An item doesn’t have to be expensive to be fascinating, and make life better in its own way. If you really want to know what’s what, a quick look at the product reviews will tell you whether a super cheap find is worth the money. With that in mind, I filled this list with fascinating, cheap little finds backed by near-perfect Amazon reviews. From funky incense burners to smart LED strip lights, not a thing here will break your bank — so you can add a few to your cart.
A motion-sensor astronaut night-light ready for takeoff
You don’t need to be a space-lover in order to appreciate this astronaut night-light. It lights up in eight different colors — or if you’d like to enjoy them all, simply turn on the rotating carousel mode. Plus, the dusk-to-dawn sensor prevents it from wasting energy when it’s still daytime.
The chic mini air vent vase with a 4.7-star rating
Add a pop of greenery to the inside of your car by adding this vase to one of the air vents on your dashboard. The frame is made from real black walnut wood — not plastic — and the vase itself is even made from sleek glass. “I love how it fits snugly in my car vent [...],” wrote one reviewer. “It's been a great conversation starter.”
A soothing galaxy projector with a built-in speaker
Create a soothing ambiance in any room by turning on this galaxy projector. Not only does it light your walls up in gorgeous shades of blue, purple, green, and more, but the built-in Bluetooth speaker also lets you stream music wirelessly. “The lights are vivid and calming,” wrote one reviewer. “Perfect for winding down at night or setting a cozy mood.”
Spy pens with ink that appears under UV light
Whether you’re five or 55, these pens are a fun way to write secret messages amongst your co-workers or friends. The permanent ink only shows up when a UV light is shined on it — and each pen does feature a built-in UV light so that you can easily see what you or your friends have written. One reviewer wrote that “my kids absolutely love using them for secret notes, scavenger hunts, and little spy games.”
Big stretchy bands that help keep towels in place on your lounge chair
Stretch one of these extra-large bands around the top of your lounge chair, and it’ll help keep your beach towel from sliding down whenever you tilt the back of the lounger up. They’re made from 100% sun-resistant silicone, making it unlikely that they’ll snap — and taking them with you is no trouble at all since they fold down for easy transport.
A laser tape measure with more than 13,000 5-star reviews
Able to measure distances up to 100 feet, this laser tape measure is a must-have in any toolbox. It can switch between meters, feet, or inches, and measures down to the fraction or decimal depending on your settings. One reviewer wrote, “This is easily the best laser measure tool I have used in the past 15 years at this price point.”
The cordless jump rope that keeps track of your jumps
You’re always at risk of accidentally tripping when using a jump rope — unless you’re using this cordless version. Two weighted balls at the end of both handles make it feel like you’re skipping a real rope, while an LED screen on the left handle tracks your jumps, time, as well as other stats. Choose from four colors: pink, black, green, or blue.
A bedside lamp adorned with real amethyst crystals
Don’t be surprised if friends ask where you found this bedside lamp. Not only is it adorned with natural amethyst crystals, but it also features three color modes: cool light, warm light, or warm white light. And if you aren’t into purple? You can also grab it in citrine, rose quartz, and more.
A calming sensory activity board with 4.8 stars
Looking for clever alternatives to screen time? Search no further than this sensory activity board. Each order comes with colorful silicone tubes that you can press into the ridges on the board, giving kids and adults alike a silent, travel-friendly activity to keep occupied. “It’s a durable, engaging, and beneficial tool for anyone seeking a calming sensory experience,” wrote one reviewer.
This clever yoga strap that conveniently slaps on
Few things are as annoying as constantly having to re-roll your yoga mat. Enter: this strap. It cleverly slaps on to apply and keeps your mat tightly rolled, making it easy to take with you to the gym, yoga class, or stash away inside of a closet. “It has a very strong hold on my yoga mat when I roll it up, and it stays in place,” wrote one reviewer. “It seems very durable and worth the cost.”
Highly rated concert earplugs that actually look cool
Ditch those crummy foam earplugs and upgrade to these silicone ones. Their rounded bodies help filter sound, delivering a crisp, clear listening experience that doesn’t come across as muffled. The best part? Each order also includes four ear tip sizes to help you find the perfect fit.
