In my several years of writing about products, I’ve seen a lot of weird trends. What starts off as something few people can envision using suddenly becomes one of those clever products we’re starting to see everywhere. And while not every trendy gadget deserves the hype it gets, there are some truly game-changing products that actually have a positive impact on your daily life. These are legitimately awesome things that months and even years after purchasing, you find yourself reaching for again and again. They’re unique, innovative, and often solve problems you didn’t even realize you had.
Have you ever struggled with false eyelash glue? Magnetic eyelashes ensure you’ll never have to again. Do you know the frustration of reaching for your morning coffee only to find that, 20 minutes after you brewed it, it’s ice cold? Then you may be interested in this heated coaster that keeps your drink warm. Do you hate the monotony of chopping individual cherry tomatoes, grapes, or other finicky little round produce? Lucky for you, there’s a kitchen gadget that lets you halve a bunch of those little suckers all at once.
Those are just just a few of the genius products we are starting to see everywhere — and in my humble opinion, these trends are actually here to stay.
If you find yourself throwing out half-eaten bags of stale snacks, save yourself some time, money, and hassle with the mini bag sealer from Karidge. Its textured plates heat up within seconds so you can reseal plastic, foil, and paper — and as a result, it works on chips, nuts, candy, popcorn, and even pet food. Since it’s compact and comes with its own case, it’s easy to store in the kitchen drawer.
Some use it for relaxation and sleep, while others use the ProCIV heated eye mask to reduce sinus pressure, headaches, and dry, puffy eyes. The cover is made from soft mulberry silk and the attached remote allows you to set timers and choose from several different temperature settings. “You call it an eye mask,” one reviewer wrote, “I call it the perfect napping kit.”
The bottom is nonslip and the top comes with an ergonomic handle, so when you place virtually any food item between them, you get a straight, steady slice — without putting your fingers in danger. The rapid food slicer works on singular food items like bagels and chicken breast, or it allows you to cut multiple foods at once (think cherry tomatoes, grapes, and olives). It’s also BPA-free and dishwasher-safe.
If your car is a catch-all for countless random items, you’re not alone — which is why this car organizer has a 4.7-star rating. It has tons of compartments to organize groceries, bags, snacks, sports equipment, water bottles, and toys. That said, it has a leg up on the competition because it’s durable, easy to clean, folds up for compact storage, and has steel-tipped tie-down straps to keep it secure in the trunk or on a seat.
Toss all your ingredients in, push down on the BPA-free container, and wait a few seconds as the stainless steel blades crush ice, blend fruit, and mix protein powder. Then screw on the to-go drinking lid and hit the road. The Oster personal blender is a hot ticket item because it prepares shakes and smoothies in seconds, all while minimizing messes and keeping up with your busy lifestyle.
Gone are the days of dropping $100 on a sonic toothbrush. This one costs just $24 — and it comes with six brush heads. It also has three cleaning modes, a built-in pulse timer, a waterproof design, and a 30-day battery life when fully recharged on the sleek base. “I’m waiting for the catch,” wrote one reviewer who was prepared to spend $229 for a competing brand.
Get long, dramatic lashes without glue and without damaging extensions. These magnetic eyelashes have tiny magnets, which effortlessly adhere to the included metallic eyeliner. The five pairs range from natural-looking to bold, and even reviewers who “could never get the hang of using glue strip lashes” rave: “Made my makeup process so much easier!”
Acne, ringworm, eczema, athlete’s foot, fungal infections, bug bites — the reviews section is loaded with people who used this healing body wash to tackle all those things and more. The secret ingredient is tea tree oil, which is naturally anti-fungal and antibacterial, but it skips the synthetic, irritating ingredients so those with sensitive skin tolerated it well.
Get a steady, level angle on uneven surfaces, or wrap the legs around trees, poles, fences, and chairs. The Joby tripod has three flexible legs (outfitted with rubber grips) that bend any which way, and the universal compatibility works with the vast majority of smartphone models. When not in use, it folds up small enough to fit in your pocket.
