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45 Weird But Genius Things On Amazon That Makes Your Gross Stuff Way More Hygienic
I'm a neat freak who works from home. If my apartment is dirty, dusty, or has that subtle I'm-fostering-a-cat smell, I'm pretty much incapable of focusing on anything else. That being said, my writing deadlines won't wait for a full-on cleaning binge. Good thing the internet is loaded with weird but genius things that make your stuff way more hygienic.
Granted, I'm not the type of person who reapplies hand sanitizer in two-minute intervals, but I can definitely appreciate a little help when it comes to germ control. In my experience, that all comes down to getting the right cleaning products made from the right materials. While some items and fabrics cling to bacteria like a porous public doorknob, others are naturally resistant to it or capable of zapping all that gross stuff away in seconds.
Whether you're looking for odor- and crumb-control in the kitchen or ways to get your toilet and shower way cleaner, one site has you covered: Amazon has hygiene products with a cult following or lesser-known items for the germaphobe all in one place. The best news? You don't even need to touch that nasty cart handle at the grocery store, because everything you need gets delivered straight to your door.
2. An Awesome Phone Gadget That Sanitizes While It Charges
PhoneSoap 3.0, $60, Amazon
A charger and a sanitizer in one, the PhoneSoap 3.0 uses a proven UV-C light to zap away 99.99 percent of bacteria on the surface of your touchscreen. It fits and charges almost any phone universally, and it comes in several chic colors. It takes only a few minutes to rid the phone of bacteria, but you can leave it charging overnight. One reviewer writes: "This works very nicely. It is easy to use and gives me peace of mind for the germs."
3. This Screen Cleaner Made From Safe, Plant-Based Ingredients
Screen Mom Natural Screen Cleaner, $13, Amazon
Even though it's plant-based with no odor, alcohol, ammonia, or harmful phosphates, Screen Mom screen cleaner gets rid of grime and smears on your devices. It works on tablets, phones, laptops, and even glasses, and it comes with two travel-friendly spray bottles and two microfiber cloths. "Best screen cleaner," one reviewer says. "Now, when I say clean, I mean the 'I just got it out if the box and haven't even touched it' clean."
4. This Special Towel That Cleans Stainless Steel Using Only Water
Nano Towels Stainless Steel, $15, Amazon
Stainless steel can be extremely stubborn when it comes to smudges, germs, and fingerprints, but reviewers swear this Nano towel works wonders using only water. It has two unique weaves of their proprietary Nanolon fiber which effectively cleans any metal without scratching — and the soft side polishes it when you're done. Most importantly, you can ditch all those hard-to-breathe chemical sprays. It's also completely safe to use on glass surfaces.
5. This Toilet Gadget That Sterilizes, Releases A Lemon Aroma, And Lights Your Way
GLAWEE Toilet Sterilizing Night Light, $12, Amazon
It has a built-in UV sterilizing light, it releases a pleasant lemon aroma, and it automatically lights up when you use the toilet at night. No wonder this GLAWEE sterilizing light is reviewed so highly. It even filters through over 16 colors, and you can adjust the brightness. "Very useful for late night trips to bathroom, when you don't want to turn on a light," one reviewer comments. It lights up to three meters away, and it's completely waterproof.
6. This UV-C Sanitizer Zaps Away Germs, Odors, And Airborne Spores
GermGuardian Pluggable UV-C Sanitizer, $36, Amazon
Plug the GermGuardian into any kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom outlet for cleaner, fresher air. Using UV-C light technology, it attacks microscopic airborne bacteria, viruses, and mold spores, and it even zaps odors caused by pets, smoke, moisture, or trash. It runs on one fan speed and doesn't require additional filters to work. Reviewers say it works great — and completely rid their home of odors from things like bathroom smells and litter boxes.
7. This Antibacterial Shoe Deodorizing Spray Made From Real Essential Oils
Lumi Outdoors Natural Shoe Deodorizer Spray, $13, Amazon
Made with real essential oils like peppermint and tea tree that contain natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, Lumi Outdoors shoe spray gets rid of unwanted odors and fungi in any pair. It's even safe enough to use on your yoga mat, garbage can, or smelly room, and reviewers say, "within minutes, [their] shoes smell better," and the "smell has not returned yet," even two weeks later. It also contains apple cider vinegar, which is a natural deodorant, and witch hazel, which can even reduce inflammation.
