45 surprising things that make your house so much better for under $30

Your home is in for a treat.

Shopping
By Rachel Bar-Gadda
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
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Who could guess that a simple multipurpose sponge could be so life-changing? Or that a retractable clothing rack that offers tons more drying space could make your life feel so complete? To say nothing of a pet odor eliminator that finally deals with that suspect scent and leaves your home smelling like fresh citrus. Amazon seems to specialize in unexpected treasures like these, which are just a few of the surprising things that can make your house so much better — all for under a reasonable $30.

01A foldable clothes drying rack that retracts when not in use

If you have limited drying space in your laundry room, opt for this incredibly innovative yet budget-friendly foldable clothes drying rack. It has over 8,000 reviews and a high 4.7-star rating — clearly loved for its ability to either mount to the wall or hang over the door, remaining almost entirely flush when not in use. When opened up, the rack can hold up to 60 pounds or about 10 shirts.

02This incredibly portable yet powerful Bluetooth speaker

Pump up great-sounding jams no matter where you are with this portable Bluetooth speaker. Designed to fit in the palm of your hand, it features rich high and low frequencies thanks to a high-performance driver and passive subwoofer. It’s even IP67 waterproof and comes with its own carrying case with an attached ring to hang from your backpack, bicycle, or shower.

03A wearable fleece blanket with cozy sleeves & foot pockets

There’s no better way to curl up on the couch in full cozy mode than with this wearable fleece blanket. Not only is it made of extremely soft microfiber, but it also features special built-in sleeves and even pockets for your feet to keep those toes toasty. Choose from a range of styles, from classic checkered red plaid to a seasonal snowflake pattern to a beautiful dusty blue.

04This microwave bowl set for cooking delicious rice & vegetables

Make it supremely easy to quickly whip up steamed rice and vegetables using this microwave container set. The two bowls are made of BPA-free plastic, with both lids including a steam release vent, and the rice bowl including an added pressure chamber tray. Once you’ve taken your rice and steamed vegetables out of the microwave, anything you don’t finish can be easily stored in the container for tomorrow’s lunch.

05A set of cooking utensils that can rest on the edges of pots & pans

This set of three cooking utensils is not only gentle on cookware surfaces but also features a special built-in notch on the handle that allows them to rest on the edge of your pots and pans, saving your countertop from messy drips. The set includes a slotted turner, angled turner, and solid spoon, each made of heat-safe nylon with silicone handles. Choose from four available colors such as teal or burgundy.

06This splatter screen that prevents grease from landing on your stovetop

This reasonably priced splatter screen is one of those items you may never have considered, but once you use it, you realize how much elbow grease it’ll save you. Made of a fine stainless steel mesh, it sits directly atop your frying pan and keeps hard-to-clean grease from jumping overboard onto your stovetop. Choose from four available sizes (9.5, 11, 13, and 15-inch) and pop it into the dishwasher for effortless cleaning.

07An absorbent bath mat with a super-thin profile

Give your post-shower feet an upgraded experience with this ingenious bath mat that’s incredibly absorbent even though it’s designed with a slim profile. It features a soft faux-suede surface that’s available in nine neutral shades with a nonslip rubber backing to keep it in place. The material is both breathable and quick-drying and can be cleaned with a vacuum or a rinse in the shower.

08This mini dustpan that you will use all the time

There is nothing so handy as a mini dustpan for quickly picking up small messes or accumulated dust bunnies. It has a chic wooden handle, and the rubber lip lining the dustpan helps to easily gather debris. The brush clips directly into the dustpan for space-saving storage, and a hole in the handle allows it to be hung on the wall or inside a cabinet.

09These hanging shelves & drawers that keep your linens neatly stowed

Instead of storing bed linens, towels, and spare clothes haphazardly, use this hanging organizer to make them easy to find and clean and crisp for the next use. You get nine different tidy shelves, and some of them feature an open-front design, so you can see what’s inside at a glance. Each fabric shelf also has extra support, and this organizer even comes with removable drawers.