“Super fun” LED scrunchies that light up in 7 colors
Not only are these scrunchies great for pulling back your hair, but an LED light on the inside also means they can light up in shades of red, purple, blue, orange, and more. Each one features three lighting modes: fast flash, continuously on, or slow flash. One reviewer wrote that they’re “super fun for concerts or festivals and I always get compliments.”
This budget-friendly sunrise alarm clock with 4.8 stars
Waking up to a blaring alarm is no way to start your morning. Instead, upgrade to this sunrise alarm clock. It gradually grows brighter and brighter, waking you up gently the same way that the sun would naturally. And if you’re worried you won’t wake up? Not a problem, as it also features a handy backup alarm.
Magnetic-closure clips that help minimize cord clutter
Every home has at least one corner that’s devolved into a jumbled mess of cables, so why not use these clips to get organized? They’re large enough to fit chunky HDMI cords as well as thin lightning cables. Plus, the adhesive backing means you can even mount them onto desks, walls, and more.
A leakproof trash can that fits in your car’s cup holder
Don’t let garbage accumulate on the floor of your car. Instead, toss it into this trash can. The leakproof interior works to keep your upholstery safe from spills, while the flip-top lid helps hide all the trash inside from sight. Each order also includes 15 liners to get you started.
Soothing steamy eye masks with almost 2,000 perfect ratings
Whether your eyes are dry or you’re simply trying to relax after a long day, these masks are a solid pick. There’s no need to heat them in the microwave — simply tear open the package and they’ll instantly start steaming up. “I don’t have a microwave and these work perfectly for doing a heat pack on my eyes after a long day on the computer,” wrote one reviewer. “Way more relaxing and convenient than constantly replacing the hot water on a wash cloth.”
An ultra-thin pillow designed for back & stomach sleepers
Anyone who prefers sleeping on their back or stomach can appreciate this pillow. Its ultra-thin loft helps keep your spine properly aligned, and can lead to less pain in your shoulders, neck, and back. Plus, the microfiber cover feels oh-so soft against skin.
This strangely satisfying thumb stone that can soothe anxiety
If you find fidget toys too childish to play with, consider opting for this thumb stone instead. The small size makes it easy to carry around in your pocket — so it’ll always be within reach whenever you start to feel stressed or anxious. And if you aren’t convinced that it works, one reviewer wrote, “It's a subtle way to manage anxiety throughout the day, and I'm glad to have it with me.”
This glowing buddha that guides you through deep breathing
Practicing meditation via breathing exercises can help calm anxious minds, so why not grab this buddha doll? The light slowly grows brighter and then dims, prompting you when to breathe in or out — and the small size takes up hardly any space on your nightstand or desk. “I have been using this in my therapy practice for the last 6 months, and so many of my clients love to utilize it,” wrote one reviewer.
This chill frog incense burner reviewers can’t get enough of
Not only is this incense burner shaped like a lounging frog, but ash also falls into his lap as the stick burns — so there’s no need to worry about making a mess. The sleek ceramic body makes it seem more expensive than it is. The best part? One reviewer also described it as “so cute and well-sculpted.”
Highly rated cup holders designed to work in sand
Don’t let sand get into your drink when you’re relaxing at the beach. Instead, place it inside one of the cup holders. They’re large enough to hold reusable water bottles, beer bottles, and more, while the second compartment gives you somewhere to place everything from sunglasses to sunscreen. Plus, the ground stakes help keep them from tipping over.
An instant water filter straw with almost 10,000 perfect ratings
Don’t even think about heading out for that camping trip until you’ve packed this water filter. The straw-like design lets you sip directly from streams, ponds, and more, while the five-stage filtration system removes everything from bacteria to microplastics. “We tested them with lake water [...],” wrote one reviewer. “The water came out clean with no weird taste.”
SPF 50 sunscreen with a festive glitter finish
If your kids always put up a fuss when it’s time to apply sunscreen, consider trying out this glittery version. Not only do the sparkles make it more appealing to kids, but it also offers SPF 50 protection, and can resist water for up to 80 minutes. “This is the only way I can get my kiddo to wear sunscreen and it works really well,” wrote one reviewer.
