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50 Expensive Mistakes You Don't Realize You're Making All The Time — & They're So Easy To Fix
You can save so much money with these clever and thrifty products.
You don’t have to splurge on big-ticket items to waste money. Sometimes, it’s those sneaky little habits that slowly chip away at your wallet. Whether it’s tossing out half-used bottles, constantly replacing wasted food, or forgetting to turn off the lights when you leave a room, these everyday missteps can quietly add up over time. Fortunately, for just about each one of these habits, there’s a cheap and clever product on Amazon that will help you fix it. From problem-solving kitchen tools to simple home upgrades, these brilliant items will help you save money (and reduce stress) without even trying.
1
Mistake: Buying Fresh-Cut Bouquets That Wilt In Days
Solution: Displaying These Elegant Faux Tulips That Look Real & Last Forever
Made from soft polyurethane with flexible plastic stems, these artificial tulips are designed to look just like the real thing — minus the cost of replacing them every week. They come in a wide range of colors that can be swapped out seasonally for holidays or DIY wreaths. You can even bend or trim the stems for the perfect vase height, or display them in water to make them look freshly cut.
- Available colors: 62
2
Mistake: Letting Clutter Pile Up In Your Vehicle
Solution: A Lidded Car Bin That Keeps Trash Contained
This clever car trash can attaches to the back of your headrest or center console with an adjustable strap, keeping garbage within easy reach but out of sight. The leakproof liner helps contain messes, while magnetic snaps inside make it easy to swap out the disposable liners. Available in more than a dozen colors and patterns, the auto trash can collapses when not in use and can even double as extra storage when not being used for trash.
- Available sizes: 2 gallons, 3 gallons
- Available colors: 13
3
Mistake: Burning Through Pricey Candles
Solution: These Reusable Flameless Candles With A Realistic Glow
If you’re tired of constantly replacing melted candles — or worried about leaving an open flame unattended — these flameless glass candles are the perfect swap. They’re made with real wax and built-in 3-D bulbs that mimic a cozy flicker, and they run for over 500 hours on two AA batteries. The included remote lets you set timers or adjust the glow without getting up, saving you money and hassle.
- Available colors: 8
4
Mistake: Always Forgetting To Turn Off The Lights
Solution: Installing Motion-Sensor Lights That Turn Off Automatically
These wireless LED stair lights automatically activate when motion is detected within 10 feet, then shut off 30 seconds later to save battery life. Each light delivers a warm glow that helps make stairwells, hallways, and closets safer to navigate at night without wasting electricity. They install in seconds with the included screws or adhesive, and they run on AA batteries, so you can use them anywhere in your home (no nearby outlet needed).
5
Mistake: Letting Fruits & Veggies Rot Before You Can Use Them
Solution: These Produce Savers That Keep Things Fresh Longer
If you find yourself tossing out wilted lettuce or moldy berries before getting the chance to eat them, these produce-saver sheets are an easy fix. Infused with botanicals, they help extend the life of your fruits and veggies by up to four times (aka less spoiled groceries and fewer last-minute trips to the store). Just toss a sheet into your produce drawer or fruit bowl and let it work its magic.
6
Mistake: Losing Or Scratching Your Sunglasses In The Car
Solution: Magnetic Holders That Keep Them Safe & Accessible
Tossing your sunglasses on the seat or dashboard is a fast way to scratch the lenses or lose them altogether. But these visor-mounted holders keep them secure and within arm’s reach, thanks to a magnetic flap and soft leather wrap that protects both your glasses and your car. Available as a set of two, each one clips easily onto nearly any visor and helps extend the life of your shades by keeping them from getting banged up or buried on the floor.
- Available colors: 8
7
Mistake: Tossing Out Bottles With Product Still Inside
Solution: This Bottle Drainer That Lets You Use Every Last Drop
Leaning, shaking, or slicing open bottles to get the last bit of shampoo or lotion isn’t just frustrating — it’s ineffective. Fortunately, this brilliant bottle emptying kit is designed to replace the regular cap, allowing gravity to do the work so you can get every last drop out. The kit includes multiple adaptors to fit most standard bottles, ensuring you get more value out of shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and cleaning sprays.
