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50 Weird, Cheap Things Getting Insanely Popular Because They Make Your Home So Much Better

Hyped-up home products that are worth your time.

by Rachel Bar-Gadda
50 Weird, Cheap Things Getting Insanely Popular Because They Make Your Home So Much Better
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From tidying up your garage to adding elegant lighting outdoors, there’s so much you can do to improve your home without breaking the bank. Ranging from the unusual to the ingenious, you’ll be surprised by these weird, cheap things that are getting insanely popular because they make your home so much better. Whether you’re desperate to find new organizational solutions or are looking for a way to add some functional decor, this list has you covered with items that nail the brief while remaining well within budget.

01A toilet bowl cleaner made of natural pumice stone

Though it may seem like scrubbing bathroom surfaces with a stone might hurt more than help, this pumice toilet cleaner will surprise you. Made of an all-natural material requiring zero chemicals, the pumice stone removes rust rings, mineral stains, and grime with just a bit of water. It won’t scratch your delicate bathroom surfaces and comes with its own case for convenient storage.

02These elastic bands that keep your trash bag in place

These strange but effective elastic trash bands cost less than $10 and work to keep your trash bag securely in place at all times. They come in a set of three and stretch to accommodate trash cans ranging from 10 to 33 gallons. Featuring metal joints for long-lasting durability, use them on both indoor and outdoor cans.

03A jar opener that releases tight lids easily

With over 14,000 ratings and 4.7 stars, this popular jar opener is about to make accessing those prized pickles that much easier. It mounts to the underside of your cabinet using the included hardware and adhesive while steel teeth designed in a V-shape help release even the most stubborn lids with a gentle twist.

04These self-gripping cable ties to keep cords neat & tidy

The spare cords around your house will no longer be a tangled mess thanks to these self-gripping cable ties. Made from durable nylon, the ties feature a reusable hook and loop closure that keeps cords neatly wound until you need them. In addition to organizing your electronics drawer, the ties can be used to tidy the cords on appliances such as an iron or stand mixer.

05A highly rated storage strap that spruces up your garage

This storage strap has earned a near-perfect 4.8-star rating for its ability to attach to your garage tools and hoses and allow them to be hung on the wall. Made of heavy-duty polypropylene, it features a built-in metal grommet and an industrial-strength hold with a weight-bearing capacity of 50 pounds. It’s available in a set of six in three different sizes.

06This oil & waterproof kitchen backsplash protector

Sauté and fry away without having to spend hours cleaning up afterward when you mount this backsplash protector that’s completely oil and waterproof. Made of transparent PVC, it can be trimmed to suit your dimensions and applied easily to the wall behind your stove. Quickly wipe away any grease or food splatter with a minimum of effort and time required.

07A light switch plate that allows you to find your way in the dark

Get up in the middle of the night with no problem finding the switch thanks to this wall plate with a built-in night-light. It installs easily on any single switch with the ability to adjust the brightness of the night-light to suit your needs. Choose from three available finishes to match your walls: light almond, ivory, and white.

08This light bulb security camera with 360-degree viewing

This light bulb security camera is reasonably priced and offers tons of features such as a full 360-degree view of your outdoor or indoor area. With an E27 base, it screws into most sockets and can be used with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. In addition to HD-quality video, it includes color night vision abilities, motion detection, two-way audio, and remote viewing directly from an app on your phone.

09A tiki torch for instant outdoor ambiance

Create an inviting atmosphere by complementing every backyard event with this tiki torch. It features a weatherproof gunmetal finish and is designed with a bowl that keeps your flame dancing no matter how breezy the conditions. Simply twist off the top to fill it with fuel; the brand also offers mosquito-repellent fuel for further comfort outdoors.

10These solar fairy lights with 8 modes

It’s easy and inexpensive to transform your garden into a magical place with these solar fairy lights. They come in a pack of two, each measuring 100 feet, and feature waterproof copper wiring and small LED lights. Choose from eight different lighting modes such as twinkle, slow glow, or slow fade, and set them up anywhere as there’s no wiring required.

11A bottle-emptying kit that utilizes gravity

Squeeze every little drop from those pricey products using this weird but ingenious bottle-emptying kit. It attaches to your bottle and allows it to sit upside down to easily access the last bit of your shampoo, soap, lotion, or dishwashing liquid, to name a few. Two base caps and six adapters are included to fit most standard bottle sizes.

