Life
40 Unexpected Products On Amazon Reviewers Are Seriously Impressed By
A hair mask that comes in a mayo bottle, a pillow that makes you look like you're ready for space travel, and a blanket that actually helps fight insomnia — these are just a few of the totally weird, unexpected products that are blowing up on Amazon right now as we speak.
Amazon has always been a veritable gold mine of ridiculous deals you can't find anywhere else, but it wasn't until I actually started writing about the most popular stuff on the site that I realized just how wacky some of it gets. For example, you might not think there's a market for eye patches made out of snail slime or magnetic twist ties, but you'd be wrong. It's there, and reviewers swear by them both. In fact, the love dished out for these bizarre products reaches the kind of fever-pitch levels that most people would probably only reserve for their favorite sports teams. It's that dedicated.
Some of the items featured here, like a cutting board and a reusable lint roller, aren't so much strange as they are strangely unique in the reverence they've inspired in fans. (Who'd have thought a flexible cutting board could generate pages upon pages of unanimous praise?) So get ready to jump aboard the hype train and scroll through this gallery to experience firsthand just what all the buzz is about.
2. This Weird AF Travel Pillow That's Amazing When You Need To Catch Some ZZZs
Ostrich Pillow, $45, Amazon
Lightweight, reversible, and undeniably weird looking, this travel pillow is one of those items with a major cult-like following for a reason: It rules. Designed to block out light while providing unbeatable neck support, it can be an essential option to pack along when you're embarking on long trips. Because this cotton pillow is adjustable, you can pull it over your eyes and still get great support, or you can pull it down if you'd prefer more neck support. Best of all, you don't have to worry about stuffing it into an already packed carry-on when you no longer need it: just pull it down and wear it as a scarf!
3. A Pack Of Eye Patches Infused With Snail Slime That Are Actually Great For Your Skin
Petitfee Gold and Snail Eye Patches, $13 (60 Pieces), Amazon
They might seem unusual, but trust me, these eye patches from Petitfee are going to blow your mind. Formulated with gold and snail slime extract, these actually do a tremendous job of tightening up skin, especially near the sensitive areas around the eyes. To use, just clean your skin and apply a toner, then leave the patches on for 20 to 30 minutes before removing. The solution penetrates skin rapidly, to the point where you should see results within a week of regular use.
4. A Pretty And Totally Retractable Lint Roller That You Can Take Anywhere
Flint Reusable Lint Roller, $10, Amazon
There's really no downside to having this reusable lint roller around. In fact, this retractable and totally stylish-looking item is so practical and affordable that it'd be wrong not to have one. It's made from eco-friendly materials and Japanese paper, and is perfect for transporting in a purse or backpack because it rolls up just like a tube of lipstick. From lint to stubborn pet hair, this lint roller makes quick work of all of it, and it comes in a ton of cool colors, so you can accessorize based on your preferences.
5.This Weighted Blanket That Reviewers Say Can Help Reduce Anxiety And Insomnia
Zonli Weighted Blanket, $120, Amazon
More than 400 reviewers on Amazon say that this weighted blanket is a must-have, especially if you're struggling with insomnia and anxiety— and are looking for an all-natural solution. Filled with non-toxic pellets that distribute weight evenly across your entire body, this cotton blanket is soft to the touch and designed to help you release stress, nervousness, and fall asleep faster. The sizing guide is very specific, but you should aim to get a blanket that's only 10 percent of your total body weight. One reviewer described it as feeling like a "gentle hug" and another wrote, "When it arrived, I was slightly nervous that it might not live up to the hype. Happily, I was wrong, and it is AMAZING. The instant we pulled the blanket over us, the feeling of relaxation was immediately apparent." Another reason this is a great investment? It's easy to maintain, machine-washable, and can pair nicely with your favorite duvet.
