Life
These 46 Things Have A Cult-Following On Amazon — And They’ll All Really Surprise You
Sometimes it's the little things in life that get you through the day. Maybe it's that first sip of hot coffee in the morning, or getting home from work to cook an elaborate meal in your pajamas. For me, it's discovering a bunch of cult-favorite products on Amazon that actually live up to the hype. What can I say? I live a simple, consumerist lifestyle — and I bet you can't tell me with a straight face that you don't get excited when a Prime package arrives on your doorstep. It's just not possible to not get pumped at something like that.
The great thing about cult-favorite products is that they're review-backed by thousands of people. But sometimes, they still manage to surprise you. So even though they're really popular, you'll still manage to look like a #trailblazer by being the first person in your friend group to try the hair-repairing Olaplex treatment. Or if you love brewing your own custom tea leaves, there's even an variety of infusers shaped like flamingos, elephants, and more cute animals. Simply put, these products all have a cult-following — and some of them may be weird, others may be downright genius products you can find on Amazon — but if one thing is for sure, it's that there's a little something for everybody in here.
1. A Detoxifying Clay That Increases The Blood Flow In Your Skin
Molivera Organics 100 Percent Pure Bentonite Clay, $13, Amazon
Bentonite clay has been used for centuries as a natural way to detoxify your skin, and the Molivera Organics 100 percent pure bentonite clay is just that — no additives, no fillers, just pure bentonite clay. Use it on your skin to help promote blood flow for a nice radiant glow, or throw it in your hair to give your locks a healthy dose of minerals. It's also hypoallergenic and good for sensitive skin.
2. The Nail Strengthening Serum That Gives You Noticeable Results In Three Weeks
Quimica Alemana Nail Hardener, $10, Amazon
If you have weak, brittle nails, or if your nails have become damaged from gel and acrylic manicures, try the Quimica Alemana nail hardener. All you have to do is apply a thin coat once a week, and after three weeks your nails should become noticeably stronger. One Amazon reviewer wrote: "This product 100 percent made my nails stronger and healthier," and that she recommends it to everyone with weak nails.
3. A Lap Desk With Built-In Storage Compartments So You Can Stay Organized
LapGear Lap Desk, $15, Amazon
The problem with most lap desks is that once you have a few items on it, the whole surface feels overcrowded — the LapGear lap desk, on the other hand, solves this problem by having two built-in storage compartments where you can keep your phone, flash drives, keys, or even just pens and pencils. And as an added bonus, it's also designed with a dual-bolster cushion so that your laptop is always at the optimal viewing angle without any need for constant readjustment.
4. The Razor Bump Solution That Even Works With Laser Hair Removal
Tend Skin Solution For Razor Bumps, $25, Amazon
Look at that photo: do you want to playfully romp around while holding a bottle of the Tend Skin solution for razor bumps? Assuming the answer is yes, this razor bump solution reduces ingrown hairs without any need for tweezing, and will also reduce any razor bumps or redness that may occur after shaving. It's even great to use before an electrolysis treatment to cleanse the skin, or after a laser hair removal appointment to reduce the appearance of next-day bumpiness.
5. A Rotating Oven That Saves You Space And Energy
Presto Pizzazz Plus Rotating Oven, $46, Amazon
Not only does it save as much as 60 percent in energy costs when compared to a traditional oven, but the Presto pizzazz plus rotating oven is great for anyone looking to conveniently cook food at their desk or in their dorm room. The heating elements are based in both the top and the bottom so that food is baked evenly from both sides, and the baking pan is non-stick and removable so cleaning will never be an issue. It's great for evenly cooked, crispy frozen foods like chicken wing, pizzas, or appetizers, too.
6. The Banana Slicer That's Safe And Fun For Kids
Hutzler Banana Slicer, $5, Amazon
You know how some inventions solve a very small problem that you never thought would be solved? That's the Hutzler banana slicer in a nutshell: It easily cuts bananas in uniform slices. Sure, it's safer and faster than using a knife — plus it's dishwasher-safe — but the wildest part about this product? It has almost 6,000 reviews on Amazon.