8. These Safe Charcoal Air Fresheners That You Can Use In Any Room For Any Smell
RejuvenAir Charcoal Air Fresheners, $27 (5 Pack), Amazon
"I was a little skeptical when I purchased these," says one reviewer about these RejuvenAir air fresheners. "However...The smell of litter and other cat nasties is completely gone. We also put this in the fridge and our cars and it has completely neutralized all smells." The secret is the extremely absorbent activated charcoal inside, which soaks up smells and moisture without putting toxins into the air. They're also reusable for years and come in varying sizes for use in your trunks, shoes, closets, kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
9. This Quality Washable Yoga Towel That Absorbs Sweat And Germs During Your Practice
Seveni Hot Yoga Mat Towel Kit, $20, Amazon
This washable microfiber towel absorbs sweat from your mat and body so you can stay balanced during bikram and hot yoga. Then you can throw it straight in the washing machine so it's clean and hygienic for next time. It stays put with its stretchy design and corner pockets, and it even comes with a free carrying bag and spray bottle. It's great to use when you're renting a yoga mat, and reviewers say it doubles as a fantastic travel blanket.
10. This Versatile Tool That Makes Cleaning The Bathroom Super Easy
OXO Good Grips Extendable Tub and Tile Scrubber, $13, Amazon
This OXO Good Grips scrubber is awesome for tubs, tiles, glass, and floors. Its unique shape gets into corners while the extendable handle goes from 26 inches to 42 with a quick twist. The head is antimicrobial and abrasive enough to scour grime and get deep into grout lines without scratching, and reviewers say it makes cleaning the bathroom "quick and easy."
11. This Durable Brush Set Gets Inside Water Bottles And Straws With
BrinBerry Water Bottle Brush Set, $9 (Set of 5), Amazon
Clean every last inch of your bottles and glasses with this BrinBerry set. It comes with a long bottle brush, straw brush, and detail brush for water bottles, narrow necks, sippy cups, and flasks, and it has a detachable ring and swivel hook to keep them all organized. Plus, reviewers say everything is durable, so practical, and really gets the job done.
12. These Oven Liners That Wipe Clean Or Go In The Dishwasher
Grill Magic Non-Stick Oven Liners, $13 (Set of 3), Amazon
Reduce spills, stuck-on food, and cleaning time with these non-stick oven liners. They protect the bottoms of gas or electric stoves with their durable, heat-resistant, and FDA-approved material. When food drips between the grates, you can simply wipe it away with a wet rag, or you can throw them in the dishwasher so you can reuse them.
13. This Enzyme Deodorizing Spray For Fabrics That You Can't Wash In The Machine
Otter Wax Fabric Odor Eliminator, $11, Amazon
When pillows, rugs, curtains, coats, or shoes start to smell, but the tag says you can't throw them in the wash, there's Otter fabric odor eliminator. Instead of harmful chemicals, it uses botanical enzymes that eliminate odor-causing bacteria without unwanted smells or discoloration. That way, you can deodorize waxed, oiled, or untreated fabrics both inside and out. Reviewers say it has a light, pleasant peppermint scent.
14. This Cute Little Tool That Keeps Your Refrigerator Smelling Fresh
Chilly Mama Baking Soda Odor Absorber, $14, Amazon
Whether in your freezer or your refrigerator, Chilly Mama eliminates smells for months using its smart design. Simply fill it with baking soda to let smelly food odors flow in and freshness flow out. It's even has an indicator that lets you know when it's time to refill, and it's dishwasher-safe and reusable.
15. This Really Affordable Solution For Clogged Drains
Vastar Drain Snake, $6 (3 Pack), Amazon
This flexible Vastar snake uses its barbed wand to cling onto hair, food, garbage, and other obstructions in your drain. It can be used in any sink or shower to get rid of any clog, and its soft enough to bend around the P-trap where most issues occur. One reviewer wrote, "Cheaper solution than a plumber and worked like a charm," and tons of others agree. It will work in most showers and sinks, and the loop at the end makes it easy to hold and maneuver.
16. These Genius Shelf Liners That Stop Your Produce From Rotting Quickly
Dualplex Fruit and Veggie Life Extender Liner, $9 (4 Pack), Amazon
Hundreds of buyers swear by these Dualplex liners when it comes to keeping fruits and veggies fresher for longer. They allow better air circulation through your produce drawers to slow down oxidation, and you can trim them to fit any shelf. Basically, they'll keep your fridge smelling fresh and save you some serious money on groceries — and they'll also prevent any liquids or crumbs from dirtying up the fridge drawers.
