Life
Woah, These 43 Useful AF Products On Amazon Are Less Than $20
Amazon
My most valued possession is my planner. My favorite foundation covers, and sets simultaneously — and unless I'm at a wedding, I carry a backpack. In other words, I'm a pretty practical person. I love all things easy, efficient, and constructive, which is why my ideal shopping spree is filled with shockingly useful products under $20 on Amazon. (I'll let you guess where I purchased the aforementioned planner, foundation, and backpack.)
Yes, you can probably find sub-par versions of all those things at mass retailers, but in my opinion, Amazon is always your best bet. Why? Well, since it's filled with useful AF products that'll captivate every practical person, and it's also the most practical online commerce site, it's pretty much practicality inside practicality. Like Inception, but for products.
You get a massive selection, informative user reviews, and fast shipping that requires you to go no further than your own porch. Plus, more often than not, you're getting some of the lowest prices available — way less than if you were able to find the same item at the mall, and that's not even counting the gas money. So do yourself a favor, scroll through, and add a few to your cart; these practical products are totally worth the investment, especially when the investment is this affordable.
2. This TSA-Compliant Pen That Doubles As A Seven-In-One Multi-Tool
ATECH Multifunction Pen, $15, Amazon
It does actually write, but this ATECH multipurpose pen does way more than that. It has seven built-in tools for use as a stylus, bottle opener, mini flat-head, Philips screwdriver, double ruler, and even a phone stand. It's TSA-compliant, so you can travel with it no problem, and reviewers love it because it keeps them "efficient and clutter-free" on business trips.
3. A Hydration Pouch That Attaches To Your Wrist For Ultimate Portability
Eyourlife Wearable Hydration Pouch, $10, Amazon
"I ended up using it for my [third] half-marathon and it helped me tremendously," says one reviewer, while another comments that they "use it every time [they] run." Whether you exercise competitively or casually, the Eyourlife pouch keeps you hydrated anywhere. It's lightweight and attaches to your wrist for hands-free portability, but it holds 200-milliliters of water without leaks or drips. The oxford fabric is breathable and chafe-free, while the Velcro strap is adjustable to fit any hand.
4. A DIY Makeup Organizer You Can Completely Customize
Uncluttered Designs Adjustable Makeup Organizer, $20, Amazon
Mix and match to create the best cosmetics display to suit your vanity. The Uncluttered Designs adjustable makeup organizer comes with one wide container, two drawers, and two multi-level displays in addition to dividers. As a result, you can assemble them together or separately to hold all your makeup must-haves. It's even available in six colors, and the waterproof construction makes it easy to clean in case of accidental foundation spills.
5. These Biodegradable Bamboo Chopping Sheets That Cut Down On Waste And Cross-Contamination
CleanCutting Sheets Bamboo Cutting Sheets, $17 (12 Pack), Amazon
Because they're made from flexible, biodegrade bamboo, these guilt-free cutting sheets cut down on waste and cross-contamination. They have a low-grip backing so they stay steady while you chop, but they also bend to create a chute for the easy transferring of food. You can rinse them and reuse them for fruits and vegetables, or throw them out after handling fish or chicken. Plus, since they're really thin, they take up minimal storage space in your drawers.
6. This Sock That Stretches Your Foot While You Sleep To Ease Plantar Fasciitis, Tendinitis, And Tight Calves
StrictlyStability Single Strap Night Sock, $20, Amazon
According to reviewers, the StrictlyStability single strap night sock "has made it much easier to get out of bed and run in the morning." It's specifically designed for those with Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles distention, but can also be worn to ease tight calves, heel spurs, and foot pain. It creates a tension-relieving stretch that originates from the front of the foot, and can be adjusted to multiple positions to deepen or lessen the angle.
7. A Brilliant, Hands-Free Shower Gadget That Cleans, Exfoliates, And Scrubs Your Back
Squeechy Hands-Free Back Scrubber, $15, Amazon
Clean your back without hassle or strain using the Squeechy. This hands-free solution attaches to your shower wall, dispenses soap with the push of a button, and adjusts to multiple different heights. It's also wrapped in a textured cover that exfoliates your skin, and it's removable and washable to keep things sanitary.
8. These Cinnamon-Infused Insoles Deodorize Your Flats, Sneakers, Or Work Shoes
Foot Odor Insoles, $10, Amazon
Because they're infused with real cinnamon powder and essential oils, these foot odor insoles neutralize smells, fight bacteria, and tackle fungi. They're made from cotton and natural fibers, and they slip into your sneakers or work shoes to keep them smelling fresh. You can get them in multiple sizes, and reviewers say they're "comfortable and relatively unnoticeable," even when you're wearing them all day long.
