Life
31 Weird But Genius Products On Amazon That'll Even Fascinate Shoppers Who've Seen It All
I've seen my fair share of Amazon oddities, including silicone in every possible configuration, activated charcoal deployed in a wide range of concoctions to remedy (successfully!) a bevy of minor ailments, and K-beauty preparations starring a veritable cornucopia of unique ingredients. What have I learned through thorough consideration — and more than a little acquisition — of these weird but genius products on Amazon? Frequently, it's the most seemingly obscure items that have the most vociferous cult following. You may not think these gadgets and accessories are germane to your everyday life, but they sneak up on you — and suddenly you're obsessed, even if you have a serious online shopping habit and think you've seen it all.
Take, for example, the silicone wine stopper/pourer. First off, I told you so about the silicone. Secondly, this turtleneck sweater-reminiscent wine gadget slips over your wine bottle to provide a spill-proof seal and also pours with no drips. Now that's something that can impress even the most skeptical shopper.
Everything on this list is equally as smack-your-forehead, purpose-built useful, so be prepared to pick up two of each — one for you and one for your BFF. I speak from experience: just ask my credit card company.
2. A Mask From A Top K-Beauty Brand Uses A Picnic Staple To Hydrate
Skinfood Freshmade Watermelon Skin Mask, $12, Amazon
It totally makes sense when you think about it: Watermelon is 90 percent water, so it only stands to reason that it would be super hydrating in this face mask from top K-beauty brand Skinfood. This standout in their Freshmade line also features watermelon for its high levels of vitamins A, B6 and C, which protect and soothe your skin from sunburn and damage. Overall, not only does this mask cool and rehydrate, but it also has a slightly astringent influence — so it evens out skin tone, minimizes the appearance of pores, and reduces inflammation. It's cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, and you can keep this one in your fridge for a soothing treat.
3. This Product Is Beloved By Hairstylists And Swim Team Moms Alike
AquaGuard Pre-Swim Hair Defense, $10, Amazon
Considering that this sealer gets glowing endorsements from both avid swimmers and colorists, I'd say it's pretty special. Chlorine, salt, and sun can do a number on your hair, fading its natural color, turning it unwanted greenish or brassy shades, and also making it brittle and fragile. Simply wet your hair before swimming, then apply a generous amount of AquaGuard — either with or without a swim cap. This formula fully absorbs into hair within five minutes to smooth and seal hair cuticles, protecting it from mineral deposits and preventing the loss of natural oils.
4. A Whisk That Scrapes Your Bowl Down, Too
Joseph Joseph Whiskle, $10, Amazon
From lauded design house Joseph Joseph comes this kitchen gadget that's principally a whisk, but features an integrated scraper to get every last drop of your cupcake mix or cake batter. The whisk wires are crafted from polished stainless steel, while the scraper — which is sealed to the wire — is made from flexible silicone. The device features an ergonomic non-slip handle for ease of use, and it's dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
5. A Brush That Cleans Worn-In Stains And Dirt From Any Flooring Surface
Cleanovation Spotty, $30, Amazon
Save time and money by employing this brush to clean both the carpet as well as the tile and even the grout. The patented Spotty is designed with four brush settings — each denoted by a different color on the brush head — including two for carpet and two for tile for maximum flexibility. Included with the brush is a removable telescoping handle, designed to offer optimal leverage while also enabling you to get into tough corners.
6. This Six-In-One Tool Means You Can Cook One-Handed
TNK Stingray 6-In-1 Kitchen Gadget, $12, Amazon
Great for anyone who likes to get as much use as possible out of a single tool, this gadget saves time and space by serving six functions in one. You'll be able to flip foods with the spatula, grab them with the tongs, pierce them with the fork, release them from the fork with the help of this tool's "launch control," sit your tool up on the countertop to prevent your work surface from getting dirty, and lift foods and transfer them to your plate. It's crafted from stainless steel and heat-resistant nylon.
7. An Acupressure Roller Will Give You All The Feels
Lyapko Universal Roller, $33, Amazon
It may look like some kind of medieval torture device, but this roller is actually part of a patented and time-honored therapeutic technique developed by a noted Ukranian reflexologist who gave it its name. The soft and pliable rubber head is studded with 496 acupuncture needles crafted from metals including zinc, copper, iron, nickel, and silver — and they're all faceted at the top so that they cannot damage the skin. Just a few uses can produce results including improved skin condition, decreased muscle pain, and increased energy.