6. A Flexible Cutting Board That Won't Dull Or Damage Knives, Ever
Kitchen Gizmo Cutting Board, $15, Amazon
With this cutting board, you can get into the right groove and make short work of your meal-time prep. It's made using TPU, a combination of silicone and hard plastic that makes it super dense and durable, but still flexible enough that you can pour your veggies or proteins straight into a pot or bowl. Unlike wooden options that breed live bacteria and can't be cleaned easily, this board is antibacterial and simple to clean with soap and water. Best of all, knives won't get duller going over the material like they can with other boards.
7. This Shampoo Brush That'll Massage Your Scalp And Help Get Rid Of Dandruff Flakes
Vitagoods Shampoo Brush, $16, Amazon
Chances are if you've had a scalp massage during a spa treatment or trip to the salon, it's pretty much your favorite thing ever. Well, with this shampoo brush, you can experience that very sensation right at home whenever you want. This battery-powered massager is safe to use in the water and runs at two speeds, and the bristles themselves are different sizes, which takes the massage one step further. Beyond feeling amazing, a scalp massage can also help eliminate dandruff by redistributing the natural oils of your hair, so it's a great pick up for anyone with naturally dry hair.
8. These Magnetic Twist Ties That Are Good For Doing Pretty Much Everything (Seriously)
TwistieMag Twist Ties, $20 (10 Pack), Amazon
Think of all the occasions in life where stray cords have gotten in the way, or you've gone to reach for a handful of chips only to find that they're all stale because they were sealed improperly. Now think of how much easier things are going to be with this pack of magnetic twist ties around. Unlike traditional clips or twist ties, these look cool, they're durable, and they're heavy-duty enough to wrap around everything from gear rig cables to chargers. Made from silicone with incredibly strong embedded magnets, these ties are scary strong and can also be a great organizational tool if you're looking to tidy up around your place.
9. An Herbal Steam That'll Make You Feel Like Springing Into Action
FIG+YARROW Herbal Steam, $31 (4 Pack), Amazon
For a deep pore cleanse that'll leave your skin feeling softer and more radiant than ever, you'll definitely want to try this herbal steam sampler pack. It comes with a small pack of herbs aligned with the season: The botanical herbs for spring purify skin, while summer delivers a vital dose of hydration. In autumn, the herbs not only nourish skin, but can help promote calm and clarity. The woodsy, inviting blend of herbs found in the winter pack have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce the look of pores. To use, just place a handful of the herbs in some boiled water, let cool a bit, then cover your head with a towel and hang out over the bowl, breathing in the flowery goodness.
10. An Innovative Kitchen Utensil That's Like Having Four Tools In One
TNK Brand Barracuda, $13, Amazon
Whether you're scooping up some spaghetti, trying to scrape an egg in a pan, or just adding a little sauce to your bowl, this multi-functional tool can do it all. The Barracuda, a.k.a your new favorite kitchen helper, is made from stainless steel, is heat-resistant up to 460-degrees Fahrenheit, and comes with rubber padded handles that deliver better grip and keep your hands safe while you're cooking.
11. A Mini Tripod That's Designed To Fit Almost Any Smartphone
KobraTech Mini Tripod Stand, $14, Amazon
Get ready to capture the shot of a lifetime with this miniature tripod, which comes with a GoPro adapter mount and a Bluetooth remote shutter. It's compatible with most smartphones, including the iPhone X, and is sturdy enough that it can even wrap around a tree, lamp, chair, or other hard surface with just a little maneuvering. Stay in the moment, regardless of where you are or what kind of surface you're working from, with this flexible tripod within reach.
12. This Ice Cube Mold For When You Want A Perfect Sphere Shape For Your Drinks
Tovolo Sphere Clear Ice System, $25 (Set of 4), Amazon
In most cases, the perfect cocktail isn't complete until you add ice, and with this ice cube mold, you can finally wrap up your recipe. Good for making four ice cubes at a time, this mold creates an insulated system that pushes oxygen to the bottom, leaving you with four incredibly clear ice spheres. For cocktails, these spheres won't dilute your favorite spirits and come out to be about 2.5-inches, so they're pretty hard not to notice.