How often do you hit the brakes and your bag goes flying? Never again with these headrest car storage hooks, which easily attach to your car’s headrest. They come in a pack of four and can be positioned forwards for your purse, or towards the back to hold groceries, organizers, and toys. You can even get them in black or beige to match your car’s interior.
Simply clip this over your smartphone’s camera, and this versatile phone camera lens functions as both a wide-angle and a macro lens for vivid photos anywhere. It works with almost all leading phone brands and tablets, and buyers call it an “amazing, great quality lens for such a great value.”
These wireless Bluetooth earbuds are shockingly well-rated given the affordable price point — largely because they’re thoughtfully designed and offer some of the most high-tech features. The individual earbuds have a battery-life of up to 6.5 hours, while the recharging case lasts for 90 hours and has an easy-to-read battery display. According to reviewers, the sound is clear and the buds pair effortlessly with devices, all while remaining waterproof, lightweight, comfortable, and ideal for hands-free calls, too.
Whether you’re going for a brisk-morning jog or falling asleep to your favorite podcast, these special soft sleep headphones are infinitely better than your average pair. Instead of uncomfortable buds, the soft, flat fabric wraps around your head and delivers clear sound straight to your ears. They’re also breathable, last for up to 10 hours on one charge, and have on-device controls for volume and play/pause functions.
“These are my holy grail leggings,” wrote one reviewer who can’t get enough of the soft, stretchy material, seamless waist, squat-proof design, and dual side pockets that are large enough to fit your phone. In fact, even after buying three pairs, they “cannot wait to get some of the other colors” — and judging by the 4.7-star rating and thousands of reviews, other buyers feel the same.
Instead of an annoying, jarring beep, this sunrise alarm clock uses sunrise-mimicking light to wake you up as it gradually brightens your bedroom (it also has seven built-in sounds, but they’re all soothing and natural to rouse you gently). Buyers call it a “better way to wake up” and some even say they’ve felt a huge lift in their mood and energy. Throw in the color-changing settings and FM radio, and it’s no wonder this has a 4.6-star rating.
Toss a few eco-friendly wool dryer balls into your dryer instead of those chemical-laden dryer sheets, and experience first-hand how the premium New Zealand wool improves your laundry routine. It breaks up clothing to reduce wrinkles and speed up drying time, plus it minimizes static and saves you money on your energy bill. Last but not least, those with sensitive skin say they no longer get rashes from their clothes.
Looking for small ways to make a big, eco-friendly difference? These reusable utensils are dishwasher-safe and come in a small, easy-to-transport case. Everything’s made from durable stainless steel, and since the set includes a knife, fork, spoon, chopsticks, two straws, and a cleaning brush, you won’t even miss their disposable plastic counterparts. Get it in six colors, including rainbow.
There’s no need for a stovetop kettle when you’ve got the COSORI electric kettle, which is faster, safer, and way more satisfying to watch. This speedy alternative is made with stainless steel and BPA-free borosilicate glass, and as soon as the water boils or the tank runs dry, it shuts off to prevent any accidents. It sits on your counter on its sleek, compact base, boils water in 3 to 7 minutes, and can then be used cordless for easy serving.
Available in black, gray, or green, the Gaiam stability disc is filled with air, so it engages a wide range of muscles while you try to balance on it. Some buyers incorporate it into their standing workout routine, while others sit on it during their workday to improve posture and reap the benefits of active sitting.
Unlike most other night lights (which take up your outlets and can only be placed in select locations), these stick-on lights offer two choices for endless placement options: a screw mount, or a stick-on adhesive. They’re also wireless and battery-operated, so they’re great for closets, pantries, staircases, hallways, and your nightly path to the bathroom. Lastly, they come equipped with a motion sensor that only turns the light on when it senses movement, saving energy.