Funny magnets that let you add cartoon expressions to plants
With an average rating of 4.7 stars, it’s clear that reviewers found these goofy magnets to be worth their $9 price tag. They’re covered in soft PVC — so there’s no need to worry about them damaging your plant leaves. Or, if you’re in need of drink markers during a party, you can also attach them to the rim of your glassware.
Cheeky, snarky gift bags with an impressive 4.9 stars
Your friends are almost guaranteed to enjoy these bags just as much as whatever gift you place inside of them. Each one features a different snarky message printed on the outside, with some examples including “Don’t get your hopes up,” and “Just smile and say you love it.” Plus, their reinforced bottoms help keep them from ripping.
Floating shelves that looks practically invisible on your walls
Create a unique accent wall in your bedroom or home office by installing these shelves. They’re designed to make it look like your books are floating on your walls — and each one can easily support up to 15 pounds. Choose from two finishes: white or black.
A versatile car safety hammer with an impressive 4.7-star rating
This car safety hammer is one of those rare items that’s best to have and not need, than need and not have. The spiked tip is made from hard tungsten steel, making it easy to smash your window open in the event of an emergency — and the end of the handle even features a handy seatbelt cutter. Plus, the small size makes it easy to fit inside your glove compartment.
The absorbent mat that helps keep pet mealtime cleaner
Place this mat underneath your pet’s food bowls, and it’ll help keep your floors clean by catching any stray splashes or bits of food that fall its way. The absorbent material also dries quickly — so there’s no need to worry about it developing mildew over time. And since the bottom is nonslip, your pet won’t be able to easily nudge it across your floors.
A clever stand that lets you create flower arrangements with a few stems
If all your vases are too tall for your plant stems, consider trying out this stand. Simply press the bottom of your stems into the stainless steel pins on the base, and they’ll keep them held upright — it’s that easy. One reviewer also confirmed that it’s “an excellent choice for creating stunning wedding table centerpieces.”
Vibrant smart strip lights with over 36,000 5-star ratings
You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg if you want chic lighting throughout your home — just grab these strip lights. They light up in vibrant colors, all of which can be chosen using the included remote or via the downloadable smartphone app. And if you’re unsure that they’re worth the money? One reviewer wrote, “The amount of options/modes that you get is nuts. For the price as well, it can't be beat.”
Blackout stickers that help dim annoying LED lights
FLANCCI Light Blocking Stickers, Light Dimming Filters, (2 Sheets) Dimming Sheets for Blackout Routers, LED Covers Blackout, Dimming 80% ~ 100% of LED Lights (2Sheets = 1 Cut Out + 1 Uncut)
Amazon -Appliances, televisions, clocks — these blackout stickers are great for dimming the annoying LED lights found on all sorts of electronics. One sticker is enough to dim a standard light by about 80%, and you can layer multiple stickers on top of each other if needed. Plus, each order includes a variety of shapes and sizes to suit nearly any light.
Leaf-shaped funnels that help prevent watering spills
Leafy plants can bounce water outside of the pot when you’re pouring water inside. Luckily, these funnels are a clever fix. Their leaf-shaped design allows them to blend into your plant. And since they direct water directly into the soil, you’re also much less likely to wind up with any spillage.
This funky disco ball planter awarded 4.7 stars overall
You don’t need to enjoy disco music in order to appreciate this planter. The metallic exterior reflects light just like a classic disco ball, while the compact size makes it great for succulents, cacti, as well as other small plants. Hang it or place it tabletop. “I love this disco ball planter so much,” wrote one reviewer. “It instantly lifts my mood every time the sun hits it [...].”
This unique book lamp that lights up when you open it
Open up this book lamp, and the pages will light up in gorgeous yellow light, making it great to use as a reading light, accent light, or even a night light. The battery lasts for up to eight hours before it needs to be recharged. But if that isn’t enough? You also have the choice of two finishes: walnut or maple.
The 3-D puzzle that forces you to think if you want to drink
Made from high-quality wood, this puzzle is a fun way to get the conversation started during your next dinner party. You and your guests will have to figure out how to unlock the top if you want to start pouring the wine bottle inside — and it isn’t so difficult that you’ll find yourself stumped.
