Shopping
65 Surprisingly Genius Things Under $20 Things You Didn't Know Existed
You’ll be wowed by how oddly clever they are.

There are hidden gems out there that even the most seasoned of online shoppers don’t know about. And best of all, they won’t cost an arm and a leg. Everything on this list is under $20 and is so surprisingly genius that your entire daily routine may change for the better.
1A Magnetic Dishwasher Cover That’s Waterproof
This magnetic dishwasher cover has a waterproof surface that won't fade over time. At 23 by 26 inches, it works with most standard-sized dishwashers, but you can also use it on washing machines and dryers. Because it sticks on with strong magnets, it comes off cleanly and leaves no residue behind.
2Deer Warning Whistles That Stick To Bumpers & Grills
These deer warning whistles make a noise that repels deer, potentially saving lives and avoiding accidents. You can attach them to bumpers or grills without them being obvious. Their double-sided tape maintains a strong hold, even when you drive down bumpy roads. They come in a pack of two, and they work with cars of any make or model.
3A Hair Identifier Spray That Comes With 4 Dermaplaning Razors
This hair identifier spray illuminates tiny strands for a closer shave. All you have to do is shake it up and spray it onto your face, then shave with maximum accuracy. It comes with four dermaplaning razors that were specifically made for facial use. You only need a light layer of the spray, so it lasts a long time.
4A Soothing Microwaveable Pad That Heats Up In Just A Minute
This microwaveable heating pad works with no wires or extra hardware. Instead, after just a minute in the microwave, it provides relief from sore muscles, aches, and pains. Its adorable design makes it a cute plushie as well as a practical purchase. Plus, it’s unscented, so it’s a safe bet for sensitive noses.
5Golden Picture Frame Magnets With Strong Backings
These picture frame fridge magnets are made of sturdy resin. Their strong backings keep them stuck on your fridge to securely hold paintings, report cards, and more. Designed to work well with wallet-sized photos and smaller Polaroids, they’re a great way to make your favorite memories look museum-worthy.
6A Ponytail-Friendly Hat That Dries Quickly
This ponytail hat has criss-cross bands in the back to accommodate any updo. Its lightweight and quick-drying material is great for workouts and sunny days, but you can wear it year-round. It also has an inner sweatband to keep your face dry and your vision clear. You can adjust its size to fit your head (between 20 and 22.8 inches).
- Available colors: 10+
7A Pocket-Sized Pill Case That Opens When You Squeeze It
This pocket-sized pill case can hold up to 28 tablets at a time while sealing securely. When you squeeze its sides, it releases pills, but otherwise, it stays shut. Because of its size, it's a great choice when you're on the go but still need to take a medication. Each order comes with two cases.
8A Garbage Disposal Brush With Stiff Bristles & An Easy-Grip Handle
This garbage disposal brush has stiff bristles for a powerful clean. It breaks up stuck-on food and scrubs away debris, preventing clogs and damage. It measures 3.5 by 3.5 by 12 inches, with an easy-grip handle that helps you clean. When you're finished, you can rinse it in the sink or pop it in the dishwasher.
9Dissolvable Food Labels That Won’t Leave Any Residue Behind
These food labels dissolve in water, meaning they have no sticky residue. To remove them, just run them under water for about 30 seconds. They have room for all the information you need, including purchase dates and use-by dates, in both English and Spanish. Their adhesives stick to most surfaces, including metal, plastic, and glass.
10A Latex Tape For Your Nails That’ll Lead To Cleaner DIY Manicures
DIY manicures can get messy — that's where this latex tape comes in. You can apply it around nails and cuticles, then let it dry for cleaner manicures every time. After you paint your nails, you can peel off the latex tape with tweezers or your hand. “This stuff is genius. Wow!” wrote one reviewer.
11Pencil Sleeves That Double As Textured Fidgets
These silicone pencil sleeves double as covert fidget toys you can use during work or school. They’re a good way to expel extra energy while offering comfort. They come in a pack of four, each with its own color and texture, and have earned an impressive 4.5 stars overall.