17. This Tool That Keeps Your Razor Blade Sharp, Clean, And Like New For Months
RazorCare Blade Buddy, $16, Amazon
Not only does the Blade Buddy keep your razor sharp to reduce cuts and ingrown hairs, but the patented silicone surface cleans the blade of build-up and germs. It can be used on any razor, whether disposable or permanent, and reviewers say it pays for itself — "over two and a half months, and my blade is still sharp as new." It's a great way to prevent rusty, dirty razors from spreading bacteria, and will save you the money of having to buy new ones right away.
18. These Luxurious Bamboo Bath Towels That Are Resistant To Bacteria And Fungi
Brooklyn Bamboo Bath Towels, $29 (Set of 3), Amazon
Because they're made from premium bamboo, these Brooklyn Bamboo bath towels are way softer and more absorbent than cotton. But for a germaphobe, the real catch is the fact that they're antibacterial and anti-fungal due to the nature of the fabric and how quickly they dry. They're also easy to take care of and super durable: "Still soft after a year of using my first set," one reviewer raves.
19. This Brilliant Solution To Stop Crumbs And Spills From Getting In Between The Stove And Counter
Capparis Silicone Gap Cover, $10 (2 Pack), Amazon
For most people, the gap between your counter and your stove is an abyss filled with crumbs, dirt, and things that could eventually start to smell. This silicone gap cover means you never again have to pull your stove out to clean in there. Its matte surface is heat resistant, dishwasher safe, smudge-proof, and easy to cut to any size. Most importantly, it stays put and keeps anything from getting down there.
20. This Well-Designed Tool Cleans The Hair Out Of Any Brush
Hair Brush Cleaning Tool, $8, Amazon
If it feels like there's more hair in your brush than on your head, this cleaning tool can help. Its double-sided design removes tangled knots and sweeps away residue in almost any brush or comb, and reviewers even use it for velcro hair rollers, lint removal, and the filters on their hair dryers.
21. This Intriguing Egg-Shaped Thing That Sanitizes Your Toothbrush For You
Violife Toothbrush Sanitizer, $40, Amazon
Using a germicidal UV bulb, this Violife sanitizer effectively obliterates disease-causing germs on your toothbrush. Simply insert it, click in the handle, and press the button. After a six-minute cycle, your toothbrush is clean and ready for use. You can even keep it in there, as the Violife doubles as a protective, topple-free holder.
22. This Soap Rest That Keeps Your Favorite Bar Dry, Hygienic, And Residue-Free
Aira Soap Saver, $10, Amazon
When water ends up in your soap dish, you're left with a grimy, mucky mess and a soap bar that's virtually useless. This soap saver is made from an soy- and corn-derived bioplastic that allows water to drain and air to circulate. As a result, your soap stays dry and hygienic, and it lasts way longer, too.
23. This Revolutionary Hair-Catching Drain Snare With Over 12,000 Reviews
Unlike most drain strainers, TubShroom has a unique mushroom shape that reaches into the pipe, catching virtually every hair while allowing water to filter through. It works in most sinks and showers, and it's available in five fun or subtle colors. "I have a family of four and would frequently have to snake our shower drain," says one reviewer. "It appears I won't be having that problem ever again."
24. This Safe And Sanitary Way To Defrost Any Kind Of Meat In Minutes
Magical Defrosting Tray, $28, Amazon
It doesn't use any chemicals or electricity, but somehow this magical defrosting tray thaws food within minutes. It works with chicken breasts, steak, pork chops, lamb chops, and more, and it does so safely and quickly while sitting on your counter. People also say it "cleans up quickly with a little dish soap and running water." It's a safer way of defrosting meat than running it under hot water.
25. These Silicone Scrubbers That Take Care Of Any Job Without Clinging To Bacteria
SigmaGo Food-Grade Silicone Sponges, $16 (Pack of 7), Amazon
People use these SigmaGo sponges to scrub vegetables, wash dishes, and scour away bathtub grime, but because they're made from food-grade silicone, they're non-porous and resistant to bacteria. This means they won't start to smell and collect germs the way your other sponges do, and you can throw them in the dishwasher to sanitize them. They're even heat-resistant up to 500 degrees for use as potholders and coasters, too.
