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Megan Harrington, and ,Bimini Wright

60 genius, cheap things you didn't know would help you so much

Amazon

There are plenty of pricey gadgets and gizmos that promise a quick fix, but here’s the secret — you actually don’t have to spend a ton of cash to get some of the most useful items out there. This curated list of budget-friendly finds make DIY home fixes a little easier, elevate your everyday routine, speed up meal prep, and help in so many other ways. These products give you cost-effective ways to upgrade every area of your life and home — you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

A retractable clothesline that’s easy to install indoors

With this retractable clothesline, you can hang up damp items almost anywhere — indoors or out. The heavy-duty line comes with all the necessary hardware and wall anchors for secure installation, and there’s also an adhesive option if you don’t want to drill. The line also features a tightening feature to help eliminate sagging when in use.

Wrapping paper cutters that are designed to slice smoothly & safely

Speed up your gift wrapping routine with these ergonomic paper cutters. Designed with four wheels for a smooth glide and clean cuts, the tools feature sharp blades plus two replacements for when they get dull. The gadgets can be used on nearly any type of paper, and the hidden blade design helps avoid accidents while cutting.

A car visor extender that can reduce glare & block UV rays

When your built-in car visor isn’t enough, this extender can block strong sun rays and make the drive more comfortable. Designed with polarization and UV-blocking technology, the extender is made to protect your eyes and skin while also reducing glare. It’s compatible with most cars and trucks, and you can get the extender for the passenger or driver side.

A flexible sit-up spatula that keeps counters clean

Easily handle delicate foods like eggs, fish, or cookies with this flexible spatula. It has an angled head that fits easily underneath food and around pan curves, while keeping your hands away from the heat. The spatula also has a sit-up design that keeps it off the counter to minimize mess.

Keyhole lights that automatically turn on when motion is detected

These battery-operated keyhole lights help you see your door’s lock even in dimly lit conditions. The four LED bulbs turn on automatically when they detect motion and turn off again a few seconds later to preserve battery life. Installation is quick and easy with the included adhesive sticker, and you get two lights in the pack.

Silicone mats that protect your sink from scratches & hot pans

Designed to protect both dishes and your sink’s surface from scratches, these silicone mats are a kitchen must-have. They’re available in over a dozen sizes to fit almost any type of sink, and they also have raised feet to facilitate water flow. Plus, the mats are heat-resistant up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, so they can work as trivets, too.

This all-in-one pry bar tool that fits on your key chain

Once you add this pry bar tool to your life, you’re going to wonder how you lived without it. The pry bar is compact and lightweight enough to fit on a key ring or backpack, and it’s incredibly versatile. Use it to turn screws, scrape off stickers, open a box, and more. And thanks to its stainless steel construction, it’s durable and made for frequent use.

A bristle brush that can remove gunk from your garbage disposal

You can use this 11-inch brush to clean out food residue and gunk from your garbage disposal. Designed with stiff and durable bristles, the brush is designed to quickly dislodge debris and help your disposal to run at peak efficiency. And you’ll love the wide, sturdy handle that lets you maneuver and rotate the brush for thorough cleaning.

Chic tissue holders made for your car cup holder

These cylindrical tissue holders keep napkins on hand without sacrificing style. Each geometric-pattern holder contains 50 tissues that are large enough for face or hand use. And because the cylinders are designed to fit in your car’s cup holder, they’re super convenient to take on the go. You get four holders in the pack.

A flat wire whisk that’s gentle on pans & easy to clean

This flat wire whisk is a serious kitchen multitasker. It’s made to do everything from whipping up sauces to scrambling eggs without bending. Designed to be gentle on delicate cooking surfaces (like nonstick pans), the whisk features an ergonomic handle for comfortable use. And it’s dishwasher safe for easy cleanup when you’re done prepping.

