won’t extinguish in wind or light rain. The 7.6-inch length helps it reach deep into pillar candles, making it even more practical.
- Available colors: 7
06The helpful clips that keep fitted sheets from sliding off
Transform making the bed into an easier task with these bed sheet straps that secure on the underside of your mattress. The clever three-point design features claw clips that hold each corner of your fitted sheet taut to ensure it stays in place and doesn’t bunch up and pop off. And because the straps are made from stretchy, adjustable elastic, you can be sure you’ll get an ideal fit.
- Available colors: 3
07This 2-pack of cord holders that streamline cable organization
Improve the tidiness of your workstation or TV setup with this pair of cord organizers you can score on a budget. They affix to your desk or entertainment center with 3M adhesive and feature three to five slots each for holding power cords. The cables are held in place with flexible silicone notches that makes removing them a cinch.
- Available colors: 4
08This travel-friendly utensil set made from stainless steel
Whether at the office or for camping, this utensil set is ideal for taking with you anywhere. Contained in a waterproof case, the eight-piece set even comes with a straw, cleaning brush, and chopsticks. Make dining on-the-go easier — and more colorful with the 11 available color options.
09This helpful defrosting tray that cuts down on thawing time
Why sit around waiting for your food to thaw on its own when you can speed up the process with this defrosting tray? This clever kitchen tool works because it’s made of aluminum, which conducts cold temperatures away from your frozen meat, allowing it to defrost without accidentally cooking it. It comes in two sizes, so you can thaw as much as you need at once.
- Available sizes: 2
10This retro digital clock with a built-in wireless charger
Just because something is high tech doesn’t mean it can’t retain a classic look, and this digital alarm clock proves it with its retro design. More importantly, it’s convenient and cuts down on cord clutter since there’s a wireless charger on top. It features a large LED display that not only showcases the time, but also the day, date, and weather.
- Available colors: 4
11A pair of cooling pillowcases that hot sleepers will appreciate
These cooling pillowcases use specialized fibers on one side to help prevent overheating at night. For versatility, the flip side of each pillowcase is made with cotton for breathability but a little less cooling power once the weather turns chilly. Not only are these pillowcases ideal for those who like to sleep cool, but the smooth fabric is super comfortable on skin.
- Available sizes: Standard — King
- Available colors: 10
12A vegetable chopper that comes with 4 interchangeable blades
Save time in the kitchen with help from this vegetable chopper. Four interchangeable blades let you dice or spiralize ingredients, as well as slice them into thick ribbons. And since each blade is made from stainless steel, there’s no need to worry about them rusting over time.
13The clever shower curtain that has built-in pockets
Short on shower space? No problem, thanks to this shower curtain with pockets. The waterproof curtain comes with nine pockets of varying sizes made from sheer mesh, so you can easily spot what you need, be it shampoo, your razor, or body wash. It’s reinforced with metal grommets at the top for extra support.
- Available colors: 4
14A universal socket adapter that works with any nut, bolt or screw
Whether you’re putting together furniture or making a small repair, this universal socket tool is great to have on hand. The cylinder features 54 hardened steel spring pins that automatically adapt to just about any nut, bolt, or screw you throw at it. It boasts 125 pounds of torque to speed up the job, and also comes with a power drill adapter if you really want to make things quick.
15The pet stain remover that comes with a UV flashlight
Is there a pet-related odor lurking somewhere on your floors or furniture? This pet stain remover kit makes it easy to hunt it down and eliminate it. The UV flashlight illuminates stains in the dark, while the spray itself uses natural enzymes to break down stains and odors on carpet, hardwood, upholstery, fabric, and other surfaces. It’s pet-safe and leaves behind a fresh, citrusy scent.
16A genius strainer you can use with one hand
Stop juggling multiple kitchen tools at once when you can use this pot strainer to streamline things. Made from BPA-free silicone, this strainer clips onto the sides of your pots and pans so that you can simply pour out excess water directly into the sink with just one hand. And thanks to the flexible construction, the strainer expands and contracts to fit a variety of pot sizes.
