Entertainment
34 Wacky Products On Amazon That Are So Much More Useful Than You Think
When I was a kid, I used to love going into those gag gift shops in the mall and browsing the shelves of entertaining (but utterly useless) products. A pack of gum that resembles a box of bandages? Yes, please. A flute you can play with your... nose? I was into it. I still get a kick of out these zany products, but can't persuade myself to buy any of them, because, well, I'm trying to spend my hard-earned money like an adult. (Sigh.) But while shopping online, I found a whole slew of wacky products on Amazon that are actually useful — items that are remarkably odd or unique, but also serve practical purposes.
There are more than a few odd products I've found that are on my must-have list. Here are some examples: an alarm clock that gently shakes you awake (I have a terrible time forcing myself out of bed in the morning). A cell phone sanitizer that cleans your phone the help of UV rays (I'm a bit of a germaphobe). And perhaps my favorite: wine wipes to help you get that Malbec stain off your teeth (I'm going to pack these in my purse the next time I go to happy hour).
See what I mean? These products are novel and useful. Click through for more wacky and wonderful must-haves.
2. These Teeny Tiny Needles(!) That You Roll Across Your Face For A Glowing Complexion
Prosper Beauty Dermaroll, $27, Amazon
Remember when you first heard about acupuncture and you were a little skeptical? Well, brace yourself for more needle action. Microneedling is a skin care practice that uses a roller outfitted with tiny needles to poke minuscule holes in your skin. This superficial marks to your skin do a couple of things: it triggers collagen production, and it helps your skin absorb nutrient-rich serums and moisturizers more efficiently. And don't worry — the whole thing is actually painless. This microneedling kit comes with one roller, three heads, and a storage case.
3. An Injector That Shoots Marinade Directly Into Your Meat
OSTRO Meat Injector Kit, $25, Amazon
This odd steel meat injector kit shoots marinades into your chicken, turkey, steak, or —you name it. The syringe comes with three different needles: an angle-cut needle for thick and chunky marinades, a 12-hole needle for thinner, liquid marinades, and a steak needle for injecting thinner cuts of meat and chicken breasts. This is ideal if dinnertime is rolling around and you completely spaced marinating your meat.
4. This Handy Brush That Gets Rid Of Ingrown Hairs
Dylonic Ingrown Hair Brush, $7, Amazon
Ingrown hairs are the bane of anyone who waxes or shaves, but this ingrown hair brush is an easy and chemical-free way to get rid of them. It's packed with flexible bristles that you run over your skin to exfoliate and loosen any hairs that have gotten trapped underneath (which have resulted in those not-so-pleasant red bumps.) And to keep things hygienic, the brush can be disassembled and cleaned with soap and water.
5. This Roller Stick That Works Out Your Muscles
IDSON Muscle Roller Stick, $12, Amazon
This muscle roller stick has an impressive 4.5-star rating. The core is made from industrial-strength steel and has nine rollers that you can run over your muscles to break up tissue and help speed up recovery after an intense workout. You can also use it pre-workout to warm up muscles and help prevent injuries. Roll it across your calves, quads, shoulders, neck, or anywhere else you experience muscle tightness. The roller is lightweight and compact, so it's perfect for taking along to the gym.
6. A Lotion Specifically Designed To Hydrate A Dry Scalp
LivSo Moisturizing Scalp Lotion, $18, Amazon
Lotion for... your scalp? Oh, yes. And this scalp lotion is exactly what you need if you're dealing with dryness or flakiness. Made from a blend of coconut oil, shea butter, willow bark extract, aloe vera, and chamomile — the lotion deeply conditions your scalp and restores its moisture barrier. And it's not just for the scalp. The lotion also adds mega-hydration and shine to curly or dry hair types.
7. A Stovetop Grilled Sandwich Maker
FlipWich Sandwich Maker, $19, Amazon
Make expert grilled cheeses, paninis, and quesadillas with this FlipWich Sandwich Maker. Just stick it on the stove, place your sandwich on the bottom plate, and seal closed. After a couple of minutes, flip over to grill the other side. The copper-infused ceramic plates distribute heat evenly and are non-stick, so you don't have to worry about scraping cheese off of them when you're done. An included recipe book will teach you how to make stuffed French toast and other delicious treats too.
