Shopping

65 Things Under $15 That Are Pure Genius

These picks add a touch of genius to your life — for as little as $5.

by Rebecca Martinson
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Just because something is cheap doesn’t mean it can’t be pure genius. As people who spend hours browsing Amazon every day, Bustle’s shopping editors are experts when it comes to discovering cheap things that are actually incredibly useful — and some of the best finds will set you back as little as $5. All of the items in this list are downright brilliant, and will keep your wallet feeling happy. So scroll on and treat yourself.

1A Clever Sleeve That Adds Storage To Your Laptop

Add this sleeve to the back of your laptop screen, and you’ll instantly have three pockets worth of storage space for your phone, flash drives, charging cables, and more. But if that isn’t enough to convince you that it’s worth a look? The adhesive backing makes installation a total breeze.

2Heart-Shaped Lights That Help You See Into Dark Purses

It’s easy to lose items down into the bottom of a large purse or tote bag — but that’s only part of the reason why I’m a fan of these lights. They clip onto your bag, making it easy to see exactly where all your items are sitting. “It's so nice having the extra light to find stuff in your purse [...]. The size is perfect - not too big and not too small,” wrote one reviewer.

3Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strips That Can Save You *So* Much Money

The cost of having your nails done every two weeks quickly adds up. Instead, grab these nail strips. They’re made with real liquid gel polish that’s been semi-cured — so you won’t have to let them sit underneath a UV light very long in order to achieve a salon-like manicure. Plus, the waterproof top layer helps keep them looking good for up to two weeks.

4Portable Soap Sheets That Help You Clean Up When On The Go

Ever get caught in a public bathroom that’s run out of soap? Not a problem when you have these soap sheets. They come packaged in a handy little dispenser so that they’re easy to keep with you in your bag. And just like regular soap, they lather up into a rich foam with just a small amount of water.

5The Genius Hanger That Lets You Keep Your Purse Off Dirty Floors

Putting your purse down on restaurant floors is an easy way for it to get dirty — which is only part of the reason why I’m a fan of this hanger. The sturdy frame can support up to 12 pounds, and the compact size takes up minimal space inside your bag. Choose from nine colors: red, green, blue, and more.

6Steaming Masks That Help Soothe Dry, Tired Eyes

Dry, tired eyes are no match for these masks. They automatically begin heating up once you open the package — no need to put them into the microwave — and they can stay warm for up to 30 continuous minutes. “These actually heat up nicely,” wrote one reviewer. “They stay warm for longer than expected.”

7Clip-On Collar Lights That Help Keep Your Dog Visible At Night

Clip one of these lights onto your dog’s collar, and they’ll help keep them visible when you’re out for nighttime walks. The batteries deliver up to 20 hours of light before they need to be recharged — and the bulbs are also shatterproof as well as waterproof. Choose from two colors: white or multicolor.

8Magnetic Fidget Balls That Can Alleviate Anxiety

You’ll be glad you grabbed these fidget balls the next time you’re feeling stressed at work. Each one features a different texture, making them great for rolling around in your hand — and their magnetic cores mean you can even “stick” them together. One reviewer wrote, “I use them at my desk during work, and they help relieve stress and keep my hands busy without being distracting.”

9Matte Claw Clips With A Flat Profile That Won’t Poke

Lightweight, durable, and sturdy — these claw clips hit all the right notes. Their matte finish gives them a timeless style that you can wear with just about any outfit, while the sturdy spring on the inside means they can handle thick heads of hair. One reviewer wrote, “They’re strong, super easy to put in, and they stay put.”

10A Light Cube That Projects Soothing Ocean Waves On Your Walls

Setting a relaxing vibe in your home is as easy as turning on this light cube. It projects soothing ocean waves onto your walls, and you can even switch between 16 different colors depending on your mood. Each order also includes a remote so that you can adjust its color, brightness, and more without getting up from the couch.

11Potent Gel That Helps Exfoliate Away Stubborn Calluses

Stubborn calluses are no match for this gel. Simply let it sit on the callus in question for about seven minutes, then gently buff it away using a pumice stone or rasp — the process is that easy. Or, if your heels are looking dry and cracked, you can also use it to exfoliate away that rough skin.

12Transparent Sticky Notes That Let You See The Text Underneath

Removing sticky notes in order to see what’s written underneath them will cause the adhesive to become less effective over time. Instead, use these transparent ones. They let you see the text underneath without having to peel them off — and each order includes six different shades so that you can color code your notes as needed.