9. These Egg Poacher Cups That Make Reviewers Say, "Watch Out, Bobby Flay"
Skoo Silicone Egg Poacher Cups, $14, Amazon
Because they're made from BPA-free and heat-resistant silicone, these Skoo cups poach eggs in roughly five minutes without any work. They're also awesome for melting chocolate, seaming vegetables, or making jelly, and they come with a silicone and stainless steel fork that helps you safely remove them from the stove or microwave. Since they're dishwasher-safe, clean-up is a breeze, too.
10. This Motion-Activated Night Light, Flashlight, And Emergency Light All In One
Emotionlite Three-In-One Motion Sensor Night Light, $15, Amazon
When the Emotionlite is plugged in, it functions as a motion-sensor night light that automatically brightens at dusk. When it's in your hand, it works as a flashlight, and when there's a power failure, it immediately turns on for use as an emergency light. Reviewers love that it's rechargeable and comes with AAA backup batteries, and they say it "puts out enough light for a small room to be lit, yet doesn't hurt eyes at night."
11. The Food-Grade Shampoo And Conditioner Restores, Nourishes, And Protects Against Hair Loss
dermachange Hair Growth Shampoo and Conditioner Set, $20, Amazon
Using only food-grade and vegan ingredients, this dermachange shampoo and conditioner set prompts growth and strengthens strands. It uses ingredients like aloe, coconut oil, orange peel, and amino acids to remove damaging environmental factors, nourish the scalp, restore a protective layer, and balance pH. Reviewers say it works wonders for sensitive scalps, thin strands, color-damaged hair, and hair loss. "I've been using this stuff for almost three weeks and the difference is huge," one raves.
12. This Undated Planner With The Freedom For Bullet Journaling, Lists, And Doodles
Bullet Keeper Undated Planner, $19, Amazon
The Bullet Keeper planner is ideal for the lover of organization who also needs some creative flexibility. Yes, it offers daily, weekly, and monthly pages. That being said, it's also totally undated and features dot grids, extra space, blank pages, and empty lines for lists, bullet journaling, and doodling. It even features a smooth leather cover, a magnetic metal closure, and extras like an expandable folder, bookmark, and ruler.
13. This Hypoallergenic Spray That Keeps Your Eyes Clean, Happy, And Irritation-Free
Eye Love Lid And Lash Cleanser, $16, Amazon
Keep your eyelids clean and your eyes happy with Eye Love's lid and lash cleanser. Instead of alcohol, sulfates, parabens, and preservatives, this stuff uses gentle, natural ingredients to prevent itchy skin, rosacea, dry eyes, and gland dysfunction. It's totally hypoallergenic, eliminates microorganisms on the surface of the skin, prevents infections due to eye makeup, and even makes it more comfortable to wear contact lenses.
14. This Two-In-One Blender That Makes Smoothies, Soups, And Purees, All With Minimal Clean-Up
Gourmia Handheld And Immersion Blender, $16, Amazon
Make smoothies, soups, purees, and shakes — all with the same tool. The Gourmia blender functions as both a handheld and an immersion blender, and it has multiple speeds, a stainless steel blade, and soft-touch buttons. It also comes with a BPA-free sports cup that allows you to make your shakes and smoothies right in the container you'll be drinking them out of. Simply throw in all the ingredients, blend, and head out the door without having to wash an entire blender.
15. This Emergency Car Tool That You'll Hopefully Never Have To Use, But Might Save Your Life If You Do
Lifehammer Safety Hammer, $15, Amazon
The Lifehammer safety tool is a Dutch-made emergency gadget that has won awards and is regularly used by police, fire, and EMS departments world-wide. It prevents car entrapment with its double-sided hammer and concealed blade, so you can shatter the window and cut your seatbelt in case of an accident. It's available in four colors and also includes a mounting bracket for easy installation. No wonder reviewers call it "a small price to pay for added safety."
16. A Convenient Light Therapy Pen That Treats Blemishes And Cystic Acne
Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment, $17, Amazon
Target and treat breakouts with the Neutrogena acne spot treatment. This little tool uses red and blue light therapy to penetrate skin, fight inflammation, and eliminate bacteria without irritation. Simply press and hold the power button, press it up to a blemish, and keep it there for two minutes. It runs on batteries, and according to one reviewer, it "really quickens the healing time of cystic acne."