8
Mistake: Letting Fresh Herbs Go Bad Before You Use Them
Solution: A Glass Herb Saver That Helps Keep Greens Fresh For Weeks
Wasting money on herbs that wilt in the fridge after just a few days adds up fast, but this glass herb keeper is designed to hydrate and protect greens like cilantro, mint, rosemary, and others, keeping them fresh for up to an impressive three weeks. The tall glass chamber and breathable BPA-free cup promote airflow while the sleek design looks elegant in your fridge.
9
Mistake: Letting stains ruin your upholstery
Solution: A Wildly Popular Spray That Tackles Even Set-In Stains
While it’s designed with new parents in mind, this powerful stain remover spray is tough enough to tackle everything from ketchup and wine to pet stains and spit up (even if the stains have set in). Simply spray it on, blot, rinse, and watch the mess disappear. The popular spray has won over nearly 10,000 reviewers on Amazon, with one fan calling it, “pure magic.”
10
Mistake: Going Through Endless Rolls Of Paper Towels
Solution: Swapping To Reusable Swedish Cloths That Are Machine Washable
Made from a blend of biodegradable cellulose and cotton, these reusable Swedish dishcloths absorb spills like a sponge but dry quickly and can be cleaned in the washing machine or dishwasher. They’re durable enough to replace up to 25 rolls of paper towels and can be tossed in the wash up to 50 times. Available in a wide mix of colors and patterns, they’re a wallet-friendly upgrade that adds style to your kitchen while seriously cutting down on waste.
- Available colors: 13
11
Mistake: Wasting Tape (& Time) Fumbling With Stuck Edges
Solution: A Simple Gadget That Lifts Tape Edges Instantly
No more picking at rolls of tape with your fingernails or cursing as you ruin the first few inches in frustration. This genius RollRanger tool uses a built-in sensor and LED light to instantly locate the tape edge and lift it cleanly without splitting. “All I have to do is run the device along the roll and, Voila, the end is found. I love this gadget,” wrote one shopper.
12
Mistake: Spending Tons of Money On Fancy Bottled Juices
Solution: A Compact Juicer That Lets You Squeeze Your Own Fresh Drinks
The cost of bottled juices can add up if you buy them regularly. But this handy electric juicer gives you up to 24 ounces of fresh-squeezed juice on demand, thanks to a hands-free, auto-reversing reamer that makes the process quick and easy. It’s compact, lightweight, and the parts that are detachable are all dishwasher safe.
13
Mistake: Using More Oil Than You Mean To When Cooking
Solution: A Spray Bottle That Evenly Mists Just The Right Amount
Being more precise with your cooking oils doesn’t just help your dishes come out better, but it will help you stretch your grocery budget, too. Made with sleek and durable borosilicate glass, this dual-function oil sprayer lets you switch between a fine, even mist and a precise pour, depending on your cooking needs. It dispenses just 0.2 grams per spray and holds nearly 16 ounces (or close to a standard-size bottle of cooking oil).
14
Mistake: Letting Soggy Sponges Get Gross & Moldy
Solution: A Sleek Sink Caddy That Helps Them Stay Fresh Longer
Designed with a rotating spout that’s designed to drain directly into your sink, this stainless steel caddy prevents sponges from sitting in standing water and getting gross, helping to extend their lifespan. It has separate compartments for soap, brushes, and scrubbers, helping everything dry faster and stay organized so you don’t have to replace them as often. “This has been the best sink caddy I have ever owned,” wrote one reviewer.
15
Mistake: Throwing out unlabeled pantry items because you forgot what they are
Solution: Using this portable label maker to keep track of what you have
If you’re guilty of having to toss unmarked baggies of food, spices, and other ingredients in your pantry, this handy label maker is here to save the day. Compatible with Android and iOS, the wireless Bluetooth device is designed to sync with your device for quick and easy printing — and it comes with access to so many fonts and templates. Plus, the handheld gadget uses thermal printing, instead of traditional ink, so you’ll never need to buy replacement cartridges.