12A Long-Lasting Cooling Ring That Stays Flexible While You Wear It
This neck cooling ring has an ergonomic design for a comfortable fit. You can store it in the freezer, then wear it when you need to cool down. Its gel stays cool for up to two hours at a time, and it’s leakproof, so you can store it in your bag without worrying about spills. It freezes in just one to two hours, and it stays flexible even when frozen.
13A Snack-Shaped Plush Pillow With A 4.6-Star Overall Score
Made of a soft plush fabric, this snack-shaped pillow is meant to feel like a cloud (and it does). Rigorously lab-tested, it has no small parts or potentially irritating materials. Its puffy ridges and center cut-out resemble your favorite cheesy cracker. It’s easy to spot-clean and has earned an impressive 4.6-star overall score.
14Clear Tape That Makes Your Curtains Slide More Smoothly & Quietly
This clear tape was made for curtains, so they’ll slide smoothly across curtain rods. Because it's clear, it won't mess with your decor, and it peels off without damage or residue. Each roll comes with 29 feet of tape, so you'll have enough for multiple rooms. You don’t need any tools or DIY experience to use it; you can simply stick it on.
15A Magnetic Phone Mount With A Nonslip Silicone Strap
This magnetic phone mount is compatible with most handlebars, whether you're pushing a stroller or riding a Peloton. It has a nonslip silicone strap that gives it a secure grip, and it works on handlebars up to 2.1 inches in diameter. With built-in magnets, it attaches to most gym racks and iron surfaces, and it's easy to remove.
16Reusable Iron-Releasing Fish That Can Add To Your Daily Intake
These iron-release fish help you get more iron in your diet — via foods you already eat. You can boil them in water, then add your favorite recipe. After rinsing and drying, you can reuse them over and over. They're especially helpful for vegans and vegetarians, but they're great for anyone who wants to boost their iron levels.
17A Mini Watercolor Set With 12 Paints & A Walnut Wood Palette
This mini watercolor set comes with 12 paint colors, so you can bring your creative visions to life. Its walnut wood palette is waterproof and oil-resistant. Metal binder clips secure it in place, whether you're keeping it on your easel or by your side. The included brushes can help you tackle all sorts of projects, from still lifes to stick figures.
18A Washer Door Prop With A Flexible Hose To Prevent Odor Buildup
This door prop keeps washing machine doors ajar, so they stay dry and ventilated. This can help prevent odors from building up, so your clothes will actually get clean when you wash them. You can bend its flexible hose to keep doors open at your desired angle, and it has a big, sturdy magnetic base.
19Foldable Mini Scissors With Cool Holographic Handles
These lightweight scissors fold in half, so you can take them on the go. They're made of stainless steel and a zinc alloy, and when you fold them, they're just 3.8 inches long. Their handles are easy to use, and they slice through most papers with ease. Plus, they come in a pack of two, and their holographic handles are a fun way to deck out your desk.
20A Bra Wallet With An RFID-Blocking Lining
This bra wallet bravely asks the question: what if every outfit had pockets? It clips onto bras and fits cards, cash, and more. With an RFID-blocking lining, it keeps wannabe identity thieves from hijacking your information. The snap on top keeps your stuff secure. Plus, its fabric is breathable and won’t irritate skin.
21A Rechargeable Motion-Sensor Night-Light Message Board
This motion-sensor night light hangs over doorknobs to help you open doors. That blank space is actually a message board, so you can tell family you love them — or tell roommates not to come in. Its rechargeable battery is powered via a USB cable. If you don't like it on the doorknob, you can also choose to mount it on the wall.
22Anti-Collision Stickers With Strong Adhesive Backings
These anti-collision stickers show birds that there's a wall, so they can avoid collisions. You can simply peel off their backings and press them into place for the easiest possible installation. With long-lasting adhesives, they stay put until you want to take them down. They come in a pack of 12, and they make a cute decoration in their own right.
