60 kooky things that are insanely useful

Weird but worth it.

Shopping
By Amanda Pellegrino
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

The internet is full of things that no one asked for, but sometimes the line between totally kooky and totally brilliant is thinner than you’d think. This list is full of slightly bizarre, moderately weird, potentially strange products that might raise an eyebrow but actually solve problems you didn’t even realize you had. From brilliant lighting hacks to skin-care essentials to weirdly amazing storage options, here are our favorite lfe upgrades that you’ll wonder how you lived so long without.

01Sensory stickers with unique textures to help ease stress & improve concentration

These sensory stickers come in 12 different colorful themes — from landscapes to famous paintings to galaxies — and offer two different tactile surfaces you can rub your fingers against to help improve concentration and ease stress. They’re waterproof, tear resistant, and scratch resistant, so you can use them and reuse them as much as you need.

02A metal drum that creates ethereal music in the rain

This metal drum has eight perfectly tuned notes that create a chorus of sound when it’s raining, turning your garden or yard into an outdoor oasis. (Don’t worry, it also comes with small mallets so you can play it yourself in nicer weather, too.) And since it’s designed to withstand inclement conditions outside, you don’t have to worry about it being ruined in the rain or snow.

03Hook tools that make closing buttons & zippers so much easier

These button hooks are all you need to assist you in buttoning shirts, zipping up hoodies, and other small tasks that you might need a hand with. They have two foldable heads — one is a hook and one is a closed-loop puller — and the whole thing is so compact, you can discreetly take it with you anywhere you need a little help.

04A nature-inspired shower caddy with 4 small rotating shelves

With a kooky, tree-shaped design, this shower caddy is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before and far more customizable than more traditional options. That’s because all four of the small tiers on this caddy can rotate 180 degrees, so you can organize them exactly how you want depending on the height of the objects you’re storing.

05An electric lighter that can stand up to wind & splashes

This flameless electric lighter is windproof and splash proof, making it a total must-have whether you’re lighting a candle at home or starting a fire on a campground. On a single charge, it can be used more than 600 times, so you can take it with you without any bulky chargers or cases. And the burner point even retracts when you’re not using it for added safety.

06A tray designed to make your shower steamers last so much longer

This tray uses strong suction cups to mount to the shower wall, keeping big splashes of water off your shower steamer so it lasts so much longer. The key is in the protective design that features plenty of ventilation holes. This way, the steam can easily circulate, ensuring your scent gets released without completely dousing the steamer in water.

07Wine rings that catch bottle drips to protect your surfaces from spills

If you’re getting tiny drips of wine on your table, rug, or clothes every time you pour yourself a glass, these drip catchers are exactly what you didn’t know you needed. Made of stainless steel and lined in felt, they sit snugly around the neck of the bottle, absorbing any drips of wine that run down the outside after pouring. This way, you can sip without worrying about stains.

08Shoe-inspired car air fresheners that clip onto the vent

No wonder these air fresheners are trending — they’re designed to look like those super popular clogs everyone loves. They come with four scented packs you stick inside each shoe, but you can also add some cotton and your favorite essential oils to create the perfect signature scent in your car. Just clip them in place and let your ventilation system distribute the scent.

09A hollow pillow that takes the pressure off your ear area

Whether you recently got your ears pierced or you just have ultra-sensitive ears, this holed-out pillow was designed with you in mind. The hole in the center is placed specifically to remove pressure from your ear while you’re sleeping on your side. It even has an ergonomic cutout around the neck to make sleeping that much more comfortable, even with earbuds in.

10A hollow rock to discreetly hide a spare key for guests or deliveries

If you need to leave a key out for guests, deliveries, or service providers — or if you’re prone to locking your own keys inside — this hollow rock is the perfect hiding place. With super-realistic coloring and texture, this resin rock blends into the natural landscape of your yard or garden, so people will only know it’s fake if they’re looking for it.