- Available colors: 6
16
Mistake: Losing valuables in the gap between your car’s seat
Solution: Installing these seat gap fillers so nothing slips beyond reach
Finally, you can end the frustration of dropping coins, jewelry, and devices in the gap between your car’s seat. Featured on Shark Tank, these seat gap fillers are designed to work for most vehicles, fitting seamlessly around the seatbelt buckle of the front seats for full coverage. And they come in a set of two, so you can enjoy drop protection for both the driver and passenger.
17
Mistake: Letting low tire pressure turn into a flat tire
Solution: Maintaining the right pressure level with this portable air compressor
Keeping tabs on your tire pressure is a car maintenance task that’s easy to forget about, but this portable air compressor makes it simple to stay on top of things, so a low tire doesn’t lead to a pricey service call. Designed to plug into your car’s 12-volt outlet, it can be preset to your desired pressure level and will automatically stop inflating once it achieves it. The compressor also features a backlit screen and a built-in flashlight, making it seamless to use even at night.
- Available sizes: Medium, Large
- Available colors: 4
18
Mistake: Not protecting your shoes when you aren’t wearing them
Solution: Using this shoe organizer to keep your collection scuff free
If your closet has a disheveled pile of shoes on the floor, you’re far from alone — but you may also be subjecting your footwear to extra wear and tear. Instead, use this tidy shoe organizer to keep your kicks protected, while also making them easy to find. Designed to fit an impressive 16 pairs at once, it features a secure zipper closure to keep dust and dirt out, along with a clear vinyl cover that lets you quickly see what’s inside. For bigger collections, it also comes in a 24-pair option.
- Available sizes: 16 pairs, 24 pairs
- Available colors: 2
19
Mistake: Tossing your clothes as soon as they get pilly
Solution: Using this fabric shaver to keep fabrics looking like new
It can be tempting to part with clothes, upholstery, and other linens once they start to get pilly, but you can actually give them a new life with this easy-to-use fabric shaver. Available in both battery-operated and rechargeable models, it comes with an assortment of six “leaf” blades, making it suitable for a wide range of fabrics, from coats to curtains. And it has powerful operation, removing lint and pills in just seconds so you can get on with your day.
- Available colors: 7
20
Mistake: Buying Expensive Herbs At The Grocery Store
Solution: Growing Your Own At Home With This Reusable Tray
There’s no need to keep overpaying for tiny plastic containers of herbs when growing them yourself is this easy. This simple indoor herb kit has 16 flexible silicone cells that make transplanting easy while cutting down on root damage. Best of all, it's designed with smart drainage and a spill-free watering system.
21
Mistake: Waking Up To Frizzy Hair Every Morning
Solution: Sleeping On These Super-Smooth Satin Pillowcases
This two-piece set of satin pillowcases provides a smooth sleeping surface that’s gentle on hair and skin, helping to reduce frizz and fine lines. Plus, the ultra-popular set has a silky-soft sheen that looks and feels so expensive. Choose from so many colors and sizes to match your space.
- Available sizes: Standard — Body
- Available colors: 38
22
Mistake: Letting Accessories Get Scratched & Tangled
Solution: Storing Accessories In These Soft Jewelry Pouches
Help keep your accessories collection from getting tangled and scratched with these must-have jewelry pouches. The velvety material is gentle on metals and stones, and the airtight zippered seal helps prevent oxidation. Plus, the clear-view panels easily allow you to see what’s inside. You get six bags in a set — ideal for organizing your jewelry at home or while traveling.
23
Mistake: Damaging Hair By Using The Wrong Brush
Solution: This Detangling Hair Brush With Flexible Bristles
Whether brushing your hair wet or dry, this detangling hair brush will make the job less painful and help prevent breakage. It has flexible bristles that easily glide through tangles and an angled handle with a comfy grip. And it’s designed for use on all hair types, from course and curly to straight and fine.
