Life
29 Weird Products On Amazon That Are Actually Useful AF
Ever been shopping online and encountered a product so bizarre and off-the-wall that you just had to do a double take? Although it may seem surreal at times that we actually live in a world where pasta-shaped oven mitts and pig-faced vegetable steamers are like, even a thing, these weird products on Amazon all share something very important in common: they’re also useful AF.
From slippers that dust and mop for you to dryer balls shaped like the most twee little cacti ever, these weird products are designed to set off a few giggles, but what makes them truly worth investing in is how functional they'll continue to be, even after the chuckles have subsided.
All you have to do is visualize your problem, and you'd probably be surprised how many funky but versatile products there are out there that can help you solve them. For example, having trouble cleaning your water bottles? Good news, there's a product for that. Sick of worrying about all the germs that may or may not be on your smartphone? There's a product for that too, and it can help give you peace of mind. Essentially, no matter what you need, there's probably a strange but secretly brilliant item out there that can take care of it for you. We've rounded up a list of the top 29 unconventional products on Amazon that will totally blow your mind.
1. This Long Scrubber That Fits Into Hard To Reach Areas
BNYD Long Bottle Brush Cleaner, Flexible Bottle Scourer, $8, Amazon
This lightweight scrubber is ultra-long and perfect for scrubbing the bottom of glasses, vases, goblets, decanters, and other stemware that may be tough to clean. And while this cleaner works as a heavy-duty cleaner, because it's made with reinforced foam bristles, it won't chip or break delicate glassware. It's even safe to use on coffee pots, and reviewers love the brush itself is pretty easy to clean.
2. The Cutest Little Dryer Buddies You'll Ever See
Kikkerland Cactus Dryer Balls, $10 (2 Pack), Amazon
"Goodbye random wet spots in the laundry! Goodbye wrinkled clothes! These little things are amazing," raves one Amazon reviewer of this two-pack of cactus dryer balls, which are heat-resistant and help aerate and fluff clothes (that's what the spines are for) while also drying them, helping eliminate wrinkles and dampness. They even help reduce static.
3. These Meat Shredders That Allow You To Really Tap Into Your Inner Carnivore
Bear Paw Products The Original Bear Paws Shredder Claws, $13, Amazon
Meat can be difficult to slice up and serve, but with these BPA-free and heat-resistant shredder claws, you can get perfect cuts each time without having to go through the headache of using a knife and fork. Whether you're shredding pork, chicken, or beef, these easy to hold shredders look like claws and make carving up dinner a lot more fun. The strong grip the claws provide even helps to make cutting up a watermelon a more stable job, and they're dishwasher-safe.
4. This Spinning Makeup Brush Cleaner That Removes Gunk In Just Seconds
INNOLV Electric Spinning Makeup Brush Cleaner and Dryer, $37, Amazon
It's important to clean makeup brushes, otherwise, they can become a germ and bacteria paradise. This innovative spinning makeup brush cleaner and dryer removes gunk in seconds and works on brushes of all sizes. Just attach the brush to the spinner, pour water and soap into the bowl, then dip your brushes in to rinse them and spin them to dry. It works on brushes of all sizes, and one reviewer writes: "This makeup brush cleaner is AWESOME! I'm lazy about cleaning my brushes. It just takes so long and then they have to dry over night. This cleaner not only cleans them in seconds, it dries them just as fast! No more gross brushes for me."
5. A Mojito Spray That Makes Wrinkles Vanish Into Thin Air
Cold Iron Wrinkle Release Spray Citrus-Mint, $15, Amazon
If you absolutely hate ironing, you'll love this plant-based wrinkle release spray, which removes most wrinkles from clothes in a matter of minutes. It smells like a mojito (well, it has a refreshing citrus-mint scent) and to make it work, just hang your wrinkled shirt lightly, hand smooth out wrinkles, and let dry ten minutes. For early mornings you're in a rush, this is a real life-saver. Reviewers say it doesn't make clothes feel sticky, and one bottle lasts for months.