A reviewer-favorite magnifying glass & paperweight in one
No home office is complete without this paperweight. It’s made from sleek glass that magnifies whatever is underneath it by six times, making it great for reading small text, viewing detailed images, and more. “Needed one of these to quickly grab when I need to see fine print without hunting down my glasses at my desk [...],” wrote one reviewer. “Enlarges well, better than expected really.”
Plant supports that help keep stems from flopping over
Some types of plants can wind up flopping all over the place due to their weak stems. Enter: these supports. They’re made from sturdy iron that helps keep the stems held upright — simply insert the stems inside of each loop and they’re ready to get to work.
Tiny flower vases reviewers have awarded 4.8 stars
These miniature vases are a fun way to add a pop of greenery to shelves, desks, nightstands, or any other small spaces. They’re made from sleek ceramic — not plastic — and work best when filled with dried flowers. The best part? With an average rating of 4.8 stars, you can rest assured that they’re worth the affordable price tag.
A plant propagation station that makes stylish decor
Propagating stems is a cost-effective way to grow the number of plants in your home, making this propagation station a smart buy. Four tubes give you ample room to propagate multiple plants. Plus, a warm yellow LED light on the inside lights up the roots for an oh-so attractive look.
A mini zen garden kit that comes with beachy extras
Unlike the other zen garden kits you’ve likely seen, this one comes with a ton of beach-themed extras, including seashells, a miniature rowboat, sun loungers, and more. The frame is also made from real wood rather than plastic — and the sand is even derived from high-quality quartz.
This night-light that looks like a glowing conch shell
There’s a good chance you’ve never seen a night-light like this one before. Not only is it nautically designed to look just like a conch shell, but it’s completely cordless and uses three AAA batteries (which are not included) to stay lit for hours. “Well made, sturdy and realistic,” wrote one reviewer. “Great size and very nice glow.”
A copper charm that helps keep water in flower vases clear
Ever notice how the water in your vases can become cloudy over time? Not only can this little copper charm help keep the water clear, but it can even help keep your flowers fresher for longer. One reviewer also confirmed that their flowers “lasted for three weeks with this copper heart.” Choose from two shapes: heart or star.
Mouse pads that look like tiny colorful rugs
Add a pop of color to dull desks with this fun mouse pad. It’s designed to look like a timeless rug, complete with a white fringe on both ends — and the nonslip underside works to keep it from shifting around as you move your mouse.
Clever stickers that help heal shaving nicks
Don’t leave the house with that visible shaving nick. Instead, pop one of these stickers onto it for about 30 minutes. Their blend of aloe vera and witch hazel helps calm skin, making nicks less noticeable — and the translucent finish makes them hardly noticeable if you decide to wear them outside.
The clear acrylic puzzle ideal for anyone in need of a challenge
ImPuzzable Insanely Impossible Puzzle: 100, 200, or 500 Piece Clear Jigsaw Puzzle is Clearly The Hardest Most Difficult Puzzle for Puzzle Lovers or a Funny White Elephant Gift! (100 Piece)
Amazon -It doesn’t matter how smart you may be — completing this puzzle is still going to be a real challenge. The pieces are made from clear acrylic, so you won’t be able to go off of the picture in order to figure out which pieces fit together. Choose from three difficulty levels: 100, 200, or 500 pieces.
This adorable table lamp that looks like a robo puppy
Whether you’re looking for cute decorations or you’re in need of a night light, this table lamp is a solid pick. The legs can be adjusted so that the dog sits or stands in nearly any position — and the included LED bulb casts a warm, inviting glow. “My son loves reading with this little puppy at bedtime,” wrote one reviewer. “It’s not too bright (which is good), but lights up the whole page.”
The quick-drying stone mat that stylishly keeps sinks clean
Consider this mat a must-have if you’re tired of wiping drips off your sink top. It’s made from absorbent diatomite earth that soaks up water, drying within just a few seconds to help keep everything looking clean. “It really helps keep the sink area clean and dry,” wrote one reviewer. “No more wet puddles underneath your sponge or soap bottle.”