11Little weights that prevent your shower curtain from billowing around you

These shower curtain weights use heavy-duty magnets to cling to the bottom of virtually any shower curtain — just split them open and place each piece on either side of the hem to install. This way, the curtain stays weighed down to prevent it from billowing around. They’re covered in silicone so they won’t get rusty in the high-humidity environment or make a racket when they hit the bathtub.

12A storage net that hangs on the ceiling of your car for easy access

The best part about this cargo net is that it suspends across the ceiling inside your car so you can actually access your stuff, unlike trunk storage or rooftop carriers. It installs by attaching to the over-door handles and it even has an outer pocket for small go-tos like snacks, blankets, or road trip entertainment.

13Air fryer magnets that keep your parchment liners secure

These parchment paper magnets are the kind of brilliant invention you never knew existed. They’re small and compact and they work to hold the parchment paper against the walls of the air fryer, preventing it from lifting and blocking proper airflow. The magnets are covered in food grade silicone, so they’re easy to clean, too.

14A tiny folding knife to open boxes & letters

Why settle for a boring box cutter when you can open packages, envelopes, and letters with this miniature knife? About the size of your thumb, the knife is incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver and handle. It even comes in a convenient storage tin to protect it when you’re not using it.

15A flexible reading light that doubles as floral decor

There are so many aspects of this light that make it the perfect combination of kooky and brilliant. First, it has a floral design, complete with a tulip-shaped head, leaves, and a flexible stem. Second, it can be worn around your neck for the perfect angle while reading — just bend the stem into a rounded shape. When you’re done, stand it on your desk or balance it in a vase with faux flowers for a more exciting look.

16A sensory journal that comes with scented pens & highlighters

Combine journaling with sensory satisfaction with this writing set. The notebook has a maze you can trace with your finger to help calm the mind and ease stress. And it even comes with three scented highlighters and two scented pens with lava-style accents that are hypnotizing to look at.

17Cartoonish charger covers that protect from damage

Chargers, while so necessary, are famously easy to damage while you’re using them. That’s where his cartoonish case comes in. Made from durable silicone, the case completely envelops the adapter base, cable, and connector plug, allowing you to use the charger knowing that it’s protected from scratches, pulls, and other damage.

18Card-shaped bottle openers that are slim enough to fit in your wallet

We’ve found your new party trick — always being the one with a super cool bottle opener no matter where you are. These are designed to look like ace of spades playing cards with a hollow slot for popping caps. Better yet, they fit into your wallet like a credit card so you can easily bring one out whenever anyone needs it.

19An acrylic rack to neatly store your entire straw collection

If you have a messy collection of metal, plastic, or glass straws that’s stressing you out, check out this rack. It mounts inside a cabinet door, giving you the perfect spot to hold all your straws in a neat and tidy way. It has two vertical racks that prevent the straws from falling out when you open or close the cabinet.

20Stainless steel soap that removes strong odors from your hands

This stainless steel soap is a totally kooky but brilliant solution to getting the odor of garlic, onion, and other strong scents off your hands and skin. Simply use it like a normal bar of soap: Rub it between your hands under cold water for 30 seconds and your hands will be back to smelling normal again in no time.

21Warming foot masks packed with Epsom salt, menthol, & essential oils

If you have tired, achy feet, these cozy and comfortable foot masks are such a satisfying way to treat yourself. They’re packed with Epsom salt, menthol, shea butter, and essential oils which deeply moisturize while the self-heating warmth penetrates into muscles to give you instant and long-lasting relief.

22A terra-cotta clay bear that helps soften brown sugar

If your brown sugar gets hard and off-colored even when it’s tightly sealed and stored, this terra-cotta bear is exactly what you need. Simply soak it in water and place it directly inside your jar of brown sugar. It works by providing superior moisture absorption to prevent your sugar from drying out and clumping.

23A glove that protects your hand so you can steam garments anywhere

This glove basically turns your hand into an ironing board while simultaneously helping protect your fingers from burning while you steam garments. It has a mesh cover that’s ventilated so your hands don’t get too hot, as well as a finger buckle to keep the glove in place. The reverse side features a thick, heat-insulated sponge that dispels heat and prevents it from scalding you while you work.