10This portable door lock that provides instant security

Pop in this portable door lock to give yourself immediate peace of mind if you’re staying somewhere unfamiliar or traveling. It inserts into the door strike of inward-opening doors with the red plate hooked onto the metal plate to prevent entry. Even those with a key will be barred entry, yet the lock can be removed in seconds if needed.

11A pair of cut-resistant gloves that are great for the kitchen or workshop

No matter if you’re working on your latest carpentry project or shucking oysters for happy hour, these cut-resistant gloves work to keep your hands safe. They’re made of material that’s four times stronger than leather while being completely food-safe. And though strong, they’re still breathable, keeping your hands comfortable as they work.

12This spiralizer to create beautiful veggie noodles

Use this vegetable spiralizer to create delicious zucchini noodles or vegetable garnishes. It comes with both a top and bottom lid (so you can store the veggies for later) as well as a sharp adjustable blade with two thickness settings. A nonslip finger protector allows you to process your veggies safely and the whole thing stores conveniently within a small footprint.

13An elegant stopper that keeps your bottle bubbly

These beautiful champagne and sparkling wine stoppers that come in a set of two are a great way to keep that bottle of bubbly effervescent for days after it’s been initially opened. They feature a silicone cork and a special clamp design that allows the stopper to create a completely airtight seal. Plus, they’re totally leakproof and are a cinch to remove when it’s time for a glass.

14This wine aerator that improves the taste as you pour

Fit this wine aerator directly into your bottle of vino to oxygenate and release flavor nuances as you pour. The base is made of rubber and creates a tight fit, while the angled pourer minimizes dripping. As a bonus, you receive two aerators for under $15, making it a great gift for your favorite wine-loving friend.

15A handy pair of colanders that nest when stored

These colanders come in a convenient pair of two that nest inside one another for space-saving storage. Use the large one for draining pots of cooked pasta or vegetables and the smaller one for quickly washing produce. Available in gray and green, they’re made with large drainage holes and can be cleaned in the dishwasher.

16These angled soap dishes are that are self-draining

These chic soap dishes feature an angled design and large grooves to help water drain away and back into the sink, allowing your soap to dry more quickly. The soft silicone material is easy to clean and comes in lots of colors such as light green (pictured here), light gray, and cream white. The dish works well with all different soap shapes and is great for the kitchen as well as the bathroom.

17A space-saving shoe rack in a minimalist design

Don’t let that pile of shoes literally take up a huge footprint when it comes to your entryway or closet — opt for this space-saving shoe rack that is ingenious in its minimalist chic design. It features two levels with the ability to accommodate up to six pairs of shoes or boots. Ridges provide a nonslip surface and because it’s so small, this rack will fit in seamlessly within any surroundings.

18This Bluetooth karaoke microphone that lets you rock out at home

Ramp up any party with this Bluetooth karaoke microphone. Connect it to your phone via a cable or Bluetooth, then simply open the included app to begin singing along to your favorite tunes. It has a high-quality speaker built directly into it as well as buttons that allow you to change the volume or echo level. Choose from 13 fun colors such as rose gold, green, and silver.

19An outlet extender with a built-in night-light

Take that duplex outlet and give yourself way more functionality with this outlet extender. Not only does it give you five AC outlets and four USB ports, but it also features an automatic night-light that emits a soft glow. It attaches easily to your existing outlet while a built-in surge protector safeguards your devices.

20This 2-tier organizer with clear bins

It’ll be easy to grab whatever supplies you need when you store them in this two-tier organizer. It comes with two clear bins that allow you to see the contents easily, with two removable dividers provided for extra organization. Place it in any room that needs a touch of extra tidiness and easily pull out each drawer to access items using the built-in handles.

21A toilet bowl brush that stores stylishly

Who knew a toilet bowl brush could double as stylish decor? This one with its chic canister and steel powder-coated material in an elegant bronze finish is a great example. The brush works for all standard toilets and acts like a charming, vintage-inspired accent for your bathroom.

