Shopping
60 Bizarre Things That Are Actually So Effing Genius & I Need Them Now
These are the oddly awesome items I’ve got in my Amazon cart (and I can’t wait until they arrive).

Sometimes you shop on Amazon for your essentials and your essentials only, and other times, you find yourself adding something to your cart that’s so bizarre, but also — kind of genius. From head-scratching items for your home to skin care you didn’t see coming, there are some real gems to be found on the site, all of which are surprisingly useful. I’ve asked Bustle’s shopping editors for some of the zaniest and coolest products they’ve seen on Amazon and have added my own finds, too. With that, here are a bunch of bizarre AF things that are actually must-haves. Happy shopping.
1Disco Ball That Diffuses Essential Oils, Too
When you think of soothing essential oils, sparkling disco balls are probably far from your mind— but this disco ball diffuser combines them for a fun and functional addition to any room. Available in four shimmering colors, the diffuser has four mist functions and works with just the touch of a button, delivering powerful aromatherapy via ultrasonic technology. Editor Amy Biggart says, “I love that this scatters light in your place while also diffusing essential oils. “
- Available colors: 4
2Cute Handheld Fan With Cat Ears On Top
Another fan favorite (pardon the pun) is this handheld fan recommended by Biggart; she says, “A portable fan is a must for when the weather starts to heat up — and this one is too cute.” It charges quickly via USB and can work for two to four hours at a time on a full charge. The compact size means it’s easy to take with you wherever you roam.
- Available colors: 3
3Fluffy Headrest Cushions For The Car
Thanks to these car headrest cushions, Biggart says, “Commuting can be fun, after all.” Soft, plush, and supportive, each cushion is perfect for long drives, offering cozy neck and lumbar support, depending on where you place them. The design features a plush pink heart in the center with fluffy white angel wings on each side to keep you comfy, wherever you’re headed.
4Portable Facial Cleanser Squares That Melt Into Your Skin
“These cleansing bars melt as you use them, which makes washing your face actually fun to do,” says Biggart. The water-activated cleansers transform into a bubbly lather in just seconds and get to work cleaning, toning, and refreshing your skin. They’re fragrance free and made with only eight ingredients, and the tiny, compact design makes them perfect for travel and gym sessions.
5The Cutest Teapot I Ever Did See
Biggart says, “I'm obsessed with this mushroom teapot — and the tiny squirrel who lives inside it.” But honestly — who wouldn’t be? The hand-glazed mug has a matte finish with ribbed and polka dotted detailing, complete with a tiny squirrel peeking out of his hole. It’s the perfect way to start your morning with the cutest cup of pour-over coffee or tea.
6Shower Mat That Actually Scrubs Your Feet
“An in-shower bath mat that also scrubs your feet? Say less,” enthuses Biggart. Nonslip and suction-free, it massages and exfoliates your feet, thanks to its loofah-like material. It’s available in 18 different colors and patterns to suit your space, and allows water to flow freely while drying quickly, too.
- Available sizes: 9
- Available colors: 18
7Light-Up Tulip Lamp That Doubles As Decor
Biggart calls this tulip table lamp “so cute” — and I happen to agree. Powered by a coin battery, the lamp looks just like a pot of flowers with glowing petals. It’s a multitasking decor piece since it also doubles as a simple bouquet of faux flowers when you’re not using it for light.
- Available colors: 2
8Charming Soap Dish With 2 Little Ducklings
“I really appreciate whimsical bathroom decor,” says Biggart, “and these ducks at the pond are adorable.” This soap dish is made of ceramic and features a self-draining design to keep your soap bar dry and mess free. Made from smooth ceramic, the dish is accompanied by two curious duckies that add an adorable element to any sink situation.
9Solar Lights That Look Like Forest Mushrooms
Editor Anna Anderson says, “These solar mushroom lights are giving major enchanted forest vibes,” and I can’t think of a better way to describe them. The two-pack of solar-powered decorative lights offer both flickering and steady light modes without any wiring or tools required; simply stake them in the ground and let the sun charge them up.