24A water filter for your tub that delivers a spa-like soak

You’ve seen filters for your showerhead, but have you ever seen one for your bathtub? This filter hangs off the bathtub faucet and has an eight-stage system that removes heavy metals, chlorine, hard water, and other impurities so your bath feels way more spa-like. It even has an adjustable handle to fit your tub fixtures.

25A brush-cleaning tool that removes built-up hair & product

Make cleaning your brushes totally pain free with this specifically designed tool. One side is a rake that can get deep into all kinds of bristles to remove hair while the other side is a stiff brush to clean out grease, product residue, and dirt. It even has an ergonomic handle that’s easy to maneuver.

26Magnetic remote control holders that keep your devices where you need them

These magnetic remote control holders can be mounted to the back of your television, the side of your entertainment center, the wall behind the couch — you name it — so you always have a go-to spot to store your clickers. One side sticks to the device and one side adheres to your desired surface. You can officially say goodbye to losing the remote under the couch or between the cushions.

27A faux plant that doubles as hidden bathroom storage

If you have a night guard or retainer that you need to store but don’t want out in the open, you need to check out this faux plant. While it looks great on your bathroom counter, it has a secret compartment in the bottom with hidden ventilation holes to store your retainer or mouth guard — out of sight, out of mind.

28Rechargeable emergency light bulbs that run for up to 5 hours at a time

Whether you want to prep for a power outage or bring some light to a camping trip, these rechargeable light bulbs are exactly what you need. They charge quickly and then glow for up to five hours at a time. During a power outage, you can screw them directly into light fixtures and when you’re camping, you can use the attachable hooks to hang them from the tent or a tree branch.

29Washing machine shoe bags that help your sneakers keep their shape

These washing machine bags are specifically designed to clean 360 degrees around your shoes so they look good as new. The bag is filled with fluffy fibers that scrub your kicks as they bounce around the machine. And as a bonus, the set comes with adjustable shoe trees you can insert into the shoes to help maintain their shape while they dry.

30A chic to-go coffee mug that automatically stirs itself

Not only is this coffee mug so chic — I mean, just look at that dual-tone finish — but it also uses magnets to automatically stir the coffee to prevent it from clumping up between sips. This is especially great for things like matcha, hot cocoa, protein shakes, and other beverages with powders in it.

31A portable bidet with a travel bag so you can stay squeaky clean on the go

If you swear by your bidet at home and hate having to go back to regular toilet paper when you’re traveling, this portable bidet was designed for you. Simply add water to the base, position it properly, and squeeze. The high-pressure nozzle allows for gentle cleaning no matter where you are. Plus, it doesn’t require any batteries or electricity.

32Bungee cord storage hangers that help prevent tangles & tears

These hangers were designed for one brilliant reason: to store your bungee cords so they don’t end up tangled and torn up on the floor of your garage. They can hold a ton of bungees and even have a holed-out design to secure the hooks so they’re not loose. And they have convenient carrying handles on top to hang them on hooks or take them with you.

33A wall-mounted bottle opener shaped like a corgi’s butt

Calling all dog fans — this bottle opener is going to crack you up. It’s shaped like a corgi showing off its butt, which is a hilarious way to open your bottles whether it’s a party or a cozy night in. Plus it mounts to the wall, so you can keep it easily accessible by the bar, on the porch, or in the kitchen.

34A foldable clothing rack that holds up to 60 pounds

This foldable rack is great for hang-drying clothes, planning your next outfit, or just giving you more space to display your favorite wardrobe pieces. It can hold up to 60 pounds and has a foldable design that retracts into the base when you’re not using it, so you won’t even remember it’s there.

35An endoscope camera with adjustable LED lights & a waterproof design

This endoscope camera is one of those strange products you never knew you needed but is actually so useful for so many different things. Because it’s waterproof and has built-in lights, it can be used to take close-range videos of everything from the inside of your pipes or electrical systems to the nooks of your car. It attaches directly to your phone so you can see the video in real time.

