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31 Underappreciated Home Products That Truly Will Make Your Life Easier
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We hope you love our recommendations! While every product is independently chosen by our editors, BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. You can read more about how our affiliate partnerships work in our Editorial Standards & Ethics Guide. Everyone say, “Thank you, hoodie hanger.” The high-density sponges are squishy on the inside with an emery layer on the outside. They can be cut into smaller chunks for cleaning nooks and crannies. Promising review: "Nice and thin. You'll find so many more uses for these around the house than just getting stuff off the underside of cookware! I had hard, scaly water deposits on the glass surrounding our powder room faucet (one of those fancy, highfalutin modern-looking things). I've tried everything for four years to get this stuff off. One day I thought, maybe I'll try my sponges. Took it all off super easily!!!! Faucet looks like new. My only rec is to spot-test your item first before using it because it will scratch certain surfaces if you scrub too aggressively (for example, it gets the burned-on, weird stuff off of the bottom of my fave Our Place pan, but I rubbed too hard in one spot and it took the color right off lol)." —Hoarder Get an eight-pack from Amazon for $7.69+ (available in two sponge thicknesses). Promising reviews: "You need this. This is a lifesaver. The amount of time I used to spend cutting out hair from my vacuum brush/roller has been cut by a fraction with this little tool. Wow!" —Holly Hendrickson "Between myself (medium long hair) and my overly fluffy cat, a lot of hair and fluff was continually getting caught up on the roller brush of my vacuum. I dreaded vacuuming because it took so long to pull and snip the hairs wrapped up on the roller brush out with scissors. Not anymore! This silly, little, inexpensive thing works great! Super quick to remove all the hair/fur — in virtually a minute, then back to vacuuming with my lovely Miele vacuum." —MKS Tibet Almond Stick is a small business based in Illinois. Promising review: "I recently got these Tibetan floor wax sticks, and they're like magic wands for your floors and furniture! Got a scratch? No problem. Just wave one of these sticks over it, and voilà — scratch be gone! It's like having a tiny wizard in your cleaning arsenal. These wax sticks fill in scratches on the floor and furniture like a charm. My floors and furniture look brand new, and I didn't even have to cast a spell. Highly recommend!" —b4komer Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (also available in a pack of two). You can use them for cats, dogs, guinea pigs, hamsters, bunnies, etc. And they're also great for whelping boxes. Promising review: "This item was the perfect choice for my bunnies’ pen. The design is gorgeous. I wanted something light and easy to maneuver under their heavier acrylic pen, and this one fits the bill perfectly. Washed and dried, and kept its shape. Its leak-proof and waterproof design helps with pet mess and water bowl spillage, ensuring a nice dry space for bunny flops. Two in a pack allows me to switch out when washing, so my buns are always protected. I cannot say enough about this brand and the value overall will have me coming back as needed when I expand their pen." —Sam Cam Get a two-pack for $28.99+ (available in various prints and sizes). Promising review: "I love these. They're a great way to organize and store your batteries. I prefer these over the large cases that store multiple types of batteries together because I can just grab the size I need and throw them in my bag. I don't have to carry a cumbersome, large case or loose batteries. I highly recommend them." —Mr. Methuselah Promising review: "Our screens are on a second-floor balcony. There really isn't any good way to clean the outside of the screens. Luckily, the fibers on this screen cleaner are small enough that they seem to fit through the screen and clean both sides. I'm sure it doesn't clean the outside as well as it does the inside, but any help is always appreciated. I was actually shocked at how much dirt came off the screens with this very simple tool. I used it wet with a small amount of dish soap, and it worked really well. I also appreciated that after I was finished, I was just easily able to rinse and dry the screen cleaner for future use. A simple tool at an excellent price." —BonjourBeautyByAmy Promising review: "I bought this product in a two-pack for my T-shirts because I hate folding and putting laundry away, and thought it would be a more convenient way for me to keep my clothes organized, and wow! When I saw how durable and well-made they were, and how much space they saved, and how easy they were to use, I bought more! They were also a great value for the money, and I was able to just walk into my closet and see all my clothes, so they were all visible as soon as I opened my closet, no more searching