10Protective Hood That Shields Your Clothes From Makeup
You’ve gotten your glam just right, now you just have to put your top (or dress) on without getting foundation and lipstick all over it. Enter this genius makeup protector hood. Made from washable chiffon, it’s designed with a zipper closure and has a roomy fit to keep it from smudging your face. Just slip it on your head before you slip your clothes on your body.
11Toilet Brush With A Discreet, Hidden Design
“Toilet accessories are necessary, but unsightly. This toilet brush hides behind the bowl, though, which is so genius,” says Biggart. The toilet brush features a discreet, space-saving design that tucks neatly behind your tank, reducing floor clutter. It has an adjustable height and angled head for deep cleaning, plus the holder is easy to install, too.
12Chopping Scissors That Make Salad Prep A Breeze
Editor Karen Belz says, “I'm a fan of snacking on chopped-up raw veggies, and this weird find is such a clever time-saver. It's easy to use, easy to clean, and absolutely genius.” The salad scissors make vegetable prep effortless, thanks the curved blade, built-in “cutting board,” and tossing capability. The micro-serrated blade is sharp enough to slice through everything from tomatoes to cucumbers.
13Rain Cloud That Waters Your Plants At A Slow Pace For Optimal Absorption
Make caring for your plants a whole lot easier (and cooler) with this cloud-shaped plant waterer. It stakes into the soil and hovers over your plant, delivering a slow drip for even, steady hydration. It can hold 4 ounces to deliver a five-minute watering for better absorption. As Anderson says, “A cloud that ‘rains’ on your plant? Yes, please.”
- Available styles: 4
14Cordless Jump Rope That Even Counts Your Repetitions
Editor Karen Belz says, “I'm always looking for weird yet clever workout products, and this cordless jump rope definitely falls into that category. It's great to use in rooms with low ceilings, and I love the fact that it counts your jumps.” Made from silicone, it can be used with the actual (included) rope or simply the weighted balls to recreate the feel. It even has an LED display to track time, number of jumps, and more.
- Available colors: 4
15Stainless Steel Globes That De-Puff & Energize Your Face
Belz is also a fan of these stainless steel ice globes, saying, “These genius ice globes feel just as effective, if not more so, than a cup of coffee when it comes to waking you up. They come with a useful storage pouch, and are the perfect solution if you need to take a short self-care break.” They’re filled with a cooling liquid that helps chill the skin and bring down any puffiness. Just keep them in the freezer for an anytime pick-me-up.
16Cabinet Foot Pull That Makes It Easy To Access Your Garbage
With this little trash cabinet foot pull, you can keep your kitchen clean without having to use your hands. Designed for pull-out cabinets, it lets you open your trash drawer with a simple tug of your foot — no more greasy handles or spreading germs. It’s made of durable steel with a rubber edge for barefoot comfort, and blends seamlessly into any kitchen.
- Available colors: 4
17LED Face & Neck Massager That Soothes Tension
A face and neck massager designed to help melt away the tension in your neck and face? Sign us up. Designed to help encourage lymphatic drainage and give your face a glow, this massager operates with seven different color modes that offer heat and vibration. Editor Cassandra Seale says, “My sister in Korea was using something like this on FaceTime and I just need it.”
18A Literal Bandage To Cover Up Car Dings
Dings are sometimes a part of owning a car, but these bandage bumper stickers can help make fun of the damage — just stick them right on your car. As Seale says, “Parallel parking in the city is not typically kind on bumpers. These cover things up and get a chuckle too.” And who doesn’t want to make the person stuck behind you in traffic laugh?
19Candle That’s Perfect For Dr. Pepper Lovers
While I’m a Diet Coke girl myself (fountain only), Belz is a fan of this Dr. Pepper candle. Set in a realistic-looking can, it’s infused with a sweet cherry scent that fills your space with a little fizzy energy. It’s made of premium soy wax that burns cleanly and is a pretty funny conversation starter, too.