23A Sleek Mattress Lifter Made Of Sturdy Teak Wood
This genius mattress lifter helps you make your bed without breaking your back. Made of sturdy teak wood, it slides easily under mattresses. It keeps hands from getting squished, and it has a hanging hook for convenient storage. Because it relieves so much pressure, it makes chores feel so much easier. “Saved me from many broken fingernails and hangnails,” wrote one reviewer.
24A Cloth Makeup Bag With An Ingenious Self-Adhesive Design
This cloth makeup bag has an ingenious design that folds up and lays flat. Its self-adhesive design keeps brushes, cosmetics, and other small essentials contained. It doubles as a lens cleaner and dusting cloth, and when it's not in use, it takes up almost no space. If it gets dirty, you can hand-wash and air-dry it for an easy clean.
25A Handheld Fan With A Built-In Mirror & No Sharp Blades
This handheld fan has three speeds, so you can choose how cool you want to be. It has a copper motor that works quietly, so you can use it in public without provoking ire. Because it's made without sharp blades, it's safe for kids and older adults to use. You can charge it via a USB cord, then take it on the go.
26Hat-Friendly Claw Clips That Can Hold A Lot
For a chic and sporty updo, you can reach for these hat-friendly claw clips. Their hollow middles accommodate baseball hats and caps, so you can wear both at once. Break-resistant and fade-resistant, they're made to be worn on repeat. It’ll be with you through thick and thin (meaning it works with all hair types, from thick to thin).
27An Ear-Piercing Pillow With Filling You Can Add Or Remove
This ear-piercing pillow lets you sleep without any snags. Its invisible zipper lets you add or remove filling, so you can have as much or as little support as you want. It measures 9 inches across, with a 3.5-inch circle in the middle. Aside from piercings, this pillow is also cozy for side-sleepers.
28A MagSafe Phone Umbrella That Has A Flexible Neck
This phone umbrella works with MagSafe devices to help you see your screen. With a flexible neck, you can adjust it to block the sun. Its thumbs-up design is simply adorable, and it keeps a strong grip on your phone or case. It can also help prevent overheating, so you won't have to wait to use your phone.
29A Microwave Splatter Cover With Magnets For Space-Saving Storage
This microwave splatter cover can handle heat up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. With built-in steam vents, it lets moisture out, so your food stays at the right consistency. At 12 by 11 by 3.25 inches, it fits into most standard microwaves. It also has well-placed magnets that can keep it stuck to microwave ceilings for easy storage.
30Colorful Magnetized Shower Lights With Built-In Timers
These colorful lights are rechargeable via USB-C cables, so you can safely take them into the shower. You can set their timers to turn them off after 30, 60, or 120 minutes. With the included remote, you can also choose between 15 colors and two dynamic modes. They stick to the wall with powerful magnets and won’t budge until you want them to.
31An Accordion Door Curtain That Blocks Light
This accordion door curtain has a magnetic closure that keeps it shut. This can stop pests from coming in and add a safety measure for pets at home. It effectively blocks light from outside, so it's great for late nights and lazy mornings. When it's not in use, you can fold it down, and it'll be practically invisible.
32A Utensil Hook That Holds Up To 4 Pounds & Rotates 360 Degrees
This utensil hook has a clever space-saving design that works well under cabinets and countertops. Arriving in a pack of two, each one has six hooks and rotates 360 degrees, so you can grab any utensil fast. It can hold about 4 pounds at a time, and you don't need a drill or other tools to install it. Instead, you can peel off its protective film and press it into place.
33An Eyelash Curler That Heats Up In 10 Seconds
This heated eyelash curler has burn-proof technology to keep lashes long, lustrous, and attached to your face. It heats up in 10 seconds and curls lashes in six, and you can choose from three heat settings. After five minutes of inactivity, it shuts off on its own. Its curved ergonomic design lifts lashes from the roots for a seamless curl every time.
