Shopping

These Cheap Alternatives To Expensive, Popular Products Work Just As Well So Why Pay More

Calling all savvy shoppers.

by Rachel Bar-Gadda
These Cheap Alternatives To Expensive, Popular Products Work Just As Well So Why Pay More
Amazon
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

You might be firmly devoted to your top-shelf products and brand-name items. At the same time, your wallet may be attempting a mutiny in an act of self-preservation. I’m here to reassure you that there are tons of cheap alternatives to expensive, popular products that work just as well (so why pay more?). Go ahead and click “add to cart,” enjoying your well-earned savviness.

1This Unbelievably Well-Priced Dutch Oven That Cooks Food To Perfection

Certain brand-name Dutch ovens can set you back hundreds of dollars, making that purchase decidedly out of reach for many. Enter this Dutch oven that is priced below $50 and, better yet, delivers superb cooking results. Constructed of enameled cast iron and available in three sizes (4.3, 6, and 7.3-quart), the material helps to distribute heat evenly, making it great for roasting, sauteeing, or creating stews. Choose from 10 stylish colors such as white, gray, or matte navy.

2A Hair Dryer Brush That Simplifies Your Styling Process

This ingenious hair dryer brush allows for you to streamline your styling thanks to its two-in-one design. Instead of having to use a roll brush in one hand and a dryer in the other, this combines them into one product which has resulted in nearly 35,000 five-star ratings. Ionic technology creates a shiny result while well-spaced bristles help to lift hair and increase volume while distributing heat in a way that causes less damage.

3This Ionic Hairdryer That Leaves Your Hair Shiny

Instead of spending on brand-name salon products, reach for this ionic hairdryer. With a reasonable under-$50 price tag, it features ceramic heat technology and releases negative ions that smooth hair to a healthy-looking shine. With built-in temperature consistency, there are three heat settings and a cool shot button plus three included nozzles to meet all your styling needs.

4This Breezy Jumpsuit That Looks Far Pricier

This adorable jumpsuit features a stylish, breezy cut and is something you might find for hundreds at your local boutique. Thankfully clocking in under $35, this one is made of a linen blend and includes wide legs, a large central pocket, and stylish pleating in the front. Choose from many different earthy color options such as brown or rust, with a comfortable fit making it hard not to put this on every single day.

  • Available sizes: Small – XX-Large
  • Available colors: 21

5A Budget-Friendly K-Beauty Serum With Glowing Reviews

Just because it doesn’t come from a pricey department store’s cosmetic counter does not mean this K-beauty mainstay isn’t just as powerful. It’s earned over 15,000 five-star ratings and is packed with nourishing ingredients such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and ferulic acid. Use it daily to help even skin tone and brighten your complexion.

6This Mason Jar Pitcher With A Convenient Pour Spout Lid

This beautiful mason jar is an aesthetic way to store your juices and cold brew, but what really sets it apart is its pour spout lid for easy dispensing. The lid screws on for an airtight fit and features a large spout with a cover as well as a built-in handle. Add liquids to the jar without causing mess thanks to its wide mouth and clean it in the dishwasher to be ready for the next beverage.

7This Mascara That Makes You Look As If You’re Wearing Falsies

No need to apply falsies to your lids because this mascara gives you the same effect with none of the effort. It’s made with a conical-shaped brush that delivers bold color and separates each lash without causing any clumping. Plus, the non-irritating formula is made without oil, fragrance, or alcohol.

8This Tongue Scraper That Freshens Up Your Breath

There’s no need to spend double the money on something when you can get identical results. This tongue scraper is a perfect example as it clocks in under $10 and achieves the same level of oral hygiene as its more expensive counterparts. It’s earned over 85,000 five-star ratings and comes in a set of two scrapers made of easy-to-clean stainless steel. Plus, they even include their own travel cases.

9This Stain Treater Spray That’s Effective & Eco-Friendly

Formulated without harsh peroxide, phosphates, or chlorine, this wildly popular stain-treater spray can help save your clothes and your wallet. It’s designed to be eco-friendly and safe for clothing, upholstery, and carpets, with the ability to be used on old and new stains. It also comes in a conveniently portable size to be popped in a bag for whatever the day may bring.