17. The Horizontal Spice Rack That Fits In A Drawer, So You Can See Every Label At Once
KD Organizers Angled Drawer Spice Rack, $14, Amazon
Rather than cluttering up your counter or endlessly searching for spices in a cabinet, this KD Organizers spice rack fits in most drawers — and it's angled so you can see every label simultaneously. It holds 12 bottles at once, and is made with a non-skid lining to keep them in place. Reviewers also say it's great for medicine bottles, supplements, and spools of thread.
18. This Straw That Purifies Your Water Of Bacteria, Heavy Metals, And Parasites While You Drink
Glacial Stream Personal Water Filter Straw, $12, Amazon
Whether you're staying in a hotel or camping out in the wilderness, the Glacial Stream personal water filter is a wonderful thing to have. It's a portable straw that removes up to 99.99 percent of contaminants like chlorine, heavy metals, fluoride, parasites, and bacteria — all without the use of harmful chemicals. Instead, it uses antibacterial activated carbon and patented micro-filters that last for up to 200 gallons of water.
19. The Gadget That Purifies The Air In Your Fridge And Extends The Life Of Your Produce
BerryBreeze Refrigerator Deodorizer, $19, Amazon
Keep your fridge smelling fresh and extend the life of your fruits and vegetables. The BerryBreeze deodorizer sanitizes the air with activated oxygen and uses powerful, time-released oxidizing agents that react with the molecules on your produce. As a result, it stops mold, smells, and bacteria, all in a battery-operated gadget that doesn't require maintenance or filter replacements.
20. This Aromatherapy Eye Mask That You Can Warm Up In The Microwave
LotFancy Lavender Eye Pillow, $12, Amazon
Wrapped in comfortable velvet and made with an adjustable Velcro strap, the LotFancy eye pillow is super comfortable on its own. Throw in the removable pouch filled with flaxseed and aromatherapy lavender herbs, and you've got your go-to tool for relaxation, headaches, spa nights, and meditation. You can even heat it in the microwave for some soothing heat therapy.
21. The "Best Toenail Clippers," According To Reviewers With Thick Nails
Zizzili Basics Toenail Clippers, $16, Amazon
For ingrown or especially thick toenails, you've got these Zizzili Basics clippers. Despite the name, they're anything but basic due to their soft grip handles, stainless steel nippers, wide-opening jaw, and sharp precision edges. Reviewers have given them a 4.8-star rating because they're sharp, easy to sanitize, and cut through the thickest nails with no problem.
22. These Flexible Silicone Trays So You Can Remove The Ice Cubes In Seconds
Juvale Silicone Ice Cube Trays, $10 (2 Pack), Amazon
Why are these silicone ice trays infinitely better than your standard ones? For one, since they're made from BPA-free food-grade materials, they're really safe to use. For another, they're super flexible, so they won't crack and removing the cubes is a breeze, and lastly, they're dishwasher-safe, so it's super easy to keep them sanitary.
23. This Portable Foot Roller That Helps With Arch Pain, Tense Muscles,
Plantar Fasciitis Therapy Foot Roller, $14, Amazon
So far, this foot roller massager has a 4.8-star rating because it makes "tired feet feel [so] much better" and it even helps with "stress relief." It utilizes a special two-bump shape that relieves foot pain caused by heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, and arch strain. Best of all, it's extremely portable, easy to wash, and comes with a free hand massager to further your reflexology practice.
24. A Super High-Capacity Power Bank That Charges Your Phone Up To Five Times
Uni-Yeap External Battery Power Bank, $18, Amazon
Thanks to its high-capacity battery, the Uni-Yeap power bank is powerful enough to charge the iPhone 7 roughly five times over. Its smart technology effortlessly connects no matter what kind of device you have, and it's extremely light and thin for storage in your car, bag, or pocket. It even has a built-in LCD display that shows you how much charge you've got. (If you're not a fan of the gold, it also comes in grey or black.)
25. This Full-Body Fitness Set That's Like Having Your Own Gym In A Bag
E LV Resistance Loop Bands and Exercise Sliders, $18, Amazon
"Perfect kit for those who travel a lot," one reviewer says about the E LV fitness set. "It’s like my own gym in a small bag." This set comes with five color-coded resistance bands with varying difficulties, and two double-sided gliding discs that work on all types of flooring. It all comes in an easy-to-carry travel bag, so you can stretch, recover, or work any muscle group wherever you happen to be.
