45 expensive mistakes you're making inside & outside of your home

Featuring shatter-resistant bulbs, these outdoor string lights offer durable and reliable LED illumination — and you don’t have to use electricity to light them up. They’re solar powered, offering five to six hours of operation on a full charge (which is about six hours of direct sunlight). With weatherproof durability, they’re made to withstand wind, rain, snow and intense temperatures.

• Available styles: 4

Keep unwanted dampness and odors out of your closets, thanks to these moisture-absorbing packets designed to keep spaces dry. The bags contain calcium chloride to help rapidly absorb moisture in the air, offering a safe, green way to protect your stored items while being compact and versatile too. Hang them in your closets or place them in your bathrooms, basements — anywhere that has a tendency to get damp.

• Available colors: 5
• Available sizes: 2

Instead of letting your hose run idly in between watering — and driving up your bill — use this garden hose nozzle that has a trigger for on-demand use. Compatible with standard garden hoses, it also has a built-in trigger lock to keep your hand from getting fatigued. It features seven watering patterns you can adjust with an easy twist-and-click mechanism.

• Available colors: 7

Designed to fit under most sinks, this under-sink mat is made with durable, waterproof silicone to keep surfaces dry while being easy to clean. It’s constructed with raised edges that can contain over 3 gallons of liquid, keeping things dry and neat. It’s a great way to protect the area from cleaning fluid spills and pipe leaks.

• Available colors: 4

This hair-catching drain stop is a stealth way to keep your water flowing and your drains clear. Made from durable silicone, it’s compatible with standard 1.5-inch to 1.75-inch bathtub drains — just drop it in. It helps save you from dealing with messy hair clogs and costly plumbing issues, and the perforated design still lets water flow freely.

• Available colors: 6

Make sure your dryer is operating safely and at optimal efficiency, thanks to this dryer vent cleaner kit that hooks right to your vacuum. The handy attachment is designed to reach deep down into difficult places, removing lint and other buildup that can hinder your dryer’s performance and be a fire safety hazard. Each package includes one vacuum attachment, complete with an adapter and hose.

Keep your external air conditioner free of any unwanted visitors and debris, thanks to this mesh cover that’s available in three different sizes. Its made with sturdy mesh material that allows for airflow while keeping leaves and debris out, reducing moisture buildup and preventing rust and electrical failures. It’s easy to install, thanks to the adjustable bungee cords, and can even help increase the lifespan of your unit.

• Available sizes: 3

If it constantly feels like your throwing soft, moldy, or otherwise gross produce into the trash, these freshness-preserving balls can help save your produce and your money. Each Bluapple freshness saver contains an active ingredient packet that can last up to three months to help your fruits and vegetables stay crisp, firm, and fresh for longer. Just place a packet inside, snap on the top, and toss it into your crisper drawer, refrigerator shelf, or fruit bowl.

Instantly flatten out curled rug corners (that are both unsightly and dangerous) thanks to these patented V-shaped corner pieces that stick the rug to the floor and keep it there. A more streamlined alternative to pads, and the removable gel bottom won’t damage floors and can be lifted up for easy cleaning. Not to mention, they’re an amazing way to keep your expensive rugs from becoming permanently misshapen.

Keep gunk and debris out of your home’s gutters with these gutter guard covers that add instant protection. They’re super easy to install and are made from anti-rust and waterproof aluminum that is built to withstand the elements. A breeze to install, they’re compatible with a range of gutter sizes.

It makes sense — you gotta keep your washing machine clean so it can clean your clothes, and these tablets help. Designed for all types of washers, these deep-cleaning tablets dissolve into a scrubbing powder that whisks away dirt and residue. Your machine will work better and your clothes will be cleaner, too.

• Available options: 2

Spruce up and condition your wood furniture with this cleaner and polish that leaves a shiny, bright finish behind. Safe for use on cabinets, tables, chairs, and even antiques, it’s easy to apply — just wipe it on. It’s non-sticky and made from gentle ingredients like coconut, mineral, and almond oils.

Protect the surfaces of your shelves with these BPA-free and odor-free shelf liners. The can be custom cut and are easy to clean while providing protection against scuffs, surface marks, and tearing. Plus, they’re waterproof and oil-resistant, which makes them a breeze to clean. Choose from 10 different colors and 14 sizes.

• Available colors: 10
• Available sizes: 14

Ditch the expensive single-use wet pads for your mop and start using these reusable microfiber pads instead. They’re a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative that last longer and (arguably) cleans better, all while saving you money. The extra-thick microfiber design ensures better absorption when wet mopping and better dust and dirt trapping when dry. Plus, they're machine washable.

Keep an eye on water leaks before they become big problems thanks to these water leak detectors that are equipped with ultra-loud 100-decibel alarms. They can be placed anywhere that might get water — basements, bathrooms, or under sinks — and detect leaks as they happen. They’re battery-operated and easy to install, helping to prevent water damage before it’s too late.