10A Dermaplaner Razor That Gently Smooths Skin

These dermaplaner razors gently remove any unwanted facial hairs without stretching your budget unnecessarily. They come in a set of three in a chic color palette and feature a sharp stainless steel Japanese blade that sloughs away dead skin and hair from any part of the face. Handy protective covers are provided so you can safely take these on the go.

11This Satin Pillowcase For Smooth Hair & Skin Each Morning

Backed up by over 25,000 ratings on Amazon, this budget-friendly satin pillowcase is the ultimate proof of not needing to spend a fortune on popular, pricey alternatives. It comes in a pair in all major sizes and features a silky smooth texture that can reduce friction on hair and skin while you’re sleeping. Choose from gorgeous colors such as space gray, teal, and burgundy to perfectly match your existing bedding.

12These Golden Under-Eye Masks For A Smooth, Glowing Result

It only takes 20 minutes for these under-eye masks to lend your skin a refreshed and glowing look. Each box comes with 15 pairs and a budget-friendly price tag, giving you a reason to forgo your usual top-shelf alternative. Use them on all skin types to help depuff and brighten skin throughout the seasons.

13A Pack Of Hydrocolloid Acne Patches That Work Invisibly

When it comes to caring for your skin, feel free to skip those high-priced alternatives and opt instead for something that works just as well (and actually fits your budget). These hydrocolloid acne patches are a perfect example as they efficiently absorb blemishes overnight. You can even wear them during the day as they boast a clear finish that conveniently blends in with your skin. Each pack comes with 24 patches.

14A Lactic Acid Toner To Brighten & Exfoliate The Skin

For under $20, this brightening toner is gaining fans on Amazon for its ability to brighten skin tone and leave it feeling soft. Designed for all skin types, it’s made with barrier lipids and lactic acid to support the skin and gently exfoliate. It’s free from fragrance and alcohol and can be applied morning and evening to clean, dry skin.

15This Palo Santo Candle To Cleanse Negative Energy

Enjoy a woodsy natural scent while banishing negative vibes with this palo santo candle. The wood is sustainably sourced and the candle itself is made of soy wax, giving you up to 56 hours of burn time. Three wicks allow you to customize how intense you’d like your aromatherapy experience to be by choosing to light one for less fragrance or all three for as many positive vibes as you can get.

16The Eyebrow Pencil That Gives You Elegant Definition

It’s amazing how much those brand-name products can set you back when there’s a perfectly good substitute that costs the same as your daily latte (with tip). This eyebrow pencil is a great example as it offers precise application for a defined yet natural look, all while costing you less than $10. It features a triangular-shaped edge to give you ultimate control and is made with ingredients that provide a long-lasting finish.

17A Lip Oil For A Plump, Hydrated Look

Designed in a lightweight, transparent, and subtly tinted finish, this lip oil lends long-lasting hydration and a plump look. It’s made with moisturizing cherry seed oil and can be used either by itself to soften your lip line or as a glossy finish on top of your favorite lipstick. The wide brush head is soft on your skin and makes for easy application.

18A Self-Tanner Mousse That Will Never Leave Streaks

Forgo the top-shelf products out there and instead invest less than $10 in this self-tanner mousse designed to leave a streak-free result. The lightweight texture absorbs evenly into the skin with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and coconut oil adding extra nourishment along the way. And it works fast, providing you with a healthy glow in only three hours.

19An Eyeshadow Primer That Helps Your Look Last All Day

After seeing how effective this eyeshadow primer is, you may finally be forced to break up with your top-shelf alternative. With over 16,000 five-star ratings, this popular primer provides a perfect base for helping your eyeshadow last throughout the day and night without any fading or creasing. It’s formulated with K-beauty ingredients that feel lightweight on the skin and are additionally paraben-free.

