55 weird but important home upgrades that'll save you so much money

Keep energy costs low and your indoor temperature nice and regulated with this weighted draft stopper that does way more than look cute. Made with soft polyester and filled with cotton and evenly distributed sandbags, it stays put and seals gaps effectively. It helps block outside air, dust, light, and noise, so your space feels cozier and quieter.

This dryer vent cleaning kit makes tackling hidden lint way less intimidating. Its slim hose reaches into tight gaps, while the long brush pulls out years of trapped lint from vents, coils, and behind appliances. Regular cleaning boosts efficiency to help lower energy bills — and helps reduce the risk of dangerous dryer fires.

If you’re tired of pulling soggy hair out of the drain, these peel-and-stick hair catchers are such an easy fix. Just press one over the drain and let it trap hair before it causes clogs. The waterproof adhesive holds tight for weeks on tile, metal, or plastic, but still removes easily when wet. Toss and replace as needed — no mess, no plumber bills, no drama.

This all-in-one wood repair kit makes fixing scratches almost effortless. With blendable markers and wax sticks in a range of tones, you can quickly touch up tables, floors, cabinets, and trim without sanding or calling in a pro. Just color over the scratch and let it blend into the finish. Compact and easy to store, it’s perfect for quick, no-mess fixes any time.

Save money and do your part in saving the planet, too, when you ditch the disposable mop pads for these reusable ones instead. Designed to fit most 10- to 12-inch mop heads, these pads are made with thick, high-absorption microfiber with a built-in sponge layer. Safe for hardwood, tile, laminate, and more, each pad is machine washable up to 100 times.

This attic door insulation cover helps seal one of the biggest hidden energy leaks in your home. With a thick, double-layer reflective design and insulated core, it helps block drafts, moisture, and heat transfer all year long. Installation is simple — just staple it in place — and the oversized zipper allows for easy attic access without removing it.

If you’re tired of tossing wilted spinach and mushy berries, this two-pack of produce savers is a simple upgrade. Each reusable container holds a packet that helps absorb excess ethylene gas, keeping fruits and veggies crisp for longer. Just snap it together and place it in your crisper or fruit bowl.

These magnetic vent covers are an easy way to control airflow without tools or hassle while cutting down on heating and air-conditioning costs, too. Made from durable magnetic material, each one stays securely in place and fits most standard vents — plus you can trim it for a custom fit. Use it to redirect air, close off unused rooms, and help improve energy efficiency.

Air drying your clothes can save on energy bills and this tri-fold wall-mounted drying rack is such a smart way to do it. Made from durable, rust-resistant materials, it’s built to hold heavy loads without bending. It’s perfect for balconies, bathrooms, or laundry rooms, and when you’re done using it, it folds flat against the wall so it barely takes up any space.

If you love your Keurig but hate restocking on disposable pods, this reusable filter is a solid upgrade. The 24-karat gold-plated honeycomb design helps deliver bold, clean flavor without that metallic aftertaste cheaper filters can leave behind. It fits most Keurig 1.0 and 2.0 models and is dishwasher safe — just add a scoop of your favorite grounds and brew.

This water leak detector is a simple, no-fuss way to protect your home. With drip sensors, it sounds off the moment water is detected, creating an alarm that’s loud enough to grab your attention fast. Built with an IP66 waterproof shell and long battery life, it’s reliable and low maintenance — just place it anywhere leaks might happen.

This handy silicone spatula set makes it so much easier to get every last drop out of your condiment jars and beauty products. With two sizes and a double-ended design (mini spoon on one side, flexible scraper on the other), you can reach deep into jars and narrow bottles to ensure you don’t waste any product.

Did you know you can get drafts through your outlets? Well, now you do — and these foam outlet gaskets are an easy, affordable way to help seal up drafty switches and outlets. Made from lightweight foam, they add an extra layer of insulation behind your wall plates to reduce unwanted airflow. Each piece can be trimmed for a custom fit, and with 30 in a pack, you’ll have plenty for multiple rooms.

Blocking up to 98% of UV rays, this one-way privacy window film helps reduce heat and glare for a more comfortable space. It creates a reflective exterior effect in sunlight, while still letting natural light in, so you can enjoy clear daytime views without feeling on display. The static-cling design uses only soapy water — no sticky residue — and removes easily, too.