7. A Exfoliating Foot Mask That Busts Through Dead And Dull Skin
Grace & Stella Co. Dr. Pedicure Foot Exfoliation Peeling Mask, $13, Amazon
As someone who has personal experience in this category, I can tell you that peeling, flaky feet can be difficult to get rid of by yourself at home. The Grace & Stella Co. Dr. Pedicure foot exfoliation peeling mask takes the effort out of the equation by using 17 different types of natural Asian vegetable extracts to help relieve foot fatigue and unwanted odor, while getting rid of any coarse, dull, or dead skin. And there's no need for a pumice stone or shaver — just wrap your feet in the treatment bag and let the mask do the work. After a few days, your skin will flake off and reveal soft, baby feet.
8. The Garden Stake That Uses Your Old Wine Bottles To Water Your Plants
Plant Nanny Inc. Wine Bottle Stake Set, $19 (4 Pack), Amazon
Instead of throwing out your old wine bottles, use them to water your plants with the Plant Nanny Inc. wine bottle stake set. All you have to do is insert the stake into your potted plant, then put a bottle filled with water into the stake — and the water will release over time so you don't have to be constantly watering it, plus it will know won't under- or over-water it. Perfect for when you go on vacation, this bottle stake set will work with any long-neck glass bottle.
9. A Board Game Where Everyone Has To Work Together To Win
Z-Man Games Pandemic, $36, Amazon
After four different diseases break out in the world, you and up to four players are tasked with finding cures for these diseases before humanity is wiped out in Z-Man Games' Pandemic. Unlike other boardgames, you actually have to work with the other players in order to beat "the game," with many Amazon reviewers noting that they have a great time playing even when they don't win.
10. The Mascara That Lengthens Your Lashes Using Natural Green Tea Fibers
Bella Eleganze Fiber Lash Mascara, $9, Amazon
Whereas other mascaras only coat your lashes in order to make them appear longer, the Bella Eleganze fiber lash mascara actually lengthens your eyelashes using 100 percent natural green tea fibers that adhere to your natural lashes, making them appear longer and more full. "I could not be more thrilled," one Amazon reviewer gushes. "This made my lashes SO thick and lush and long!!" It's a three-step system that requires only two included materials: the gel, the fibers, and the gel to seal the length in all day.
11. A Steamer That Easily Fits Into Your Suitcase For De-Wrinkling On The Go
iSteam Portable Garment Steamer, $36, Amazon
Pulling packed clothes out of your suitcase and finding they've gotten wrinkled in transit isn't a fun way to start your vacation — but with the iSteam portable garment steamer you can easily steam your clothes no matter where you are. Not only does it heat up within 25 seconds, but you can even use it for household chores — use it to sanitize countertops and surfaces, or even defrost your freezer. Best of all, it has a pump system that prevents dreaded water spurts from getting all over your clothes.
12. The Massaging Shampoo Brush That Boosts Hair Growth
Vitagoods Scalp Massaging Shampoo Brush, $16, Amazon
Whereas most shampoo brushes rely solely on rubber massage nodes, the Vitagoods scalp massaging shampoo brush is electronic and creates a gentle vibration that increases blood flow in your scalp, gets rid of product build-up, boosts hair growth, and de-stresses you after a long day. Safe for adults and kids alike, all you have to do is shampoo like you normally would, then slowly move this massager all over your scalp with as little or as much pressure as you like.
13. A Strap That Helps You Stretch In All The Right Ways
OPTP Original Stretch Out Strap, $16, Amazon
Made from super-strong nylon that won't snap no matter how you stretch it, the OPTP original stretch out strap is the perfect solution for anyone looking to get a great stretch at home without needing a second person to bend and pull you in all the right directions. Not only can this strap help improve your flexibility, but by increasing your range of motion over time you're less likely to pull muscles or injure yourself in the future. It's over 6 feet long and there are 10 different loops to customize your workout.