through drawers. The next two packs I bought, I even used to hang my hoodies; these things are super durable and sturdy. I highly recommend these little darlings for anyone trying to get organized." —Sissy Get a two-pack from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in three colors as well as individually and in packs of four). The silicone molds are removable, so this becomes a regular grill! Check out a TikTok of the egg bite maker in action. Promising review: "I work pretty much work 13 days straight, and this egg bite maker is perfect for meal prepping so I can stay on the go. It also saves me money by not going through any drive-thru to get a quick breakfast." —Catherine Gomez Get it from Amazon for $41.99+ (available in three colors). Promising review: "I have been looking for a solution that would allow for a nightstand and also a dresser to be pushed up against a wall, even with things plugged into the outlet behind that furniture. I FOUND IT. This wall outlet extender does exactly what it says it will do. I have a fan, clock radio, and watch charger plugged into it, and can still move the nightstand right up against the wall. The light on the dresser no longer forces the dresser to be out a couple of inches; it, too, can be pushed right up against the wall, and the cord is not in danger of getting crushed and becoming a fire hazard. A game changer! I will be ordering a few more." —Lynda L. Get a two-pack from Amazon for $5.79+ (also available in a three-pack). Promising review: "We bought these to cover our outdoor faucets in lieu of the styrofoam option. Not only are they super easy to install, but they worked perfectly and withstood anything the winter weather threw at us." —Carissa Eaton Get a four-pack from Amazon for $9.99 (also available in packs of 10, 15, and 20). Promising review: "This clip is amazing. No more towels falling on the floor. It was becoming a routine thing since my cat thinks it's fun to pull the kitchen towels off the oven. Not now, bad kitty! Great product...wish I had bought one sooner!" —Joanna Get a three-pack from Amazon for $11.79. Promising review: "My new favorite cleaner! I use it everywhere, every day. Works amazingly on walls and tile. As always, test a small area before use. I do not recommend it for certain types of wood panel walls. However, it is very effective for removing cigarette smoke from walls. I used this on a house that had smokers for 20 plus years. Amazing results, see photos. It smells like fresh laundry, and the scent isn't too overwhelming unless used in small enclosed areas. I have asthma and issues with some overpowering scents, and this one doesn't bother me at all. It works really well with a Magic Eraser. I haven't found a mess yet that it won't clean." —Megan Breazeale Get a starter bottle and three refills from Amazon for $17.47. Nap Guardian is a small business that specializes in doorbell covers for home use. Promising review: "This is well-made and very easy to apply. I have it on my Ring doorbell camera, and it keeps delivery people from ringing my doorbell very well. It also does not obstruct my view or notifications for my Ring doorbell camera. Great for when taking a nap!" —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $13.98 (available in two styles). This tray is designed to make cubes that will fit in 30-oz. and 40-oz. tumblers. Promising review: "I use these in my BruMate and Meoky cups, and they fit perfectly. I always struggle with getting my straw through the ice and in the middle so the lid will close. These ice cubes stay on the edge of the cup and allow plenty of room for the straw." —sarah schultz Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in two sizes and four colors). The solidifying powder works best on hard surfaces, but the enzyme cleaner spray can be used on both hard and soft surfaces (carpets, fabrics, upholstery, artificial turf, and more). Promising review: "I purchased this because I adopted a young dog from the shelter, and did not know if she was housebroken. This stuff works as advertised. At 2:30 in the morning, I was not going to pull out a mop or paper towels to clean up her accident. I just shook some of this magic powder material and used the brush and dustpan to move it around and sweep the mess away. It has a scent kind of like laundry soap or a gentle cleaner, which keeps the smell of urine at bay. I will always make sure to have some of this on hand just in case of an accident. It made a late-night clean-up so much easier. It absorbed everything and left a pleasant scent, so I could put off a thorough scrubbing until a more convenient time. If you’re considering purchasing this, do it, you won’t regret it when you have to clean up an accident and don’t have time." —Amazon Customer Poplight is a queer-owned small business that was recently featured on Shark Tank! Promising review: "This light is so cute! It's the perfect bedside light and was a quick install. The level makes it easy to get it just right. I like that the battery comes out so you can charge it, and