22These heavy-duty hangers that maximize closet space

These space-saving hangers are an easy way to maximize your closet space. Sold in a set of four, each hanger has five vertical hooks and holes that can hold everything from light T-shirts to heavy winter coats. “My shirts have never been so organized and easily accessible in my very narrow closet!” wrote one reviewer.

23A multipurpose sponge that can clean anything

With over 27,000 reviews and a near-perfect 4.8-star rating, this multipurpose sponge is clearly popular for handling almost any messy job. It’s dual-sided, featuring a non-scratching scrubber and an absorbent soft side. Use it with cool water for more rigidity or warm water for a more malleable texture, with the mouth and eyes being especially helpful for cleaning utensils and the bottoms of mugs.

24This under-desk drawer for creating extra storage space

If that fancy standing desk didn’t come with a lick of storage, don’t fret. This under-desk drawer installs easily using strong self-adhesive and provides you with a double layer of storage. The pull-out drawers are ideal for keeping desk supplies close at hand or items like your phone or headphones. It’s also available in a simple single tier.

25A pillow cup holder that provides a stable surface for drinks

Keep those beverages securely at hand using this ingenious pillow cup holder that’ll truly have you never leave the couch. The pillow features three holders with the center one being great for any mug or glass with a handle. It promises to remain completely stable, plus, the foam will actually provide insulation, helping to keep your tea hot and your beer chilled.

26The tablet pillow stand with multiple viewing angles

Made of comfortable memory foam, this tablet pillow stand is great for lounging on the couch or bed while catching up on your favorite episodes. Use it with your tablet in either portrait or landscape orientation and place your device in one of the several available grooves to get the viewing angle just right. There’s even a side pocket to hold your phone or stylus.

27A pillowcase set with seriously luxe, satin accessories

This pillowcase set will feel so luxurious after your nighttime skincare routine because it comes with a matching satin eye mask and scrunchie to make your bed feel ultra-luxurious. You can throw all of the silky satin pieces in the washing machine to refresh them, and this set could even prevent hair breakage overnight.

28This freezer storage tray for bite-sized treats

This freezer storage tray is designed with 10 slots in which to make anything from small 2.5-ounce treats to make-ahead ingredients for meal prep. It’s constructed of food-grade silicone that is free of PVC, latex, and BPA, and it includes its very own clip-on lid. Plus, in addition to the freezer, it’s also safe to use it in the oven and dishwasher.

29An in-drawer knife block that saves countertop space

Instead of utilizing a huge hunk of wood that takes up tons of counter space to store your knives, turn to this in-drawer knife block that takes advantage of horizontal space. It’s made of bamboo and can hold up to 16 knives in various sizes. Its convenient angled design means it’s a cinch to grab what you need.

30This slim spatula set to get every last drop out of jars

Make sure to extract that last treasured bit of honey or facial moisturizer from the jar with the help of this slim spatula set. It comes with four spatulas that range in length and width, and each one is made of food-grade silicone. Additionally, use them for baking projects with hand washing recommended to keep them in lasting shape.

31A window insulation kit that installs using a simple hair dryer

If cold air is seeping through the window, grab this insulation kit that’s painless to install. It comes in a pack of nine clear plastic sheets that fit standard windows, large picture windows, and patio doors. Apply the adhesive tape around the perimeter of the window, remove it to expose the sticky surface, then attach the plastic sheet and use a hair dryer to create an airtight seal.

32These nested mixing bowls with built-in pour spouts

You will become obsessed with these nested mixing bowls that allow you to prep all kinds of food for cooking and baking, with each featuring a spout for easy pouring. Four bowls come in every set and each one is made from BPA-free plastic that’s freezer, microwave, and dishwasher-safe. Available in lots of color options, a rubber layer at the bottom of each one keeps the bowl from sliding around your countertop.

33A lid organizer that hangs over your cabinet

Get efficient with your pot and pan storage by using this over-the-cabinet organizer. It can hold multiple lids up to 10 inches wide with plenty of room for handles or large cutting boards. Plus, it also protects your cabinet surface by including padding underneath the bracket.