The silicone cover that helps protect glass stove tops
Place this mat on top of your glass stove top, and it’ll help keep it safe from damage when you aren’t cooking. It’s made from durable silicone that’s heat-resistant up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit — so there’s no need to worry about it melting if your stove is still warm. The best part? You can also use it as a dish drying mat, as the wide, elevated ridges on the top allow air to circulate throughout.
Genius dice that help you figure out what to make for dinner
Can’t figure out what to make for dinner? Just pull out these dice and give them a roll. Each one features a different protein, carb, herb, or veggie, all of which pair together so that you don’t wind up with a weird meal. Or, if you’re in the mood for takeout, there’s even a “take out” die to help you decide what cuisine to get.
Unique cocktail glasses shaped like little doves
Add a touch of whimsy to any cocktail by serving it inside one of these dove-shaped glasses. They’re made from premium crystal glass, with an opening at the tail that allows for easy sipping. One reviewer even confirmed that they’re “great for craft cocktails.”
Scented colored pencils that come with a woodsy diffuser pen
Lemonade, pine needles, and wildflowers are only a few of the indulgent aromas you’ll find in this pack of scented colored pencils. They’re great for doodling, jotting down notes in style, or even just kicking back and relaxing with a coloring book. Plus, each order even includes a diffuser pen that’s filled with uplifting citrus essential oils.
This raining cloud that gently waters your plants
Pouring a heavy stream of water directly into your potted plant’s soil can cause the roots to flood. Instead, pour it into this little cloud. It rains the water down in small droplets, gently watering your plant so that it’s less likely to flood. Plus, the cute design is sure to have guests asking where you found it.
Whimsical LED string lights with bulbs shaped like bees
Headboards, tents, stair bannisters — these LED string lights are great for decorating all sorts of spaces. There’s no need to plug them into an outlet, as they only need three AA batteries (which are not included) in order to stay lit for hours. But if that isn’t enough? Each bulb even has a lifetime of more than 50,000 hours, so you won’t need to change them out anytime soon.
The ceramic watercolor tray that looks like a sweet octopus
Anyone who enjoys painting with watercolors can appreciate this tray. Not only is it designed to look like an octopus, but it’s also made from sleek ceramic — not plastic. “The wells hold a decent amount of paint and the limbs of the octopus seems to hold brushes [...],” wrote one reviewer. “I like that you get a little paint water cup as well.”
Handy tube squeezers that help you get out every last drop
Paint, toothpaste, skin-care serums — these squeezers are great for getting every last drop out of all sorts of tubes. A handle on the side makes it easy to crank your tube through without cramping your hand. And since they’re made from tough metal, there’s no need to worry about them warping over time.
High-shine lip oil that’s hydrating & nonsticky
Unlike some lip oils, this one has a non-sticky texture that won’t leave your lips feeling gooey. A touch of hydrating jojoba oil in the formula works to keep your lips feeling soft — and the subtle shimmer makes it great for everyday as well as nighttime wear.
A tiny pilot car air freshener that adds a dose of whimsy
Your friends are almost guaranteed to ask where you found this air freshener the next time they get into your car. The plane propellers rotate for an oh-so fun touch as air flows through your vents — and the cartoon cat only adds to the cute design. One reviewer even confirmed that “everyone who's ever gotten my car has asked me where I got it.”
This clever keychain that holds onto your rings
It’s easy to forget to take off your rings when you’re headed to the gym. Luckily, this keychain pops open to reveal a small stand where you can store multiple rings. The waterproof design helps keep your jewelry safe in the event it gets wet — and the padded interior works to protect your rings from damage if you accidentally drop it.
A highly rated projector lamp that casts the moon onto your wall
Set a relaxing vibe in your bedroom with help from this projector lamp. It casts an image of the full moon onto your wall, and each order even includes a remote so that you can adjust its brightness as well as turn it on/off — all without getting out of bed. It also looks like a cool lighthouse when not on.
This baguette baking pan that won’t stick to bread
Baking your own baguettes is delicious and cheap, so why not grab this pan? It’s made with a nonstick coating that helps keep it from sticking to dough, while perforation holes throughout allow moisture to escape so that your baguette comes out crisp, brown, and thoroughly cooked. “The baguettes did not stick and came out great!” raved one reviewer.