you don't have to take the whole light down. Also, it has Bluetooth! I think this would be so great for kids rooms and late night reading as you can set it on a timer and also control their lights with your phone, its brilliant!" —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $99.99 (available in six colors). Promising review: "I love WD-40 products and use them for everything. I spray on shovels to keep dirt or snow from sticking, spray around windows and thresholds to deter bugs, clean Sharpies off wood and walls, and, of course, stop squeaky doors. These small direct-point application pens are great. Keep one in the glove box, my kitchen 'junk' drawer, and the house toolbox." —BBP623 Get a three-pack from Amazon for $12.49. Some reviewers mention that the included Velcro-like adhesive (so you can replace the filters) peeled the finish off their fan during removal. If you’re concerned about that, you can definitely install these filters with Command strips instead! Promising review: "I wasn't sure what to expect when purchasing these, but now they are a staple in every room of our house. Within three days, the air smelled more crisp and was easier to breathe in our home. So simple and effective!" —Haylee Marez Get a three-pack from Amazon for $22.99 (also available in a five-pack as well as a "Pet Fresh" and "Ultra Fresh" style). Promising review: "The form factor is well thought out, and things stay put even if you knock it over. The latches hold well and are designed not to get weak over time. Good for organizing a lot of smaller Lego pieces that are used frequently. If you live in a small place and can't have a full-time workspace, this is nice for a smaller collection that you tuck away when you're done. Kids can operate it easily." —Joseph Nacca Promising review: "I have been looking for a dishwasher done indicator to use on a stainless steel front (no magnets). This is the BOMB. NO moving parts. No flimsy clips. No tape, glue, or magnets. Simply slip it over the edge of the bottom basket, and you are good. The sturdy clip does not flex, so there is no wear and tear. The action of the washer fills up the tube. DONE. The first time you open the door after washing, tip out the tube, and you are ready again. Hooray...something that works." —MRMACHINE of Raleigh Note: This is not compatible with the KitchenAid Pro 450 Series 4.5 Quart and Professional 500 Series 5 Quart Bases. Promising review: "A great item for your KitchenAid mixer. I was tired of trying to drag my mixer across the counter out of its storage spot every time I wanted to use it. As someone with RA, wrangling appliances is really tough. This item makes pulling the mixer out of its storage spot easy, and it glides across the counter now. I would recommend it to anyone struggling with moving a hefty KitchenAid mixer." —C. Gerber Sheet Keeper is a small business based in Los Angeles. Promising review: "Both sizes fit. Now, the kids don't have to ask which sheets are theirs. Also makes for a neater closet since they can pick up their set instead of rummaging through each sheet, balling it up, and stuffing it back in if it's not theirs." —Pat Get two from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six sizes). Promising review: "I recently bought this for storage, and it’s been a game-changer. It’s a sturdy and well-designed organizer that fits perfectly with my Stanley tumblers, keeping them neatly stored and easy to access. The material feels durable, and the compact size doesn’t take up too much space, making it ideal for my kitchen. It helps keep things tidy and prevents my cups from tipping over or getting scratched. Overall, a practical and functional storage solution that I’m really happy with! —Megan Davis Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in two colors). They are compatible with 15-inch and 16-inch ceiling grids (simply drop them in), but can also be attached to the ceiling with construction glue. You can also cut them if needed with a box cutter or scissors. Promising review: "I absolutely loved these ceiling panels! I ended up needing three boxes for my project, and I still had a few pieces left over, which worked out perfectly. Installing them was such a fun and creative experience — it felt like I was designing something totally unique for my space. The panels are great quality and super easy to work with. The end result is stunning — it completely transformed my room and gave it a modern, polished look. If you’re considering these, I highly recommend them. Just be sure to measure your space to know how many boxes to order. You won’t regret it!" —Jen Umoa Get 12 tiles from Amazon for $75.90+ (available in seven colors). Packard 3D Designs is a Maryland-based small business run by mechanical engineer Austin Packard. Promising reviews: "First of all, an elegant design to fix a daily annoyance. Second, they custom-made a flipped version (gap on the right side), which was necessary to fit my fridge. It works great!" —ksheppard23 "This has made getting water from my refrigerator much easier