13Genius Shoelaces That Transform Any Shoes Into Slip-Ons

You can turn any pair of shoes into slip-ons by swapping out the laces with these elastic ones. A sliding lock lets you adjust how tightly your shoes fit, making them suitable for running shoes, sneakers, and everything in between. The best part? They work just as well with kid shoes as they do with adult shoes.

14A Minimalist Wallet That Helps Protect From Electronic Pickpockets

Don’t be fooled by how small this wallet is. The roomy interior can still fit a minimum of six credit cards, as well as your ID and cash. RFID-blocking technology works to protect your credit card information from electronic pickpockets — and with dozens of colors to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that suits your tastes.

15Moisturizing Treatment That Helps Hair Feel Silky Smooth

When no amount of conditioner seems to help smooth your hair, it may be time to try out this treatment. You only need to let it sit in your hair for about eight seconds before rinsing it out — that’s all it takes in order to leave your strands looking noticeably silkier and shinier. “I couldn’t believe how quickly it transformed my hair,” wrote one reviewer. “In just 8 seconds, it left my strands silky smooth, shiny, and lightweight.”

16This Light That Makes It Easy To Find Your Keyhole In The Dark

Don’t fumble around in the dark trying to open your door. Instead, add this light over the keyhole. It only needs one AA battery (which is not included) in order to deliver hours’ worth of light, while a built-in motion sensor prevents it from wasting energy when no one is around. Each order also includes double-sided adhesive for easy installation.

17Makeup Brush Shampoo To Keep Your Tools Fresh

You wash your face all the time, but what about your makeup brushes? Enter: this shampoo. It’s suitable for use on all types of brushes as well as beauty blenders — and the formula is even vegan, hypoallergenic, as well as suitable for sensitive skin.

18Disposable Hair Catchers That Help Keep Shower Drains Clog-Free

Calling a plumber to unclog your shower drain is rarely ever cheap. Instead, prevent clogs from happening in the first place with these hair catchers. Their adhesive backing lets you press them right into place overtop of your drain — and they’ll latch onto grime as well as other bits of debris in addition to hair.

19Genius Headbands That Are Comfy To Wear With Glasses

Unlike some headbands, these ones are designed with flexible frames curved at the ear part so they can coexist peacefully with glasses arms. Grippy teeth on the inside work to keep them from sliding through hair. And with nine color combinations to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that suits your style.

20Caffeine-Infused Under Eye Balm That Can Help Brighten Skin

I’m a huge fan when it comes to this under eye balm. Caffeine and niacinamide work to help brighten skin, while retinol works to improve its elasticity — and the stick design is so easy to use. “The skin under my eyes looks radiant, and it works perfectly both day and night,” wrote one reviewer.

21A Rechargeable Hand Warmer You Can Loop Onto Your Bag

Loop this hand warmer onto your bag, and it’ll always be ready to go whenever there’s a frigid chill in the air. The temperature is adjustable up to three levels — and when fully charged, it can stay warm for up to four hours. The best part? It even comes in six fun prints: prism, bohemian, flowers, and more.

22Peel-Off Cuticle Latex That Helps You Paint Flawless Nails

Doing your own manicure can be a challenge. Enter: this latex polish. Simply paint it onto the skin surrounding your nails, then apply polish the way you normally would. You can then peel the latex off if you accidentally get any polish on your skin so that your nails are left looking flawless.

23The Genius Strap That Helps Keep You From Losing Your AirPods

Consider this strap a must-have if your AirPods easily fall out of your ears. Simply attach the magnetic ends to your AirPod stems, and they’ll hold onto them so that your AirPods don’t go missing if they fall out of your ears. Plus, the silicone material is tear-resistant.

24This Cloud-Shaped Wrist Rest That Provides Cushy Support

If you’ve noticed your wrists growing sore after a day of typing at your desk, consider taking a look at this rest. It’s filled with high-density memory foam that contours to the shape of your wrists to give them support where they need it most — and the faux leather exterior gives it an upscale vibe. Choose from 11 colors: purple, beige, white, and more.

25A Waterproof Lighter With More Than 13,000 5-Star Reviews

Powered by a rechargeable lithium battery, this rechargeable lighter is a must-have before your next camping trip. It’s waterproof as well as windproof, making it suitable for use on rainy days — and the exterior is made from a durable zinc alloy. “Overall the lighter is very reliable, from being unstoppable in the wind, to easily lighting kindling,” wrote one reviewer.