A drill bit extension that’s flexible for tight spots

This drill bit extension is a game changer for hard-to-reach home repairs and maintenance. Designed to be used with a standard drill or an electric screwdriver, the flexible extender allows you to drive in screws from odd angles or in tight spots. The extender features a magnetic design that keeps drill bits in place, so you don’t have to worry about losing things mid-project.

A stitch tagging tool that lets you quickly alter garments

If you have a popped shirt button or a dress that needs last-minute altering, this stitch tool is a genius (and inexpensive) solution. The gadget is designed to work on most types of fabric, and the kit includes 2,000 nearly-invisible fasteners so you can get started altering items right away.

Red night-lights that give off an eye-friendly glow

These plug-in night-lights feature a red LED light, packaged in a dual-layer casing for a gentle, eye-friendly glow. The lights take up just one outlet and have several modes — including dusk-to-dawn sensing or motion-sensing options — so you can customize the lighting based on your preferences.

A scraping & cleaning tool that’s designed not to scratch surfaces

Use this scraping tool to do everything from removing annoying labels to dislodging dirt from household crevices. The flat side helps peel off stickers and the curved side can dig out grime from sink and stove edges. The tool is made to be tough without scratching delicate surfaces, and the handle features a built-in sharpener that keeps the scraper ready for action.

Water-resistant super glue that works on nearly any surface

For a budget-friendly fix that lasts, it’s hard to top this super glue gel. The non-drip glue comes in an easy-to-use squeeze bottle for precise application, and it’s designed to work on both porous and nonporous surfaces like leather, wood, ceramic, and more. Because it’s impact- and -water-resistant, this glue can help fix just about anything — even items you use daily.

A flexible gap duster with a telescoping handle

Use this flexible dusting wand to clean tricky areas like under the fridge, on top of windows, and between cabinets. Thanks to the telescoping pole and lightweight design, the brush head is easy to maneuver into crevices and around corners. The wand comes with two microfiber cloths that can be washed and reused, making the inexpensive set budget-conscious and environmentally friendly.

A space-saving hanger that can hold 10 pairs of leggings

Maximize your closet space with this clever curved hanger. The rounded design featured 10 large clips that make it easy to store tricky items like workout leggings, skirts, or bras without taking up a ton of space. The clips even have a rubber-coated surface designed to hold items snugly without denting them.

Hard-shell zipper cases to help organize your small items

These hard-shell cases are perfect for organizing everything from small toys to charging cables and more. Packaged in a set of three, the stackable cases are transparent so you can see exactly what’s inside. They also have sturdy zippers to keep everything secure but easily accessible. You can get the cases in small, medium, or large sizes.

Adhesive organizers that stick to your cabinet doors

You can practically double your cabinet’s storage with these durable carbon steel racks. Packaged in a set of four, the organizers can be installed with the included adhesive or mounting hardware, and they can be used to hold all sorts of things — including food storage containers, tumbler lids, spices, toiletries, and more. You can get the organizers in white or black steel or clear acrylic.

A heat-resistant glove for protection while steaming & ironing

This heat-resistant glove helps protect your hands when steaming and ironing clothes. With a thick, sponge-like front and a ventilated back, the glove allows you to handle heat, water, and more when working with hot tools. With a one-size-fits-most design, the glove is made to keep your fingers, palm, and wrist safe.

A stainless steel slicer that glides through cheese & butter

Use this clever slicing tool to precisely cut soft items like cheese, butter, and hardboiled eggs into quarter-inch pieces. Made from rust-resistant stainless steel, the tool has ergonomic handles and is easy to use — just push it down to slice. Plus the gadget is dishwasher safe for low-maintenance cleanup.

Mini pill cases that are ideal for travel

These silicone cases are a game changer for taking medication on the go. They’re designed to open easily with a simple squeeze and their compact size means you can toss them in a bag or pop them in a pocket. But even though they have a low profile, they’re still made to fit up to 28 small or medium tablets.

Reusable silicone lids that fit most bowls & pots

These universal silicone lids help create a tight, reusable seal on bowls, pots, or pans. They’re heat resistant up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can even throw them on freshly-cooked food. Plus, they double as microwave splatter guards. When you need to wash them, just toss them in the dishwasher. You get three in a set.