- Available colors: 5
17The extra-long oven gloves that give you forearm protection
Most oven mitts are constructed with a huge oversight: They don’t reach up far enough, so you still risk burning your forearms. These extra-long oven mitts remedy that by giving you more coverage and protection. They’re also made with silicone, which is easy to rinse clean (unlike cloth), and the nonslip grips help you keep that pan firmly within your grasp.
- Available sizes: 2
- Available colors: 12
18These light-up gloves that illuminate your way in the dark
Whether you’re camping at night or enjoying an evening jog, these flashlight gloves will help you see. Each glove features two LED bulbs — one on the thumb and one on the index finger — which are easily controlled with a power button near the wrist. Thanks to their stretchy construction, they’ll fit a variety of hand sizes, too.
19The space-saving dish rack your kitchen needs
If you’re tired of your dish rack taking up tons of counter space, switch to this roll-up drying rack instead. Not only does it roll up to a compact size for easy storage when you’re not using it, but it also allows dishes to drain directly into the sink for less mess. It’s made from sturdy stainless steel with silicone edges to provide a nonslip grip.
- Available colors: 4
20A reusable lint roller that stands up to heavy pet hair
This cult-favorite pet hair remover is a great choice for anyone looking to cut down on single-use paper products. Just run the red fabric roller across surfaces to generate a static charge that traps lint and fur. Then, open the chamber with the touch of a button to discard the hair, and keep using it again and again.
21An all-in-one kit for patching up wall scuffs & holes
Whether you’re an expert at home maintenance or just a novice, this small hole repair kit is a useful tool for anyone looking to cover imperfections left on your wall after hanging pictures and the like. Impressively, it contains everything you need for little fixes in one package. Simply apply the spackle, spread it out with the scraper, and buff it out with the sandpaper when it’s dry.
22A battery storage solution with a built-in tester
Turn your junk drawer full of loose batteries into a tidy paradise with this battery organizer. It offers storage for up to 93 batteries, ranging from extra-large D-cells to tiny coin batteries. Better yet, it even features a built-in tester, so you can properly discard dead batteries after confirming they’ve lost their juice.
- Available colors: 7
23The breath-freshening tongue cleaner with sky-high ratings
If you’re looking to up your oral hygiene game, consider this tongue scraper that’s earned a near-perfect 4.8-star overall rating after 1,600 reviews on Amazon. Made from flexible stainless steel, this tool has two handles to hold as you gently scrape the U-shaped center across your tongue. This can remove debris and germs, which in turn freshens your breath. Store it in the included linen pouch after use.
24A comprehensive organizer for all your tech gear
Make sure all your gadgets are properly sorted and stowed with this electronics organizer. Weighing just 8 ounces, it’s incredibly lightweight while still boasting three layers of storage. This includes multiple zippered mesh compartments for larger devices and adaptors as well as several slots supported by elastic devices for cables.
- Available colors: 3
25This whimsical jar scraper that helps cut down on food waste
Scrape out every last drop of jam, peanut butter, or Nutella with this handy jar spatula. Its generous length and flexible silicone construction ensure you can reach deep into the round crevices of jars to swipe out extra product that might have otherwise gone to waste. Charmingly, it’s shaped like a platypus, and is even dishwasher safe, too.
26This compact cocktail kit for mixing expert drinks anywhere
Beverage lovers are sure to appreciate this tiny cocktail kit that includes everything but the booze for making up to six drinks. You’ll find sets for cosmos, margaritas, mojitos, and champagne cocktails, all packed inside a stainless steel tin with a bar spoon and a jigger. Because of its portable design, it’s great for air travel as well.