26Adorable Charms That Help Keep USB-C Ports Clean From Dust

Letting dust get into the type-C ports on your phone, laptop, and more can cause them to stop working. Enter: these charms. They plug into the port to help keep it clean from dust — and the adorable design is printed on both sides of the charm rather than just one. “Overall, these are an affordable, adorable way to protect your device while adding a bit of whimsy,” wrote one reviewer.

27A Handy Yoga Mat Bag With Space For Your Water Bottle

With its drawstring closure and adjustable shoulder strap, taking your yoga mat to class is a total breeze when you have this tote bag. An extra pocket on the outside gives you somewhere to stash your water bottle. Plus, the waterproof pocket on the bottom is great for holding sweaty items, including sports bras, towels, and more.

28This Nongreasy Wax Stick That Helps Tame Frizz & Flyaways

Using gel to tame frizzy hair can leave it looking slick or stiff. Instead, reach for this wax stick. The nongreasy formula delivers a soft, easy-to-manage finish, helping your hair stay smooth and frizz-free throughout the day. It’s even made with a blend of hydrating ingredients, including castor seed and avocado oil.

29A Roll-Up Mat That Lets You Save Puzzles For Later

Don’t even think about starting that puzzle until you’ve grabbed this mat. The inflatable core lets you securely roll your puzzle up so that you can save it for later — and each order includes a drawstring pouch for storage. “I like doing larger puzzles that take me multiple days to finish and this was so helpful for cleaning up my in-progress puzzle,” wrote one reviewer.

30The Travel-Friendly Brush With Hidden Hair Ties, Bobby Pins, & More

This hair brush is a clever way to help save space inside your bag when traveling. Its head features a slide-out compartment that gives you space to store hair ties, Bobby pins, or any other accessory you want to take with you. The best part? Each order even includes a set of Bobby pins, min claw clips, elastic ties, as well as spiralized ties to get you started.

31This Stylish AirTag Keychain Made From Sleek Faux Leather

Attaching an AirTag onto your bag is an easy way to keep track of where it is, so why not grab this keychain? It comes in a variety of fun shapes, including bananas, avocados, owls, and more. Plus, the faux leather material makes it seem way more expensive than it is.

32Clever Correction Tape Markers With A 4.5-Star Average Rating

Consider these correction tape markers a must-have if you prefer taking notes using pens. They cover any written mistakes in white tape — and unlike white-out, you don’t have to wait around for the tape to dry before writing on top of it. “You can easily write on it and it looks good without being very obvious you used corrective tape,” wrote one reviewer.

33This Genius Lock That Helps Keep Bags Secure From Thieves

Clip this lock onto the two zippers on your bag, and it’ll help keep thieves from being able to reach inside. It works just as well on backpacks as it does suitcases — and the lightweight design won’t weigh you down. Choose from three colors: charcoal, slate, or dark teal.

34A Wearable Blanket That’s Lined With Cozy Faux Fur

From outdoor sporting events to your couch, this wearable blanket is sure to keep you comfortably cozy no matter where you are. The faux fur lining feels oh-so soft against skin — and the giant kangaroo pocket in the front is perfect for holding everything from phones to remotes.

  • Available colors: 15
  • Available sizes: X-Small, Small

35The Handy Keychain With A Lightning Cable & Bottle Opener

Consider this keychain a must-have if your phone is always running low on power. Not only does it feature a built-in lightning cable and bottle opener, but the aluminum frame is also reinforced for added durability. “Durable, portable, great quality and works great,” wrote one reviewer.

36This Must-Have Tool That Can Help You Escape Your Car During An Emergency

This tool is one of those rare items that’s best to have and not need, than need and not have. The stainless steel blade on the inside allows you to cut a jammed seatbelt so that you can escape your car during an emergency — and the spike on the end is designed for shattering windows. Plus, the small size means it should easily fits into your center console.

37A Rechargeable Lighter That Won’t Extinguish In The Wind

Stop wasting money on disposable lighters and upgrade to this rechargeable one. It ignites candles, grills, and more using an electronic plasma arc that won’t extinguish in the wind. Plus, LED indicator lights on the side let you know when it needs to be recharged.

38This Change Organizer That Holds More Than 4 Dollars’ Worth

Give all that loose change roaming around the inside of your car a home inside of this organizer. There’s enough room inside to store up to $4.52 — and the compact size makes it easy to fit inside your glove compartment. “Just what I needed to orderly put my loose change into after going through a drive-through, a fast-food restaurant, parking meter, etc.,” wrote one reviewer.