8. These Toeless Socks That'll Help Moisturize Your Heels
ZenToes Moisturizing Heel Socks, $12 (2 Pack), Amazon
These moisturizing heel socks are exactly what you need if you struggle with dry, cracked heels. Put them on at night after dousing your heels in a heavy duty moisturizer like aloe vera or shea butter —they allow your toes to breathe, but the snug, slightly compressed fit will maximize moisture absorption and speed up the healing process. The cotton socks are also washable and reusable.
9. These No-Tie Laces That Expand And Contract While You Walk
Caterpy No-Tie Shoelaces, $12, Amazon
These bumpy looking no-tie shoelaces were actually invented by a Japanese marathon runner. They're made from a strong elastic that expands and contracts as you walk or run, so they never feel too loose or too tight on your feet. You can also customize the tension of the laces if you prefer them to be super snug, or if you want to keep your shoes roomy so you can slip them on with ease. And with 17 colors to choose from, you can really use the laces to express your style.
10. A Bluetooth Shower Head For Blasting Water And Music
YOO.MEE Bluetooth Shower Head Speaker, $28, Amazon
If you're serious about singing in the shower, check out this Bluetooth shower head speaker. Attached to the rain shower head, the speaker hooks up to your phone so you can play your favorite energizing tunes while you start your day. You can also answer phone calls (although you might have to answer some questions about why it "sounds like you're in the shower"). The speaker is waterproof (obviously) and removable.
11. This Little Box That Sanitizes Your Phone With UV Rays
PhoneSoap Cell Phone Sanitizer, $52, Amazon
You probably don't love thinking about the very wide array of germs that live on your phone because, well, ignorance is bliss. But you can actually get your phone germ-free with the help of this cell phone sanitizer. It uses UV rays to kill off 99.99 percent of the bacteria that live on your phone, so you can put it up to your ear without all those pathogens going near your face. The sanitizer also has a charging option so you can juice up your battery at the same time.
12. This Ball Whisk That Whips Up Omelettes Faster Than Regular Whisks
WMF Ball Whisk, $21, Amazon
This ball whisk is perfect for fluffing up some eggs or whipping up sauces and creams. The independent movements of each wire — along with the extra weight afforded by the beads — maximizes air flow, which significantly decreases whisking time. The whisk is angled so you can reach every corner of the bowl or pan. It's dishwasher-safe, but the individual wires are incredibly easy to hand wash, too. You can choose between the stainless steel whisk for stainless steel cookware or the silicone whisk for non-stick cookware.
13. These Wipes That Clean Your Teeth After A Glass Of Red Wine
Wine Wipes, $7 (15 Pack), Amazon
A really good glass of Malbec will make it look you smeared purple lipstick all over your face after just a few sips. It's not great if you're in a social situation, unless you like the look, of course. Pack this compact of wine wipes in your purse and sneak off to the bathroom to counteract all that wine-staining action. A few swipes across your teeth and your pearly whites will look good as new. The compact even comes with a mirror so you can check your work, and the flavor is orange blossom and won't interfere with your wine.
14. A Toilet Stool That Folds Up For Easy Storage
Squat N Go Foldable Toilet Stool, $20, Amazon
By now, you've probably heard that our bodies were designed to squat when we go to the bathroom — hence the plethora of toilet stools that have hit the market. But what if you don't want a toilet stool hanging around all the time, reminding your guests of, well, your private life? Enter this foldable toilet stool. The 7-inch stool folds up so you can store it in a cabinet or behind your toilet when it's not in use. Very discreet.
15. A Combination Lock That Safeguards Your Wine
Spotact Wine Combo Lock, $10, Amazon
Keeping open bottles of alcohol around the house can get messy if you've got younger folks around — or face it, just annoying roommates. Use this wine combination lock to seal up half-finished bottles of wine or liquor. Set the combination code yourself, stick the stopper in the neck of the bottle, and your alcohol will be kept securely out of unauthorized hands (or mouths). It also works to keep wine fresh until the next time you're ready to pour a glass.
16. This Charcoal Sponge That Cleans Your Makeup Brushes
MS.DEAR Makeup Brush Cleaner, $6, Amazon
Your makeup can get muddy fast if you're using the same brush for different shades, but this makeup brush cleaner lets you switch between colors easily. Just swipe your brush across the sponge and the charcoal filter will suck up any colored pigment, leaving you with clean bristles and a dry brush. The sponge can be used again and again — just wash with soap and water and do it again.