13. This Little Alien Dude Diffuser From The Planet Good Vibes That'll Help You Chill The F Out
JoySusie Mini Aroma Diffuser, $13, Amazon
Portable, USB-powered, and cute as heck, this little diffuser is a must-have if you're in the market for one that you can take with you on the car, into work, or anywhere else you're traveling. It looks like an alien and delivers ultrasonic cooling mist that's out of this world, especially when paired with lavender oil or your other favorite essential oil. Just fill the 120-milliliter tank with water, add oil, and seal up your alien buddy when you're done. This can also function as a mini humidifier and prevents dry skin, chapped lips, and dry sinuses.
14. A Set Of No-Tie Shoelaces To Keep You From Stumbling
Lock Laces, $15 (2 Pack), Amazon
Tired of annoying shoelaces always coming undone and getting in the way? With these no-tie elastic bands, you can actually keep your laces from becoming a mess and lock them totally in place. Ideal for seniors, athletes, and those who just hate tying their laces, these elastic bands adjust to the shape of your foot so you'll feel like you're getting a custom fit. They're also easy to install in your favorite shoes and add compression, which takes pressure away from sensitive or aching feet.
15. This Heavy-Duty Scrubber That Lasts Four Times Longer Than An Ordinary Sponge Or Scrubbing Pad
Klean Scrub, $13, Amazon
When tough, set-in stains threaten to make washing dishes even less fun, this non-scratch scrubber is here to the rescue. Made with natural polyester fibers that are safe to use on pots and pans, this won't cause scratches. This large scrubber is made to be breathable and easy to sanitize using hot water, which means mildew, bacteria, and odors don't stand a chance. Although traditional sponges and scrubbers can tear easily and start to smell rank over time, this scrub is actually amazingly resilient and lasts up to four times longer than traditional options.
16. An Herbal Drink Mix That Naturally Promotes Increased Cognitive Performance
Four Sigmatic Lion's Mane Mushroom Elixir, $29 (20 Pack), Amazon
This certified organic mushroom elixir has a dedicated following on Amazon because it's a great alternative to coffee and other caffeinated substances. Linked to enhanced cognitive performance, this blend is associated with improved brain and nervous system function and is completely free of wheat, sugar, caffeine, and soy. Instead, each of the 20 packets included in this box has 1,500-milligrams of Lion's Mane, which can calm the body by lowering cortisol levels. Reviewers say it tastes yummy too, thanks to its mix of star anise and mint.
17. A Brush That's Ideal For Blending, Contouring, And Defining Your Lips
Docolor Retractable Lip Brush, $9, Amazon
Blending your favorite lip shades won't be a chore anymore with this professional-quality lip brush, which is terrific for everything from blending to contouring to defining lips. It has soft, synthetic bristles and it comes with a cover, so the bristles stay protected no matter what. You can slip this in your bag and pull it out whenever you need a quick application or touch up, and because the bristles don't shed, you won't need to replace this anytime soon.
18. This Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo That'll Have A Vivifying Effect On Your Scalp
Briogeo Charcoal and Coconut Oil Shampoo, $42, Amazon
If you have dandruff and you're sick of brushing flakes away from your shoulders and clothes, you need to try this exfoliating shampoo. Made with charcoal and coconut oil, this blend works to detoxify and remove buildup that leads to dandruff. It delivers an incredible shot of hydration to the scalp, which helps prevent further flakiness and dryness, and has a soothing impact on itchy, irritated scalps. After you're through with this, you'll never want to settle for lesser drugstore substitutes again.
19. An Ultra-Thin, Flexible Flashlight That You Can Contort To Project Light Everywhere
Striker Concepts FLEXiT 2.0 Flashlight, $25, Amazon
Upgrade your flashlight game and fill out your emergency preparedness kit in one fell swoop by grabbing this flexible flashlight. This innovative and unique flashlight is magnetic and can bend so that it fits wherever you need it to go. Fixing a leaky faucet and need to shine a light? This versatile option is a go-to. Want to read a few more pages but don't want to wake up anyone? Grab this and you're good to go. It emits a powerful 200 lumens of light and comes with four settings, so you can adjust as needed and go hands-free when you prefer.