- Available options: 4
27The headache wrap filled with soothing ice gel
When you have a throbbing headache or migraine, reach for this ice head wrap to help manage your symptoms. Simply store it in the fridge or freezer to cool down the internal gel, then wrap it around your head — you can even pull the hem down over your forehead or eyes to further soothe discomfort. The stretchy Lycra offers gentle compression while helping ensure it’ll fit a variety of head sizes.
- Available colors: 5
28The tiny tablets that clean your water bottle without a scrubbing brush
Water bottles, especially tall and narrow ones, can be tough to scrub, so try these bottle cleaning tablets instead. The environmentally friendly formula fizzes up when dropped in water. All you have to do is fill up your bottle, add a tablet, let it sit, and then drain the water away to reveal a clean bottle.
29The marinade injector kit for juicier, more flavorful meat
Level up your cooking capabilities with this marinade injector kit that infuses juices and sauces directly into your meat. The stainless steel kit comes with three needles of varying sizes, including one with rows of side perforations, so you can penetrate multiple layers with marinade at once. There’s even a needle-cleaning brush to help you tidy up.
30These work gloves that can protect your hands from sharp blades
Whether you’re slicing in the kitchen or doing yard work outside, these cut-resistant gloves will definitely come in handy. Featuring a rubberized nitrile coating that protects hands, these gloves are both breathable and washable, making them a practical addition to your protective gear collection. They come in multiple sizes, so you can get a good fit that won’t interfere with dexterity.
- Available sizes: Small — X-Large
31The meat thermometer that reviewers are obsessed with
Yes, a meat thermometer can be popular — in fact, this one boasts a 4.6-star overall rating after racking up 11,000 reviews. Besides providing a reading within three seconds, it has a temperature chart, a light-up LCD screen, and a built-in magnet for storage on the fridge or grill. (It even has a bottle opener on the end.) With this gadget, you can help ensure your meat is never undercooked or overcooked.
32A silicone drink holder for enjoying a bevvy while you shower
To enjoy a cold beverage during a hot shower, just stick this clever drink holder to the bathroom wall. It holds 12-ounce cans and grips smooth surfaces such as tile, glass, and mirrors with no suction cup or adhesive required, leaving no residue behind when it’s removed. The silicone holder is durable, waterproof, and available in a variety of colors and patterns.
33This stainless steel container lets you save bacon grease for later
Incorporating bacon grease into your cooking is an easy way to give meals an extra depth of flavor, so why not take a look at this container? It’s made from rust-resistant stainless steel that won’t melt when filled with hot grease. Plus, the strainer at the top removes any burnt bits, leaving you with nothing other than pure, fresh grease.
34A pair of claws for transferring & shredding slabs of meat
If you’re looking for an easy way to shred meat for barbecue, salads, or more, these meat claws are sure to do the trick. Made from strong stainless steel, they easily tear through meat in less time than forks and can also be used to transfer hot food from the grill, smoker, or oven to the counter (think: turkey and tri-tip). They’re even dishwasher-safe.
35A set of charcoal-infused toothbrush heads that can be recycled
Help the environment and your oral health at the same time with these recyclable toothbrush heads. They’re compatible with most Oral-B and Braun electric brushes, and even feature charcoal bristles, which can help whiten teeth naturally. When you’ve gone through the pack, use the prepaid shipping label to send them back for recycling.
36The collapsable bins perfect for extra storage around the house
Whether you’re packing away extra linens or storing heavier clothes during warmer months, these storage bags are an easy way to keep things neat. They fold flat when not in use and feature practical transparent windows, so you can easily spot your items. They’re portable, too, thanks to the reinforced handles.
- Available colors: 3
37This genius tool that lets you scratch any itch
Gone are the days of struggling with an itch you can’t reach, because this back scratcher is here to get the job done. It features a row of blunt plastic teeth that sit atop a telescoping stainless steel rod that can extend up to 31.5 inches long. You can even take it on the go, thanks to the included travel bag.