- Available colors: 19
24
Mistake: Accidentally Mixing Dirty Dishes With Clean Ones
Solution: This Dishwasher Magnet That Simply Keeps It Straight
If you’re always accidentally mixing dirty dishes in with the clean ones, this dishwasher magnet is a must. It has an aesthetic design and is completely waterproof, so you can touch it with wet hands and even submerge it for a deep clean. It comes with a strong magnetic plate that keeps it firmly in place while preventing scratches on your dishwasher door panel.
25
Mistake: Not Getting The Most Out Of Your Beauty Products
Solution: This Makeup Spatula That Gets Every Last Bit Out
Beauty products can be super expensive, so using up every last drop is a must for saving money. But it’s not always easy to do — unless you have this genius makeup spatula. It has a long, thin handle and flexible silicone head with an angled design that allows you to effortlessly scrape the sides and bottoms of bottles. It’s dishwasher safe, too, for easy cleanup.
- Available colors: 2
26
Mistake: Not Fixing Unsightly Marks On Walls & Furniture
Solution: These Touch-Up Paint Pens That Make The Job So Easy
No need to bust out drop cloths and paint trays when it comes time to tackle those unsightly chips and scuffs on your walls and furniture. These innovative paint touch-up pens feature a syringe design for easy loading and built-in brush tips for achieving precise results. And they’re reusable — just rinse, dry, and store for next time.
27
Mistake: Letting Your Makeup Sponges Get Smashed & Dirty
Solution: Storing Them In These Genius Sponge Holders
If you toss your makeup blenders right into your toiletry bag or the back of a drawer when you’re done getting ready, there’s a good chance they’re prone to getting squished and dirty. Instead, store them in these makeup sponge holders. They’re made from thick yet flexible silicone that protects sponges of most shapes and sizes, plus side vents to help promote breathability and prevent mildew. Choose from packs in a range of colorways, from neutral to vibrant.
- Available colors: 15
28
Mistake: Not Protecting Your Eyewear From Scratches
Solution: Storing Them In These Chic Fuzzy Eyeglasses Holders
Keeping your eyeglasses properly stored when not in use is key to preventing scratches and also helping you keep track of where you last left them. And this two-pack of eyeglasses holders is perfect for doing just that. They conveniently stand up right and have a faux leather outer layer with an eye-catching shine and a fuzzy lining that’s super gentle on lenses.
- Available colors: 3
29
Mistake: Touching Up Your Makeup Multiple Times Per Day
Solution: Applying This Primer Base For All-Day Staying Power
You can stop touching up your makeup multiple times per day when you use this popular primer base. The lightweight formula creates a smooth canvas, hides imperfections, brightens skin tone, and controls oil for a flawless look. Just rub in a small amount, then apply your makeup as usual for makeup that lasts all day.
30
Mistake: Letting Hair & Debris Build Up In Your Pipes
Solution: Installing This Super Popular Drain Strainer Set
Skip the costly plumber visits and get this popular drain strainer instead. It has a revolutionary mushroom-shaped design that catches hair around its easy-to-clean center, while allowing water to easily flow through. Plus, the set also includes a flexible, leak-proof drain stopper designed to fit almost any sized bath or sink drain. With a 4.7-star rating after nearly 61,000 reviews, it’s an easy drain protection hack worth investing in.
31
Mistake: Allowing Potentially Dangerous Lint To Build Up In Your Dryer
Solution: This Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit For Peace Of Mind & More Efficient Cycles
This dryer vent cleaner kit makes removing lint and debris buildup a simple DIY job. It features a long, flexible hose for reaching deep into vents, and two adapters that can attach to most vacuum cleaners. Unobstructed vents help dryers work more efficiently and can also help prevent potential fire hazards, making this appliance maintenance find a must.
- Available colors: 2
32
Mistake: Constantly Replacing Damaged & Lost Cables
Solution: Keeping Them Neatly Organized With These Color-Coded Cable Ties
These color-coded cable ties are essential for keeping cords and plugs organized and free from damage caused by bending and tangles. They’re crafted from flexible nylon that’s easy to wrap around wires, with convenient looped fasteners for a secure hold. With 40 in the pack, you can affordably organize almost every cord in your home.