20A 6-Pack Of Rejuvenating Masks That Look Incredible On Your Face
Give your skin the extra TLC it needs and deserves with this six-pack of face masks in four varieties to target your specific skin needs. With a gorgeous design, each mask combines ingredients like collagen, hyaluronic acid, and 24-karat gold for a hydrated glow. Anderson says, “These sheet masks turn your face into an art piece while they work their magic.”
- Available varieties: 4
21Dino-Inspired Dispenser For Soap, Lotion, & More
Of this dino-inspired soap dispenser, Seale says, “This borders on too cute. Just adorable,” and I agree. Made of ceramic and sturdy plastic, this friendly dinosaur is ready to pump out soap, lotion, or oils with ease. It has a 9-ounce capacity and is easy to refill, making it the perfect quirky gift for anyone (including yourself).
22Kitty-Inspired Accessories That Cover Your Toilet Bolts
If you’ve ever looked at those ugly bolts on your toilet and thought, “I wish I could put something cute there,” (and even if you havent), well, now you can. These two ceramic covers easily attach right over the bolts. The set is available in a cat design (with both yawning and pleading faces) as well as a frog style.
- Available styles: 2
23Pet Hair Detailer Tool That Reaches Where Lint Rollers Can’t
Instantly tackle even the worst cases of pet hair on your furniture with this detailer tool. Handheld and easy to use, it won’t damage surfaces but will bind to any unwanted fur and fuzz to leave your fabrics looking fresh. The narrow, angled design means it can reach every spot, too. Seale says, “When you want to really get things clean, I love that this dives deep into nooks and crannies where lint rollers can't.”
24Wall-Mounted Mug Holder That Saves So Much Space
This wall-mounted mug holder is actually genius, allowing you to free up valuable cupboard space and always have your favorite coffee cup at hand. It offers drill-free installation thanks to strong adhesive backing, so you can just stick it on. It holds up to eight mugs and 22 pounds, allowing you to maximize storage in small spaces.
- Available colors: 2
25Freezer Block Maker That Stores Soups & Sauces In The Smartest Way
Anderson says, “I love to make soup and freeze some for later. This freezer block maker is such a smart way to portion things out and maximize space.” Ideal for smoothies, stews, sauces, and other liquid-based foods, this genius kitchen aid creates block shapes for easy stacking. Simply insert a gallon-size plastic bag and it’ll act as a form while the contents freeze. When the time is up, pop it off, and stack it up in your freezer.
- Available sizes: 4
26Portable Cutlery Set That Breaks Apart For Compact Storage
This portable cutlery set is perfect for frequent travelers and anyone who takes their lunch to work. It includes a fork, knife, and spoon (and the option of chopsticks), making it an eco-friendly and wallet-friendly alternative to disposable cutlery. Plus, it’s available in five finishes including this pretty rose gold. Seale says, “Keeping this tiny tin on hand means you never need single-use plastic utensils again!”
- Available finishes: 5
27Silicone Egg Rings That Are Much Easier To Clean Than Metal
Make breakfast so much cuter with this set of three silicone egg rings for shaping eggs as they fry. Also perfect for pancakes, they’re made from durable, nonstick silicone and are dishwasher friendly, making them a fun and feel-good addition to your kitchen tools. Shopping editor Carolyn Menyes says, “I recently got these, and I love that they're silicone, which is WAY easier to clean and get eggs out of than the metal egg rings I had before.”
28Guided Breathing Light That Helps Calm The Mind
Menyes says, “I need to be more mindful and calm myself kind of a lot, and this light is hanging out in my cart to remind me to do so. I love that it counts your breathing for you, so you can just focus on one thing.” It operates on three different modes, with a light that changes color to pace your breathing as you inhale, hold, and exhale. It fits perfectly on any desk or nightstand.