• Available options: 4

Keep all the metal parts of your garage moving along smoothly thanks to this professional garage door lubricant. It’s a quick-drying solution that works in both wide and narrow areas to protect the metal between the moving parts of your garage door, including hinges, tracks, chains, and rollers. The formula helps prevent rust, squeaking, and jamming over time.

Never carry cords, cables, or hoses the same way again thanks to these heavy-duty storage wraps that help keep them contained and organized. They’re made from heavy-duty, weatherproof polypropylene with industrial-strength hook-and-loop closures to be super sturdy, allowing you to carry and hang your heavy items with ease. As an added bonus, you can also use them for Christmas lights.

Keep your walls looking fresh and free from chips, scratches, and dings with these touch-up paint pens. The kit includes refillable paint pens that tackle detail work with ease, eliminating the need for unwieldy paintbrushes (and mistakes). Just use the syringe to draw up paint from the can and say goodbye to paint drips and hello to hassle-free touch-ups.

Multitaskers will love these shoes-and-lawn aerators in one that keep you from having to call in a yard service. Designed for professional-grade aeration, they securely strap to your shoes — just wear them while walking around your lawn or garden to achieve greener, healthier grass. They feature a sturdy plastic base, 13 heavy-duty metal spikes, and adjustable straps.

Keep your outdoor furniture fresh and flawless with this sun and water shield by Scotchgard. The one-step, easy-to-use spray is formulated to block harmful UVA and UVB rays, safeguarding against fading and deterioration. It also offers water repellency and is perfect for a variety of outdoor items, including patio furniture, umbrellas — even grill covers.

Maximize your outlet potential with this power strip that features six rotating outlets and two fixed side sockets. The strip offers protection, shielding devices from electrical surges and outside interference, while a five-year warranty guarantees peace of mind. With this, it’s also easy to maintain a clutter-free setup, thanks to the cable management hooks that ensure cords stay aligned and contained.

Stop straining your back to move your plants around to ensure they get just enough sunshine — and not too much frost — thanks to this plant stand on wheels. A great way to protect the time and money investment you’ve made in your greenery, it holds up to 350 pounds with ease, while the stand’s convenient design allows for easy maneuvering.

Forget plumber calls and ditch the harsh drain-clogging solutions and opt for these easy-to-use manual clog removers instead. Each package includes three 20-inch clog tools that are study but flexible to reach around the curves of pipes. Once inside the pipe, the barbed wand traps hair and other gunk, freeing up the drain.

Achieve effective moisture control in your home, thanks to this dehumidifier that collects up to 16 ounces of water in 24 hours. Available in white and black, it operates quietly and features optional atmospheric light in seven colors. It automatically shuts off when full, so you don’t have to worry about overflow situations, either.

• Available colors: 2

Outdoor grills are definitely an investment and you should protect them as such with this premium grill cover. It comes in multiple sizes that fit most popular gas and charcoal grill models, while guarding against rain, snow, and UV rays. The cover offers a secure fit thanks to the fabric straps, and it’s wind-resistant and vented to prevent condensation buildup.

• Available colors: 3
• Available sizes: 9

Protect your floors and furniture at the same time with these chair leg covers that offer durable protection, thanks to the soft felt bottoms. Their transparent design ensures a seamless look while providing a secure hold without using unreliable gel or adhesives. Plus, the stretchy design works on various chair leg shapes and sizes — choose from multiple shades that’ll blend in perfectly.

• Available colors: 16
• Available sizes: 5

Cleaning your gutters is not so fun, but definitely necessary to prevent roof damage, leaks, mold, and rodent infestation — and this gutter scoop makes it easy and efficient. With a high handle position to shield hands from scrapes and scratches, the extended tongue reaches under gutter supports for thorough cleaning, while the narrow heel makes it easy to pull the loaded scoop from the gutter.

Keep your furniture right where you want it, thanks to these furniture and bed stoppers. They’re constructed from nonslip rubber with a deep V-shape that cradles wheels for a secure grip that prevents scratching and damage. Use them on couches, chairs, beds, and any other type of furniture on wheels.

A much safer alternative to wire grill brushes (to eliminate the risk of bristles breaking off and contaminating food), this barbecue scraper is made with sturdy stainless steel to effortlessly remove tough grease and grime. The multiple notches fit grill grates of all sizes, ensuring an effective clean before your next cookout. It’s compact, with a hanging chain that keeps it right where you can always find it.

Enjoy your favorite beverages without worrying about damage and shattered glass with this set of four unbreakable wine tumblers. They’re made from durable stainless steel and also help to keep your whites and rosés at the proper chilled temperature. The tumblers are dishwasher safe and feature a brushed, fingerprint-resistant finish.