8. These Measuring Spoons Are The Only Two You'll Ever Need
KitchenArt Adjustable Measuring Spoons, $7 (Set of 2), Amazon
Consolidate your utensil drawer and eliminate clutter by choosing these adjustable measuring spoons. Crafted from durable and BPA-free ABS plastic, one of these covers all your teaspoon measures and the other works for tablespoons — so you're not fumbling around with multiple loose spoons in your drawer or on a ring. These tools are top-rack dishwasher-safe, and the covers slide and snap into place to give precise measurements, but can be removed easily for cleaning.
9. These Rollers Give You Epic Waves Without Heat
Epic Wave Hair Rollers, $16 (Set of 30), Amazon
Turn "bed head" into an asset with these heatless foam rollers that are wired to hold your hair comfortably as you sleep — and give you luscious curls in the morning. Lightweight yet durable, these rollers are covered in soft, smooth fabric, so they're super comfortable on your scalp. The set of 30 rollers is accompanied by two Epic Wave curl styling combs to help add the finishing touches to your look.
10. An Ice Bucket That Makes Its Own Ice
MOOKZZ Ice Genie, $15, Amazon
The unique double chamber design of this ice bucket means that while the inner chamber of this accessory is hard at work storing your cubes, the outer chamber can be making you 40 new ones at the same time — so how's that for multi-tasking and saving space? Pop on the airtight lid to keep your cubes fresh and odor-free, and it's crafted from food-grade, BPA-free 100 percent silicone. This genius accessory also makes a super tool to cool down wine, beer, or other potables while you're on-the-go.
11. This Device Puts Paper Towels At Your Fingertips Using Magnets
Yukon Glory Magnetic Paper Towel Holder, $18, Amazon
Sometimes when you need paper towels, there's just not a handy way to have one nearby. Enter this innovative holder, manufactured with high-quality brushed stainless steel and fitted with a powerful magnet designed to attach to any magnetic surface. Compatible with any standard roll, this accessory can be used anywhere you can place a magnet, so your fridge and dishwasher are both fair game — and you can even attach it to the side of your shed or your grill outside.
12. These Gloves Are Offer Durable Performance And Grip With Second-Skin Feel
DEX FIT Nitrile Work Gloves, $13 (3 Pair), Amazon
Engineered with state-of-the-art technology for comfort and protection, these work gloves are crafted with Kevlar and other engineered fibers to provide an exceptionally thin fit. They're then dipped in durable nitrile to give your fingers and palms the anti-slip grip you need at work without losing your sense of touch. This combination delivers next-level protection with second-skin feel, and when you're done with your day, just throw them in the wash on cold, dry flat, and they'll be ready to go again tomorrow.
13. These Orthotics Feature Custom Inserts Including One For Reflexology
Walkfit Platinum Orthotics, $25, Amazon
Whether it's your legs that are aching, your feet that are in pain, or your back giving you trouble, these customizable insoles offer help for whatever ails you. Completely washable and odor-free, these orthotics are crafted with unique gel technology and a heel cup that adds stability to your feet, reducing risk of injury. Plus, they come with three customizable arch inserts for customization— low, medium, and high — as well as a fourth reflexology acupressure massage insert.
14. This Genius Gadget Helps You Slice A Bunch Of Grapes Quick
OXO Grape and Tomato Slicer and Cutter, $12, Amazon
Salad lovers, this tool is for you: Add it to your kitchen arsenal and you'll be slicing through everything from grapes, pitted olives, pitted cherries, and cherry tomatoes with a single slice. Simply fill the slicer with fruit and use any serrated knife to slice through — this unit's clear walls feature convenient measurement markings and provide visibility while slicing, and its non-slip base holds it steady while you work.
15. These Drip-Proof Wine Spouts Are Stoppers, Too
Simply Charmed Wine Stopper and Pourer, $15 (2 Pack), Amazon
Silicone takes on a handy new role in this wine stopper and pourer combo that will give you a totally drip-free store and pour. It may look like a tiny part from a nuclear reactor, but in fact, it's a seamless piece of the highest grade, food-quality, BPA-free silicone. Simply slip it over your bottle of wine, then push the spout down and you've created a spill-proof seal to keep any leftover wine contained. It's perfect for travel, too: It also keeps pests like fruit flies from taking a dip in your priceless varietals.