34These produce savers that extend the life of veggies & fruit

There’s nothing worse than having invested in farmer’s market fresh vegetables or fruit only to see it rot within days. That’s where these ingenious produce savers come in. The set of two is designed with a built-in filter (which lasts forever) that controls the flow of carbon dioxide and oxygen so as to keep produce fresh. Plus, an elevated base protects produce from accumulated moisture.

35A set of stackable bed risers to make furniture more comfortable

If furniture like beds or armchairs could be much more comfortable if only slightly heightened, turn to these stackable bed risers to get the job done. They come in a pack of eight in either black or brown and feature a nonslip rubber bottom to keep the riser in place. A rubber-coated metal plate can be found on top in order to inhibit cracking from the pressure of furniture legs.

36This door draft stopper that keeps your home at the ideal temperature

Maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while saving tons on energy bills using this door draft stopper. Foam tubes are encased in fabric using a hook and loop fastener and sit on either side of the bottom of your door to block drafts, light, noise, and dust. It’s available in two sizes and four neutral colors (black, brown, beige, and gray).

37A vase cleverly shaped like a book about flowers

Imagine flowers simply springing from within your personal literary collection. This beautiful book vase achieves just that due to its slim design that can store flush next to your existing books. It’s made of shatterproof acrylic, comes in several colors, and is even designed with writing to make it look like a book about flowers.

38This 100% cotton beach towel that’s oversize yet folds down small

This budget-friendly beach towel comes in a pack of two for only $10 and in an extra-large size great for laying out on the sand or by the pool. The 100% cotton material is lightweight and can be folded down into a small, portable size. It’s available in lots of colors from purples to blues to greens, with all designed in a classic striped pattern with tassel ends.

39A set of bed sheet straps to keep your fitted sheet secure

If your fitted sheet is coming up from its corners at night, you can say goodbye to a cheery morning. Luckily, these bed sheet straps are designed with three clasps that clamp to the sides of your fitted sheet, keeping it securely attached to the bed. Made with strong elastic bands, the straps include length-adjustable buckles to get the fit just right.

40These bamboo drawer dividers that are expandable

For messy drawers that are brimming with their chaotic contents, turn to these bamboo drawer dividers that conveniently expand to fit a range of dimensions. They feature a built-in spring as well as foam padding on each end to protect the surface of your drawer and provide extra grip. Every pack comes with four dividers with the bamboo material being easy to keep clean.

41A fire starter made of natural materials

Light up grills or fires without smelly lighter fluid using these fire starters. They’re made of all-natural wax and sawdust and come in a pack of 50 bundles. Able to burn for over 10 minutes at a time, they give off no odor that might affect the flavor of your food and can even burn in rainy conditions.

42This barbecue scraper tool that helps you thoroughly clean grates

Remove residue from past cookouts with this barbecue scraper tool that gets every last bit of burned debris off your grates without damaging them. Made of strong stainless steel, it features multiple notches in different sizes and shapes to accommodate round or V-shaped grates as well as those used at national parks and campgrounds across the country. A griddle scraper and bottle opener are also built-in, with the whole thing being small enough to easily take on the road.

43A pet odor eliminator with over 174,000 reviews

This clearly popular pet odor eliminator has garnered an incredible amount of reviews as it’s a go-to for removing stubborn pet stains. It utilizes the power of fresh-pressed orange oil to eradicate smelly old or new stains and can be used on anything from upholstery to turf to concrete. Plus, it leaves behind a pleasing citrus scent.

44This wearable cleaning caddy to help you knock out chores like a pro

With this wearable cleaning caddy at your side, you’ll whip through your chores in no time and do so with a professional finish. It includes a padded shoulder strap for extra comfort and is made of durable, waterproof fabric. Place items in the five inner compartments or four outer compartments and easily grab fresh trash bags using the built-in dispenser.

45A pack of reusable mop pads that are machine-washable

These reusable mop pads feature thick microfiber material with a looped design to pick up all kinds of dirt and debris from your floors. They work either wet or dry, but, best of all, they can be tossed in the washing machine to be used again and again, saving you tons of money down the line. Use them with your Swiffer WetJet or other microfiber mops ranging from 10 to 12 inches.