14. The Closet Organizer That Simple To Use And Saves You Space
InterDesign Hanging Closet Organizer, $9, Amazon
Instead of clogging up precious shelf space with purses and scarves, use the InterDesign hanging closet organizer to consolidate all your purses, backpacks, ties, belts, and more into one convenient rack in your closet. There's no installation necessary, because this closet organizer is designed to be hung over your existing closet rod, and it's even great for kitchen pantries — ever get tired of seeing your reusable grocery bags get kicked around? Hang them on this instead.
15. A Repairing Hair Treatment That Works For Even The Most Fried Locks
Olaplex Hair Perfector No 3, $28, Amazon
I have super-bleached pastel pink hair, and the first few times I had it re-done my stylist gave me Olaplex hair perfector no 3 to take home and use once a week for an incredibly deep condition. Not only does this stuff work, but the formula works to repair the broken bonds in your hair, delivering real structural repair from the inside out that you can visibly see. And in the event your hair is truly fried, this repairing treatment is safe to use every day.
16. The Facial Sunscreen That Soothes Irritated And Sensitive Skin
Elta MD Skincare Facial Sunscreen, $33, Amazon
Whereas other facial sunscreens can leave you with a greasy residue or a white cast, the Elta MD Skincare facial sunscreen contains no fragrances or oils, and won't leave your skin feeling like an oil slick. It's perfect for anyone with sensitive skin — or those who are prone to acne — because it soothes and calms irritated pores. As an added bonus, it's even formulated with hyaluronic and lactic acid to promote the appearance of healthy skin.
17. A Tool Organizer That Can Hold A Serious Amount Of Weight
Berry Ave Broom And Tool Organizer, $14, Amazon
We all have "that" closet in our house — you know, the closet stuffed with brooms, mops, and dusters that all fall over the minute you start digging around? Organize all these tools and more with the Berry Ave broom and tool organizer, which is designed with spring-loaded double rubber gripped slots that give this organizer a 35-pound holding capacity. And you're not limited to indoors either, as this organizer is weatherproof so that it can be used in your garage or shed, too.
18. The Compression Socks That Wick Away Moisture To Keep Your Feet Dry
Physix Gear Sport Plantar Fasciitis Socks, $12, Amazon
Sure, they'll relieve pain from plantar fasciitis, but the Physix Gear Sport plantar fasciitis socks can do so much more — not only can you wear them all day and night since the thin design is comforrtable and breathable, but they're even moisture-wicking so your feet stay dry. Wear them hiking, jogging, or even just around the office to reduce any inflammation and keep your feet feeling great.
19. A Toothpaste That Uses Charcoal To Remove Unwanted Stains
Cali White Activated Charcoal Toothpaste, $11, Amazon
Charcoal is a natural way to remove unwanted stains from your teeth, so it makes sense that you'd want a toothpaste that's loaded with it. The Cali White activated charcoal toothpaste is not only full of charcoal, but the organic coconut oil and baking soda give an added boost when it comes to whitening your teeth. Safe for even the most sensitive teeth, this toothpaste is naturally flavored with peppermint oil and leaves your mouth feeling fresh.
20. The Cute Hiking Backpack With Double Water Bottle Holders
Sunhiker Hiking Backpack, $26, Amazon
Made from tear- and water-resistant nylon so you can depend on it no matter what the situation, the Sunhiker hiking backpack is perfect for your mountaintop excursion, or even just a quick jog down the road. The breathable mesh straps help keep you cool when you get hot, and the bottle holder on both sides means you can stay hydrated without taking up space in the main compartment.
21. An Exfoliating Body Scrub That's Great For Eczema And Psoriasis
ASUTRA Exfoliating Vitamin C Body Scrub, $22, Amazon
The Himalayan sea salt is ground extra-fine so that the ASUTRA exfoliating vitamin C body scrub is gentle, yet highly effective at exfoliating your skin. Great for fighting acne, psoriasis, and eczema, this exfoliating body scrub uses organic essential oils to detoxify your pores while fighting blackheads and unwanted blemishes. And because there are zero artificial preservatives, perfumes, or chemicals, this scrub is spa-quality and completely natural.