26. These Genius Clip Hangers That Store Hard-To-Hang Items Vertically To Save Space
ZOBER Multi-Clip Hangers, $18 (Set of 3), Amazon
When your drawers stop closing all the way, it might be time to move some stuff to the closet. ZOBER multi-clip hangers can handle skirts, shorts, jeans, towels, linens, and slacks, and they hold them four at a time and vertically to save space. They're made from solid metal with a chrome finish, and everything is fitted with rubber grips to prevent snagging, poking, and slipping.
27. Keep Your Counter Dry And Clutter-Free With This Over-The-Sink Dish Drain
mDesign Over-the-Sink Dish Drainer Rack, $20, Amazon
If you have minimal counter space, you don't want to waste it with drying dishes. This over-the-sink rack has room for your cutlery, cups, plates, and bowls — and it extends to fit all sizes of sinks. It's made from rust-proof aluminum and has rubberized grips to keep it steady and scratch-free, too.
28. These Foot Pads That Apparently Detox Your Body While You Sleep
Mind Body Soul Detox Foot Pads, $19 (Pack of 20), Amazon
"At first I didn’t think that these foot patches would work but wanted to give them a try as everyone was talking about them," one reviewer writes. The results? Improved sleep, more energy, and clearer skin, according to buyers. They stick to the bottom of your feet at night and use their naturally absorbent ingredients to soak up toxins from your body. Apparently, come morning, they're black with stuff that used to be in your system.
29. This Unique Travel Pillow That You Can Use Three Different Ways
Wrap-a-Nap Travel Pillow, $20, Amazon
Reviewers are calling this travel pillow the "most comfortable travel pillow" they've ever tried, all because it ditches the U-shaped design and instead goes for 360-degree support. It's made with comfy pillow design that you can use for neck support, as a head cushion, or to cover your eyes during travel. The adjustable toggle even ensures that it fits all sizes.
30. These Bamboo Paper Towels That You Can Reuse Up To 120 Times
Kitchen + Home Reusible Bamboo Towels, $8, Amazon
I go through paper towels like my life depends on it, and the environmental guilt finally got to me. Thankfully, these Kitchen + Home bamboo towels are stronger, more absorbent, and just as useful — but they're totally reusable. You can clean them in the washer up to 120 times before you discard them, and since they're sustainable and made without pesticides, they're so much better for the environment.
31. This Waterproof, Rip-Resistant Backpack That Folds Up Into A Tiny Pouch For Easy Travel
Mengar Foldable Packable Backpack, $20, Amazon
You'll definitely need a backpack on your trip — you just don't know when. Cue the Mengar packable backpack: It holds up to 35 liters, but folds into a tiny six-by-ten-inch pouch when not in use. It's also waterproof, made from rip-resistant fabric, and is reinforced at stress points for increased durability. It's wonderful for hiking, camping, backpacking, day trips, and vacations that require you to pack light.
32. This Electric Toothbrush That Reviewers Swear Work Better Than Brand Name Ones
Gloridea Electric Toothbrush, $16, Amazon
The Gloridea electric toothbrush oscillates, pulsates up to 40,000 times per minute, and has a W-shaped design that cleans plaque down to the gum-line. The charge lasts for 30 days, it has a built-in smart timer, and it has five modes for whitening, cleaning, polishing, massaging, and sensitive teeth. The best part? It's $16 right now, and reviewers who have tried high-end electric toothbrushes say that this one is "by far the best." It even comes with two replacement heads.
33. This Safe Way To Store Your Knife Set In Your Kitchen Drawer
Joseph Joseph Drawer Knife Organizer, $12, Amazon
If you'd rather not take up counter space with a clunky knife block, check out the Joseph Joseph knife organizer instead. It fits horizontally in your drawer and has a space-efficient two-tier design that can hold up to nine knives at once. Best of all, it hides the blades for safety, is suitable for most standard sets, and has a non-slip base — so it stays put instead of sliding around the drawer.
34. This Brilliant Roll-Up Toiletry Bag With Four Removable Compartments
Royal Fair Roll-Up Toiletry Bag, $19, Amazon
When rolled out, the Royal Fair toiletry bag has four clear compartments that are totally removable, so you can take your toothbrush to the bathroom and leave your makeup. When rolled up, it's a compact, easy-to-carry pouch with 90-degree angles, so it fits effortlessly in your suitcase. This one's even waterproof, non-toxic, and durable, and reviewers write things like, "Coming from a frequent traveler, this is one of the best purchases I could have made."