20. This All-Weather Stash Box For When You Need To Store An Extra Set Of Keys
Monster Magnetics Mini Stash Box, $19, Amazon
Need to hide a key or similar valuables? This magnetic stash box is an excellent place to store your stuff because it keeps them protected but out of reach. Equipped with a watertight magnetic container, this can stay securely in place on any magnetic surface, including under your car. Reviewers say it can withstand even the roughest and coldest weather conditions, and is resistant to water and rust damage. This even comes with a helpful guide about where and how to stash the box under your car, if you're not sure where to do it.
21. A Foot Balm That Helps Prevent Blisters From Forming
Body Glide Anti-Blister Foot Balm, $8, Amazon
If you apply this anti-blister balm before you slip into a new pair of heels or a pair of boots you just haven't broken in fully yet, chances are you'll be amazed by what you see at the end of the day: toes, heels, and ankles free of blisters. Infused with vitamins A and C, the balm glides on smooth and softens skin. At the same time, the vitamins help restore hydration to dry, chapped, and sore feet, while also minimizing the risk of inflammation. This allergen-free blend, which is also completely vegan, is ideal for daily use and also keeps pores from clogging up, so skin still gets a chance to breathe.
22. This Bag Hook That Keeps Purses And Water Bottles Off The Ground And Within Reach
Lulabop Heroclip Bag Hook, $20, Amazon
If you find yourself wishing constantly that you an extra set of hands, especially in order to balance your purse and everything else, then this collapsible S-shaped carabiner is just for you. It's made from solid aluminum and can attach to everything from a stroller to the side of a table and any other durable surface. Once hung, this hook can detach and hold a purse, bag, backpack, or other carrying accessory up to about 50 pounds.
23. An Eco-Friendly Body Wash Made From Wild Soapberries And Works On All Skin Types
Tree to Tub Soapberry Body Wash, $20, Amazon
Soapberries can have a harmonizing effect on skin, helping to clean and freshen up even the most sensitive and oily skin without disrupting the natural balance of skin. That's one of the big reasons why this organic body wash from Tree to Tub is such a pleasure to use. The refreshing smell of peppermint opens way of opening up your senses before the soap even hits the skin, while this naturally anti-fungal and antibacterial wash does the rest. It's completely free of animal products and chemicals, while the blend itself is hypoallergenic, making it gentle enough to even use on babies.
24. This Foot Rest For When You Want To Take In-Flight Relaxation To The Next Level
Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest, $20, Amazon
Travel in comfort and get amazing support in the process using this airplane footrest, which works like a hammock experience for your legs. They'll sway with the motion of the plane, but using this can help reduce lower back pain, stiffness, and leg swelling associated with long flights. To use, just hang it from the arms of the tray table and place your feet in it. You don't have to keep the tray table down, and the straps are adjustable, so you get settle in and get cozy.
25. A Shaving Tool That You Can Use To Target All Those Hard-To-Reach Areas
BaKblade 1.0 Body Shaver, $25, Amazon
Hair grows all over the place, and if you feel like removing it, you may struggle with standard razors that just aren't equipped to hit every spot. When you're in a bind, this back shaver is the tool to call in, especially to get rid of unwanted hairs in hard-to-reach zones. It comes with safety blades that you can use on wet or dry skin and it won't knick your flesh. The handle is also completely adjustable, so you can position it to nail every spot flawlessly. "I didn’t expect this thing to be this awesome, even though I read all the great reviews," one reviewer revealed. "It works and works great. This thing did exactly what it says it will do and I was amazed at how non-irritating it was to my back."