These quirky cat paw furniture socks are a fun way to protect your floors from damage that’s expensive to correct. Made from thick, double-layer elastic knit, they stretch to fit a variety of chair and table legs while helping prevent scratches and that awful dragging noise. They’re machine washable, and the flexible design works on round, square, or oddly shaped legs.

Looking to actually darken a room — not just dim it? These blackout panel curtains are designed with a thick, double-layer construction that blocks 100% of sunlight and UV rays for true room-darkening comfort. They also help muffle outside noise and improve insulation year-round, which can help reduce energy costs. Each panel features sleek silver grommets for easy hanging.

Designed with a nonslip backing, this fuzzy pet couch cover stays put — even with zoomies and constant jumping on and off. The thick, scratch-resistant fabric helps guard against claws, pet hair, dirt, and everyday wear while keeping your sofa cozy and comfortable. It’s versatile enough to use as a floor mat or window pad, and when it needs a refresh, just toss it in the wash.

Heading out of town or just forget to water your plants sometimes? These terra-cotta watering spikes slowly release moisture right into the soil, helping keep plants hydrated for up to 10 days. Just attach a long-neck wine or plastic bottle, flip it, and insert into the dirt. Functional and charming, the set of four adds a cute touch while protecting your plant investment.

Clogged drain? These 20-inch barbed clog-removing wands make it surprisingly easy to pull out trapped hair and debris without harsh fluids or a visit from the plumber. Flexible enough to bend through strainers and into tricky traps, they grab buildup fast. They’re a simple, budget-friendly way to handle clogs without the need for a costly pro.

Cutting back on water use doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple toilet tank inserts help save up to 0.75 gallon per flush — adding up to thousands of gallons per year in the average home. Less water used means lower utility bills and a smaller environmental footprint. Installation takes just minutes: Fill the bag, place it in the tank, and you’re done.

Made from 100% premium New Zealand wool, these extra-large dryer balls are a natural swap for those costly and not-so-eco-friendly disposable dryer sheets. They tumble between garments to improve airflow, helping clothes dry up to 25% faster while reducing energy use, too. They deliver softer laundry, fewer wrinkles, and less static — without added costs.

Tired of staring at dingy grout lines? This grout pen makes it easy to refresh and recolor tile grout without having to retile your entire kitchen or bathroom. The water-based formula covers stains and can handle up to 150 feet of thin grout lines. It instantly tackles eyesores and freshens up any space, all for a surprisingly wallet-friendly price.

Did you know those gross, lingering sink smells usually start inside your disposal? Banish them from the start with this 11-inch garbage disposal brush that helps you reach deep into the unit to scrub away stuck-on food and buildup. The stiff bristles break up grime effectively, while the wide handle gives you a secure grip as you rotate and clean.

Protecting the space under your sink from water damage just got easier. This thick silicone mat with raised edges helps contain leaks, spills, and stains before they warp surfaces or cause mold. Made from food-grade, waterproof material, it wipes clean in seconds and won’t hold on to smells. The anti-slip texture keeps items in place, and with 15 size options, you can find the right fit.

Torn window or door screen? This repair tape makes fixing it incredibly simple and cheap — just cut, peel, and stick. The strong three-layer adhesive holds up to everyday wear and changing weather, from heat to rain. As one reviewer wrote, “Cat claws and window screens just don't play well together. Used this product a few times now. Works great ... Saved me the time, trouble, and expense of having to buy new screens.”

Power up your everyday devices without constantly buying disposable batteries when you use this battery charger instead. It can charge up to four AA or AAA batteries in just about three hours, while LED lights and helpful beeps keep you updated on progress. It even has built-in safety features like bad battery detection and auto shutoff, too.

Meal prep just got way easier. This vacuum sealer features four modes — automatic vac and seal, pulse control, seal-only for snack bags, and an accessory setting — to make all your prepped ingredients or leftovers last longer. It effortlessly creates airtight seals fast, helping food stay fresh up to 25 days longer and reducing freezer burn from the freezer, too.