Hundreds of reviewers have used these $6 clog removers to get rid of hair, food particles, and even those plastic beads that swell up with water (oh, the joys of babysitting). They’re way more eco-friendly than drain chemicals, and they’re a heck of a lot cheaper than a plumber. “Easily unclogged my drain. No plumber needed,” said one reviewer, who made sure to specify: “I am not good at stuff like this.”
If you’re in the market for a new hair straightener, this one has near-perfect ratings. Its ceramic tourmaline plates minimize frizz and heat up in 30 seconds, while the 26 different temperature settings help you customize the heat to your hair type. Finally, the rounded barrel allows you to effortlessly curl your hair, and the set comes with two free clips and a heat-resistant glove.
Thanks to its painless alloy tip and sonic design, this plague remover tool provides an easy way to remove plaque at home and in between dentist cleanings. It gets into places where your toothbrush can’t reach (like between teeth and under gum lines), and reviewers love it because it’s effective, safe, and easy to use.
Instead of cotton, these hair towels are made from a special microfiber material, which is more absorbent, less abrasive, and nowhere near as heavy. As a result, they cut down on drying time while minimizing frizz and breakage — all while sitting comfortably on your head during your beauty routine. There are even button and loop closures on the back to keep them secure.
Black caviar and collagen isn’t the most common combination, but according to reviewers, these under-eye masks are well-worth a try: “The skin becomes soft [and] dark circles under the eyes become barely noticeable.” For $20, you get a pack of 60 masks, and they all fit compactly in a jar for freshness and portability.
You’re on step four of your smokey-eye tutorial and it calls for a clean, fluffy brush — but all your tools are coated in previous colors. Cue this fast-acting makeup cleaner sponge, which removes residue from powders and creams without the need for water. The sponge is also reusable, double-sided, and comes in a convenient tin that stores effortlessly in your makeup bag.
This new car phone mount allows you to find the absolute best viewing angle while you drive. The strong-adhesive base attaches to your dash or windshield, while the curved arm allows for 360-degree rotation. Finally, there’s the silicone-padded cradle, which adjusts from 1.8 to 3.5 inches to hold a wide selection of popular phone models — and the instant release button lets you grab your phone with ease.
Put all your most-used tools and cosmetics in the open compartments, and use the drawer for cotton pads, jewelry, or personal items. This makeup organizer — equally perfect for jewelry and other items — optimizes the space on your vanity, and it’s available in blue, green, or pink. (Since it’s waterproof and easy to rinse clean, you can also use it for art desks and office supplies, too.)
Dress salads, garnish foods before or after cooking, and prep ingredients for the air fryer. The oil sprayer uses a clog-resistant design to coat food with an easily controlled amount of olive oil — and it can also be used with vinegar, soy sauce, and cooking wine. Since it’s BPA-free and food safe, you can store your ingredients in it for long periods of time without worrying.
This powerful clothes steamer boasts a 1,400-watt motor and a compact, hand-held design to help you remove wrinkles from clothing — both at home or while traveling. That said, it also comes with interchangeable heads so you can iron and sanitize furniture, linens, and upholstery. “I use this on everything,” one reviewer wrote. “Couches, shower fabric curtains, suits, jeans, [and] shirts. Totally works.”
They cost just as much as a box of single-use sandwich bags, but these reusable storage bags are made from a durable, BPA-free PEVA material. As a result, you can reuse them over and over again, and the leakproof bags make them ideal for portable lunches, meal prep, leftover storage, and keeping ingredients fresh. According to reviewers, they’re easy to wash and dry quickly.
With an oxygen-infusing spout that opens up flavors and vastly improves the taste of both reds and whites, this wine aerator is an amazing addition to your home bar. It also makes for easier pouring thanks to the drip-free design, and the silicone base fits almost all types of bottles. “This aerator really excels for those times when you’re trying to make do with a cheap bottle,” one reviewer wrote.