35. This Matte Facial Sunscreen That'll Never Get On Your Hands — Thanks To Its Smart Stick Design
Ocean Potion Suncare Dab-On Sport Stick, $15 (3 Pack), Amazon
When you're working outside, running a marathon, or walking around an amusement park, you probably don't have time for sticky sunscreens. The Ocean Potion sport stick offers non-greasy 50 SPF protection for your face, nose, ears, and lips. Because it comes in a convenient balm and goes on clear with a matte finish, it won't get in the way of makeup or full schedules. It's even water-resistant.
36. This Adhesive Shelf That Installs On Any Material Without Leaving A Trace
MAPUX Bathroom Shelf Organizer, $18, Amazon
Add a shelf anywhere — whether you're dealing with tile, marble, wood, wallpaper, or paint. The MAPUX adhesive shelf comes with two adhesive sheets and four hooks to hold the stainless steel structure. According to buyers, it's extremely easy to install, stays put even when it's full of hair products or spice bottles, and when you want to take it down, it removes damage-free using heat. That's an awesome benefit for renters.
37. These Storage Bags That Remove All The Air Without The Need For A Vacuum Or Pump
The Chestnut Space Saver Storage Bags, $19 (12 Pack), Amazon
Whether you're packing for a trip, moving, or just putting away winter clothes, The Chestnut storage bags save you tons of space and headaches. Simply add your bulkiest clothes or bedding and roll the bag up to remove all the air — no vacuum or pump needed. They're then optimally compressed as well as protected from odors, dirt, bugs, and moisture. Avid over-packers and seasonal dressers can't stop raving about it in the reviews.
38. This Microfiber Towel Specifically Made For Curly Hair
The Curly Co Premium Microfiber Hair Towel, $16, Amazon
Limit frizz, breakage, and drying time while boosting curl-definition. The Curly Co hair towel is made from microfiber instead of cotton, so it's much softer and more absorbent — plus it has a built-in loop to keep it in place on your head while you go about your beauty routine. "I really didn't believe that a towel could make a difference in my hair texture but I was very wrong," one reviewer writes. "My curly, frizzy hair is actually drying shiny and smooth."
39. A Genius Organizer To Keep Your Bags Visible, Clean, And Looking Like New
Geboor Hanging Handbag Organizer, $10, Amazon
If you have limited shelf room in your closet, your handbags probably end up in a crumpled heap on the floor. Keep them clean, organized, and in great condition with the Geboor hanging organizer. It's made of non-woven fabric and transparent PVC to give you six clear compartments for your bags, purses, and clutches. According to reviewers, it "holds bigger bags than it appears" and it can handle "a lot of weight," too.
40. This Comfortable Yet Sturdy Laptop Desk That Turns Your Couch Into An Office
Honey-Can-Do Portable Laptop Desk, $20, Amazon
The top of the Honey-Can-Do portable desk provides a flat, sturdy surface for your laptop (or notebook), but the removable pad molds to your lap for cushioning and level support. It even has a built-in handle and cord management system, and the MDF construction works to keep your computer cool while it's in use. If you're not a fan of the mint, it also comes in black, blue, pink, navy, and white.
41. Add 13 New Pockets To Your Pocketbook With This Organizational Handbag Insert
Premium Handbag Organizer Insert, $15-$20, Amazon
Spacious handbags can fit everything from makeup essentials to travel umbrellas, but they also tend to swallow up your phone like a black hole. This purse organizer is a non-collapsible insert that gives you 13 new pockets, big and small, to keep all your things neat and accessible. It's available in five colors and two sizes, and also makes it extremely easy to switch bags in a rush.
42. This Unique Detangling Brush With Different Lengths Of Bristles
Michel Mercier Detangler Brush, $14, Amazon
Unlike your average brush, the Michel Mercier detangler has hundreds of bristles at 32 different heights to disperse the pressure during brushing. As a result, it allows for quick detangling without pain or breakage, and reviewers say it works on both wet and dry strands. This one is specifically for thick hair, but it comes in two other options for fine and normal hair, too.
43. This Water Bottle That Cools You Off With A Fine-Mist Spray Feature
O2 Cool Mist 'N Sip Bottle, $13, Amazon
Whether they're walking around an amusement park, camping, sitting in a hot classroom, or playing soccer, reviewers are loving the O2 Cool Mist 'N Sip. This BPA-free bottle is "easy to grip, holds 20 [ounces of water], and keeps [their] water cold," but it also has a unique spray feature that cools you off with a fine mist. Throw in the leak-proof spout, built-in carry loop, and five color options, and it's no wonder it has hundreds of reviews.
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