36A stacked egg dispenser that saves space & protects shells from damage

This egg dispenser is the most brilliant organizational tool for your refrigerator. It has a stacked design that saves a ton of space and it’s gravity-fed so it automatically (and gently) dispenses one egg at a time. It can hold 12 to 14 standard, large, or jumbo eggs.

37Plant stem support wires that hold branches upright

These wire spirals support your plant’s stems to encourage them to grow vertically and look full, healthy, and strong. They’re small and gentle, seamlessly blending into your plant’s stems to offer unparalleled support and keep them growing so they stay alive way longer. Plus, the braided gold accent in the center makes for a pretty finishing touch.

38Soap-preserving shower bags that exfoliate your body from head to toe

Put a bar of soap inside one of these mesh bags and it’ll instantly lather up to clean and exfoliate your body while ensuring you can use every last drop of that soap bar. It’s easy to hold in your palm so you can scrub it all over, and it comes with a built-in hook so you can hang it to dry between uses. Got a bunch of tiny, leftover soap shards? Just throw them all inside to conserve even more.

39Silicone ear clips that prevent your glasses from sliding down your face

If your glasses are always sliding down your nose, you should check out these ear clips. Made of comfortable and flexible silicone, the ear clips slide onto the ends of your glasses and hook around your ears, making for a much more custom fit. This way, your frames stay put no matter what.

40Hydrocolloid pimple patches that come in 7 different sizes

You might already know that pimple patches are a brilliant way to draw out pus, reduce redness, and help heal your acne. But the key with these is that they come in seven different sizes so they’re not just for your face, but also your back, shoulders, and more. No more picking, no matter where you put them.

41An extra-large travel pillow with a built-in hood to cover your eyes

This travel pillow is about to totally change the game when it comes to getting comfy when you’re on the road. The neck pillow is made of memory foam with ergonomic curves that effortlessly support your head and neck. Plus, its built-in oversized hood covers your eyes to help you get the best sleep, even when you’re away from your own bed.

42A car cupholder expander that actually fits your favorite big water bottle

This adjustable expander sits inside your existing cupholder, creating a larger, elevated compartment above that actually fits your oversized water bottles and tumblers. The most inventive part is that it can be mounted in the center or offset so it doesn’t block the other cupholder in the pair. It comes in a true black and a cool gray to fit many common car interiors.

43A reusable chin strap designed to help create a more lifted look

This chin strap is totally viral right now. Designed to help create a contoured, defined jawline thanks to the tight, lifted construction, this strap is surprisingly comfortable according to reviewers. Not only is it ergonomic and skin friendly, but it’s washable and reusable so you can wear the same one over and over again, followed by a moisturizer of your choosing.

44Washing machine pods that clean the drum, pipes, & seal

If your clothes aren’t coming out of the washing machine looking and smelling amazing, it might be time to do a deep clean with these pods. Simply pop one in and run the machine with hot water and it cleans and deodorizes the drum, pipes, and seal to extend the life of your machine and help it keep running good as new.

45A portable microscope you can use at home or on the go

This portable microscope was designed with the curious in mind. It’s small and compact so you can bring it with you to the park, the beach, or a campground to view all kinds of nature under the 60 to 120 times magnification. And thanks to the built-in LED lights, you’ll get a crystal-clear picture.

46A soothing weighted lap blanket shaped like a leaf

What makes this weighted blanket different and particularly useful is its small size. At just 23 inches by 29 inches, the blanket is easy to wear whether you’re snuggling in bed or sitting at your desk. It has a velvety outer fabric and it’s filled with glass beads to add weight. The embroidery — which adds to the leaf-like texture — also keep the beads separated to deliver even weight distribution throughout.

47A versatile faucet extender that swivels 360 degrees

This faucet attachment mounts onto your existing hardware, rotating 360 degrees to make your faucet a way more versatile solution to your needs. From drinking like a water fountain to washing your face to cleaning the sink itself, this swiveling feature is a small upgrade that makes your faucet way more convenient.