12The novelty hot chocolate mug with a basketball hoop

Sip from this novelty hot cocoa mug that’s made even more fun by tossing marshmallows through the attached basketball hoop. Made of ceramic, the mug can hold up to 16 ounces and is artfully designed with lots of other sports options available such as baseball, soccer, and hockey. Plus, it’s dishwasher and microwave-safe.

13A clip-on light with a flexible gooseneck

This clip-on light offers tons of versatility as it can be used anywhere from the bedroom to the kitchen to the office. It’s built with a flexible gooseneck to direct the light just where you need it and has 38 bright LEDs that can be adjusted between three lighting temperatures. There’s even a handy remote included to turn your light on and off or switch between settings from afar.

14This cozy pillow with insulating cup holes

Keep your drinks stable and at the ideal temperature while you watch your favorite shows with this weird yet useful pillow. It’s designed with five insulating holes to fit your mugs, glasses, and bottles with built-in space for cup handles. Additionally, use it for storing snacks or holding your TV remote and remove the cover easily to wash.

15A silicone microwave mat that can be used for so much more

Not only does this clever silicone microwave mat make it easy to handle hot items and prevent splatter, but it can also be used for other purposes around the house. Available in a pack of two, it’s made with grooves that provide grip with heat resistance up to 475 degrees Fahrenheit. Use it as a trivet or surface on which to place hot styling tools, as a jar opener, a food cover, a utensil rest, and more.

16This tofu press for crispy & flavorful stir-fries

Instead of draining your tofu by piling on heavy dishes for an extended time, use this tofu press that efficiently extracts all moisture in just 15 minutes. It’s simple to use with two pressure levels and the collected water is easy to drain. All of this results in firm tofu that’s ready to be flavored and crisped up in your pan.

17An LED rope light that can bend around objects

It’s easy to make your indoor or outdoor surroundings that much more welcoming by using this versatile LED rope light. Casting a warm white light, it measures 24 feet and can be hooked up to additional strands. Wrap it around water features, steps, cabinetry, and more, and leave it up all year long thanks to its waterproof material.

18This wooden whiskey stone set that infuses your drink with flavor

This wooden whiskey stone set chills your drink with less dilution and adds a subtly smooth flavor. Made from charred wood, the four cubes can be filled with water and frozen before being dropped into your beverage. Wash them by hand to continue enhancing your drinks for years to come.

19A tissue caddy designed for toilet paper

This tissue caddy allows you to save money on tissue boxes and wipe your nose with budget-friendly toilet paper instead. The box is designed with two grooves on which to place the included roller with an opening at the top that allows you to tear off just the amount you need. Made of plastic, it features a gray granite finish that will fit seamlessly in a range of interiors.

20This absorbent coffee mat that keeps your espresso station sparkling

With over 4,000 ratings and 4.6 stars, this coffee mat is great for keeping your espresso area neat and clean. It’s made of diatomite to absorb any coffee or water spills and features a rubber backing to prevent leakage onto your countertop. It also helps to dampen the sound of grinders or machines and comes in a choice of three sizes and eight colors to best match your kitchen.

21An al pastor skewer for delicious tacos & shawarma from home

With this al pastor skewer you don’t need to leave your house or travel to another city to get delicious kebabs or tacos. Made of stainless steel, it sits on your grill and comes with three sticks of varying sizes on which to place the meat of your choice. The pan at the bottom catches all the falling juices for incredible flavor.

22This tabletop fire pit to enjoy campfire treats indoors

If you’re not blessed with a backyard, don’t fret. This tabletop fire pit allows you to cook up s’mores and other treats from inside your home. Made of concrete in a chic finish, it’s fueled with isopropyl or rubbing alcohol and doesn't create any smoke or odor. There are even two roasting sticks included to get you started right away.

23A bug zapper to make lounging outside more enjoyable

Relax outside at all times of the day or night when you set up this bug zapper. It’s built with a blue-violet bulb to attract insects that will then be eliminated via a high-voltage electric grid. Clean the bottom tray using an included brush and replace the bulb as needed, bidding farewell to endless supplies of citronella candles.

24This bamboo bread slicer for perfectly even pieces

Cut perfect, even slices for five-star sandwiches using this bamboo bread slicer. It allows you to create slices of three different thicknesses and even comes with its own bread knife that magnetically stores on the side. An easy-to-empty bottom catch tray keeps your counter clean and the whole thing folds flat while in storage.