- Available styles: 6
29Silicone Cable Clips That Help Keep Things Organized
Nowadays, there’s a cord for everything, but these thumbs-up cable clips help keep things organized in the most cheerful way. They’re made from soft silicone and provide a secure grip for your cords, thanks to the flexible design and adhesive backing. Just stick them to any flat, smooth surface and they’re ready to use.
30Perfectly Sized Salad Bowl That Looks Like A Duck
Menyes says, “This is the silliest thing I've seen on Amazon in quite a while. Obsessed is an understatement,” and I happen to agree. A perfectly sized bowl for salad or pasta, it’s hand glazed and decorated like an adorable yellow chick which makes the dish all the more cute. The listing also has options for a soup bowl and baking dish if you’re in the market for a whole family of ducks.
31Brightening Under-Eye Masks That Help You Feel Refreshed & Awake
Brighten and refresh your face with this 24-pack of under-eye masks that help target concerns like dullness, dark circles, and dehydration. They’re infused with nourishing ingredients like rosemary, camellia, and hyaluronic acid. Just place a pair underneath your eyes and let them sit for a few minutes (or as long as you’d like). Menyes says, “As someone with chronic under-eye circles, I really like these masks. I do see a difference after use.”
32Ceramic Essential Oil Diffuser With A Sense Of Humor
This non-electric essential oil diffuser lets you enjoy aromatherapy anywhere, any time without having to plug anything in. Available in a cute dog and capybara design (both luxuriating in hot tubs), the diffuser is made from ceramic which naturally absorbs and releases the oils. Menyes says, “I'm a sucker for an animal-shaped tchotchke, and the fact that this one doubles as a diffuser makes it an instant add-to-cart.”
- Available styles: 2
33LEGO Highlighters That Snap Together Like The Real Thing
Highlighters that are made to look like LEGOs? Yes, please. This three-pack of highlighters features real LEGOs that allow you to connect them together or to other bricks. This set includes yellow, orange, and blue options, with a unique square design that prevents them from rolling away. Editor Danielle Kraese says, “Fun desk supplies are my weakness — especially when they give a nod to my favorite childhood pastime.”
34Squishable Fidget Journal That Helps You Calm & Focus
If you find yourself fidgeting or feeling nervous throughout the day, this sensory fidget journal may be just the thing you’re looking for. It comes in a variety of options, all with tactile covers, including this one with a gel bead design you can press with your finger. The embossed paper inside also offers a satisfying texture to further engage your sense of touch. Kraese says, “Do I need another journal? Absolutely not. Do I think this is the one that will finally transform me into a person who loyally journals every day? 100%.”
- Available styles: 7
35Piranha Plant Lamp Inspired By Super Mario Brothers
Kraese calls this “the most delightful lamp I have ever laid eyes on.” Inspired by the Super Mario Brothers video games, the piranha plant lamp has a flexible stem and can fit neatly on any desktop or nightstand. It uses energy-efficient LED lighting and is battery powered for extra portability.
36Sink Cover That Buys You More “Counter” Space
A pedestal sink can be a real inconvenience when you’re trying to get ready. (Where to put all your supplies?) This sink cover solves that problem, effectively giving you a counter where there is none. It’s heat resistant — so safe for hot hair tools — and boasts a cutout that still gives you access to running the faucet. When you’re not using it, it folds flat for out-of-the-way storage.
37Apple Watch Charging Stand That Gives Your Device Bunny Ears
Make charging your smartwatch a more humorous experience with this charging stand that gives your device bunny ears. Available in four colors, it’s compatible with most Apple watches and is made from durable silicone with an anti-slip base to securely hold your device and protect it from scratches. It even has built-in cable management to keep your cord out of the way.
- Available colors: 4
38Genius Tumbler Topper That Gives You An Instant Snack Bowl
Have the ultimate snacking experience with this genius snack bowl that fits right atop your favorite tumbler. Just slip it over your Stanley cup and fill each of the five compartments with your favorite bites. It’s made from heat-resistant, dishwasher-safe silicone, and is available in three colors, too.