20This Budget-Friendly Alternative To The Internet-Famous Tumbler

It’s wild when a trend takes off and, all of a sudden, something that was reasonably priced before has become out of reach. That’s where this tumbler comes in as a budget-friendly alternative to internet-famous options. Made of stainless steel, it’s earned over 77,000 ratings and 4.6 stars on Amazon and features double-wall insulation to keep your drinks cold or hot for hours. Available in a range of pretty colors, it’s also conveniently cupholder-friendly.

21A Chic Fanny Pack With Lots Of Pockets

This popular fanny pack is just as stylish as its more expensive counterpart with functionality to match. It comes with an adjustable strap and can be worn across the waist or as a crossbody with over 30 colors on offer such as light pink, stone blue, and buff yellow. Multiple inner pockets as well as an outer zippered pocket are perfect for storing all your essentials.

22A Makeup Setting Spray That Locks In Your Look For 24 Hours

If long days and nights ahead mean that your look needs to be locked in, turn to this makeup setting spray. It has over 46,000 ratings and can set your makeup for up to 24 hours, allowing you to go about your day and night freely with no need for retouches. It features skin-calming niacinamide and hydrating glycerin and can be used both under and over makeup.

23A Scalp Massager To Give Your Head A Thorough Cleansing

With brand-name alternatives costing at least twice the price, this scalp massager gets the same job done at a fraction of the price. It features two brush heads that can be easily swapped: one with long, flexible bristles and the other with shorter, firmer ones, all made of gentle silicone. Use it on wet and dry hair to help exfoliate the scalp and boost blood flow.

24A Fan Favorite Sheet Set With Over 340,000 Ratings

Clearly popular with hundreds of thousands of reviews, this sheet set will convince you that there’s no need to spend all your earnings on social media’s popular bed linen brand of the day. With a reasonable price point under $40, the set includes two pillowcases, a fitted sheet, and a flat sheet, which come in all standard sizes. Soft, double-brushed microfiber provides a breathable surface and the sheets are offered in over 40 colors and patterns.

25This Callus Remover Kit For Smooth, Rejuvenated Feet

Achieve super smooth feet with this callus remover kit that delivers professional-level results. Start by soaking your feet in warm water, then apply the gel for up to 15 minutes, then use the included stainless steel rasp to slough away those built-up calluses. Your feet will quickly feel renewed and soft without having to constantly return to the spa for pricey treatments.

26These No-Show Socks That Come In A Budget-Friendly Pack Of 4

Show off your ankles in your favorite sneakers, loafers, and more with these no-show socks that come in a pack of four for less than $15. They’re made of cotton and spandex for breathability and comfort and feature three silicone grips on each heel to prevent slippage. Plus, built-in arch support provides ease as you move about your day.

27An Indoor Security Camera With Motion Detection & 2-Way Audio

There’s no need for high-priced tech when you have this indoor security camera that sets up for less than $25. It comes with helpful features such as motion detection (for which you can set up a custom detection zone), two-way audio to talk to other people in the house, low-light abilities to provide nighttime viewing, and crisp 1080p resolution. Plug it into a nearby outlet and easily connect it to your smart home device to use voice commands.

28This Natural Boar Bristle Hairbrush That Increases Shine

As an alternative to an extremely high-priced classic, consider this boar bristle hairbrush that delivers equally shiny results at a much more reasonable price point. It’s made with groupings of natural boar hair surrounding flexible nylon bristles and works to glide through the hair, grabbing debris and helping oils to distribute evenly throughout for a healthy, silky shine. Available in medium or large, the brush will never tug at your hair and even comes in its own chic box.

29A Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit To Keep Your Appliance Running Efficiently

This simple yet effective dryer vent cleaning kit comes with everything you need to remove built-up lint and get your appliance running more efficiently. It attaches to your vacuum using the provided adapter and includes a flexible flat hose that can easily access narrow spaces and vents. Not only will your dryer require less time to get the job done, but you’ll also be helping to reduce the chance of any possible dryer vent fires.