Keep your herbs fresh for so much longer with this herb keeper and saver. The extra-large size provides ample space for storing your favorite herbs while saving you money, keeping them hydrated, protected, and fresh for up to three weeks. The BPA-free container features a stainless steel core, a reservoir for just a bit of water, and a vented lid for airflow.

Keep your mattress safe and protected — and sleep with peace of mind — thanks to this waterproof mattress protector. It’s designed to shield your mattress from spills, while also guarding against allergens and dust for a healthier sleeping surface that lasts for years. The 18-inch hem fits mattresses of most depths while the cotton-terry top is soft and breathable.

• Available sizes: 9

Keep your windows and electronic screens sparkling and clear with this glass and window cleaner kit. With the ability to remove dirt and grime using only water (no need to buy cleaning fluids, here), the two-step process gives streak-free results every time. Just use the waffle-weave cloth with water to trap dust and grime, then use the smooth-weave polishing cloth for a crystal-clear shine.

• Available colors: 3

Keep your furniture in top-top shape and safe from damaging claws with these cat scratch furniture protectors. They’re easy to install: Just peel off the self-adhesive backing and apply the clear shields to your upholstery, then secure with the provided twist pins for extra security. Over time, your kitty will be less motivated to scratch at the furniture at all.

Your dishwasher has to be clean in order to clean — it only makes sense — and these dishwasher cleaner and deodorizer tablets do the job for you. Designed to eliminate grease, lime scale, mineral buildup, soap grime, and other residue, the deep-cleaning formula reaches all visible and non-visible parts of your dishwasher. All you have to do? Stick it in and run a cycle.

Keep things quiet and damage-free with these cabinet door bumpers that dampen sounds and prevent scuffs. Available in four different shapes, the clear dots act as bumpers between the cabinet door and surface. They have a strong adhesive backing and can also be used to protect walls from picture frames.

In damp areas, like your outdoor space, spritz this rust-resistant spray onto surfaces for extra protection. The oil-based formula features five spray patterns and dries to the touch in just 15 minutes. It comes in multiple finishes — including satin, matte, and glossy — as well as dozens of colors if you’re looking to redo your outdoor furniture, mailbox, or more.

• Available colors: 50+

Whether you sport a green thumb or are a novice, turn your living space into a convenient and fresh garden with this indoor herb garden starter kit. Growing your own herbs at home will save you on your grocery bill and you won’t have to stress about using them in time, since you can just snip what you need, when you need it. The kit includes everything you need to start growing fresh cilantro, parsley, thyme, and basil: seeds, soil discs, burlap grow bags, bamboo markers, gardening shears, and a wooden planter box.

These reusable dishcloths are a great kitchen addition, helping your wallet and the environment by subbing for paper towels and sponges. Highly absorbent, they soak up to 0.75 cup of water and are effective on any surface. Made from cotton and cellulose wood pulp, they're biodegradable and compostable, and easy to clean in the washing machine or dishwasher.

• Available styles: 3

If food tends to go bad before you use it — because you can’t see what you actually have on hand — you need this set of six refrigerator organizer bins. The set includes two wide bins, two narrow bins, an egg holder with a lid, and a drink organizer for nine standard cans. They’re also stackable, helping to save space on your fridge shelves.

Stop buying single-use plastic wrap and opt for these silicone stretch lids that are easy on the environment and your wallet. The set of seven includes various sizes that stretch to fit, and each one is made of food-grade, BPA-free silicone for a durable seal. They’re safe for the dishwasher, freezer, and even the microwave.

• Available colors: 6

Eliminate wrinkles and say goodbye to static without having to buy fabric softener with these dryer balls. Crafted from 100% wool, they’re natural and gentle on skin. Plus, they’ll save you on your energy bills, since they’ll separate laundry to speed up drying time.

Great for packing on-the-go snacks and meals, these reusable food storage bags are a lot cheaper than constantly stocking up on disposable bags — and they’re more eco-friendly, too. With double-zipper closures, they are leakproof and airtight, making them perfect even for storing liquids like soup. They’re also freezer safe, making them an ideal option for long-term storage.

• Available sizes: 6

Preserve the freshness of your bread with this bread box and dispenser. Made from durable plastic, the unique design lets you grab a slice at a time without removing the loaf from the container. Standing upright, it saves space in your pantry or on your countertop, and its sturdy design prevents crushing, making it ideal for picnics, road trips, and tight cabinet spaces.

• Available styles: 6

These smart LED light bulbs offer versatile and customizable lighting options, with a wide range of colors, dimming capabilities, timers, and more. Simply connect them to the compatible app, and you can control your lights remotely. You can also enjoy hands-free operation via voice commands if you have an Alexa or Google assistant.

• Available styles: 3