Tired of slamming cabinet doors and noisy drawers ruining your furniture? These clear silicone bumper pads help soften every close with quiet, shock-absorbing cushioning. Each pack includes 64 durable, self-adhesive pads that stick securely to smooth surfaces like wood, glass, or metal. Use them on cabinets, decor, cutting boards, or anywhere you want extra surface protection.

Instead of constantly restocking lighters when the fluid runs out, these rechargeable arc lighters work again and again — just plug in to power them up as needed. The flameless, windproof plasma arc works reliably indoors or outdoors, making them great for candles, grills, or camping. Designed with safety in mind, each one features a child safety lock and automatic shutoff after seven seconds to help prevent overuse.

Struggling with hot or cold spots in your home? This smart register booster fan helps push more airflow through wall or floor vents to balance room temperatures and cut down on your heating bills. It features a built-in temperature sensor, programmable controller, and upgraded remote with 10 speed levels for customized comfort.

Give your cat a dedicated place to scratch and save yourself from having to buy a new sofa with this clever scratch mat. It wraps around the arm of your couch, protecting it from claw marks while offering a satisfying scratching surface. Made from durable, natural sisal, it’s safe and long-lasting. Just drape it over the armrest or couch corner and secure it in place.

Sagging couch cushions can make your whole living room feel worn out. This heavy-duty support board slides under your cushions to add structure and comfort in minutes. Made from thick, durable plywood (not flimsy particle board), it holds up to 400 pounds and features gripping dots underneath to help prevent shifting. It’s an easy fix for tired, sagging sofas.

Drafty windows? This clear weather-sealing tape creates an airtight, watertight barrier to help block cold air, heat, dust, and moisture. Made from durable materials, it holds up through extreme temperatures and UV exposure. The strong yet surface-safe adhesive sticks securely but removes cleanly without residue. Easy to apply in seconds, it delivers a neat, transparent seal that lasts through multiple seasons.

Keep your outdoor AC unit protected when it’s not in use with this heavy-duty mesh cover. It shields the top from leaves, branches, and debris while still allowing airflow to reduce moisture buildup. Adjustable bungee cords help secure it in place for a snug fit. Designed to fit most standard units, it’s an easy way to help extend the life of your system and your investment.

Keep your deli meats and cheeses fresher for longer (and feel more organized, too) with this compact container that features an airtight seal. The clear lid can be easily labeled with contents and dates, and its made from durable, BPA-free plastic so it’s dishwasher safe, too.

Upgrade your bathroom routine with this ultra-thin, non-electric bidet attachment. A bougier way to bathroom — while saving on toilet paper — it features adjustable water pressure for a comfortable rinse. The self-cleaning nozzle retracts behind a protective guard for added hygiene. Designed to fit most standard two-piece toilets, it installs in minutes.

Cold weather can do serious damage to outdoor faucets, but these insulated faucet covers are designed to fit most garden spigots and hose bibs, helping protect against freezing, bursting, rust, and sun damage. The three-layer build features waterproof fabric and insulated filling for added warmth. They’re easy and quick to install, too.

Save a pretty penny on landscaping fees and become your own gardener when you use this long-handleed weeding tool. It’s made with a durable, rust-resistant steel design with four sharp prongs that grip weeds at the roots. It’s strong enough for digging and prying out thistles, dandelions, and crabgrass, while still being comfortable to hold, too.

Add instant pops of color without the upkeep and costs of fresh florals with this six-piece set of faux flowers. This set includes six hydrangea stems with full silk blooms in your choice of more than 15 colors. The wired stems are easy to trim or bend for custom arrangements, whether in bud vases or larger displays.

Keep your plants happy and healthy when you use this plant moisture meter on the regular. Just insert the probe 2 to 4 inches into the soil and within seconds, you’ll see clear, color-coded results — no batteries or charging required. The single-needle design helps minimize root disturbance, and pro tip: Wiping the probe just before use improves accuracy.

Keep your meal prep and leftovers fresher for longer with these genius silicone stretch lids. A great alternative to expensive plastic wrap, they turn any dish or bowl into an instant storage container. They’re dishwasher safe, temperature resistant, and are made with food-grade silicone.