30The Moisturizing Cream That’s A Classic For A Reason

With over 16,000 ratings and 4.6 stars, this classic moisturizing cream that comes in its traditional tin simply cannot be beaten. Formulated with nourishing provitamin B5, it can be used to hydrate the skin as well as to remove makeup, act as a face mask, and soften rough areas like elbows or knees. With a budget-friendly $10 price tag, there’s a reason this cream is a tried-and-true favorite.

31A Makeup Blender Set With A Dual-Sided Design

This makeup blender set comes with two sponges, each featuring a flat and rounded edge to help you achieve your makeup masterpiece. Plus, the pointed tip is great for precise application under the eyes and around the nose. Made from soft, squishy foam, these sponges can be used for wet and dry makeup.

32A Dog Water Bottle To Keep Your Pet Hydrated While You’re Out & About

This dog water bottle allows you to always keep your pup well hydrated while you’re rambling on long or short walks. It features a leakproof design so you can pop it in your bag or backpack with no fear of spills and includes a built-in bowl for your dog to easily sip from. Simply press the button to fill the bowl with water and press again to have it recycled right back into the bottle.

33A Set Of Reusable Silicone Lids That Stretch To Fit Any Container

Give your leftovers the chance to live another day with these reusable silicone food lids. They come in a set of seven in a variety of sizes with all of them able to stretch to fit round, square, oval, and rectangular containers. Not only are they freezer and microwave-safe, but they can also be used in the oven up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and popped in the dishwasher afterward for easy cleaning.

34This Grout Pen To Instantly Refresh Tile

To quickly give your tile work a refreshed look (at a budget-friendly price), use this simple grout pen. It comes in either a narrow or wide tip option and uses a water-based, nontoxic formula. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it can make your tile sparkle and your bathroom look renewed with just one pen having enough in it to cover up to 150 feet of grout.

35This Face Powder That Makes Your Skin Look Super Soft

Use this face powder to set makeup and lend a soft, velvety look to your skin. The powder is finely milled and spun with air to make for a delicate, lightweight, and seamless result. It comes in three neutral shades and is perfect for contouring, baking, or simply setting your concealer or foundation.

36A Pair Of Yoga Leggings With An Aesthetic Cross Waist

Not only do these well-reviewed yoga pants feature four-way stretch for effortless mobility, but they also include a high cross waist as extra design flair. The front features a gathered look with a handy inner pocket built directly into one side. Made of polyamide and spandex, the opaque leggings wick moisture away to keep you feeling cool and dry during all workouts.

  • Available sizes: X-Small – XX-Large
  • Available colors: 59

37These Stemless Champagne Flutes That Can Be Used For Cocktails & Bubbly

Glassware can cost a pretty penny, making it really hurt when one accidentally breaks. Instead, opt for these extremely elegant stemless champagne flutes that can be used for anything from cocktails to sparkling wine and come in a set of 12 for less than $30. They feature a sophisticated, slender shape to help bubbles release beautifully and can be conveniently popped in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.

38This Scented Candle In A Floral, Woodsy Fragrance

Step aside, expensive artisan candles that go for way too much at your local boutique. This scented candle won’t cost you a fortune and delivers aromatherapy and long-lasting performance. Made of soy wax, it comes in five available scents including this one featuring lavender and wood with grapefruit, vetiver, and moss notes. Plus, it comes in a stylish, matte black housing as a chic touch.

39A Brightening Glowing Serum Made With A Vegan Formula

Achieve luminous skin with a formula that’s free of any animal-derived ingredients using this vegan brightening glowing serum. Argan oil, cranberry seed oil, and pumpkin help to nourish and protect the skin’s barrier from outside irritants so the skin can feel moisturized and soothed. Each morning and night, apply a thin layer to the skin to see radiant results.

40An All-Purpose Cleaning Paste That Can Tackle Anything

Whether it’s kitchen grime or scummy shower walls, this all-purpose cleaning paste can handle it. Created with nearly all natural ingredients, it can be used on almost any surface from ceramic to porcelain to glass to stainless steel. It won’t cause any scratches, leaving a streak-free shiny result instead, and will set you back less than $10 for the pleasure.