26. A Lighted Vanity Mirror For An Up Close And Personal View
RICHEN DeWEISN Vanity Mirror, $27, Amazon
When you're ready to seriously pamper yourself, you'll definitely enjoy having this exquisite vanity mirror on your tabletop. It comes with 21 built-in LED lights, which you can adjust through a touch sensor switch to get the perfect glow. Powered via batteries or USB cable, this trifold mirror is versatile and swivels 180-degrees, so you can always get the view you need. Whether you're tweezing, applying eyeliner, or grooming your brows, the magnification delivered through this mirror can ensure you never miss a spot.
27. This Stylish String Bag That Makes It Easy To Be An Eco-Conscious Shopper
NetNeed Cotton String Bag, $9, Amazon
You'll be able to ditch the plastic shopping bags when you're at the market with this practical but also fashionable cotton string bag. Large enough to fit all kinds of vegetables and fruit, this is one spacious bag to have on hand. Since it's naturally lightweight and foldable, it's easy to store and carry around.
28. These Cork-Based Yoga Blocks That Can Help You Strike A Pose
InnerQi Cork Yoga Blocks, $33 (2 Pack), Amazon
On the surface, you might mistake this set of yoga blocks for nothing special, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. Reviewers of this exercise prop say they're a great alternative to rubber blocks and can help enhance anyone's yoga practice. Made from renewable cork with a natural cotton drawstring bag, these blocks work well for beginners and more advanced practitioners. "Really happy with these blocks," one reviewer noted. "My yoga instructor requests that no one use the rubber type blocks because they are more likely to slip, so I bought these."
29. A Set Of Silicone Mats That'll Keep Hot Tools From Burning Surfaces
Safe Grabs Silicone Mats, $27 (Set of 2), Amazon
There are all kinds of uses for these silicone mats from Safe Grabs, which means you're getting plenty of value for your investment. If you use hot styling tools like curlers or straighteners, slipping one of these on the surface of your countertop before you set the styler down can protect it from heat damage. They also work as a splatter guard in the microwave, and can be a safe pad to use when touching hot handles and lids.
30. These Rollers When You're Looking For A Heat-Free Option To Curl Your Hair
Aimin Hair Rollers, $18 (Set of 30), Amazon
Heat can wreak havoc on your hair, which is one of the nice reasons why hair rollers are a solid alternative if you want to add body and curl to your hair but don't want to pay for it with heat damage. These super-soft rollers suit all hair types and work while you sleep, so all you need to do is roll up strands individually and play around with the tightness to get the exact bounce you want. To keep your rollers in place, reviewers recommend you wear a cap as you sleep or a towel.
31. A Weight For Your Wrists Or Ankles For When You Want To Work Up An Extra Sweat
SHOUNg Reflective Ankle/Wrist Weights, $16, Amazon
Whether you're exercising indoors or outside, this set of weights can help take your workout to a better place. Ideal for runners, each of these .5-pound weights can help you get an all-over workout. You can fix these on your wrists or ankles, and the bands have a reflective line that glows in the dark so they're ideal for evening runs. Made from soft and breathable material, these won't irritate soft skin, but instead provide just the extra weight you need to enhance your routine. They're also adjustable, so they can fit most wrist and ankle types.
32. The Running Shorts That Are Surprisingly Comfortable
Starter Stretch Run Shorts (XS-XL), $20, Amazon
If you're making the effort to get out there and run more, these stretch shorts are the perfect accessory to make you actually want to do it. They're made with a smooth, stretchy fabric, but have a liner that will keep you dry and added mesh side panels to keep you cool. There's a reflective logo to maintain more visibility on the road, and one reviewer writes: "Super comfortable! Would highly recommend!"
33. A Shower Filter That Removes Impurities And Helps Protect Skin And Hair
AquaHomeGroup Shower Filter, $38, Amazon
You might not spend a lot of time thinking about your water quality, but the truth is, if you're showering with water that's filled with harsh impurities, it can impact a lot. From breakouts to hair breakage, bad water can cause a lot of skin and hair issues — luckily, this shower filter has an almost perfect five-star rating on Amazon and removes heavy metals, bacteria, and other elements that reduce the quality of your water. Compatible with most shower heads, it won't reduce water pressure in any way, making it a terrific investment for your house.