26. This Hands-Free Soap Dispenser Means Fewer Germs In Your Bathroom And Kitchen
OPERNEE Automatic Soap Dispenser, $26, Amazon
With its quality infrared sensor and water-resistant design, this automatic soap dispenser is one of the highest rated ones on Amazon. Its large tank also works with lotions or hand sanitizer, and it even offers four different settings so you can adjust the amount of product you get. Most importantly, the touchless design means fewer germs in your kitchen or bathroom — and on your hands.
27. These Easy-To-Clean Prep Mats That Prevent Cross-Contamination
New Star Cutting Mats, $13 (Set of 6), Amazon
Not only are these New Star cutting mats easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher, but they're color-coded with little symbols to reduce cross-contamination across food groups. Their flexible design makes it easy to transfer things into bowls and pots, and reviewers love that they're durable but thin for easy storage.
28. This Shower Curtain Liner That's Antibacterial And Mildew-Resistant
LiBa Mildew Resistant Shower Curtain Liner, $11, Amazon
Some people use this LiBa curtain liner entirely on its own — that's how strong and reliable it is — but it'll help to prevent the growth of bacteria and mildew alongside any other curtain, too. The non-toxic PEVA material stays clean, clear, and odor-free, the heavy-duty magnets on the bottom cling to your tub, and the metal grommets slide easily and won't rust. No wonder it has over 3,000 great reviews.
29. This Surprisingly Powerful Rechargeable Scrubber With 7 Attachments For Any Job
CUH Cordless Rechargeable Power Scrubber, $36, Amazon
With six different brush attachments and a scouring pad, this CUH cordless power scrubber tackles any household or outdoor job, from tubs and stoves to grills and cars. Best of all, it has a rechargeable battery and waterproof design so you can take it virtually anywhere without hassle. "I love this little machine!" says one reviewer. "My bathroom looks brand new again with very little effort." The power scrubber will help all of your surfaces look brand new, and it could cut your cleaning time in half.
30. This Before-You-Go Spray That Traps All Odors In The Bowl
Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray, $15 (2 Pack), Amazon
Spray Poo-Pourri in the bowl before you go, and no one will ever be able to tell. It works by trapping odors under the surface of the water with its essential oil and natural compound formula. Then, when you flush, the bathroom smells as if nothing ever happened. It's made in the USA, uses only safe ingredients, and reviewers say it "really works." Keep one in your home bathroom for your guests, and throw the other one in your purse.
31. This Brilliant Cleaner Gets Old Stains Out Of Carpets And Furniture
Wine Away Red Wine Stain Remover, $7, Amazon
Whether the stain is fresh or dry, this Wine Away spray removes red wine (as well as coffee, blood, ink, fruit punch, sauces, and pet accidents) from virtually any surface. People have used it on clothes, tablecloths, rugs, and chairs with tons of success, and suddenly, "it was as though it had never happened."
32. This Hands-Free Trash Can That Prevents Odors And Bag Slippage
iTouchless Deodorizer Trash Can, $55, Amazon
Made from smudge-proof and germ-resistant stainless steel, this iTouchless trash can prevents bacteria growth — though you'll barely have to touch it anyway. It uses unique technology to open when you approach, and it stays that way until you leave. It also has a built-in charcoal air purifier to stop smells, a retainer ring to stop the bag from slipping, and an AC adapter option if you'd rather not use batteries.
33. This Versatile Charcoal Air Freshener That You Can Stick Virtually Anywhere
simplehuman Odorsorb Filter Kit, $9, Amazon
The simplehuman Odorsorb kit offers odor control anywhere. The versatile holding case attaches under cabinets, trash can lids, refrigerators, or bathroom counters with double-sided tape, and the natural charcoal interior can be "recharged" in sunlight for reusable, optimal freshness.
34. This Non-Slip Bathtub Mat That Drains Quickly And Won't Grow Mold
Wimaha Mildew-Resistant Bathtub Mat, $14, Amazon
Because it's made from non-slip PVC material and has hundreds of powerful grips, this Wimaha bathtub mat makes your shower a safer place, but it also makes it more hygienic. It's resistant to the growth of mold or mildew, and it has tiny ventilation holes that keep your tub floor drier and more sanitary.
35. This Humidifier With A Built-In Filter For Cleaner, Easier-To-Breathe Air
TaoTronics Cool Mist Humidifier, $68, Amazon
The TaoTronics cool mist humidifier uses precise, adjustable settings to keep humidity levels high enough to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria, but low enough to stop mildew growth. It's also really quiet, offers up to 14 continuous hours of mist, and has multiple settings and a unique rotatable nozzle. It's even has a micro-porous cartridge that filters your water for you.