41This Silicone Lid That Can Be Used For Storing, Cooking, & Reheating

This silicone lid is designed aesthetically in the shape of a poppy, with its “petals” able to help store, cook, and reheat food. It provides an airtight seal when placed over your leftovers container, can be put in the oven in temperatures up to 428 degrees Fahrenheit, or popped on top of bowls in the microwave to prevent splatter. Available in five sizes, its pretty design will be sure to bring a smile to your face each and every time it’s used.

42A Set Of Silicone Nipple Covers That Virtually Melt Into The Skin

For that treasured backless, strapless, or low-cut piece, turn to these ingenious nipple covers to feel comfortable and free. They’re made of soft, flexible silicone that feels like it’s melting into the skin the minute it makes contact. And though made with a secure adhesive that allows them to stay in place for up to 12 hours, they’re still painless to remove. Choose from five shades.

43This Ice Roller To Depuff Irritated Skin

This ice roller costs less than $10 and quickly works to calm down inflamed and puffy skin. It features polymer gel in the roller head that cools down fast when placed in the fridge or freezer and includes an ergonomic handle that helps you comfortably roll it across your face. Apart from boosting blood circulation and depuffing, it also feels great as a simple massage for those hard-working muscles of the face.

44A High-Concentration Snail Repair Cream To Nourish Skin

Every dollar of this reasonably priced snail mucin repair cream will work for you as it thoroughly hydrates and nourishes your skin. It contains a high 97.5% concentration of snail mucin which, along with vitamin B5, vitamin E, and organic green tea, can help to repair damaged or stressed skin. Plus, it’s noncomedogenic, allowing for a bright, glowing, even complexion.

45These Glass Drinking Bottles For Homemade Juices & Smoothies

These glass bottles are perfect for toting and storing all your homemade smoothies and juices, to be taken on the go or just to have ready for breakfast the next day. They come in a slim, 16-ounce size in a set of six with accompanying plastic lids that provide an airtight seal. Their wide mouth makes them easy to fill with the ability to be popped in the dishwasher for a thorough clean.

46A Reusable Eye Mask For You Can Use Hot Or Cold

Perfect for soothing headaches or fatigued skin, this eye mask freezes quickly to deliver a therapeutic cooling effect. The gel beads maintain temperature well to get as long a cooling session as possible, with the mask able to be popped in the microwave for a warming effect if preferred. Choose from either blue or purple with a hook and loop strap offering an adjustable fit.

47A Pack Of Velvet Hangers With Near-Perfect Ratings

These velvet hangers not only come in a pack of 50 for under $25, but they’ve also earned a near-perfect 4.8-star rating after more than 89,000 shoppers weighed in. They feature a flocked, nonslip texture to keep your clothes securely hung with notches on the top for strappy items. With a choice between six colors, each hanger can hold up to 10 pounds making them just as great for winter coats as for silky camisoles.

48This Refrigerator Drink Holder To Open Up Shelf Space

It’s amazing how soda cans can take up space when stored haphazardly. Enter this refrigerator drink holder that organizes them tidily, opening up shelf space and making them even easier to access. The organizer holds up to nine 12-ounce cans or 11 slim 7.5-ounce cans. Each time you grab a can, another will roll down towards the front with the clear plastic making it easy to see the contents.

49A Swedish Dishcloth That’s Reusable Up To 100 Times

This incredible Swedish dishcloth will have you ditching disposable paper towels. Available in a pack of 10, each one is machine-washable and can be reused up to 100 times. Made of biodegradable cellulose and cotton, it can be used on all kinds of surfaces for multiple purposes around the house such as wiping up countertop messes or scrubbing dishes.

50The Pet Hair Remover That Doesn’t Require Any Refills

When you’ve got this ingenious pet hair remover with over 140,000 five-star ratings, there’s no need to waste your time on a fancier version. Requiring zero refills, it works by using static electricity generated by rolling it back and forth over surfaces to pick up hair. Everything is deposited into a built-in receptacle which is easily opened via a button on the handle so you can toss accumulated hair right into the trash.