39Metallic Wine Glass Markers That Help You Keep Track Of Your Drink

Can’t remember which drink is yours? Not a problem when you have these markers. The ink dries fast without s mearing, making them great for labelling glassware during parties. And once your party is over, the ink easily washes away in the dishwasher or sink.

40An Overflow Drain Cover That Lets You Take Extra-Deep Baths

Add inches to your bath water by placing this cover on top of your overflow drain. Eight suction cups on the ends of the octopus’ tentacles keep it firmly held in place. And if you’re worried about your bathtub overflowing? If the water gets too high, the open mouth on the top still allows it to drain away.

41This Cold Brew Coffee Maker That’s A Real Money-Saver

The cost of buying pre-made cold brew adds up fast. Instead, make your own at home using this pitcher. The included filter is reusable — so there’s no need to waste money on disposable ones made from paper. The lid locks down to not only help keep your cold brew fresh, but also prevent spills while in the fridge.

42The Exfoliating Pumice Stone Made From Natural Volcanic Lava

Ditch that harsh foot rasp in favor of this pumice stone. It’s made from volcanic lava that has a naturally rough texture, allowing it to gently buff away flakes, rough skin, and more from your feet. The attached loop makes it easy to hang up in storage.

43Elegant Whiskey-Chilling Stones With A Wildly Low Price

Whereas regular ice cubes will dilute the flavor of your drinks as they melt, these whiskey stones won’t melt, leaving your drinks deliciously chilled while maintaining their flavor. They work just as well with old fashioneds as they do plain glasses of soda — and each order includes a drawstring pouch to keep them packaged together inside of your freezer.

44Windproof & Waterproof Matches That Burn Up To 15 Seconds

You won’t have to worry about being able to start a fire when you have these matches. They’re windproof, waterproof, and can burn for up to 15 seconds, making them great for camping. The included case also floats on water — just in case you drop it in a lake or pool — and the integrated striker makes for easy lighting.

45An Automatic Bottle Opener That’s Fast & Easy

This bottle opener is a must-have if you enjoy collecting bottle caps — simply press it down onto the bottle, and it’ll pop the cap off without damaging it. The stainless steel body is resistant to rust as well as durable. Plus, the compact size makes it easy to stash away inside of a drawer.

46A Clever Folder Designed To Keep Clothes Wrinkle-Free In Your Suitcase

You’re almost guaranteed to have wrinkled clothes upon opening your suitcase after a long flight — but that’s where this folder comes in handy. The four wings are designed to compress your shirts, dresses, slacks, and more, helping keep them wrinkle-free while in transit. Plus, a handle on the top makes it easy to carry around by itself.

47A Stainless Steel Apple Watch Band That Comes In 12 Finishes

Give your Apple watch an upgrade by swapping out that crummy band with this stainless steel one. It comes in 12 finishes, ranging from rose gold to a deep shade of blue. But if that isn’t enough? Not only is it also resistant to rust, but it’s also flexible enough that you won’t have to worry about it feeling uncomfortable on your wrist.

48Gorgeous Privacy Film That Give Windows A Stained Glass Effect

Help keep outsiders from being able to see into your home by adding this privacy film to your windows. The 3-D printed pattern makes them look just like stained glass — even when up close. And since it can block up to 99% of the sun’s UV rays, it can even help insulate your home against the weather outside.

49This Rechargeable Flower Light With A Flexible Gooseneck

Whether you use this flower light to read books or create a stunning table centerpiece is up to you — but either way, the powerful battery can deliver up to 12 hours of light before it needs to be recharged. Its flexible stem can be bent and twisted into nearly any position, making it easy to direct the light wherever you need.

50A Protective Cover & Wrap To Help Keep Chargers In Good Condition

Ever notice how your charging brick and cable can break down over time? Then this cover and wire wrap are worth a look. Not only do they help protect the brick and cable from damage, but they’re also available in 13 different fun colors. One reviewer also wrote that they’ve “kept my cables cute and sturdy for a long time. Have not had to buy a new charger since installed.”

51Lavender-Scented Pillow Spray That Can Help Ease Your Mind

Spritz your pillow with this spray before you get into bed, and its lavender scent can help ease your mind so that it’s easy to drift off to sleep. The formula contains zero harsh ingredients, including sulfates, mineral oils, or synthetic colors/fragrances. And if you don’t have trouble sleeping? You can just as easily use it to refresh the air inside your home.

