Cheap, legitimately awesome things for your home that seem super expensive
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The more time you spend at home, the more you find things that could use sprucing up. Maybe there’s a new kitchen tool that would make cooking dinner way easier, or a light fixture that would brighten up your home. Thankfully, Amazon has tons of useful products for improving your home. The best part is that it’s easy to find affordable products that look way more expensive than they actually are.
Have a leather couch or chair that could use a little facelift? This leather restoration kit makes a cracked and dry piece of leather look as good as the day you bought it. If your house is feeling a little dark (especially in the winter), add some comforting brightness with these outlet covers that have a built-in night light. Or multitask with ease with this table lamp that not only provides extra light but has built-in outlets to charge your devices.
If the kitchen is your domain, then you’ll be pleasantly surprised by this retractable dish drying rack that works especially well for cups and bottles. Or a nonstick panini press that makes your lunches extra tasty.
Whatever your home needs are, you’ll find plenty of Amazon products in the list below to fulfill them. Heck, you’ll probably find some things you didn’t even know you needed.
01A panini press that makes perfect hot sandwiches at home
A hot, grilled sandwich always makes for a tasty meal, and they’re much easier to make at home if you have this panini grill. Made from steel with a nonstick copper surface, this grill is easy to clean and easy to use. “This sandwich maker sure does make a good grilled cheese,” wrote one reviewer. “I like how easy it is to clean up. No having to wash pans or utensils.”
02This repair kit that works on furniture and floors
If you have scratches or marks on your floor, table, door, or other wood in your home, easily conceal the damage with this wood putty repair kit. The kit is easy to apply and camouflages markings to make your wood pieces look good as new. The kit comes with 10 colors, so you can make a perfect match.
03This showerhead that’s easy to clean
This high-pressure showerhead doesn’t require any tools for installation — but that’s not even the best part. It has an easy-to-clean mechanism that allows you to remove calcium and lime build-up just by touching the holes on the showerhead. Choose from four finishes: brushed nickel, deluxe chrome, matte black, or oil-rubbed bronze.
04This dispenser that can turn almost any liquid soap into foam
Not only does this sleek soap dispenser look cool in your bathroom, but it’s also more sanitary than your typical soap vessel. This dispenser can turn basically any liquid soap into foam, but it’s activated by a motion sensor, so you avoid picking up more germs. It also has adjustable levels so you can choose the amount of foam that comes out.
05A toilet paper holder with a shelf for your phone
Taking your phone into the bathroom is human nature at this point, but there’s never a good place to put it down. This toilet paper holder has a built-in shelf where you can set your phone while you take care of business, instead of just balancing it on the windowsill. The holder comes with an adhesive pad so it can be attached without screws.
06This charger that works three times faster than regular ones
Charge your phone, tablet, and other devices extra fast with this flat wall charger that works three times faster than a typical charger. It works with both USB-A and USB-C chargers and can hold up to two cords at once. “It sits flat to the wall so it doesn't take up a lot of space, but has tons of power,” wrote one reviewer.
07This rack that’s perfect for drying glasses and bottles
Traditional dish racks never seem to have enough space to hold glasses or cups. This collapsible dish rack has seven arms that are perfect for wine glasses, mugs, or water bottles. Plus it has a sleek, modern design so it looks good on your counter. “I like that my water bottles can all fit and air dry so I don’t have to wonder if they are dry before I put them away,” wrote one reviewer.
08This bidet that’s easy to install
There’s no need to call a plumber when installing this bidet, as there are no special tools required to get the job done. It also features a control panel on the side so that it’s easy to adjust the water pressure — and the spray nozzle is even retractable to help keep it clean between uses.
09An outlet cover with a built-in night light
The problem with plugging in a nightlight is that it takes up valuable outlet space. This outlet cover has a built-in nightlight that is activated by a motion and light sensor, so it automatically shuts off when not needed. “This was easy to install and I was impressed with how well it works,” praised one shopper.
10This light that makes it easier to unlock your door
It’s always a struggle to unlock your front door in the dark, fumbling for the lock while trying to pull up the flashlight on your phone. This keyhole light attaches to your door above the lock and has a motion-sensor light that automatically turns on when your hand is near.
11A projection screen that makes for the best movie nights
All your friends will want to come over to your house for movie night if you have this projection screen. This screen can be installed outside for a backyard movie setup, or hung indoors for a cozy movie theater feel. The material is made from an anti-crease fabric, so even if you fold it up and stuff it in a closet, it won’t wrinkle.