22. The Pain Relief Cream That Works Almost Instantaneously
Penetrex Pain Relief Cream, $19, Amazon
Any time you've got an ache or pain that just won't seem to let up, the Penetrex pain relief cream is a great way to get fast relief — all you have to do is rub it any place you feel pain, discomfort, or tingling (back, neck, knee, hand, foot, the list goes on), and wait for it to work its magic. For extra pain relief, this cream is safe to use in conjunction with heating pads, carpal tunnel braces, and more. Reviewers say this absolutely works, even calling it "magic in a jar."
23. A Variety Pack Of Aromatherapy Oils That Help You De-Stress
Radha Beauty Aromatherapy Oils (Pack of 8), $16, Amazon
Aromatherapy oils are a great way to de-stress after a long and hard day, and every order of the Radha Beauty aromatherapy oils comes with eight bottles of their most popular scents: lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, lemongrass, orange, peppermint, frankincense, and rosemary. Throw them into a diffuser for all-day relaxation, or throw one into your purse for the occasional sniff anytime life starts getting you down.
24. The Quick-Drying Water Shoes That Give You Exceptional Traction In Wet Conditions
Zhuanglin Women's Water Shoes (6-11), $24, Amazon
Whereas other water shoes can wind up staying damp for hours, the Zhuanglin women's water shoes are made from a breathable and durable air mesh that allows your feet to breathe — and the fabric to dry super-fast. The water grip outsole gives you exceptional traction when trying to walk through slippery and wet conditions, and the custom liner provides your feet with supportive cushion as you walk.
25. An Infuser That Lets You Brew Custom-Blended Tea Leaves
Fred & Friends Flamingo Infuser, $9, Amazon
If you ever decide to get adventurous and make your own custom blend of tea leaves, be sure to grab the flamingo infuser. This infuser is made from food-grade silicone, and will hold your homemade tea leaves so you can steep them without any little bits floating out into the water. And flamingos aren't your cup of tea, it's also available as a cat, seahorse, rabbit, elephant, and more adorable designs.
26. The Hair Weaver That Reduces Frizz And Leaves Your Hair Looking Shiny
Bed Head Wave Artist Deep Waver, $20, Amazon
Anytime you're using hot tools on your hair, you want to make sure that the heating plates are coated in ceramic to protect your hair from any damage. The Bed Head wave artist deep weaver not only features tourmaline ceramic technology to reduce any frizz in your hair, but the multiple heat settings up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit mean you won't wind up frying your hair.
27. A Set Of Stainless Steel Drinking Straws That Are Good For The Environment
SipWell Stainless Steel Drinking Straws, $7 (Set of 4), Amazon
Sure I want to save the environment, but I also don't want to use paper straws that get mushy 45 minutes into my meal. The solution? The SipWell stainless steel drinking straws are rust-proof, scratch-proof, and eco-friendly — all while remaining sturdy no matter how long you leave them immersed in fluid. And because they're dishwasher-safe, you don't have to worry about taking time out of your day to wash them by hand.
28. The Bamboo Toothbrushes That Are Good For The Environment
Wowe Natural Bamboo Toothbrushes, $12 (4 Pack), Amazon
Whereas plastic toothbrushes will sit in a landfill for eternity once you throw them out, the Wowe natural bamboo toothbrushes are made from recycled material and will break down over time when disposed. Each pack of four will last one person a full year, and the BPA-free bristles are made from high-quality nylon that's both soft and durable. And because bamboo is splinter- and water-resistant, you don't have to worry about drying the handle when you're done using it.
29. A Facial Hair Remover That Removes Hair From The Root Without Damaging Your Skin
Bellabe Facial Hair Remover, $16, Amazon
Waxing or bleaching hair can leave your skin flaky and dry, but the Bellabe facial hair remover avoids all of those pitfalls by cleanly removing hair from the root. Simply open the spring by bending it in half, then pinch the unwanted hair between the coils, straighten it out and pull — no more hair, wherever you choose to remove it. Reviewers say it's not that painful, either.
30. The Book Light That Provides You With Up To 20 Hours Of Illumination
Ecologic Mart Book Light, $17, Amazon
Yellow light is easiest on your eyes when reading in dim environments, which is why the Ecologic Mart book light uses warm light when illuminating the pages of your book. And while other book lights require batteries, this book light is rechargeable and lasts up to 20 hours off of just 1.2 hours of charging.