17. A Reading Light That Fits Around Your Neck
LuminoLite Neck Reading Light, $15, Amazon
This neck reading light might look a little funny when you're wearing it, but it's pretty ingenious. It slips right around your neck, and the two LED lights at the end of each arm illuminate your reading material. The flexible arms are made out of soft silicone, so they won't dig into your neck, and they can be adjusted so you can get the perfect angle. The lights work on three brightness settings for optimal reading.
18. A Toilet Light For Disco-Worthy Bathroom Trips In The Night
LumiLux Motion Sensor Toilet Light, $15, Amazon
Channel your inner disco queen during your nighttime trips to the bathroom with this toilet light. The light fits securely around the rim and has motion sensors that light up the bowl when activity is detected. There are five brightness settings, and you can choose from one of sixteen colors like indigo, teal, and amber, or cycle through all of them on carousel mode.
19. A Gadget That Keeps Your Guacamole Green
Prepworks Guacamole Keeper, $13, Amazon
A kitchen gadget designed specifically to keep your guacamole fresh seems oddly specific, but if you're a guacamole aficionado, you know the struggle against brown guacamole is real. This guacamole keeper features a brilliant sealing lid that expels air out of the container with the press of a button, allowing your guacamole to remain a bright shade of green for days on end. The keeper holds up to 4 cups of guacamole.
20. These Funnels That Fold Up Flat When You're Not Funneling
lebice Foldable Funnels, $8 (2 Pack), Amazon
Every cook needs a funnel, but if you have a small kitchen, that funnel can take up quite a bit of space in your cabinet. Check out these foldable funnels. Made out of silicone, they collapse flat when you're not using them, so they take up almost no space in your cupboard. This set comes with a small funnel and a large funnel. They're BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, too.
21. A Condiment Fork For Snacking On Pickles
Chef'n Fridge Fork, $12, Amazon
This condiment fork is another oddly specific kitchen gadget, but it's an absolute must-have for those of us who sneak into the kitchen for a pickle or olive at random throughout the day. The small fork fits into a holster that's secured to a band — wrap it around the rim of a jar for easy olive eating. The holster catches any drips and keeps your refrigerator shelves clean, while the fork keeps you from unnecessarily dirtying extra utensils.
22. These Masks That Use Self-Generated Steam To Soothe Your Eyes
Essencell Steam Eye Mask, $14 (10 Pack), Amazon
These steam eye masks are pretty magical. They're made with metallic elements that produce heat and moisture when exposed to the air. The resulting steam is therapeutic for dry, tired eyes, helping to add hydration and increase circulation. They're ideal for diminishing dark circles after a long night or for relieving itchy eyes caused by allergies.
23. These Elastic LoopsThat Helps You Gain Muscle And Strength In Your Thighs And Butt
Cyclone Strength Booty Circles, $18 (2 Pack), Amazon
These booty circles are awesome if you're looking to gain muscle in your backside or hip abductors. The looped bands slip around your upper legs and provide some extra resistance during your workout. Made from a blend of cotton and latex, the bands are soft but durable, and won't pinch your skin while you move. Each set comes with two different sizes: a 13-inch loop and a 15-inch loop.
24. A Massage Tool That's Easy On Your Hand
HealPT Massage Tool, $9, Amazon
The worst part of giving a massage? That point when your hand starts to give out — which usually happens right when you're on the verge of finally loosening up that stubborn knot. Avoid that moment with the help of this massage tool. It has grooves for your thumb and fingers, allowing them to rest comfortably while you rub and helping to ease any joint pain or cramping.
25. A Hair Rinse That Uses Apple Cider Vinegar To Restore Health To Your Locks
AppleBiotic Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse, $27, Amazon
An apple cider vinegar hair rinse might sound a little odd — but it really works. Apple cider vinegar exfoliates the scalp, removes product build-up, helps restore proper pH balance, and adds shine to hair. This all-star formula also contains aloe vera, chamomile, green tea extract, and vitamin B3, all of which work together to fight inflammation and keep bacteria and fungi at bay.
26. A Ring Holder For Your Nail Polish Bottle
tweexy Wearable Nail Polish Holder, $9, Amazon
If you can't fathom why you would need a wearable nail polish holder, you've probably never tried painting your nails on a bus or in the car — or realistically, you're probably just the kind of person who doesn't spill things all the time. This holder eliminates the need for a smooth surface since you can rest the nail polish bottle in the cup and slip it securely onto your fingers. It's made from flexible silicone rubber, and the rings are open on the bottom so you can transfer the holder easily from hand to hand without smudging your manicure.