- Available colors: 2
33
Mistake: Paying More Than You Should On Your Energy Bills
Solution: Weatherproofing Your Home With These Door Draft Stoppers
Helping reduce your energy bills can be as simple as weatherproofing your home with these door draft stoppers. The thick, flexible silicone quietly glides against flooring and is designed to effectively seal gaps that can cause inefficient heating and cooling. Plus, the powerful peel-and-stick adhesive backing makes for quick and effortless installation.
- Available sizes: 32 inches — 41 inches
- Available colors: 5
34
Mistake: Not Finding Leaks Before The Damage Is Done
Solution: Installing These Water Leak Detectors
Unnoticed leaks can cause expensive water damage to our home, but these genius water leak detectors can easily prevent that mistake. Just place the detectors under sinks, near the base of appliances, or any location prone to leaks for added peace of mind. Offered as a two-pack, the units are equipped with sensitive front and back sensors that will sound a loud alarm when water is detected, helping prevent costly damage.
35
Mistake: Wasting Expensive Batteries By Not Keeping Them Organized
Solution: Storing Them In This Organizer That Has a Built-In Power Tester
Tossing batteries in random drawers makes them hard to find, which can equal lots of waste and overbuying. Instead, store them in this clear battery organizer with 148 slots to accommodate a variety of sizes. It also has a built-in tester, helping prevent you from tossing out batteries that still have life left in them.
- Available colors: 2
36
Mistake: Tossing Out Expensive Bras That Don’t Fit
Solution: These Adjustable Bra Extenders With Stretchy Elastic
Before you start putting your expensive bras into the trash or donation piles, first try them on using these affordable bra extenders. They’re made from a soft, breathable cotton and feature stretchy elastic for added comfort and flexibility. With three rows of strong metal hooks and neutral color options, you’re sure to find the perfect fit and hue to match your needs.
- Available colors: 2
37
Mistake: Letting Furniture Damage Your Flooring
Solution: Chair Leg Covers That You Can Barely Notice, But Work So Well
Slip on these chair leg covers to protect your flooring from costly and unsightly damage caused by dragging furniture. They’re crafted from durable, stretchy silicone and feature wool felt along the base to ensure a smooth glide. Grab them in clear that’s barely noticeable, or a wide selection of other colors to blend in with your furniture finishes.
- Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
- Available colors: 14
38
Mistake: Wasting Food Because You Can’t See What You Have
Solution: Using These Clear Fridge Bins For Better Access & Viewing
These refrigerator bins are the perfect solution for organizing your food. They’re made from thick, clear plastic that’s both shatterproof and BPA-free. Plus, they have large handles on both sides, so you can slide them out, making it easier to view and access foods. Use them in the fridge, cabinets, drawers, and more.
- Available sizes: 12.5 x 6.3 x 3.5 inches — 14.5 x 8.5 x 3.8 inches
39
Mistake: Letting Bugs Take Over Your Home
Solution: These Sticky Gnat Traps That Blend In With Your Plants
Insert these gnat traps into planters and flower pots, or just place them along your backsplash to help reduce pest problems in and around your home. They have a cheery design, are made with nontoxic ingredients, and are ultra-sticky for better results. When full, just toss and replace — there are 15 in a box, so you’ll be set for a while.
40
Mistake: Not Removing Unsightly Pet Hair From Your Clothes
Solution: Lifting It Away With This Reusable Garment Brush
This reusable garment brush by OXO is so effective at wiping away pet hair that you’ll wish you had gotten one sooner. It has a large surface with gentle microfiber bristles that cling to hair and lint, and it even comes with a self-cleaning holder that takes the guesswork out of maintenance and storage.
41
Mistake: Letting Your Area Rugs Get Damaged By Curled Corners
Solution: Keeping Them Flat With These Rug Corner Grippers
Curled rug corners don’t just look like a mess, they’re also a tripping hazard and can cause damage to your expensive rugs when they get stuck in your vacuum brush beaters. To prevent all of those problems, simply use these rug corner grippers to help keep them flat. You’ll appreciate that they’re made from a soft rubber that’s easy to clean and reuse, plus that they won’t damage or leave residue on flooring.