25This 2-in-1 bottle that sprays & pours cooking oil

Have precise control in the kitchen with this oil dispenser bottle that sprays a fine mist at the touch of a button. You can also use the spout to pour oil onto salads and put the finishing touch on your meals. Made from durable glass, the bottle is easy to fill and designed to be drip-free.

26This chicken shredder that works with a bit of twisting

When it comes to enchilada fillings or pulled pork sandwiches, put down the usual pair of forks and pick up this chicken shredder instead. The nonslip base and transparent lid feature small spikes. Simply place small pieces of meat in the base, secure the lid, and twist back and forth to quickly create a shredded result.

27A cat-shaped sponge holder that sticks to the wall

Get your sponge off the countertop with this clever sponge holder that uses a suction cup to stick to the wall. It’s shaped like an adorable cat with its paws supporting the sponge which will drain and dry faster than sitting flat beside the sink. A scrubby sponge is included with the cat available in gray or white.

28This garlic crusher shaped like Count Dracula

Pop cloves, peeled or unpeeled, into this garlic crusher and let Count Dracula do his worst. By simply twisting the head back and forth, it will mince your garlic in seconds without leaving your hands with any of that pungent odor. Additionally, use this crusher with nuts, seeds, and herbs to quickly prep for dinner.

29A set of color-changing solar deck lights for vibrant nighttime illumination

Make your outdoor area feel that much more captivating with these color-changing solar deck lights. They come in a pack of 16 and automatically rotate through seven different colors such as red, purple, and dark blue. Mount them along railings or steps with no wiring required and leave them up all year long thanks to their weatherproof construction.

30These solar ground lights with a slim profile

Lend some helpful low-profile illumination along pathways by installing these solar ground lights. Available in a pack of eight, they are inserted into your lawn using two interlocking spikes that are removable if you prefer to have the lights along your steps, for example. They’ll automatically charge during the day to provide up to 10 hours of light at night with the ability to withstand all kinds of weather conditions.

31A whiteboard wallpaper to make surfaces writable

Turn walls, desks, or tables into writable surfaces using this removable whiteboard wallpaper. It can be easily cut to size and applied to a flat surface thanks to its strong peel-and-stick self-adhesive. Use the included three dry-erase markers to write to-do lists, organize schedules, or do creative brainstorming, and wipe it away using the provided eraser cloth.

32This dryer vent cleaner kit to make your machine more efficient

Make the most of every cycle with this dryer vent cleaner kit that removes accumulated lint. The kit comes with an adapter to attach to your vacuum and a long, flat, and flexible hose to access hard-to-reach areas. There’s also a long brush provided to dig out any pieces of lint that may be trapped in tight spaces. Not only will your dryer run more efficiently but you’ll also be taking steps to prevent possible house fires — not bad for under $10.

33A magnetic screen door for fresh breezes sans insects

Enjoy fresh air breezing through the house on a gorgeous day without dealing with invading dirt or insects when you mount this magnetic screen door. Clocking in under $30, it’s easy to install using the provided hook and loop tape and thumbtacks. Strong magnets lining the center seam allow you (and your pets or kids) to pass through effortlessly while creating a firm seal in your wake.

34These solar globe lights that act as outdoor decor

These solar globe lights feature a cracked glass design and are great for adding a bit of visual interest to your yard. They’re offered in either a gradient red, a multicolor, or a warm white option and charge via a built-in solar panel to turn on automatically at night. Stick them in your soil or lawn using the provided spikes or place them on your pavers for stylish nighttime lighting.

35An adjustable box organizer as an alternative to cluttered drawers

Instead of chaotic drawers stuffed with torn boxes and sharp edges, opt for this adjustable box organizer. It sits on your cabinet shelf and provides you with three tiers on which to place any box of food wrap such as foil, parchment, or plastic wrap. Adjust the height of the tiers as needed with nonslip feet keeping the organizer securely in place.

36This mop & broom holder that mounts to the wall

This popular mop and broom holder has over 11,000 ratings and saves you major utility room space by mounting directly to the wall. It features five spring-loaded slots to hold larger tools like rakes, mops, and brooms, and six retractable hooks to hang smaller gardening and cleaning tools like brushes and spades. Use the provided hardware for a quick and easy mounting process.

37A reusable silicone container with a flat base

These ingenious reusable silicone containers will have you tossing your single-use plastic bags once and for all. They come in a set of three and are made with a flat bottom to sit upright when placed on your countertop or in your fridge, freezer, or microwave. Made of food-grade material, they feature a special zipper that prevents any chance of a leak and are conveniently dishwasher-safe.