Microfiber cloths designed for lint-free, streak-free cleaning

These microfiber cloths make a great upgrade to your usual rag or paper towel thanks to their lint- and streak-free design. The cloths come packaged in a convenient pop-up box so you can easily grab one and go. They can also be washed and reused over and over again, making them both eco-friendly and cost-efficient.

Highlighter tape that won’t damage your books

Whether you’re studying or reading your latest book club pick, this highlighter tape is an easy way to mark important passages without permanently damaging the pages. The 12 rolls come in an array of vibrant colors that are translucent enough to still read the text underneath. And the tape is designed to peel off without leaving a residue behind.

A laser level that makes DIY jobs way easier

This laser level makes hanging shelves, straightening frames, and tackling DIY projects way less frustrating. It switches easily between horizontal, vertical, and cross-line modes, and the built-in bubble levels give you precise reference points. This is one tool you’ll reach for way more than you think you will.

Leak-resistant air fryer liners that help keep your machine clean

Now you can easily keep your air fryer clean with these parchment liners. They’re designed with high edges to keep food contained, and they’re made to not leak — perfect for cooking while minimizing oily messes. The liners are available in eight different shapes and sizes so you can get the right fit for your machine. Plus, they also work in steamers, microwaves, or regular ovens.

Zipper clips that can help deter pickpockets

These zipper clips can give you peace of mind while traveling or moving through crowded areas. Each lightweight clip attaches to purse and luggage zippers to provide a secure closure. When you’re ready to open your bag, just twist and unclasp — easy for you, but enough of a struggle to help deter pickpockets.

A silicone cover that protects your electric stove

This silicone cover is designed to protect your electric stovetop from spills and scratches — and it doubles as an extra food prep station or even a dish-drying space thanks to the built-in ridges. You can grab the mat in six colors and seven sizes, so you can get the perfect fit for your space.

A dual-tip eyebrow pen to add precise hair strokes

Designed for all-day wear, this double-sided eyebrow pen will be your new makeup bestie. It features a brush tip that’s perfect for creating single strokes and a four-pronged tip for fuller coverage. It’s designed to be smudge-proof and waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about frequent touch-ups. And the pen is available in seven shades to best match your natural hair.

A clever garden tool that easily uproots stubborn weeds

If you’ve been pulling weeds by hand, this claw tool is going to be a game-changer. Featuring a sharp, four-tooth blade, the garden tool is designed to pry up even the most stubborn weeds by the root. And the sturdy stainless steel is resistant to rust and is designed not to bend.

Drill-free picture hooks that can hold 40 pounds

These drywall hangers make displaying your favorite photos and artwork easy — no drilling or studs required. You just press the pointed end into the wall, and that’s it. They can even be removed and repositioned without leaving behind giant holes. Each hook can hold up to 40 pounds and you get 20 in the pack.

An electric razor with a built-in light to catch fine hairs

Thanks to its built-in light, this electric razor allows you to better see even fine hairs and remove them precisely. Designed with a USB-rechargeable battery, the hair remover features sharp stainless steel blades and it can be used on the face, arms, back, and more. Plus, the contoured head is designed to glide smoothly over skin, helping to minimize irritation.

Automatic night-lights that activate at dusk or with motion

Add some ambiance to your room with these glowy night-lights. They plug into an outlet and turn on automatically — either when they detect motion or when the room is dim. The lights are compact enough to not block the second outlet, and they have an energy-efficient LED bulb for over 30,000 hours of use.

An under-sink mat that protects against accidental water damage

Avoid costly water damage with this silicone under-sink mat. The waterproof tray features raised edges to help contain spills and minimize messes underneath your sink. It’s designed to hold around 2 gallons of liquid if you have an accidental pipe leak. Available in several colors and sizes, the mat is an easy way to give yourself a little more peace of mind.