42
Mistake: Not Securing Grocery Bags In Your Car Trunk & Having Items Get Smashed Or Lost
Solution: This Large Car Trunk Organizer With Adjustable Compartments
Whether you’re hauling groceries home in your car or stashing travel essentials, this car trunk organizer is a must for keeping everything in its place — so you can skip the smashed chips or lost produce. And it’s got so many practical features, like adjustable compartments and pockets, a leakproof lining, strong straps with hooks, and it can even fold down for easy storage. All that, plus a wildly low price, makes it too good to pass up.
- Available colors: 3
43
Mistake: Taking Forever To Clean Up Your Garden
Solution: Using This Weeder Tool That Lifts Roots So Easily
This weeder tool makes removing invasive plants from your garden quick and easy. It’s made from strong, rust-resistant aluminum and has a pronged end designed to gently and precisely lift roots while leaving surrounding plants intact. And the handle has an ergonomic, nonslip grip for maximum comfort and leverage.
44
Mistake: Letting Your Pets Destroy Your Furniture
Solution: This Waterproof Dog Blanket That’s Machine Washable
Now you can let your pets cuddle up next to you on your couch or bed (without fear of spills or stains) when you use this waterproof dog blanket. Pets will love the comfy feel of both the fleece and microfiber sides, and you’ll love that it prevents accidents from damaging your furniture, plus how effortless it is to clean. Just throw it in the washer and dryer for the easiest upkeep.
- Available sizes: Small — King
- Available colors: 15
45
Mistake: Losing Rings Because They Don't Fit Right
Solution: Using These Invisible Ring Spacers
Losing your expensive rings is a big bummer, but these ring spacers are a simple solution to help you avoid them from slipping off your fingers. They’re made from soft, clear silicone that’s practically invisible and easy to cut to size, plus they feature a coil shape to ensure a secure fit. The pack includes 12 pieces, so you can create the right fit for all of your favorite rings.
46
Mistake: Not Being Able To Reach Items In Tight Spaces
Solution: Getting This Magnetic Pickup Tool With A Built-In Flashlight
Dropped a piece of jewelry or a screw behind a heavy dresser or between your washer and dryer? No problem. This magnetic pickup tool makes seeing and reaching lost items a breeze. That’s because it has a flexible neck that extends up to 22 inches, plus a powerful magnetic flashlight on the end. It’s a low-cost tool that’s sure to come in handy indoors and outdoors.
47
Mistake: Running Up The Electric Bill With Outdoor Lighting
Solution: Installing These Solar Garden Lights
These solar garden lights illuminate your front and back yard year-round without running up the electric bill. The set includes 12 weatherproof mini lights equipped with solar panels, bright LED lights, and an auto dusk-to-dawn operation. Shallow stakes firmly grip soil, creating a streamlined look.
- Available colors: 2
48
Mistake: Having To Replace Mattresses After Accidents
Solution: This Waterproof Mattress Protector
Line your bed with this deluxe mattress protector to keep it free from stains and dust mites while adding extra comfort. It has a soft quilted cotton top and a waterproof under layer that’s completely noiseless. Deep, stretchy sides make it easy to put on (even on thick mattresses). Choose from a variety of sizes to find your perfect fit.
- Available sizes: Crib — California King
49
Mistake: Letting Pet Stains Go Undetected
Solution: Using This UV Light To Find Them
This LED flashlight uses ultraviolet technology to help you easily spot pet stains on furniture and other surfaces around your home. The compact design makes for a comfortable grip, plus convenient storage. Just pop in the included AA batteries to get started ridding your home of stinky pet accidents.
50
Mistake: Replacing Furniture With Small Dings & Discoloration
Solution: Sprucing It Up With This Best-Selling Wood Furniture Repair Kit
Before you go replacing the less-than-perfect-looking furniture in your home, first try refreshing it with this wood furniture repair kit. It includes six wax sticks for filling in dings, and six markers for covering up discoloration — both in unique colors to match just about any wood stain. It’s an effective and permanent solution that is sure to save you money.