12An iced tea maker that can also do cold brew
Not only is this pitcher great for whipping up a batch of iced tea, but it’s so versatile that you can also use it to make cold brew. It’s made from tough borosilicate glass that won’t crack when you pour hot water inside — and the airtight cap helps keep everything fresh until you’re ready to sip.
13This alarm clock that projects the time onto your ceiling
Make it easier to wake yourself up in the morning with this alarm clock that projects the time onto the ceiling. Instead of rolling over and fumbling for your watch or phone, just look up at the ceiling to see if it’s time to get up (or, time to sleep in longer.) “The projection time is amazing for when I get up in the night and early morning. All I do is look up and the time is right there,” wrote one reviewer.
14A memory foam pillow that supports your neck
Improve your sleep with this memory foam pillow that contours to your head and neck. This pillow works for all kinds of sleepers, from side sleepers to back sleepers. Plus, the breathable cover won’t leave you sweating at night — and it’s easily removable in case you ever need to wash it.
15This toothbrush holder that keeps your bathroom organized
If you’re like me, then your bathroom sink is always cluttered with your toothbrush and skincare products. This organizer holds your toothbrush, allows you to easily dispense toothpaste, and holds your skincare products. The organizer has slots to hold four toothbrushes and comes with two reusable cups for rinsing your mouth.
16This mug warmer that keeps your coffee at the perfect temperature
It always seems like your cup of coffee or tea is too hot until it’s suddenly too cold. This mug warmer keeps your cup at the ideal temperature. This gadget is also small enough that it easily fits on your desk and can quickly be stashed away for extra space. The warmer works with stainless steel, glass, and porcelain.
17A knife sharpener that relies on water
An important part of cooking is having a sharp set of knives. This sharpening stone allows you to keep your knives in peak condition. The stone uses water, so you don’t need any expensive oils or lubricants. The stone has Grit 400 for shaping the knife and Grit 1000 for sharpening and smoothing.
18The light strip that can class up any room
Whether you want to add some extra lighting to your home or create a lighted piece of art, this light strip can do it all. The light strip is flexible, energy-efficient, and features an adhesive backing that makes it easy to stick right into place. Reviewers also appreciated how it’s compatible with dimmer switches.
19A box that sanitizes whatever you can fit inside
Phones, jewelry, loose change — as long as it fits inside of this box, the powerful UV light can eliminate up to 99.9% of germs from its surface in just three short minutes. The best part? Each order also comes with an adapter so that you can use it in the car.
20This planter that levitates using magnets
Anyone can have a regular old plant in their house. But this magnetic levitation planter adds an awe-inspiring touch that makes it look like your plant is magically floating in mid-air. The system uses magnetic force to suspend the planter, and it’s ideal for holding a small, lightweight plant.
21A phone stand that has a built-in Bluetooth speaker
Keep your phone upright while you watch videos or listen to music with this phone and tablet stand that has a built-in Bluetooth speaker. It securely holds onto your device with anti-slip grips and fits with most smartphones and tablets. “The volume is heard very well and the price is so worth it,” wrote one reviewer.
22This wood frame that turns your posters into art
Instead of taping your posters to the wall, turn them into a framed piece of art with this magnetic poster hanger. The poster hanger works with several sizes and hangs up your pieces without damaging the art. “Great option to display big art for a smaller price. It’s sturdy and well made,” wrote one reviewer.
23These magnetic ties that hold back your curtains
When you want to pull back the curtains and let some light in, try these magnetic tiebacks that are so easy to use. Just wrap the tie around your curtain and clip it together with the strong magnetic closure. The ties have a satiny finish and come in 12 colors.
24Some brushed nickel paper that can cover your appliances
If you want the stainless steel look in your kitchen but don’t want to spend money on new appliances, this brushed nickel contact paper can give them a little facelift. The contact paper has the look of stainless steel and easily applies to your oven, counter, or fridge. “This stuff is great! Definitely makes surfaces appear like stainless steel,” wrote one reviewer.
25A bamboo fiber blanket that keeps you cool
Stay cool in your sleep with this blanket made from lightweight bamboo fiber. The blanket is thick enough to provide some warmth, but not so thick that you wake up sweating. “Very light but not like a sheet. Feels cool to the touch,” wrote one reviewer. The blanket fits a queen-sized bed and comes in 10 colors.
26These cabinet pulls that easily upgrade your kitchen
If your kitchen cabinets have outdated pulls and handles, upgrade them quickly and easily with these brass cabinet handles. Made from stainless steel with a brass finish, these pulls are easy to attach and have a sleek, modern look. “They were super easy to install, lightweight, smooth finish, and the price was amazing!” wrote one reviewer. They also come in packs ranging from six to 60.