27. This Kitchen Gadget That Spears And Flips Any Kind Of Food
TNK Brand Stingray, $10, Amazon
I'm all for multi-functional products, and this stingray is no exception. It works as a combination spatula, tong, and fork spear, so you can flip and turn whatever it is you have cooking in your sauté pan. It's cost-effective and takes up minimal space in small kitchens. The stingray is made from durable stainless steel and features nylon grips that are heat-resistant up to 460 degrees. And when you're done cooking? You can throw it in the dishwasher.
28. An Alarm Clock That Shakes You Awake
iLuv Smart Shaker Alarm Clock, $30, Amazon
Stick this shaker alarm clock under your pillow and it will literally shake you awake in the morning. The alarm is disc-thin, but has double the vibration power of your smartphone. The alarm links up to an app on your phone, where you can adjust the vibration strength and set your alarm time. This little invention is great for super heavy sleepers, or anyone hard of hearing.
29. These Makeup Sponges That Make The Most of Your Foundation
BONTIME Silicone Makeup Sponges, $11 (3 Pack), Amazon
When you use a traditional foam makeup sponge, half of your foundation goes on your face, and half of it gets soaked up by the sponge. It's a huge waste of makeup, which adds up to wasted money. These non-porous silicone makeup sponges, however, don't soak up your foundation, which means it all goes on your face. Invest in this set of three and save big bucks on your makeup in the long run.
30. An Eyelash Comb That Actually Works
Tweezerman Folding Eyelash Comb, $11, Amazon
If you want fluttery, separated lashes, check out this folding eyelash comb. It features gold-plated metal teeth that are oh-so-much-more-effective than old school plastic teeth. The extra-fine teeth glide easily through lashes, removing mascara clumps and creating definition — just use it on lashes before mascara dries for the most effective results. Fold the comb in when you're done — the protective case will help keep germs at bay.
31. These Fitness Wipes For When You Don't Have Time To Shower
HyperGo Fitness Wipes, $15 (20 Pack), Amazon
If you're going from yoga to cocktails with no time to shower in between — grab one of these fitness wipes for a quick refresh. Each extra large wipe is pre-soaked with aloe vera, mint, oatmeal, and vitamin E, all of which work together to cleanse your body and leave it with a good dose of hydration. The wipes are one hundred percent natural, biodegradable, hypoallergenic, and alcohol-free.
32. This Pack of Aromatherapy Inhalers That Balance Your Mind And Body
BoomBoom Aromatherapy Inhaler, $20 (3 Pack), Amazon
Place one of these aromatherapy inhalers under your nose and breathe deeply to reap big benefits. Peppermint increases your energy, improves focus, and helps relieve headaches and stomachaches. Eucalyptus, which is rich in antioxidants, promotes a healthy immune system. Menthol soothes the gastrointestinal system, and eases inflammation and congestion. The inhalers are small, so you can stash them in your purse or car glove compartment for a quick mental and physical boost at any time.
33. A Coffee Scrub That Targets Your Blackheads
C&C Coffee by Clean & Clear Facial Scrub, $12, Amazon
Don't just drink a cup of Joe, put it on your face too — with this coffee facial scrub. It cleanses and exfoliates the skin, while clearing your pores of blackheads, resulting in a smoother, bump-free complexion. The oil-free formula contains salicylic acid to help keep acne at bay. Use it in the morning to kickstart your day. One reviewer writes: "The smell and the tingly energizing feel are the perfect way to wake me up in the morning. This is the best facial scrub I have bought in a long time and is the perfect addition to my morning routine."
34. This Gadget That Flosses Your Teeth With Water
Mornwell Electric Water Flosser, $35, Amazon
Flossing with water sounds doesn't sound like a thing — but it is, and it actually gets your teeth super clean. This electric water flosser shoots a powerful stream of water to clear out debris and bacteria from all the cracks between your teeth. It even has a 360-degree rotating nozzle for hard-to-reach areas. The flosser operates on three modes: normal, soft for sensitive teeth, and a pulse that massages the gums and strengthens your pearly whites. One charge lasts for up to two weeks, so you can take it along on trips.
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