- Available colors: 3
39Book-Shaped Succulent Planter That’s Adorable & Practical
Add style and functionality to any room of your home with this book-shaped succulent planter. It looks like a well-loved book, with intricate “pages” and gold-tone text. Designed for indoor use only, it has a hollow space inside that’s perfect for succulents, elevating any space with an unexpected decor element.
- Available styles: 3
40The Cutest Night-Light I’ve Ever Seen
Quite possibly the cutest thing I’ve ever seen, this duck-inspired night-light perches on any shelf or nightstand, offering a friendly expression and legs that dangle over the edge. This duck is made of BPA-free silicone and has an easy on button and brightness that can be adjusted with just a tap. It supports up to 15 hours of glow on one charge and comes with its own USB cable, too.
41Adjustable Plant Stand That Suits Any Planter & Any Space
Elevate your indoor plant (literally) with this adjustable plant stand that makes it easy to fit a variety of pot shapes and sizes. Designed to fit planters ranging from 8 to 12 inches, the stand is made from 100% bamboo and comes in several finishes to suit your space. It’s easy to assemble, too; just slot the pieces together and tighten the screws.
- Available finishes: 4
42Your Own Little Ghost In a Bottle
Add a bit of magic to any look with this ghost in a bottle pendant necklace that glows in the dark. With just a few minutes of exposure to sunlight, the ghost will show off a hauntingly beautiful blue glow. It’s made from durable glass with a cork top, and the pendant hangs on a sturdy stainless steel chain measuring 20 inches.
43Melting Lip Balm That Looks & Feels Like Jelly
I’m not sure whether I love the packaging or the product more, but this jelly lip melt adds the perfect blend of hydration and a pop of color to my lips. It comes in what looks like a Jell-O mold and melts easily onto your lips, leaving just a hint of color. It locks in moisture and is available in more than 10 shades, from blackberry to watermelon.
- Available shades: 11
44Multitasking Makeup Brush That Does The Job Of 4
With a dual-sided design, this four-in-one makeup brush literally does it all. This versatile kit includes a blush and bronzer brush, a brow and eyeliner brush, an eyeshadow brush, and a blending sponge. The most genius part? The smaller brush is stored inside the larger brush.
- Available colors: 3
45A 3-Pack Of Apple Watchbands That Look Like Scrunchies
Combine the look of a chic scrunchie with the function of a watchband, thanks to this three-piece set of watchband scrunchies. Compatible with all Apple watches, the bands are easy to install and are made from a soft blend of cotton and polyester with stainless steel buckles. They’re lightweight and stretchy, and come in more than two dozen color combinations.
- Available styles: 27
46Portable Salad Kit That Must Be The Work Of A Genius
Make bringing salads to work or school so much easier with this stainless steel salad bowl kit that a genius must have invented. With a 64-ounce capacity, it includes a removable tray for the things you don’t want to get soggy, a small dressing container, and a leakproof lid — all of which snap together for portability. The whole thing is dishwasher safe for even more convenience.
- Available colors: 10
47Invisible Bandages Made Specifically For Foot Blisters
Nothing can ruin a good time more quickly than a painful foot blister — which is why I love these blister bandages. The bandages help provide relef from discomfort while also helping to prevent the formation of future blisters. Just as good, they’re water resistant and the invisible design means you can wear them with open shoes without drawing attention to them.
48Stretchy, Stress-Relieving Slime That Looks Like A Cupcake
This container houses 7 ounces of cake-scented slime in a double color mixture of white and blue. The frosting-style slime is soft and elastic, providing a sensory experience as it makes satisfying sounds when you squeeze and twist it. Keep it on your desk for some sweet stress relief.
49Bedazzled Lightning Cable That Makes Charging Your Phone More Glam
When I saw this, I knew I just needed it. Designed for devices with Lightning ports, the cable is bedazzled with tiny, rainbow-colored rhinestones that make the everyday task of charging so much sparklier. It’s built to last, thanks to a fray-resistant design that can even withstand over 25,000 bends and pulls.