38These reusable mop pads that save you money in the long run
Ditch your single-use cleaning pads and try these reusable mop pads instead — you’ll help out both your wallet and the environment. They come four to a set, and are made from highly absorbent microfiber that’s gentle on a variety of flooring surfaces, from wood to tile. Simply toss them in the washing machine when they need laundering after a cleaning session.
39The battery-operated lanterns for camping trips & emergency kits
Where fun meets practical you’ll find these portable hanging lanterns that are so helpful, whether you pack them in with your camping gear or keep them in a kit for power outages. The LED bulbs run on three AAA batteries and clip to the top of your tent or anywhere else with the attached carabiners. Choose between high, low, and blinking strobe modes, all accessible from the button on the center of the bulb.
- Available colors: 6
40This brilliant digital luggage scale you can take on the go
This digital luggage scale easily fits in your bag, so you can make sure it’s not too heavy at any point of your trip. Attach it to your bag via the woven belt, then hold the handle to let your bag hang, and the scale will give you an accurate weight reading in pounds or kilograms.
41A plastic bag holder that can help open up space
Every kitchen has that one cabinet filled with loose grocery bags, so why not open up some space by transferring them into this holder? A wide mouth at the top makes it easy to fill — and each order includes screws so that you can mount it to the inside of a cabinet door. Plus, the brushed exterior helps keep it looking fingerprint-free.
42The sponge holder that also doubles as a soap dispenser
Make post-dinner cleanup simpler with this dish soap dispenser that’s so easy operate. Simply place your sponge on the top tray and push down to pump out some soap, allowing you to keep your other hand free. (No more pausing to squeeze a dish soap bottle.) It holds up to 13 ounces of detergent and prevents excess liquid from dripping all over your countertops, too.
- Available colors: 3
43This couch caddy that makes all your essentials easily accessible
Ensure your remote, phone, and other essentials are right on hand — and not swallowed up in your sofa cushions — with this couch caddy. Made from linen with an anti-slip backing, it features a long end that can be slipped under a seat cushion, while the other end can be draped over your couch’s arm. It contains several pockets to keep everything conveniently sorted.
- Available colors: 31
44A set of steaming masks that may help relieve eyestrain & sinus pressure
If you’re looking to soothe eyestrain or dryness after staring at a screen all day, give these steaming masks a shot. Also great for sinus pressure relief, they boast an internal heating element, that, when exposed to the air, releases warm moisture that lasts up to 40 minutes. The original version is unscented, but if you want a full-on relaxation experience, try green tea or mint.
- Available scents: 5
45A fan-favorite laptop stand for more comfortable working
Upgrade your office setup with this laptop stand which has several benefits that can help improve your workflow. For one, it elevates your laptop to eye level, which can reduce neck strain. For another, its hollow center allows for improved airflow underneath, so your machine is less likely to overheat. It keeps everything in place with its nonslip grips, too. No wonder it has a 4.8-star overall rating after 49,000 reviews.
- Available colors: 10
46These headrest hooks keep bags off dirty car floors
Don’t rest your purse on that dirty car floor — instead, keep it clean with help from these headrest hooks. They’re universally designed to fit in nearly any car, regardless of whether you drive a small sedan or a massive truck. The best part? Since they can hold up to 55 pounds, you can also use them to hang up heavy grocery bags in order to keep them from spilling out.
47These nonstick-safe tongs that you’ll end up using constantly
If you’re looking for kitchenware bargains, this silicone tong set come with three pairs — and it’s earned a stellar overall rating on Amazon. Each order comes with a large, medium, and small set of tongs, measuring 11, 9, and 7 inches respectively. They’re made from durable stainless steel and coated with temperature-resistant silicone that’s safe to use on nonstick cookware. Use these to transfer, toss, and flip food.
- Available colors: 3
48An infuser bottle that makes it easy to flavor your water
If you’re looking to shake up your hydration, try this fruit infuser bottle that gives your water a burst of flavor. Made from sturdy plastic with a nonslip grip on the side, this bottle features an interior filter which you can fill with fruit or herbs of your choosing. Simply shake it up and let it steep to enjoy refreshing beverages on the go.