6. A Slush Maker That Makes A Frozen Drink Right In The Glass You'll Drink It Out Of
Zoku Slush and Shake Maker, $23, Amazon
With this at-home slushie maker, you can make delicious frozen drinks like slushes or milkshakes with fresh ingredients whenever you want. Just remove the frozen inner core from the freezer and insert it into the BPA-free outer cup, pour in your ingredients and mix them up. In just a few minutes, they'll freeze up. Of course, you can also make cocktails or frozen rosé in these cups.
7. This Charcoal Powder That Turns Your Whole Mouth Black (But Your Teeth Super White!)
Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder Orange, $25, Amazon
Charcoal powders like this one can seem like a strange experience for your mouth because they turn it black, but that same quality also makes them super fun to use every day as part of a good oral hygiene routine. Featuring activated coconut charcoal powder and flavored to taste like orange, this powder helps purify and detoxify, while removing surface stains on teeth from coffee, cigarettes, wine, and other common causes of discoloration.
8. This Bread-Shaped Wrist Rest That's Great For Fighting Aches And Pains
Litop Keyboard & Mouse Wrist Rest Pad, $13, Amazon
If you're on your laptop all the time, a good rest like this one is essential because it can help promote proper upper hand and wrist movement, and may help alleviate the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. But the real reason to love this squishy, non-slip wrist rest is that it's shaped like a loaf of bread. "I love how comfortable this is and it is so funny. It came in a bread package and even had a bread tie," writes one reviewer. It's also got a non-stick backing so it won't slip around.
9. These Cooking Bands Are Like Rubber Bands For Your Food
Architec Stretch Cooking Band, $9 (25 Pack), Amazon
If you're looking for a reusable alternative to one-time use twine and toothpicks, these hot cooking bands are a solid option. Heat-resistant for to 600 degrees Fahrenheit (so they're okay to fry and grill with), but also safe to use in the freezer, these bands are dishwasher-safe and come in different colors so you can also color coordinate them based on what you're cooking. They're two inches wide, but they can stretch to fit larger items like turkey, and they're perfect for those who love making stuffed chicken or more intricate meat dishes.
10. A Blackhead Removal System With Three Steps
My Scheming Blackhead Acne Removal Activated Carbon Mask Set, $10, Amazon
Reviewers on Amazon can't get enough of this blackhead-fighting, three-step activated carbon mask. It's made specifically for the pores on your nose — start with the mask, then apply the deep pore demineralized water, and finally end with a treatment essence — it'll get rid of all the blackheads you have on your face, and leave it smooth and soft. Before using it, be sure to steam your face so pores are soft and open, then apply the mask and wear it for about 10 minutes, then wet it and peel away the excess. Reviewers think this is one of the best options out there for getting rid of blackheads.
11. This Tablet Stand That You Can Put Literally Anywhere
CTA Digital 2-in-1 Kitchen Mount Stand, $25, Amazon
This easy-to-install mount stand with 360-rotating headspace is compatible with most tablets and iPads and offers three display modes, so you can mount it on a wall, under cabinets, or just on a tabletop. It folds up incredibly compact, and it's got a tight grip with a release button, which guarantees your device won't ever slip out. One reviewer commented: "This is the best mount I have seen ...Genius design, and it is very sturdy. I am beyond happy with this mount!"
12. This Roller Massager That Can Help Promote Relaxation
Anself Massage Roller Relax Ball, $8, Amazon
Whether you've got aches and pains or you're just looking to unwind after a rough day, this massaging back roller helps relieve muscle soreness and tension, improve circulation, and eliminate fatigue. For added relief, one reviewer recommends using this with Tiger Balm, which helps the ball roll more freely, and others love to use it for a quick massage after a workout.
13. These Adorable Pasta-Shaped Oven Mitts That Make Hot Handles NBD
Monkey Business Farfalloni Pasta-Shaped Silicone Oven Mitts, $15, Amazon
Nobody likes getting burned by hot handles in the kitchen, but regular oven mitts often don't fit over handles. These slim, silicone oven mitts are shaped like farfalloni pasta, which is adorable — but also a perfect fit for gripping onto those pot handles, and are lightweight and easy to slip on and off. "Greatest little kitchen helpers since sliced bread," raves one reviewer.