16. This Bag Keeps Dirty Shoes Separate From The Rest Of Your Luggage
bago Travel Shoes Bag, $15, Amazon
Keep dusty or dirty shoes together and separate from the rest of the clothes and items in your luggage with this travel shoe bag. Made from high-quality rip-stop fabric, this bag is durable and lightweight, and features a center divider plus two removable dividers. With all the dividers in place, the bag will fit four adult shoes or eight small kids' shoes — simply place a pair in each space. Take the dividers out, and the bag compacts down for easy storage.
17. A Gel That Puts The Power Of Real Fruit Acids To Work In Exfoliating Your Skin
SKINFOOD Pineapple Peeling Gel, $12, Amazon
Real fruit enzymes are an active ingredient in this facial exfoliator — just apply an ample amount to your clean, dry face, and the pineapple enzymes get to work. They soften your skin, reduce inflammation, and draw out impurities. Massage your skin gently and an exfoliating action will slough off the sebum and dead cells, leaving your skin fresh and renewed, then rinse with warm water and you're left with a brightened complexion. "Amazeballs," writes one reviewer.
18. The Massager That Provides Relief In So Many Configurations
Zyllion Convertible Shiatsu Massager, $50, Amazon
When neck, shoulder, or backaches strike, you'll do just about anything to get relief, and this shiatsu massager is all in. The pillow features textured silicone nodes that emulate a massage with human hands, providing customized relief with three speeds in varying directions. Go even deeper by choosing to add the extra soothing heat feature to your massage. Use the pillow alone, or attach the included strap to gain leverage and add additional pressure — and it can also be used to mount the pillow to your favorite chair. It's also great for targeting sore muscles in your thighs, calves, and arms, too.
19. This Three-In-One Hair Styling Tool Gives You All The Looks
Berta Styling Tool, $25, Amazon
Consolidate the styling tools in your hair arsenal with this versatile professional design that provides three-in-one functionality. It's a curling iron, a heated brush, and a flat iron all in one — and best of all, you can switch between these three modes with the click of a button. The straightener features professional ionic ceramic plates to make hair shiny and smooth, while the exterior of the barrel is surrounded by cool touch ionic bristles to prevent scalding and burning. It comes with a dual adapter for international travel, too — and it's great for adding volume at the roots of the hair.
20. This Mask Combines Charcoal And Oxygen To Purify Your Complexion
COS.W Charcoal O2 Bubble Mask, $15 (10 Pack), Amazon
Masking is basically a national pastime at this point, and this genius sheet-style version uses two smart ingredients — oxygen and charcoal — to bring you radiance and rejuvenation. The activated charcoal provides stimulation to your complexion to enhance circulation while gently exfoliating to remove dead cells and impurities; meanwhile, the effervescent bubbles of oxygenation lift out oil and dirt, allowing pores to tighten without drying them out.
21. This Hand Exerciser Improves Your Extension And Grip Strength
ZenStrength Hand Exerciser, $10, Amazon
Perfect for musicians, athletes, and those who want to improve their hand strength, this versatile therapy device can help you improve both grip strength as well as extension. Pliable and durable, this round accessory features a ball-shaped middle surrounded by a skirt with eight finger holes. Simply thread your fingers and thumb through the holes and squeeze the ball for a grip strength exercise, or stretch the circle out and resist your fingers against the stretchy plastic for an extension exercise. It's great for stress relief, too.
22. This Handy Accessory Makes All Your Masks More Potent
Daiso Reuable Silicone Mask Cover, $6, Amazon
The wonders of silicone come into play yet again, this time in the beauty department — because this ingenious accessory makes all your masks work even better. Simply apply your sheet mask, then put this mask cover on over the top — it's made with handy ear loops so that it keeps everything on your face, allowing you to walk around while using a slippery mask. The silicone also delivers an insulating effect, delivering the maximum amount of benefits to your skin.
23. These Eye Savers Help You Look Like A Million Dollars — With 24 Karat Gold
LA PURE 24K Gold Eye Treatment Mask, $20 (15 Pairs), Amazon
A few under eye treatments with these super luxe gold masks, and you'll be feeling bright eyed and bushy tailed like never before. The secret ingredient here is 24 karat gold, which is used to expel harmful toxins, significantly hydrate your skin, increase blood circulation, and improve cellular metabolism in your under eye area to reduce puffiness. These masks also include collagen and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and brighten.