34. A Korean Skin Cream That Nourishes Skin Overnight With Roses
Skin and Lab Red Cream, $36, Amazon
Treat your skin to the kind of beauty experience that you'll never forget with this night cream. Made with Damascan roses, the stem cells in this Korean skincare product have a revitalizing impact on skin, helping to firm up loose areas and keep things glowy. Infused with açai berries and other skin nourishing ingredients, this cream can hydrate even the driest skin, leaving your complexion looking healthier with each use.
35. This Plug-In Air Purifier That Neutralizes Bad Odors And Promotes Better Health
Plixio Plug-In Air Purifier and Ozone Generator, $40, Amazon
Alleviate the symptoms of asthma and allergies using this two-in-one plug-in, which functions as an air purifier and ozone generator. Designed to be sleek and compact, it's incredibly portable and the small size makes it a good fit for bathrooms, offices, closets, or any other space with limited airflow. The purifier neutralizes and eliminates airborne bacteria while the ozone generator — which doesn't require a filter — helps make the air quality even better. It operates at a whisper-quiet level and is also energy efficient compared to comparable models, so it's an excellent addition to any home.
36. These Body Wipes That Are Great For Athletes On-The-Go
ShowerPill Athletic Body Wipes, $10 (10 per pack), Amazon
Get rid of sweat, dirt, and grime that builds up after a big workout using these athletic body wipes. Each pack comes with 10 wipes, and each one is like having a little shower you can take with you when you're on-the-go. Hypoallergenic and formulated with cooling aloe vera and vitamin E, they're completely alcohol- and paraben-free, and are scientifically proven to eliminate up to 99.99 percent of all germs, including ringworm and staph.
37. An All-Natural Blend Of Essential Oils That Can Help You Drift Off To A Better Night's Rest
Seven Minerals All-Natural Sleeping Aid, $20, Amazon
Having trouble falling asleep? If so, this unique spray could help put your late nights tossing and turning to bed. It features a blend of essential oils known to promote rest and relaxation, including lavender, sweet marjoram, cedarwood, and clary sage. Just spray a little of this mixture on your pillowcases, your chest, or your feet. This blend works slowly, but is ideal if you're looking for a chemical-free alternative to help get to sleep.
38. A Kit For Growing Up To Five Different Types Of Vegetables
Nature's Blossom Exotic Vegetables Growing Kit, $25, Amazon
Fun for children and adults alike, this at-home vegetable growing kit is a great introduction to gardening. You'll get everything you need in this box, including seeds for five distinctive and delicious vegetables, including yellow cucumbers, purple carrots, black corns, rainbow swiss chards, and romanesco broccoli. In addition, it comes with five planters, soil discs, plant markers, and a helpful guide to give you pointers as you start your path toward discovering your inner green thumb.
39. This Creative Solution To Keeping Yourself On A Strict Timetable
The Miracle TimeCube Timer, $19, Amazon
With over 1,000 positive reviews on Amazon, this innovative timer is one of the most creative products you can buy if you're looking to keep time during activities. You can set the number side of this cube up for the time of your choice, with time intervals going up to 15-minutes. It comes with a digital timer at the bottom, which shows the countdown, and is powered by batteries so it's easy to maintain. Whether you're working out, cooking, or playing a game, this cube can ensure time is always on your side.
40. A Set Of At-Home Massage Blocks That Can Help Relieve Aches And Pains
Massage Blocks The Block Pro Set, $42 (Set of 3), Amazon
Designed to relax muscles, this set of three massage blocks is ideal if you're exploring trigger point therapy and joint mobilization. With each set, you get a small, medium, and large block, which provide a stable platform to help soothe aching muscles. Additionally, if you're struggling with repetitive strain injuries between typing, you can use these blocks to reduce discomfort by placing your wrist on one and massaging from there.
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