Before you crank up the heat (and your electric bill), try adding some extra insulation to your space with one of these door curtain covers. Available in a range of sizes, the curtain offers full coverage to help block drafts, gusts, and colder temperatures from finding their way inside where they aren’t wanted. They have a magnetic closure in the center, making it easy to enter and exit.

If your throw pillows have seen better days, try making them over with these fresh covers instead of tossing and replacing. These sleek, machine-washable corduroy pillow covers have striped panels that add dimension to any space. They come in a variety of sizes and colors to suit any style, and you can use them to cover your existing pillows for a quick and easy upgrade.

Make your laundry smell fresher while keeping funky odors away from your front-loading machine when you remove mold and buildup with this fast-acting gel. Also effective on tile and other mold-prone spaces, the powerful formula goes on thick without any messy drips. It delivers visible results in just hours and is made with a gentle scent, too.

Keep your expensive outdoor furniture looking fresh and staying protected when you use this sun and water shield. The easy-to-use spray helps shield outdoor fabrics from fading by blocking harmful UVA and UVB rays while also adding strong water repellence, too. You can use it on pretty much any upholstered fabric outside and all it takes is a simple one-step spray for long-term protection.

Stop tossing bottles with plenty of product still stuck inside. This bottle emptying kit includes two base caps and six adapters, so you can flip and drain multiple bottles at once, ensuring you get every last drop out. Just swap out the original cap, turn the bottle upside down, and let gravity handle the rest.

Cut down on your paper towel budget when you opt to use these microfiber cleaning cloths instead. The tear-away microfiber cloths come on a convenient roll, so you can grab one fast and stash them anywhere. Each cloth is washable up to 50 times and absorbs up to five times its weight, doing way more than a standard paper towel roll ever could.

Turn any standard outlet into a smart one with this mini smart plug that works seamlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant. Use your voice for hands-free control or manage devices from anywhere through the Kasa app — so you don’t have to stress if you’ve left things on or running before you left the house. Plus, you can set schedules to ensure you’re never draining energy.

Get every last drop out of your toothpaste when you use these genius toothpaste squeezers that aim to leave no product behind. The set includes four toothpaste squeezers in different colors to help you use every last bit. They’re designed to fit most tubes, and each one features a flexible slot that grips tightly and rolls product out without any backflow.

Don’t throw away leftover pet food or use wasteful plastic wrap — put these reusable pet food can covers to work instead. The flexible lids create a snug seal over most standard pet food cans which helps to not only keep food fresh but also keep your fridge odor free. They’re made from BPA-free silicone and are dishwasher safe, too.

A good mattress is an investment, and one worth protecting at that. Boasting a 4.6-star overall rating after 280,000 reviews, this mattress protector features a soft cotton-blend terry surface and a waterproof backing to help keep your bed safe from accidental spills, fluids, bacteria, and even dust mites. It has a breathable, quiet design that won’t crinkle or mess up your sleep and a fitted hem that keeps it securely in place.

Ditch the daily coffee shop run and start making delicious cold brew from the comfort of your own home. This cold brew maker is easy to use, and features an airtight lid and a comfortable nonslip silicone handle. It brews four smooth servings using any coffee grounds, while the fine-mesh filter keeps grit out of your cup. It’s even designed to be neatly stored within most fridge doors, too.

Make leftovers easier to grab and reheat (so you can skip the takeout menu tonight) with this freezer food block maker. Designed to fit gallon-size storage bags, this shell helps you portion and freeze up to 6 cups of liquids and soups at a time. It holds bags upright for easy, mess-free filling, then forms food into slim, stackable blocks that save serious freezer space and thaw faster.

Dimmed lights use less electricity, and less electricity equals lower bills, which is why this smart dimmer switch is a must-have. App-guided setup walks you through installation step by step and then once you’re connected, you can turn lights on or off from anywhere. Voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant makes hands-free use easy, and features like gentle fade-off, scheduling, timers, and “away mode” add extra convenience and security.

Keep your home well lit without lighting up your energy bill when you use these motion-sensor cabinet lights that automatically switch on when movement is detected. They power off after 20 seconds of inactivity, saving you on electricity and also from stumbling around in the dark. A built-in rechargeable battery keeps things cordless and convenient and the five adjustable brightness levels offer a custom vibe, too.