27Some lightweight curtains that repel allergens
These lightweight curtains allow natural light to enter your home while blocking some of the harsh brightness. The polyester and linen blend curtains help repel allergens like dust, lint, and pet dander. “I LOVE these curtains! They let in the perfect amount of light without being too see-through,” wrote one shopper.
28A leather cleaner that makes your sofa look like new
Clean your shoes, bags, or furniture with this leather restoration kit. The kit comes with a leather cleaner and a re-coloring balm, which help your leather goods look as good as new. One reviewer used it on their leather sofas and wrote that they were “extremely happy” with the results and that this product “saved me from getting rid of perfectly good sofas and buying new ones.”
29A thermometer that connects to Bluetooth
Keep better control of the temperature in your house with this indoor thermometer that connects to your phone with Bluetooth. The device also has a hygrometer that tracks humidity and will send alerts to your phone when the temperature or humidity in your house falls outside your desired range.
30This security alarm that gives you peace of mind
Help protect your home from intruders with this GE personal security alarm. The kit is an affordable alternative to a complete alarm system; while this alarm doesn’t send a signal to an emergency service, it does emit a loud alarm sound when triggered, which could deter an intruder and/or alert neighbors.
31These hooks that make it easy to access kitchen utensils
Keep your kitchen utensils organized with these hooks that attach under your cabinet. Each set has six hooks, which are perfect for hanging spoons, spatulas, whisks, or other utensils. The hooks come with adhesive patches for easy attachment that doesn’t require any tools.
32Some privacy film that adds coverage to your windows
`If you have a window that makes your home feel a little too exposed, add some coverage with this privacy film. The opaque material offers enough coverage so that people can’t see into your house, but not so much that it blocks out all light. “It looks good and doesn’t take much effort to install,” wrote one reviewer.
33A drink dispenser that keeps drinks ice-cold throughout the day
No outdoor party is complete without good drinks, and this beverage dispenser ensures that said drinks will be kept cold all day, thanks to the included ice cylinder. This glass dispenser holds up to one gallon of your go-to beverage and dispenses via a stainless steel spigot that’s fully leakproof, and everything’s kept cold with the acrylic ice cylinder that inserts right into the middle of the dispenser.
34An espresso maker that might make better espresso than your local coffee house
If you can’t get enough espresso during the day and loathe spending money on overpriced coffee houses, consider adding this stovetop espresso maker to your kitchen. This produces six-point-eight ounces of espresso (that’s four cups!) that tastes more flavorful and is more aromatic than any you’ve probably tried. Plus, it’s suitable to brew on all types of stovetops.
35This stand that makes it easy to store your laptop and tablets
I never know where to put my laptop, and end up stacking it on top of other electronics or magazines. This vertical laptop stand makes it easy to store your electronics. The dock is adjustable and can hold two devices. It also has a non-slip mat on the bottom so it doesn’t slide around.
36These wooden wall hooks with a minimalist design
These wooden wall hooks immediately add a chic, minimalist look to your home while providing one of the most important services: somewhere to hang things. Made from beechwood, the hooks can hold up to 30 pounds and just need a drill to be installed. One reviewer, who has already purchased three sets of hooks, wrote “they’re modern and have an elegant look” and that “the install was super easy.”
37A garage door sensor that connects to your smartphone
If you often forget whether or not you closed the garage door, this smart garage control connects to your phone so you can close the door from anywhere. The device works with most major garage openers and you can even set it to open and close on a schedule, meaning it’s perfect for people who love keeping a routine.
38This camera that watches your pets when you’re not home
I always want to know what my dog is up to when I’m not home, and especially whether or not she’s getting into any trouble. This home monitoring camera connects to an app on your phone and allows you to keep an eye on your furry friends. It has a two-way speaker so you can speak to your pets, and you can also download your favorite footage.
39A lamp with a built-in charging station
There never seem to be enough outlets next to the bed. This table lamp solves that problem with three USB outlets, two AC outlets, and three slots to hold your phone and other devices. Your devices will still charge whether the lamp is on or off.
40These stone coasters that absorb moisture
A good coaster will both protect your table from moisture and look good while doing so. These stone drink coasters are sturdy and durable, and they absorb moisture that condenses on your glass. “We have had a super hot and humid summer so drinks sweat like crazy and these coasters handle it with ease,” wrote one reviewer.