24. The Stickers That Will Keep You Upright In The Tub And Are Anti-Bacterial
SlipRx USA Non-Slip Stickers, $10 (12 Pack), Amazon
Strong and environmentally friendly, these stickers are a sensible solution to slip hazards in the bath — and since they're clear, they won't interfere with your existing decor. The BPA-, formaldehyde-, and phthalate-free material is mold- and bacteria-resistant and specifically designed to prevent unnecessary slips and falls. The peel and stick adhesive ensures quick and easy installation on any clean surface, and one set provides adequate coverage to any standard-size bathtub.
25. This Aluminum-Free Deodorant Spray That Kills Bacteria With Crystals
Thai Deodorant Stone Crystal Mist, $12 (2 Pack), Amazon
More and more consumers are shying a way from aluminum based deodorants and antiperspirants and that's where this aluminum-free deodorant spray comes in. With no added chemicals, this 100 percent natural spray gets uses crystallized mineral salts to kill unwanted bacteria. It's fragrance-free and non-staining, too.
26. This Two-In-One Eyeliner Grows Your Lashes, Too
Hairgenics Lavish Liner, $25, Amazon
Stop lining your lashes with plain liner to amplify them and treat them with this nourishing liner — it features Hairgenics' special growth serum plus castor oil to make your lashes lush and appear fuller. The ultra-precise brush tip eyeliner pen will create any look for you with the long-lasting liquid liner that stays put until you choose. Plus, with daily use over time, the botanical eyelash serum, biotin, and castor oil incorporated into the liner can naturally boost the length and thickness of not only your eyelashes, but your brows, too.
27. This Foam Is A Game-Changer For Those With Sensitive Eyes
OcuSoft Lid Scrub, $20, Amazon
Your sensitive eyes and a love for makeup don't always mix, but this lid cleanser eases the struggle. Great for contact lens wearers, those with seasonal allergies, and anyone with eye diseases, too, OcuSoft provides a gentle, thorough clean that removes all the makeup, dirt, debris, and allergens from your lids without causing tears or irritation. This device dispenses pre-lathered foam, so there's no need to scrub your eyes to get them clean — simply apply and gently wipe off.
28. This Serum Restores Lush, Healthy-Looking Hair — The Natural Way
Pureauty Naturals Biotin Hair Serum, $17, Amazon
Thinning hair can be a thing of the past — naturally — with this biotin hair serum from Pureauty Naturals. Part of the complex B vitamins, biotin has long been linked to increased hair health. In this formulation, it's combined with D-Panthenol, pea sprout extract, and other active ingredients and nutrient to provide a follicle boosting effect that can assist in the retention and growth of natural, healthy-looking hair.
29. This Device Gives You A Great Back Stretch Wherever You Need It
Bodyease Back Stretcher, $28, Amazon
This stretcher is designed to relieve back pressure whether you're at home, in the office, or in your car. Lay on it on the floor or attach it to your office chair or car seat with the included Velcro strap — it's incredibly versatile — plus, the ergonomic design of this device includes a multi-level arch with three adjustable settings so you'll be able to customize your stretch. It's great preventive and corrective care for your lumbar spine and your posture, too. And remember, for serious back injuries or ongoing pain, be sure to check with your doctor.
30. This Is The Screwdriver To End All Screwdrivers
Apollo Tools 8-In-1 Screwdriver, $13, Amazon
No home is complete without this versatile tool, whether you live in a mansion or a small apartment. It includes the eight most needed screwdriver tips — including both Phillips and slotted heads — as well as a work light so you can see what you're doing. Its small, compact size makes it a great choice for your residential toolbox as well as your glove compartment, RV, tackle box, and anywhere a screwdriver could come in handy.
31. These Super Laces Mean You Never Have To Tie Your Shoes Again
Xpand No Tie Shoelace System, $10, Amazon
Kickstarter patrons loved this ingenious lacing system so much they funded it to the tune of $1.25 million: and with backing like that, you know it has to be pretty snappy. The zero memory flat elastic shoelaces are designed to look just like regular shoelaces, and work with the lace anchors to secure them in place — and it even has lace end clips to give them a finished look when mounting. Once you install (don't worry, they come with instructions) and adjust the tension to your liking, your shoes are slip-ons and you're out the door.
Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle's editorial and sales departments.