52The Handy Cup Holder That Fits In The Gap Between Your Car Seats

If the front seats of your car could use some extra storage space, consider taking a look at this cup holder. It fits down into the gap between your front seats, giving you room for drinks, cash, phones, and more. Choose from three colors: black, beige, or gray.

53The Pocket Microscope That Clips Onto Your Keychain

Take a closer look at the world around you with this pocket microscope. The UV light mode makes it great for inspecting dollar bills for authenticity, though you can just as easily use the standard mode to magnify anything underneath the lens by up to 20 times. The attached keyring lets you secure it to your bag so that it’s always within reach.

54Moldable Glue That Can Patch Broken Cords, Shoes, & More

This moldable glue is perfect for use on any awkward projects that regular glue isn’t strong enough to handle. You can use it to repair charging cables, peeling shoes, or even mounting wall hooks, as the bond is so strong that it can easily support up to 4 pounds. And since it’s waterproof, there’s no need to worry about it getting wet.

55Swan Hair Clips That Add A Touch Of Elegance To Any Look

Any outfit in your closet is sure to feel way more elegant with one of these swan clips in your hair. They’re great for adding a touch of chic to messy buns, half-up hairstyles, or even just making yourself feel put-together during lazy days at home. “I'm obsessed with these clips,” wrote one reviewer. “They are adorable and I think I've gotten a compliment every time I've worn one.”

56The Undercover Wallet That Clips To Your Bra Or Belt Loop

Keep your credit cards safe when traveling by placing them inside of this undercover wallet. It hangs around your front bra strap, staying safely out of reach from pickpockets. RFID-blocking technology also helps keep electronic pickpockets from accessing your credit card information — and since it’s moisture-resistant, there’s no need to worry about how it’ll fare if you start to sweat.

57A Cute Mug Made From Sleek Ceramic

There’s no denying that this mug would be a cute addition to any kitchen. The outside is printed with colorful flowers, and it’s even made from sleek, lead-free ceramic. “This cup is perfect for tea or even eating oatmeal or soup,” wrote one reviewer. “Very aesthetically pleasing.”

58Detoxifying Face Scrub Made With Tomato Extract

No skin-care routine is complete without this face scrub. It’s made with 95% natural ingredients, including charcoal powder and tomato extract — both of which work together to help detoxify pores. But if that isn’t enough? “Overall, my skin looks brighter, firmer and fresher with each use [...],” wrote one reviewer.

59The Cosmetic Travel Case With An LED Mirror Built In

Not only is this case great for holding all your cosmetics when traveling, but the LED mirror also helps you do your makeup when on the go. It works just as well holding makeup as it does jewelry — and multiple dividers on the inside help you keep everything organized. Choose from two colors: pink or white.

60This Bedside Caddy With Space For Remotes, Tablets, & More

Declutter that messy nightstand by moving all your remotes, tablets, books, and more into this caddy. The top flap slides underneath your mattress, keeping it firmly held in place without any tools or adhesive necessary. Plus, four pockets give you ample storage space for all your items.

61Coasters That Help Keep Your Car’s Cup Holders Clean

Ever notice how the cup holders in your car can develop grime over time? Then these coasters are worth a look. They’re made from easy-to-clean silicone, with a universal design that makes them suitable for use in just about any vehicle. Plus, the flower shape is a fun touch.

62The Cute Mini Jewelry Box With A Vintage Vibe

Letting jewelry roam around freely inside your suitcase can lead to it getting damaged. Instead, keep it inside of this miniature jewelry box. The vintage design makes it seem more expensive than it is. And while small, there’s still enough space inside for everything from rings to necklaces.

63A Genius Remote That Helps You Find Misplaced Keys

Always forgetting where you put your keys? Then this little remote is worth its weight in gold. Simply loop one of the receiver tags onto your keyring, then press the corresponding button on the remote the next time they go missing. The tag will let out a loud ring so that it’s easy to find — and it even works from up to 131 feet away.

64A Stainless Steel Mug You Can Clip Onto Your Bag

Consider this mug a must-have for your next camping trip. It’s made from sturdy stainless steel that’s built to last — and the double-walled design helps keep your drinks at their ideal temperature. Plus, the attached carabiner not only lets you clip it onto your bag, but it also doubles as a clever handle.

65A Manual Hand Juicer Shaped Like A Little Watering Can

There’s no denying that this hand juicer is a fun addition to any set of kitchen tools. The inside of the watering can is large enough to hold up to 8 ounces of juice, and a light amount of pressure is all it takes in order to extract juice using the spike on the lid. One reviewer also described it as “beyond cute and very useful!”