Stackable, slide-out drawers that offer sleek organization

You can keep everything from linens to clothes organized with these stackable baskets. The space-saving bins come in a set of three, and they have a slide-rail design so you can pull items out when you need them —instead of unstacking everything. The baskets also fold down for compact storage when not in use and you can easily wipe down their waterproof surface when it’s time for cleaning.

Adhesive straps that organize all your cables & wires

If you’re overwhelmed by too many cords and wires, you need these adhesive cable ties in your life. Featuring a hook-and-loop closure, the ties neatly bundle your wires. Then you can use the adhesive backing to stick the whole thing out of sight — under a desk, along the wall, behind the nightstand, and more.

Window tape that can reduce drafts & energy loss

For just a few bucks, this weather stripping tape is designed to help increase your home’s energy efficiency help block drafts, and even add soundproofing. The residue-free tape is made to be easy to install, since you can cut it to size for a custom fit. And you can use it year-round to help maintain your home’s indoor temperature and reduce energy expenses.

A cleaning tool that’s made for easy pet hair removal

This clever triangular tool is made to collect stubborn pet hair from your furniture or car interior. It features three serrated sides that gather strands from almost every angle and type of surface. When you’re done, the hair remover can be rinsed clean with water so you can use it over and over again.

A foldable lamp that can last for 76 hours on one charge

This lamp is ideal for traveling or small space living, because it folds up into a compact circle for easy storage. The rechargeable battery is designed to last for up to 76 hours at a time, and the cordless design means you can place it anywhere. It also has nine dimming levels for customizable brightness.

A cleaning brush that can get into tight crevices

For detailed jobs, you can’t beat this cleaning brush that can get into even tiny crevices. Ideal for places like toilet seats, window tracks, and and sink seams, the stiff-bristled head is long and thin to reach tricky spots with ease. And the nonslip handle helps give you precise cleaning control.

A slim wallet that’s still roomy enough for all your cards

This sleek wallet is large enough to hold up to eight cards, but it’s so thin and lightweight that you’ll barely notice it. The elastic is designed to hold your items securely, and you can slide it into your pocket or connect it to a lanyard or key ring for maximum portability. The wallet comes in 11 fun designs.

A paper shredder that fits on your trash can for easy cleanup

This at-home paper shredder is so heavy duty it can tackle up to six pieces of paper at once, shred credit cards, and dispose of up to 100 papers in two minutes. The shredder body also features an extendable design that fits on top of most waste baskets, and it has a cool down mode that will kick in to prevent overheating.

Space-saving boot racks that promote shoe ventilation

These clever racks can transform your mudroom or entryway for cheap. Designed to hold boots upside down, the wall-mounted racks keep the space below clear while also promoting quick drying and ventilation for the shoes. The racks are simple to install with the included hardware and can be used indoors or out.

Lemon-scented beads that refresh your garbage disposal

This extra-large bag of cleaning capsules gives you a low-lift way to keep your garbage disposal odor-free for weeks at a time. Infused with citrus, the cleaning beads are designed to break down cooking oils, smelly gunk, and food debris. Plus, they’re made to be safe for septic systems so you don’t have to worry about damaging your plumbing.

A satin-lined beanie to help protect your hair

This knit beanie has a luxe and cozy feel for a very wallet-friendly price. The hat is constructed from a stretchy knit that fits most head shapes, and it’s lined with satin to help keep your hair frizz-free. The hat is available in 10 chic colors, so you can even pick up a couple to go with all your winter outfits.

A laser measuring tool that can gauge distance, volume, & more

This laser measuring tool is a home project must-have. The gadget can quickly measure distances up to 165 feet and is designed to be accurate within 1/16 of an inch. You can also easily switch between different modes including distance, area, volume, and more. Plus, the tool comes with the batteries included for instant, out-of-the-box use.

A memory foam car armrest for comfier commutes

Compatible with most cars, trucks, and SUVs, this console pillow is designed to cushion your elbow and make your commutes more comfortable. Made with a memory foam interior, the pillow features a nonslip design to keep it in place and a washable cover for easy maintenance. And installation is super simple; just slide the cloth strap over your armrest and you’re good to go.