31. An Eyeliner That's Formulated To Last All Day Without Smudging
Docolor Waterproof Eyeliner, $7, Amazon
Getting caught in the rain or watching a particularly emotional commercial at the office an ruin your eyeliner for the rest of the day, so grab an eyeliner like the Docolor waterpoof eyeliner and be confident that your makeup will stay flawless, no matter how many sad animal videos pop up on your newsfeed. This eyeliner has an ultra-fine .4-millimeter brush felt tip for accurate application, and the continuous-flow pen means you get smooth and even lines every time.
32. The Natural Deodorant Formulated With Lavender And Eucalyptus Essential Oils
Super Natural Goods Deodorant Stick, $16, Amazon
For anyone who prefers a natural deodorant that doesn't have any aluminum in it, the Super Natural Goods deodorant stick sets itself apart from other natural deodorants by incorporating therapeutic-grade lavender and eucalyptus essential oils to leave you smelling fresh and clean. "This is, quite simply, the best deodorant on the planet," one Amazon reviewer raves. "After using it for a week you'll realize how poorly all the conventional deodorants perform!"
33. A Workout Aid That Takes Your Ab Workout To Another Level
Iheartsynergee Core Sliders, $11, Amazon
Doing hundreds of crunches over and over is the most boring, discouraging way in the world to work out your core — so spice up your workout with these core sliders. All you have to do it set yourself up in a plank position, then put the sliders under your toes and bring your knees up into your stomach: All of your core muscles will engage, while also giving your body the added benefit of working to balance itself.
34. The Mosquito Repellent That Protects You For Up To 10 Hours
Repel Insect Repellent, $8, Amazon
Mosquitoes can take a fun outdoor outing and turn it into a total itch-fest, so instead of risking your sanity and skin use the Repel insect repellent. Not only does it repel mosquitoes, but it's able to protect you for up to 10 hours and is formulated for even the severest of conditions. Just think — you'd rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it, right?
35. A Bath Mat That's Antibacterial And Conveniently Machine Washable
Gorilla Grip Original Bath Mat, $15, Amazon
Featuring 324 Gorilla Grip suction cups that help hold your bath mat in place no matter how wet your tub gets (so no slipping!), the Gorilla Grip original bath mat is also antibacterial so you don't have to worry about any mold or mildew growing in damp conditions. And in the event it does get dirty, you can toss this into the washing machine for hassle-free cleaning and maintenance.
36. The Electric Hair Brush That Dries Your Hair While Boosting Volume
Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer And Volumizer, $60, Amazon
If you want to add some serious volume to your next styling session, try out the Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer. The oval brush design and mixed bristles create body while detangling your locks. It also produces negative ions within its airflow that help condition and smooth your hair while leaving it shiny with less frizz. Best of all, giving yourself a blowout is easy — just place the volumizer close to the root and slowly roll it out towards the ends to give your hair an added inch or two.
37. A WiFi Extender With A High-Speed Mode For An HD Gaming And Movie Experience
TP-Link Wi-Fi Range Extender, $30, Amazon
You can keep restarting your Internet connection in the hopes it's magically reach further, or you can solve your connection problems once and for all with the TP-Link range extender. Compatible with any standard router or gateway, this WiFi extender features a high-speed mode that delivers an HD gaming and streaming experience with uninterrupted service. And because it even has a built-in smart signal indicator, this extender will help you find the best location for it to provide you with optimal coverage.
38. The Sun Therapy Lamp That Helps Combat The Winter Blues
Nature Bright SunTouch Therapy Lamp, $50, Amazon
If you find yourself becoming a little gloomy on cloudy days or during cold winters, try out the Nature Bright SunTouch therapy lamp. This lamp is made to combat the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder, which can leave you feeling tired or a little down when you're working long hours with no natural sunlight. Great for offices as well as at-home use, this lamp helps to improve your mood, energy levels, and quality of sleep.