Keep your coffee hot and your phone charged — all day long and with the same device. This brilliant coffee mug warmer has a heating element that keeps your mug set at 131 degrees Fahrenheit, and it has a Qi-enabled platform that wirelessly charges compatible smartphones, too. “Love so much I just bought my second one,” wrote one shopper. “The first was for my house, but I just got one for my desk at work.”
Instantly remove the stems and cut the leaves from kale, Swiss chard, collard greens, rosemary, thyme, basil, and more. This seriously useful herb stripper has various-size holes to remove all types of leafy ingredients, and it has an edge blade to chop with the same tool. Since it’s made from stainless steel (unlike similar plastic tools), it’s resistant to rust, corrosion, chips, and warping.
“I wish I would have discovered this footrest long ago,” raved one reviewer who says they no longer struggles with poor circulation and lower back pain. Unlike competing brands, this foot rest is made from 100 percent high-density foam and has an adjustable base so you can customize the height. It also features a removable, washable mesh cover for breathability — and it doubles as a rocker when flipped upside-down.
Walk through the door while your hands are full, ensure that bugs don’t get in during a party, and allow pets and children to go out back without help. This mesh screen allows air to circulate, but it has magnetic strips in the middle — allowing it to open with gentle pressure, but automatically close again within seconds. It comes in two different sizes to fit most standard doorways.
Add a key hook, designate a spot for your headphones, or hang your bags, plants, kitchen gadgets, and shower accessories — anywhere you want. These strong wall hooks come in a pack of eight and have a self-adhesive material that can support up to 13 pounds each. They’re also discreet, transparent, and waterproof.
This spice rack is unlike most others for a few reasons: For one, it’s sleek enough to sit out on your countertop thanks to the glass construction and chrome finishes. The tiered design helps you see all the different spice options simultaneously. But the biggest perk? It comes pre-filled with spices and your purchase even gives you free refills for up to five years.
Where has this been all my life? Whether you’re making pancakes, baking cupcakes, or distributing sauce, this batter dispenser uses a trigger handle to dispense just the right amount every time. It can hold up to 4 cups at once in its measurement-marked interior, and the BPA-free materials are easy to rinse clean when you’re done.
Short on countertop space? This roll-out drainer takes the place of a cluttered dish rack because it lets you dry your dishes and cookware (or your produce) right over the sink. It’s also made from heat-resistant stainless steel, so you can use it as a hot plate, and since it rolls up into a tiny tube shape, it’s easy to store away once you’re done.
Thanks to its slim line of ergonomic bristles, this special cleaning brush is ideal for scrubbing grout and getting into window and sliding-door tracks. It also has a secure-grip handle that doubles as a scraper for stubborn debris, and you can wash the whole thing with soap and water so it’s like new for next time.
The Cactus is not your average back scratcher. Take it from reviewers: “Obsessed. Best. Back. Scratcher. Ever,” said one buyer. “Even my cat loves [it].” Instead of a stick and a claw, this revolutionary design features two straps with a double-sided scratcher, so you can reach any part of your back by yourself and with your preferred level of intensity.
Stay hydrated, listen to your tunes, and even get a little mood lighting. This smart water bottle keeps your drink cold for up to 24 hours in its insulated stainless steel interior, but it also has a built-in Bluetooth speaker with on-device controls and a light that glows in one-hour intervals to remind you to keep drinking. (You can also set it to dancing mode while you’re listening to music.) Get it in your choice of five colors, all for $25.
Due to its strong (but relatively quiet) high-speed centrifugal fan, this handheld vacuum effortlessly cleans up crumbs, eraser shavings, ashes, makeup residue, and dust. It’s battery-operated, so it’s extremely portable for the home, car, or workplace, and it’s available in black or mint green.
Wrap the padded base around your neck to direct the air right at your face, or use it to prop the dual fans up on your desk or bedside table. The hands-free fan even has seven LED light-up colors to choose from — or cycle through all of them for a rainbow effect. Reviewers love it because it’s USB-rechargeable, lightweight, and adjustable, thanks to the flexible goosenecks.
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Post time: Mar-25-2020