34Water Bottle Keychains With Secret Storage Compartments
Arriving in a convenient pack of eight, these water bottle keychains clip onto backpacks, belt loops, and more. They're not just cute nods to your favorite tumblers — you can take off their lids and store little things, like coins and jewelry, inside. Each keychain is made of a strong alloy with a stunning shine, and the mini bottles are just 3.4 inches tall.
35A Collapsible Bowl That Folds Completely Flat For Easy Packing
This collapsible bowl folds completely flat, saving space in your bag when you're on the go. It holds heavy meals without bending or breaking, and it can handle heat up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Dishwasher-safe and BPA-free, they're easy to clean after a meal. Plus, they have measurement markings to help with meal prep.
36A Quick-Drying Plunger Mat That’s Well-Ventilated
This plunger drying mat keeps your bathroom cleaner and drier than before. Its grooves collect water without absorbing stains or bad smells. Because it's well-ventilated, your plunger will dry quickly, and you won't get toilet water on the floor. At 7 inches in diameter, it fits most standard plungers, so you can keep using your favorite one.
37Stamping Highlighter Pens That Come In A Cute Case
These underlining stamp highlighter pens each have their own bright color and funky design. Their nontoxic ink glides across the page, helping you make note of important information. On the other end of each pen is a traditional fine tip, so you can write as usual. They come in a cute storage case with a fold-over snap closure to keep them secure.
38A Shatterproof Earring Organizer That Holds Up To 70 Pairs
This earring organizer has 140 slots to hold up to 70 pairs of earrings. It's lightweight and shatterproof, with colors that stay vibrant over time. It fits on most counters, desks, and vanities. Dangly earrings will stay tangle-free, and larger earrings will be spaced far enough apart to fit together. “Easy to assemble and brings me joy every time I see it,” raved one reviewer.
39A Quiet Mini Cell Phone Fan That Plugs Into USB-C Ports
This mini cell phone fan works with USB-C ports to beat the heat. It spins silently, so you can stay cool without a commotion. When you buy, you'll receive six fans in fun colors. They don’t take up a significant amount of your phone’s battery and provide relief in an instant. “I’ve given these away for gifts, and now I need one! Everyone loved them. One friend said ‘it saved my life today,’” wrote one reviewer.
40Magnetic Pushpins So You Don’t Need To Poke Holes Into Things
These magnetic pushpins let you display photos and papers without poking holes through them. Rustproof and corrosion-resistant, they're highly unlikely to bend and break (unless you're the Hulk). Each set includes 20 thumbnails and 20 magnets, so you can scrapbook, make bulletin boards, and more.
41A Salad Pod That Layers Ingredients Vertically To Keep Them Fresh
This salad pod is like a Mason jar with way more bells and whistles. Its sturdy material resists acid, scratches, and high heat, and it's crystal-clear, just like glass. You can layer your ingredients vertically to keep them all fresh between breakfast and lunch. When you get hungry, you can open the front hatch and use your pod as a salad bowl.
42An LED Note Board That Comes With 7 Different Colored Markers
This LED note board is made of scratchproof acrylic for kids and adults to use. It comes with seven colorful markers, and when you're finished writing or drawing, you can choose between two lighting modes. It measures 13.7 by 10 inches, so it’s just the right size for a desk. To erase it, you can use a wet cloth, then follow up with a dry one.
43A Vibrating Alarm Clock That Wakes You Up Without Disturbing Others
You can slip this vibrating alarm clock under your pillow to wake up while letting others sleep. It's completely cordless, which is great for travel, especially when staying in hostels or on group trips. It has three vibration levels (low, medium, and high), and its battery lasts up to six months on a single charge.