36. This Totally Non-Toxic Stain Remover That Works Better Than Anything Else
Puracy Natural Laundry Stain Remover, $12, Amazon
Even though it's hypoallergenic, non-toxic, biodegradable, and vegan, reviewers say that this Puracy natural formula is "absolutely amazing" and the "best stain remover [they've] ever used." Plant-based enzymes and minerals dislodge old and new stains, remove odors, and remove residues, so laundry becomes a chemical-free breeze.
37. These Silicone Basting Brushes Are Non-Porous, So They Won't Breed Bacteria
Zicome Silicone Basting Brushes, $8 (Set of 4), Amazon
Made entirely from BPA-free silicone with a steel core inside, these Zicome brushes are durable and really easy to clean. They contain no crevices where oil, eggs, or barbecue sauce can get in, so they're ideal for basting, grilling, and greasing. They're also heat-resistant and won't scratch your cookware.
38. This Tight-Fitting Cover Protects Your Keyboard From Crumbs, Germs, And Spills
Casiii Aser Keyboard Cover, $10, Amazon
Prevent damage, crumbs, spills, and the spread of germs with this Casiii keyboard cover. It fits Acer Chromebooks, comes in multiple colors (including ombre designs), and has a thin and tight fit that allows for optimal tactile response when typing.
39. This Water Bottle That Filters Out Natural And Man-Made Contaminants
Woder Survival Filtering Water Bottle, $20, Amazon
Whether you use it for outdoor activities, travel, emergencies, or home use, this Woder survival bottle filters out 99.99 percent of toxic chemicals, heavy metals, unpleasant tastes, and microbiological threats. Just fill the bottle with water from virtually any source, replace the lid, and drink out of the built-in straw.
40. This Bamboo Bath Mat That's Eco-Friendly, Antibacterial, And Odor-Resistant
Natural Bamboo Bath Mat, $40, Amazon
With its raised design, non-slip bottom, and 100 percent moso bamboo construction, this bamboo bath mat makes your bathroom more luxurious and more sanitary at the same time. Water evaporates quickly due to the nature of the wood and the slotted air circulation, but it's also antibacterial, odor-resistant, and eco-friendly. This mat is also durable enough to last for years.
41. This Silicone Dish Drying Mat That's Way More Hygienic Than Fabric
XL Premium Silicone Dish Drying Mat, $20, Amazon
Rather than a fabric surface that holds onto bacteria and promotes mold growth, this XL dish drying mat is made from a durable silicone that you can wipe clean or put in the dishwasher. Its textured surface allows for draining and evaporation, and it can also be used as a fridge liner, a cupboard liner, a pet mat, or a heat-resistant trivet. It also comes in three colors.
42. These Odor-Free Dishcloths That Won't Absorb Moisture Or Bacteria
LUNATEC Odor-Free Dishcloths, $8 (Set of 4), Amazon
These LUNATEC dishcloths dry in 15 minutes, have a texture that's great for heavy scrubbing without scratching, and are resistant to odors and bacteria growth. That's because they're made from an interesting non-absorbent plastic material that rinses clean with water, and they can be tossed in the dishwasher.
43. This Faucet Attachment Filters All The Gross Stuff Out Of Your Drinking Water
Kabter Faucet Mount Filter System, $24, Amazon
It barely affects the flow rate of your water, Kabter filter system attaches right to your faucet to reduce the levels of sediment, chlorine, mercury, lead, bacteria, mold, and fungi in your water. It uses a non-toxic activated charcoal interior alongside food grade ABS plastic, and people say it's really easy to install.
44. The Water-Based Cleaner That Gets The Gunk Out Of Headphones
Goby Labs Headphone Cleaner, $8, Amazon
Made with eco-friendly ingredients, this water-based natural headphone cleaner safely removes oil and wax buildup from natural and synthetic earbuds and earbud pads — and the ultra-fine atomizer doesn't waste any product. It also removes odors, and it won't damage any of your expensive equipment.
45. The Bed Sheets That Are Resistant To Dust Mites
Mellani Bed Sheet Set, $30, Amazon
These hypoallergenic, wrinkle-, dust mite- and stain- resistant bed sheets are the perfect choice for those who, um, forget to wash their sheets on a weekly basis. They're soft, silky, and comfortable, and the high-quality brushed microfiber is meant to last a long time.
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