39. A Natural Spray That Provides Relief From Sore Muscles, Headaches, And More
Seven Minerals Pure Magnesium Oil Spray, $19, Amazon
Magnesium is a great natural relief for sore muscles, cramps, headaches, and other body aches, and the Seven Minerals pure magnesium oil spray is just that — 100 percent pure magnesium. Each bottle of magnesium spray absorbs quickly into your skin without any greasy residue, and can double as a relaxing spray that helps you fall asleep quicker and sleep easier throughout the night.
40. The Kitchen Gadget That Takes The Work Out Of Coring A Pineapple
ChefLand Pienapple Corer, $8, Amazon
Coring a pineapple can be a painful process for the inexperienced, and even for the seasoned veteran it can be annoying. The ChefLand pineapple corer takes all the work out of coring a pineapple: Simply remove the top of the pineapple, stick the slicer in the middle and twist the top. The blades will cut through the fruit, leaving you with a perfectly cored pineapple. And because the blades are made from stainless steel, you don't have to worry about them growing dull or rusting.
41. An Air Purifier That Deodorizes Using A Charcoal Filter
Guardian Technologies Germ Guardian Air Purifier, $85, Amazon
Able to capture 99.97 percent of all dust an allergens down to .3-microns in size, the Guardian Technologies germ guardian air purifier utilizes a charcoal filter to naturally deodorize your room from unwanted pet, smoking, and cooking odors. The filter only needs to be replaced every eight months, and there's even three different speeds to choose from so that you can customize how much airflow you have in your room.
42. The Dog Bowl That Forces Your Dog To Take Its Time Eating
Outward Hound Slow-Feed Dog Bowl, $10, Amazon
If you find that your dog has digestion problems resulting from eating too fast, try the Outward Hound slow-feed dog bowl. The spiral design forces your dog to eat up to 10 times slower by navigating through the twists and turns, and the non-slip base ensures that it won't go flying across the room when your dog starts foraging around. Great for wet or dry food, the large size holds up to 4 cups of food, while the small holds up to 2 cups.
43. A Facial Cleanser That Uses Sugar Cane And Willow Bark To Exfoliate
InstaNatural Glycolic Facial Cleanser, $19, Amazon
Anytime you find yourself with a stubborn blackhead or a patch of dry, flaky skin, try the InstaNatural glycolic facial cleanser. This cleanser not only exfoliates away dry skin, but the formula also works to bust through blackheads, oily buildup, and reduce any unwanted redness. Stuffed with sugar cane, willow bark, chamomile, and vitamin E, this cleanser helps to brighten your complexion and works with all skin types.
44. The Portable Speaker That Plays In The Shower For Up To 12 Hours
AYL Portable Shower Speaker, $25, Amazon
Even though it's marketed as a shower speaker, you can take the AYL portable shower speaker with you anywhere — hiking, backpacking, camping — you name it, and this speaker lightweight speaker can handle it. Weighing in at less than 1 pound, this shower speaker can last up to 12 hours off of one single charge even when bumping at 80 percent volume, and because it's got a wireless range of 33 feet, you can listen to music even at a distance.
45. A Cute Anti-Chafing Band That Doubles As A Cute Fashion Accessory
Bandelettes Anti-Chafing Thigh Bands, $19, Amazon
Having a little bit of lace peeking out underneath your skirt with the Bandelettes anti-chafing thigh bands is a cute way to spruce up any outfit, and they'll even keep your thighs from becoming irritated or red when they touch to boot. Each band has two rows of non-slip silicone on the inside to keep them from slipping out of place, and you can even store credit cards in them on nights where you don't want to be stuck carrying a purse or wallet.
46. The Pizza Slicer That Protects Your Hands From Getting Cut
Kitchy Pizza Cutter Wheel, $13, Amazon
It's pretty easy to cut yourself on a pizza wheel — because who hasn't grabbed a piece when someone's trying to slice it? Enter the Kitchy pizza cutter wheel. Whereas the blade in traditional pizza cutters is completely exposed, this cutter has a built-in protective blade guard that you can close when not in use. Rather than having to apply uneven pressure to a handle, this cutter wheel fits right in the palm of your hand for a nice, comfortable cut.
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