44Textured Laundry Covers That Stay Securely On Your Machines
These genius laundry covers block the gaps between walls and washing machines. This keeps socks, underwear, and other small pieces from falling behind and getting lost forever. Their textured bases keep them secure on top of your machines, and they don't need tools or adhesives. You can also use them as convenient folding stations.
45A Flexible Misting Tube With 4 Brass Spray Nozzles
This flexible misting tube sprays 360 degrees, so friends and family can stay cool together. Its large, stable base weighs it down, and its four brass spray nozzles provide tons of coverage. With its simple installation process, you'll have it up and running in no time, and it has two layers of filters to prevent clogs.
46Waist Tighteners That Let You Alter Clothes Without A Sewing Machine
These waist tighteners are made of a sturdy zinc alloy, and their design dresses up every pair of pants. They're stronger than safety pins, letting you alter your clothes at home without a sewing machine. All you have to do is attach them to your waistband, then remove them if and when you want to. Built-in springs keep them secure all day long.
47A Shower Steamer Tray With A Dial You Can Turn For Stronger Scents
This shower steamer tray sticks to your wall with a large suction cup. By draining excess water away, it makes steamers last longer. You can turn the top dial to adjust the size of the drainage holes for a stronger or subtler scent. When you're finished, you can dispose of any residue without letting it go down the drain (and maybe clog your pipes). “It's genius! I love this product,” wrote one reviewer.
48Smooth Marble Tablecloth Weights That Free Up Space
Arriving in a pack of eight, these tablecloth weights are made of smooth marble. They clip onto the edges of your tablecloth to hold it down, but aren’t too heavy to carry in a tote or a picnic basket. Because they attach to the edges, they leave your tabletops free and open for food, drinks, and centerpieces.
49A Miniature Door That Comes With Fences, A Ladder & Fairy Dust
This miniature door comes with fences, a ladder, and even a welcome mat. It's made of wood and hand-painted for a charming, whimsical addition to any room. You can easily stick it onto walls, and it won't budge (unless a fairy opens it). You’ll also receive a tiny bottle of fairy dust to make any day more magical. Reviewers are so charmed that they’ve given it an overall score of 4.8 stars.
50Geometric Stair Stickers That Are Oil-Proof & Waterproof
These geometric stair stickers measure 39.3 by 7.08 inches, which is perfect for most standard stairs. You can peel off their backings and stick them on for a commitment-free upgrade. Oil-proof and waterproof, they can handle daily wear and tear. In addition to stairs, you can also use them on risers, desks, and other flat surfaces.
51Lid Handle Mitts Made Of Heat-Resistant Cotton
These lid handle mitts may look like party hats for elves, but are made of heat-resistant cotton to protect your hands. They can handle heat up to 464 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can safely check if your food is cooked. Each mitt in the pack of three has a tiny loop on top, so you can hang them up for easy access.
52A Water-Resistant Dry Bag That Can Hold A Swimsuit With Room To Spare
After a dip in the pool or a sweat session at the gym, you can stash wet clothes in this lightweight dry bag. Its water-resistant material keeps wet fabrics contained, so the other contents of your bag stay dry. It’s big enough for about five cloth diapers if you’re packing with kids in mind, or one wet swimsuit with a little room to spare.
53A Desktop Water Dispenser That Charges With A USB Cord
This desktop water dispenser has seven capacity options, so you can fill cups and bottles of any size. You can also press its button to dispense water continuously. It's made of 304 stainless steel and has a food-grade silicone hose. It also comes with a USB charging cable and a user manual to guide you through every step.
54Frog Toilet Bolt Covers That Glow In The Dark
These frog toilet bolt covers glow in the dark for a whimsical addition to your bathroom. You can place them on top of toilet bolts for a playful touch, and the frog accessory trend isn’t going anywhere. All sorts of light can charge them up, including sunlight, indoor lighting, or UV rays. They fit most standard bolts up to 1.85 inches tall.