A roll-up tool bag with tons of organizational pockets

This canvas bag organizer features four large pockets and two detachable pouches, giving you plenty of space for tools, accessories, or supplies. The roll-up design keeps it compact for easy travel, and the durable handle offers an easy way to hang up your bag and easily access items without unpacking the whole thing.

A recipe book holder that looks like a stylish cutting board

This stylish wooden cookbook stand holds your favorite recipes so you can cook and bake hands-free. You can set the angle that works best with the adjustable kickstand, and the metal rod keeps the page in place. If you’re more of a digital recipe fan, the stand also works great for tablets.

A clip-on flashlight that you can take anywhere

For a convenient light on the go, pop this mini flashlight in your bag or clip it to your pocket. It’s equipped with a rechargeable battery that can work for up to 12 hours at a time. Plus, the flashlight’s durable, water-resistant construction makes it perfect for hiking, camping, and more.

An adhesive laptop pouch for your tech accessories

Add this adhesive pouch to your laptop for quick and easy organization of accessories and personal items. The pouch has two pockets and is perfect for business meetings, travel, or just keeping track of your tech items like charging cables, battery packs, and more. Plus, the 3M adhesive is reusable and designed not to leave behind residue.

Transparent sticky notes that are also waterproof

Add these transparent, waterproof sticky notes to books, doors, or anywhere you want to leave a message. Thanks to their see-through design, the notes allow you to still read what’s underneath, and the adhesive is designed not to leave behind a residue. You get 200 sheets in total, so you won’t have to worry about restocking for awhile.

Folding travel scissors that work for right- or left-handed people

These travel scissors are compact enough to stash in your toiletry kit or purse and make on-the-go mending or tag snipping so much easier. Featuring ergonomic handles that work for both right- and left-handed users, the folding scissors have durable carbon steel blades that are rust-resistant. And because they come in a set of two, you’ll have a convenient spare.

A magnetic stud finder that doesn’t require batteries

Quickly locate studs in your drywall with this magnetic stud finder. Designed to be simple and easy to use, the stud finder doesn’t rely on batteries so it’s always ready to go. To find the studs, just move the tool over your wall. It’s designed to stick to the spot where the stud’s screws or nails are. This is a pack of two.

A clever tool that cleans hair out of brushes & vacuums

Thanks to its sharp metal teeth, this little tool can make quick work of hair tangles in brushes and vacuums. The tool features a serrated edge that’s made to cut through both pet and human hair. And its smooth, zinc alloy surface makes it a breeze to clean. You can even use it as a box opener.

A magnetic food wrap dispenser that can stick to the fridge

Add this dispenser to any magnetized appliance for streamlined storage of plastic wrap, foil, parchment, and more. With a built-in stainless steel cutter, the dispenser makes it easy to get the perfect amount of food wrap for the job. The interior can also accommodate both short or long rolls up to 11.8 inches.

A telescoping dusting set that reaches every area of your home

This microfiber duster set has interchangeable heads fit for every cleaning occasion. You can dust your fan, spruce up your blinds, and even clean out your car. The telescoping pole extends to 100 inches for hard-to-reach areas, and you can toss the microfiber heads in the washer when you’re done. It even comes with a cobweb duster as well.

A visual parking guide that shows you exactly where to stop

These simple-but-genius parking aids makes pulling into your garage completely stress-free. The bright fluorescent tennis balls hang exactly where you need them, giving you a perfect visual stopping point every time. The non-elastic rope is designed not to stretch and the installation is simple with the included hardware.

A weekly meal planner with a handy tear-off shopping list section

This magnetic meal-planning pad makes weekly dinners feel so much easier, especially when your brain is juggling too much at once. The clean layout, categorized grocery list, and tear-off shopping sheet take the mental load off and make meal prep one less thing to worry about. The pad comes with 50 sheets for year-long use.

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