50Mini Adirondack Chairs That Give Any Space Beachy Vibes
Add a fun, beachy vibe to any room in your home with this set of four miniature Adirondack chairs. Measuring just 4 inches, the set include four chairs crafted from wood (just like the real thing), all with a unique accessory like a miniature sailboat or starfish. Put them on your bookshelf, countertop, or even nightstand to inspire seaside dreams.
51Flamingo-Inspired Vase That Adds A Fun Pop Of Pink
Add a fun pop of pink to any space with this flamingo vase that’s perfect for holding a single stem (or even two). Made from lightweight, break-resistant resin, the vase features wings, a curved neck, and a black beak. “This is so kitschy in the best way,” says Anderson, and I have to agree.
52Container That Transports Your Already-Peeled Boiled Egg
Love hard-boiled eggs but hate the difficulty of eating them on the go? Boasting a 4.6-star overall rating, this genius egg container solves that problem for you with ease. The BPA-free, shatter-resistant holder is designed to fit a single peeled egg. It even comes with its own mini salt shaker that fits inside, so you can season as you eat.
- Available colors: 10
53A 3-Pack Of Piglet Key Chains That Light Up
As if these piggy key chains weren’t cute enough, their snouts light up, making them useful as well as decorative. The set includes three pigs, complete with ears and eyes. They’re especially helpful when you’re struggling to find something in your purse or when it’s dark and you need to get your key in your door’s keyhole.
54Dustpan Set That Looks Like A Man With A Mustache
Sometimes having cute cleaning accessories makes chores so much less of a pain — like this dustpan and brush set that looks like a face with a mustache. Aptly named the “Dustache,” the mini dustpan and brush set is ideal for tackling small messes in the kitchen or any room, really. The lightweight set features an ergonomic design and nonslip grip for easy use.
55A 12-Pack Of Ring Size Adjusters For A More Secure Fit
When my weight is lower, I find that my engagement ring will spin around — which is why I absolutely need these ring size adjusters to make the fit a bit more snug. Made from soft, skin-friendly silicone, they can can help tighten the fit by 0.5 to 1.5 sizes. The 12-pack even includes a polishing cloth to keep your baubles sparkling.
56Tea Bag Buddy That Keeps Your Drink Hot As It Brews
Upgrade your tea brewing experience and make it less messy with this genius tea bag buddy with a near-perfect 4.8-star overall rating after 2,300 reviews. The innovative silicone tool acts as a lid to to keep your mug piping hot, while the slit in the side holds your tea bag securely. When your brew is complete, simply use it to lift the bag out and squeeze out any excess liquid without making a mess.
- Available colors: 2
57Ring Holder Shaped Like The Laziest Sloth
Store your jewelry adorably and safely with this cute-as-hell sloth ring holder. The heavyweight holder keeps things organized and accessible and can be placed on any flat surface. It’s an obvious add-to-cart for me.
58Mini Vacuum Shaped Like A Ladybug Because, Why Not?
Handheld and ready to get cleaning, this mini ladybug vacuum is perfect for tackling small areas like desktops or kitchen counters. It’s powered by two AA batteries (not included) and has enough power and suction to pick up things like small crumbs and eraser shavings. Plus, it doubles as charming decor.
59Magnetic Dryer Ball Holder That Keeps Them Right On Your Machine
I’ve recently made the switch to using wool dryer balls, but they can be a real pain to keep tabs on — especially with my pup around. That’s why I think this magnetic dryer ball holder is genius. The innovative holder securely attaches to your washing machine and can hold six dryer balls at a time.
60Waffle Stick Maker For Finger-Friendly Breakfasts
Ditch the fork and knife and use this nonstick waffle stick maker to make breakfast more convenient. In just a few minutes, it makes four waffle sticks ready for dipping in maple syrup. And if you don’t mind foregoing syrup, you can even take those waffle sticks to go.