55A Peel & Stick Wallpaper That Protects Surfaces From Scratches
This peel-and-stick wallpaper is made of a luxurious velvet that's soft to the touch. One roll measures 9.8 square feet, and you can cut it down to your preferred size and shape. In addition to walls, it's great for jewelry boxes and desktops, as it protects surfaces from scratches. When you want to install it, you can just peel off its backing and stick it on, as the name says.
56An Ergonomic Ingrown Nail Clipper With A Curved Blade
This ingrown nail clipper has a curved blade that makes trimming quick and painless. With an ergonomic grip and downward slant, it gives you leverage for a clean cut. It's made of surgical-grade stainless steel, and it comes recommended by podiatrists. Lefties and righties alike can take on ingrown nails and come out victorious.
57A Clip-On Hair Tie Hub That Comes With Matching Elastics
This hair tie hub clips onto keychains, so you can put your hair up anytime, anywhere. It comes with matching hair ties, and it's compact enough to fit in most bags. If it gets dirty, you can wipe it down with a damp cloth to keep it clean. Since it’s so lightweight, it won’t weigh you down while you’re on the move.
58Crystal Garden Stakes With Beads You Can Mix & Match
These crystal garden stakes are made with rust-resistant stainless steel. Colorful beads and crystal toppers make them worthy of any fairy garden or magical outdoor space. They come with extra beads, which you can mix and match to create your own custom designs. Each set includes 119 pieces, and you can use them with indoor and outdoor plants.
59A Mini Printer That Connects To Your Devices Via Bluetooth
This mini printer comes with three rolls of thermal paper, which you can cut down to any shape or size. It connects to iOS and Android devices via Bluetooth, so you can design your stickers from your phone. Its one-button operation makes it easy to use, and its minimalist design is a chic addition to any desk.
60Butterfly Wall Hooks That Can Hold Up To 11 Pounds At A Time
These butterfly wall hooks are made of brass with a brushed finish. Their rounded edges won't snag fabrics, and they look gorgeous on your walls. Their stainless steel material is blended with chromium and nickel to prevent corrosion. Each butterfly can hold up to 11 pounds at a time, so they're perfect for heavy coats and purses.
61A Stretchy Waistband That Turns Shirts Into Crop Tops
This stretchy waistband turns any shirt into a crop top without chopping, so you can put the scissors away. Its buttons slide back and forth, adjusting to fit your waist. Whether you're wearing a T-shirt or a sweater, it stays invisible and lets your outfit shine. Its high-quality elastic is fray-resistant and made to last.
62A Stand That Holds Your Phone Either Vertically Or Horizontally
You can use this cell phone stand with iPhones, Androids, and other smartphone models that measure between 4 and 8 inches. Made of durable resin, it's strong, holding your phone while you video chat or watch a movie. Available in several designs, the adorable panda makes daily tasks more fun. Whether you’re using your phone vertically or horizontally, this stand gets the job done.
63Claw Clips That Are Waterproof & Change Color In The Sun
When the sunlight hits these claw clips, they change color. They're made of a strong material, and their teeth hold your hair in place all day long. When you buy, you'll receive two claw clips, each with a sparkly finish. They’re also waterproof, so you can wear them at the beach or pool while you soak up the sun.
64An Under-Eye Brightening Stick With Hyaluronic Acid & Caffeine
This under-eye brightening stick is made with hyaluronic acid and caffeine. It has a cooling effect, helping you wake up after a long night. Since it's pocket-sized, you can take it anywhere you travel for a refresh after a red-eye. You can also store it in the fridge for extra cooling power. It doesn’t feel sticky on skin, and its intuitive design makes it easy to use.
65A Mesh Strainer Set Made Of Dishwasher-Safe Stainless Steel
This mesh strainer set comes with three sizes, so you can wash produce, rinse pasta, and more. Each strainer is made of premium stainless steel and is dishwasher-safe. Their long handles give you a secure grip while you work, and they'll last for years and years. Plus, they nest into each other, so they won’t take up too much space.