14. This Giant Exfoliating Loofah That Soothes Rough, Dry Skin
Featuring easy-to-grip handles, this ergonomic two-sided loofah makes exfoliating hard-to-reach areas like the back, shoulders, and neck a breeze, while an ultra-soft cotton outer layer helps soothe dry skin. This loofah also works well on feet and can help you slough away dead skin cells and other harmful stuff chilling on skin's surface. It's also great to apply creams on your back or even self-tanner.
15. The Deodorant You Only Have To Replace Once A Year
Thai Crystal Deodorant, $10 (2 Pack), Amazon
"This is the most amazing product that I've found," one reviewer wrote of this deodorant stone, which is basically a stick-shaped crystal made from natural mineral salt, which actually eliminates odor-causing bacteria instead of covering it up like traditional deodorants. To use, just wet the mineral stone or apply right after a shower, and because it's basically a block of salt, it will last up to a year or more. It's fragrance-free, and won't stain clothing.
16. A Sticky Gel That Will Leave Your Keyboard Cleaner Than Ever
WannaBi Sticky Jelly Gel, $6, Amazon
You probably don't want to think about how dirty and germ-ridden your keyboard really is (think toilet-levels of bacteria), but the good news is that this pile of goo works like magic over keyboards, smartphones, and other electronics to get rid of dust, dirt, and germs. Just stick this sticky gel over surfaces for a few minutes and remove it, and you'll be amazed at how much it picks up. If you store it in the original bag and keep it away from the sun, it's also reusable. This reviewer raves: "There is only one word to describe this product: Amazing! It snags all of the little bits from the nooks and crannies of your keyboard and leaves no mess. Works like a charm."
17. These Showerhead Speakers That Allow You To Rock Out Under Water
Bidet4me Music Showerhead, $33, Amazon
This showerhead plus speaker combo is compatible with most smartphones, and is Bluetooth-enabled and waterproof so you can listen to music or podcasts in the shower. It also comes equipped with a built-in microphone (so you can take calls in the shower) and is USB-rechargeable, carrying eight hours per single charge. The speaker is very easy to remove so you can recharge it, and the showerhead itself saves up to 30 percent more water than your standard one.
18. This Straightener That Actually Works On Wet Hair Without Damaging It
Remington S7330 Wet 2 Straight Hair Straightener, $23, Amazon
Wet hair isn't a problem when you're using this straightener, thanks to ceramic plates and steam vents, this tool heats up to 420 degrees and allows you to style hair straight out of the shower, even before you've dried it. However, the ceramic plates and the steam mean it won't damage your hair while you're saving time, and you'll get smooth results. It also comes with an automatic shut-off feature, and the tool gets hot in only 30 seconds.
19. These Reusable Toaster Bags For Extra-Gooey Grilled Cheeses
RL Treats Non-Stick Reusable Toaster Bags, $7 (3 Pack), Amazon
These non-stick, reusable toaster bags are a great grilled cheese hack if you're in a pinch. They fit most toasters and not only catch crumbs, but also help distribute heat to bread and lock in crunchiness and taste. They're even good to heat up pizza slices, chicken nuggets, and more in the bag, and because it's non-stick, it just needs to be wiped down with a damp cloth to reuse.
20. The Hand Cream That's Shaped Like A Banana
TONYMOLY Magic Food Banana Hand Milk, $10, Amazon
You only need to use a small amount of this banana milk to get soft, hydrated hands that actually smell like banana bread. Made with shea butter and coconut oil, this lotion will quickly absorb into the skin for a silky smooth skin with no greasy feel. And because the packaging is so darn odd, you'll want to carry this around in your purse and say things like "there's always money in the banana hand milk."
21. This Lump Of Salt That'll Relax You While Detoxifying The Air
Crystal Decor Dimmable Hand Crafted Natural Himalayan Salt Lamp, $20, Amazon
When the salt crystals inside this lamp heat up, it will do more than add to your room's ambiance. This natural Himalayan salt lamp helps to purify air using negative ions, and each one is handcrafted for an extra unique look. It's got a dimmer switch to provide exactly the kind of light you prefer, a wooden base to keep it sturdy, and reviewers say this even helps them fall asleep.