38This hilarious pencil sharpener shaped like a nose

Add a bit of hilarity to the every day with this pencil sharpener shaped like a big schnoz. Taking you back to the good old days of childhood when almost anything was a good candidate for going up the nose, simply insert your pencil into a nostril and turn it to carve a sharp edge. Soon you’ll be writing up a storm just to have an excuse for constant sharpening.

39A large LED clock that doubles as wall art

This giant LED clock does more than just tell the time, it also acts as a piece of statement art on your wall. It features a classic digital clock design and comes with lots of features such as the ability to tell the date and the temperature. Set alarms or countdown clocks and adjust the brightness via an included remote.

40This stylish plant stand in the shape of a cactus

Display your prickly pear and your snake plant within this appropriately shaped cactus plant stand. It’s made with four tiers for plants and decor items and features an iron frame in a waterproof coating. Choose from three available finishes (beige, green, and bronze) to add a dose of functional style to your home.

41A wooden bat house to support your local ecosystem

It’s well-known that bats play a crucial role in an ecosystem so why not encourage them to thrive by mounting this wooden bat house? It can be mounted to a wall or a tree and includes two compartments where bats can roost. Not only will the bats help to pollinate the area but, perhaps even more enticing, they’ll also feed on the local mosquito population.

42This under-desk hammock to rest your feet

This strange-seeming under-desk foot hammock will soon have you converted once you experience its relaxing effects. It mounts using the provided clamps and the hammock is made of breathable cotton that comes in black, orange, or blue. It can help bring relief to your lower back as well as calves and thighs, making those hours put in at the desk much more comfortable.

43A tablet stand holder that serves as a station for all your devices

Keep all your devices in one convenient location with this tablet stand holder. Made of real wood, it features a clamp that can accommodate any device from 4.7 to 12.9 inches. The base has two slots to easily display phones and provide space for pens, pencils, and notepaper. The tablet can be rotated vertically or horizontally to suit your needs with a flexible gooseneck to get the viewing angle just right.

44This tumbler lid organizer as a space-saving solution

This tumbler lid organizer is great for decluttering chaotic drawers and allowing you to stack your reusable bottle collection. It comes in a pack of two and can be mounted to the underside of your cabinet using either self-adhesive or screws. Slip your straw or sipping lids onto the hook to have them neatly accessible when you need them.

45A vegetable chopper to streamline your food prep

Quickly prep those onions, zucchini, or carrots with this vegetable chopper that comes with four interchangeable blades made of stainless steel. Each blade fits into the provided lid and drops the prepped veggies into the integrated catch tray below. A finger guard is also included with each part able to be cleaned on the top rack of the dishwasher.

46This mushroom table lamp for soft evening ambiance

This charming mushroom table lamp can be used to read or simply relax thanks to five available brightness levels. Its organic form is crafted from beech wood, providing a naturalistic touch to your bedside table. Power it via USB and make lighting adjustments using the inline controls.

47A power strip with rotating outlets

Never feel frustrated again by large, bulky plugs, because this clever power strip is built with rotatable outlets to solve this exact problem. It’s a popular choice with a near-perfect 4.8 stars after 4,000 ratings and includes built-in surge protection to keep your circuits safe. With six rotating outlets and two fixed outlets, there’s nothing that you can’t power within a small footprint.

48This lap desk that lets you work comfortably from the couch

Feel genuinely comfortable logging hours from the sofa with the help of this lap desk. It’s constructed with a dual-bolster cushion to allow air to flow and includes a built-in mouse pad and slot for your phone. It comes in seven surface finishes such as black carbon or oak woodgrain, and there’s even a device ledge to prevent your laptop from slipping.

49A USB charging dock that can power up to 4 devices at a time

Instead of taking up every available outlet to charge your devices, use this USB charging dock that can handle up to four at a time. It includes five short cables (two USB, two micro-USB, and one USB-C) for clutter-free charging with adjustable dividers to keep your tablet, phone, or e-reader neatly in place.

50These pint glasses that help your beer stay chilled

These pint glasses are made with a cooling gel that allows your beer to stay cold even in sweltering conditions. Place them in the freezer for only two hours to get them chilled and able to maintain the perfect temperature of your brew. A silicone grip around the center of each glass keeps your hands comfortable as you sip away.

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