48Flip-flops that fold completely flat for easy packing & travel

These foldable slippers are so compact, they can easily fit in your purse or backpack, creating the perfect solution for both travel and damp post-pedicure toes. They’re made of durable EVA material that’s flexible and cushioned, while the nonslip soles work to keep you sturdy.

49Laptop cooling pads that elevate the keyboard to a more ergonomic angle

These little pods slip underneath the bottom of your laptop, allowing for proper airflow so the computer is less likely to overheat. As a bonus, they also elevate the keyboard to a more comfortable, ergonomic typing angle. They feature a silicone pad on the top and bottom so your laptop doesn’t slide off while you’re working.

50Grippy key attachments that help you open & close locks

These key attachments mount onto the end of your key, giving you way more surface space to make opening and closing locks so much easier on your hands and joints. And thanks to the textured surface, they’re even easier to grip without slipping. Plus they come in a few different colors so you can color-code your keys so you always reach for the right one.

51Bed sheet organizers that totally revolutionize your linen closet

You won’t believe what a difference storing your bed sheets in these organizers will make in your linen closet until you try it. Each of the organizers can hold an entire bed’s worth of sheets — even in king sizes — and they feature a label and window so you always know what’s inside when it’s time to make the bed.

52A spray that turns toilet paper into a flushable wipe

Despite how they’re advertised, flushable wipes are rarely safe for your pipes and plumbing. But if you want the fresh feel of a wipe without wearing down your sewage system, check out this spray. You can spritz it directly onto toilet paper to turn it into a wipe that’s safe to flush and gives you that satisfying clean.

53Microfiber mop slippers that are super absorbent

Have some fun while you’re cleaning the house with these mop slippers. Slip them on around your sneakers or bare feet and sashay around the house, cleaning your floors with the shaggy microfiber fringe at the same time. Plus you can toss them in the washing machine between uses so you can reuse them over and over again.

54Cooking tongs that double as a two-sided spatula

If you get one new cooking tool, it should be these tongs because they’re so versatile and functional. Not only can they pick up and maneuver food like tongs, but their flat design gives you enough surface area to treat them like a spatula, too. The slotted design self-drains and the extended handle helps protect your hands from burns.

55Stainless steel toothpaste squeezers to get out every last drop

These stainless steel toothpaste squeezers secure to the end of the tube and slowly turn upward, making sure you get every last drop out of your toothpaste before you replace it. They also have a flat bottom that holds the toothpaste roll upright, which saves lots of space compared to laying the tube out flat on the counter.

56A 3-pocket organizer that sticks to the top of your laptop

If your laptop comes everywhere with you, chances are a few of its accessories do, too. That’s where this three-pocket organizer comes in. It uses adhesive tape to stick onto the top of your laptop, giving you a convenient spot to store pens, chargers, mice, and other small necessary laptop accessories.

57A roll-up mat that compactly stores in-process puzzles

The worst part about puzzles is that they take over your table while you’re working on them. Not anymore with this roll-up mat. Put it down on your table before you start puzzling and when you’re ready to take a break, it rolls up neatly, preserving everything you’ve already done so it’s ready to start again when you are.

58A small cordless lamp that you can use indoors & outdoors

Waterproof, rechargeable, and cordless, this small lamp is exactly what you need to light up your patio, balcony, or porch because it’s weather resistant and doesn’t need to be plugged into an outlet. It lets off a beautiful warm white glow, it’s completely dimmable, and it works for up to 40 hours on a single charge.

59An overflow drain cover to add a few inches of water to your bath

If you’ve always wanted to take a bath where both your knees and shoulders are under water, you need to check out this drain cover. It uses strong suction cups to secure around the overflow drain, adding up to 4 inches of water to your bathtub. But don’t worry, it still has a hole in the top to prevent things from overflowing.

60A little LED shade that turns bottles & decanters into a lamp

This wireless LED shade turns any wine bottle, bourbon bottle, decanter — you name it — into a delightful little lamp. It has three brightness levels and a silicone seal that keeps it secure on all kinds of bottle mouths. Plus it’s rechargeable and cordless so it doesn’t need to be married to an outlet to be used.