22. This Omelet Maker That You Can Use In The Microwave
Lekue Omelette Maker, $13, Amazon
If you struggle to execute that perfect omelet flip, this super-simple omelet maker is about to make things so much easier. In just three steps, you can make delicious omelets — just beat the eggs, add ingredients, and then throw this container in the microwave. In under five minutes, you'll have a fluffy, scrumptious omelet, no butter or oil needed. And because this omelet maker is silicone and dishwasher-safe, cleaning is a scrub-free hassle.
23. These Comfy Microfiber Slippers That Go Where Ordinary Mops And Brooms Can't
Evriholder Slipper Genie Microfiber Women's Slippers for Floor Cleaning, $12, Amazon
These microfiber slippers, are machine washable, one size fits all, and designed to catch hair, dust, and dirt while you gleefully skid around the house. They're safe to use on every surface, including wood, vinyl, and tile, and the velcro attachments make it easy to remove and clean the microfiber pads. "I strongly recommend giving these little guys a try," one reviewer writes.
24. This Set Of Stemless Wine Glasses That Keep Drinks Chilled For Up To 30 Minutes
Soireehome Dimple Self-chilling Stemless Wine Glasses, $50 (2 Pack), Amazon
This set of two stemless wine glasses can be a great investment, especially if you're a white wine drinker and love keeping your beverage chilled. Featuring a built-in silicone coaster, and a magnetic connection between the base and chilling dimple, these self-chilling glasses can keep your drink nice and cold for about 30 minutes. It also has a hand grip that will keep your hands from warming up the drink, and keeping them from getting too cold.
25. A Bizarre Hot Dog Slicer That Creates A Crispier, Smokier Finish
Hot dog lovers who want an extra smokey, grilled, crispy taste definitely need this tool, which uses steel blades to cut uniform slots into dogs, which expand as it cooks, allowing more flavor to seep in as it caramelizes those edges. It's dishwasher safe, and reviewers say it's better to use with hot dogs that don't have skin. One writes: "My wife doesn't eat hot dogs. Well, not until today, when she tried her first slot dog. Today she raved about it and then ate the kids' cold leftovers. In 10 minutes, I attained Master Hot Dog Chef status."
26. This Brush That Specifically Targets Ingrown Hairs And Razor Burns
MEILI Fine Bristle Brush, $11, Amazon
Ingrown hairs happen when hair curls over and gets trapped in the skin, and this fine-bristled brush can help alleviate them by exfoliating and delivering micro-massages to skin. It also helps with razor bumps if used right after shaving, and the bristles are soft and flexible and can be used anywhere on the body. You can use it in or out of the shower, and it also works well on sensitive skin.
27. This Freaky-Looking Pig Face That Actually Steams Veggies Pretty Well
Marna Pink Piggy Steamer, $15, Amazon
This silicone pink piggy steamer might look like the stuff of nightmares, but it's a great kitchen tool to have around because it helps steam vegetables and can also be used when you're heating up food to keep it from splattering in the microwave. And the pig nose is actually useful — it releases steam without drying food out too much, so it still remains moist. "It sure seems silly, but this thing saves me a ton of paper towels in the microwave," one reviewer noted. "Works great, easy to clean."
28. This Travel Pillow That Looks Like A Scarf But Delivers Plenty Of Support
Trtl Pillow Super Soft Neck Support Travel Pillow, $30, Amazon
This incredibly soft, ergonomic travel pillow is great to use when you're stuck on a flight because it's half the size of a travel pillow, works to hold the neck in a stable position even while you're sleeping, and attaches easily to carry-on luggage. It's great for long flights, and you won't wake up with a stiff neck, plus it's machine washable and made of super soft micro-fleece.
29. This All-In-One Phone Sanitizer That Eliminates Up To 99 Percent Of Bacteria
PhoneSoap 2.0 UV Sanitizer and Universal Phone Charger, $45, Amazon
This phone sanitizer and universal phone charger zaps away harmful bacteria with a germ-eliminating U-C light. It claims to get rid of 99.9 percent of common household germs such as staph, e. coli and salmonella, which will keep you from getting sick and also might help keep your skin clear. It fits most standard phones, and you can even charge your phone while it's doing the job — and although that only takes five minutes to disinfect, you can keep it charging in there overnight.
Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle's editorial and sales departments.