49An electric griddle with a nonstick cooking surface
Thanks to its nonstick surface, you can make breakfast, lunch, and dinner on this electric griddle, which makes cooking and cleanup a breeze. It features a large enough griddle to cook eight eggs at once, plus a removable crumb tray for less mess. And you’ll have precise temperature control with the plug’s temperature dial.
50The waterproof liners that help keep your fridge clean
Wiping up spills inside your fridge can be a real pain, making these liners a smart investment. Their waterproof surface makes them easy to clean, while the grippy EVA material helps keep bottles from tipping over. Choose from five colors: clear, blue, green, pink, or multi.
51This space-saving hanger is perfect for storing belts
Don’t clutter up your closet with that sprawling belt collection — instead, place them on this hanger to help save space. It rotates 360 degrees, making it easy to reach belts stored in the back with a simple spin. Plus, the sturdy metal frame won’t collapse under the weight of heavy belts, even when loaded with up to 24 of them.
52A set of nesting food containers that comes with color-coded lids
Brighten up your kitchen with these food storage containers that are color coded, so you can easily spot the right lid when you need it. They all come with airtight lids that snap into place with side locks, and when they’re not in use, you can nest the containers, then stack the lids on top for compact storage. The set comes with containers of five different sizes, ranging from 1 cup all the way up to 12.5 cups.
- Available colors: 2
53These stainless steel drinking cups that elevate outdoor gatherings
Dress up your cocktails and other outdoor sips with this set of stainless steel drinking cups. They’re dent-resistant and virtually unbreakable, but they look a lot better than plastic cups. The metal helps cold drinks stay cold longer than plastic, too. Each cup holds 16 ounces and cleans up easily by hand or in the dishwasher.
54A reviewer-beloved portable speaker that goes wherever you do
No need to trade quality for portability, because this Bluetooth speaker has both. Not only does this speaker offer up rich, intense bass, it also has a waterproof rating of IPX5 and can run for 24 hours on just one charge. It’s also well-loved by reviewers, over 95,000 of whom have weighed in to give it an impressive 4.7-star overall rating.
- Available colors: 3
55The handheld sharpener that fine-tunes your blades in a flash
Keep your cutting tools in optimal condition with this cheap and easy-to-use knife sharpener. It’s ultra compact, weighing just half an ounce, and offers up both fine and coarse sharpening slots. And because it has a grippy, nonslip base, it’ll stay sturdy on your countertops as you fine tune your blades.
- Available colors: 3
56A potent callus remover gel with *thousands* of positive reviews
Don’t have time for a professional pedicure? Not a problem when you have this callus remover. Ten minutes is all it takes to help soften stubborn calluses, making it easy to buff them away with a pumice stone or foot rasp — and with thousands of positive reviews you can rest assured it truly works. “After a few minutes on my feet, I grabbed the pumice stone and began to scrub, only to find that the dead skin was melting off,” raved one reviewer.
57This microwavable bacon cooker
Enjoy sizzling bacon in a breeze with this bacon cooker that goes right into your microwave. Lay four to six strips of bacon down, put the lid on, and pop them in the microwave. The design of this cooker keeps the bacon elevated so it cooks evenly, and the vented cover allows steam to release while also containing any grease splatter.
58A trash can that fits discreetly in your car
Instead of papers and fast food detritus accumulating in your car, allow this collapsible trash can to tidy things up. With a leakproof lining, the can has an adjustable strap that fastens onto headrests, consoles, or side door handles. It also has a magnetic lid that contains trash. An unexpected bonus: Thanks to its insulated lining, it can double as a cooler for snacks and beverages.