for my grandkids and me." —Susan Get it from Packard 3D Designs on Etsy for $20+ (available in white or gray). Promising review: "The wood is really super nice, smooth, and clean. It sticks great to the pan, and the silicone rings add great shock absorption, so it doesn't make a lot of noise when I send down my heavy-ass 13-some-inch skillet! It cleans off easily; I've only used it a handful of times, but it still looks brand new! A little pricey, but it's a premium kitchen thing. I recommend don't settle for something cheaper." —K. Lujan Promising review: "I love how spacious yet compact this griddle is. It’s big enough to cook for the family but folds up neatly for easy storage. The non-stick surface works perfectly — nothing sticks, and cleanup is super quick. The dual temperature controls are a nice bonus, letting you cook different foods at once. It’s a simple, reliable tool that makes cooking so much easier!" —SAMAS Get it from Amazon for $45.99 (available in four colors). My small apartment bathroom didn't come with a lot of storage space — a shallow medicine cabinet, a small cabinet under the sink, and two rickety wall shelves over the toilet. That free space got used up fast between two people, and I hated the feeling of cabinets and shelves that were so stuffed and cluttered that I had to remove everything to find anything. This handy cart has been so useful in creating additional storage space for both things that I reach for frequently (like extra rolls of toilet paper and cotton buds) *and* things that I don't reach for often and would prefer to keep hidden (like cleaning supplies, extra bars of soap, and period supplies). I also really appreciate that the wood top becomes extra counter space! It's great for candles, before-you-go sprays, air freshener sprays, etc. But I particularly love that it's a place for guests to put their toiletry bag when they stay over, since my sink is so small that there's no real counter space available. Promising review: "In spite of this rolling cart being on the pricier side, I really appreciate its functionality and aesthetics. My apartment bathroom is on the smaller side and has no built-in storage besides an over-the-sink medicine cabinet. I knew I needed a space-saving solution that would keep eyesores out of sight (e.g., cleaning supplies, extra toilet paper), so I finally bit the bullet and purchased this cart. I have no regrets! I love that it fits right next to the toilet and doubles as a side table for things like tissue paper, room sprays, and cellphones. The top of the cart is a solid plank of wood, which is a nice touch, and the handle makes it easy to pull the cart out. The cart's dimensions are perfect for fitting several rolls of extra toilet paper, a toilet scrubber, cleaning products, and any other items you'd like to keep out of sight. Assembly was easy as well. All you need to do is attach the handle and wheels. Overall, I'm really enjoying using this cart in my small living space!" —Solae Studio Get it from Amazon for $165+ (available in three colors). This bench is designed to be able to support up to 550 pounds. Promising review: "This bench is beautiful. It is made of excellent quality, solid wood!! Even the shelves are solid wood and...adjustable. It holds a lot of shoes, too! My dad is a carpenter and put it together within minutes. He is very impressed with the quality of this bench. It's really sturdy and holds a lot of weight. The color is beautiful, not too dark, not too light. It has a really nice storage bench and works well in my mudroom!!" —Me Get it from Amazon for $149.99+ (available in four sizes and colors). Promising review: "I can't say enough about this organizer. I use it to store my makeup and daily beauty routine items. They fit perfectly in this lovely container, and I love how everything is protected from becoming dusty by the domed lid, which provides excellent clearance of all my containers. The drawers are nice, as well. They provide enough space for small eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks, and glosses. I'm so very happy with my purchase and feel it is a very good value. Easy to clean surface and sturdy." —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $25.49+ (available in three colors). Promising review: "I don't have 50+ spices in my collection, so this made the most sense with all of my standby spices. Decent weight so it isn't flimsy, and easy to clean with grease splatters." —Katie G BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way. Melanie Aman is a deputy editorial director on the BuzzFeed Shopping team who's spent the last decade in the lifestyle and service journalism sphere, using her shopping editor eye to find and vet products across a variety of categories, including lifestyle, home, beauty, fashion, pets, cleaning, travel, aging, and more. When she’s not trawling the internet for hidden gems, she’s probably eating foods that will make her tummy hurt and watching old MTV shows from the 2000s. The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.