59The magnetic wristband that holds your hardware as you work
This clever magnetic wristband will prevent you from losing screws and other hardware while you’re doing home improvement or DIY projects. It has breathable mesh fabric and a clever adjustable strap to comfortably secure it to your wrist, while 10 strong magnets inside act as a helping hand, holding heavy-duty metal drill bits, nuts, and bolts.
60This witch-shaped spoon rest that holds your spoon for you
Finally, an adorable solution for keeping your spoon in place without it falling off or dripping everywhere. This BPA-free kitchen spoon rest secures onto the edge of a pot, bowl, or pan, with the spoon wedged snugly in place. The silicone witch can also magically release steam from your pots when you use it to prop up a lid.
61Oven liners that will keep crumbs contained
Slide this nonstick and PFOA-free liner under your oven racks, and you’ll save so much time when cleaning your oven. These heavy-duty sheets catch any spills, crumbs, or oven splatter and they’re true kitchen game-changers.
62This compressible memory foam camping pillow
It’s rare to find a camping pillow that’s actually comfortable, but this memory foam travel pillow is as comfy as it is compact. Compress it down into the carrying case, and the 9-ounce small pillow (the large one weighs 11 ounces), will fit easily into any camping bag.
63This 3-in-1 burger press that makes stuffed burgers, sliders, & full-size patties
With three separate pieces for crafting gourmet burgers at home, this nonstick burger press will elevate your meal routine. Use the small base to make sliders or the larger one to make regular patties. To make a stuffed burger, press the meat into the large pan, add toppings, and then finish it with another layer of meat before pressing it again.
64An expandable cupholder for your car
For large water bottles, thermoses, or soda cups, this expandable cupholder is a game-changer. Place it in your cup, and you’ll finally have enough space for your largest water bottle. This cupholder attachment expands to fit water bottles as big as 40 ounces, and even has a hole for a handle.
65This pair of salt and pepper shakers that light up
These salt and pepper shakers are genius. They’re gravity operated, so all you have to do is turn them upside down in order to dispense your seasoning. And, since these have built-in LED lights, you’ll be able to see exactly how much salt and pepper you’re adding to your food
66An adjustable tablet stand that’s seriously sleek & versatile
This adjustable tablet stand can hold a 12-inch tablet or smaller in portrait and landscape mode, and its nonslip rubber feet will keep it stationary as you adjust its viewing angle. Use it to watch videos hands-free, or keep it as a desktop companion if you use multiple electronics. The holder also has an impressive 4.8-star average rating after 69,000 ratings.
67This color-changing LED lighting strip that enhances your TV viewing experience
Stop uncomfortable eye strain while watching TV — this LED light strip adds bias lighting to the back of your TV or monitor, which will lessen the harsh contrast of light and look cool to boot. It comes with quick-to-install adhesive backing and plugs into your TV’s USB port. It also has 15 colors and 10 brightness modes.
68These circular cable labels that make it easy to find the right cord
Write on one of these clever cable labels, then wrap it around a cord and secure it with the hook-and-look closure. A large circular surface area, plus different colors like red, green, and yellow, make it easy to spot and read which cable is which. One reviewer wrote, “A great, cost-effective solution to identifying electrical cables. Perfect for those long power strips. Use them to identify both ends of those ever-growing power cords, charger wires, and USB cables.”
69A hidden-pocket belt bag that can easily hold up in the rain
Whether you’re traveling or hiking, this adjustable fanny pack will give you plenty of space to store all the essentials. It has six visible pockets and two hidden pockets, and its interior is large enough to fit an umbrella or small water bottle. It’s outdoor-ready, too, because its fabric is water-resistant.
- Available colors: 4
70A clever magnetic pickup tool you can extend to grab things
Hate losing small items like keys, screws, and other odds and ends? This magnetic pickup tool will make it easier to grab metal items, thanks to an extendable neck that can reach between seats and other nooks and crannies. The tool has a magnetic head with an LED light to guide your way, plus a magnetic bottom.
This article was originally published on