18 of the Handiest Inventions We've Seen This Year

I'm kind of a sucker for nifty gadgets. There's just something so satisfying about finding the tool that will solve all of your problems...or at least help you do a very specific task much more efficiently. After all, life's too short to use subpar products that take forever! If there's a gadget that will make life easier, then you can rest assured that I will buy it and have it handy for the next time I need it. I'm all about trying to make life as simple and stress-free as possible!

Luckily for me (and you!), the Internet is filled with incredible, handy gadgets to purchase, from a flexible safe you secure pretty much anywhere, to some super comfy shoe inserts to relieve your foot pain. I hope you find something that will give you that “perfect tool for the job” happiness!

We hope you find these products as awesome as we do. Just an FYI: We are a participant in the Amazon affiliate program, and may receive a share of sales from links on this page. Prices on Amazon fluctuate so anything mentioned below might change as soon we publish it!
I hope you find these products as awesome as I do. Just an FYI: we participant in affiliate programs and may receive a share of sales from links on this page.

When's the Last Time You Tried to Shave Your Own Back?

via: GiddyUp

I'm guessing it was probably quite a while ago...if it happened at all. That's because it's practically impossible unless you happen to have Inspector Gadget extendo-arms. But if you like to keep a clean-shaven appearance, then it's one of those things that simply must be done. You could ask someone to help you with it but, uh, that can get pretty awkward.

That's Where the BakBlade Comes In

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/3EZVqMhGbX4?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] The BakBlade is a revolutionary product that lets you shave your own back without dislocating your shoulder or asking someone else for help. It features a 4.5-inch-wide blade to help you shave your entire back in just a matter of minutes. The blade also detaches, meaning you can use it on your arms and shoulders, too. It also features DRYGLIDE technology that lets you shave wet or dry!

The Brush Hero Is the Hero Your Hose Needs

via: GiddyUp

Right now, your hose is great for watering your plants and maybe filling a bucket. But when it comes to actually completing tasks like scrubbing, your hose isn't gonna cut it. At the very least, you're gonna need a sponge or scrub brush so you can actually get in there and clean dirt and grime away. And you'll either have to have both hands full or keep going back and forth from the bucket of water to whatever it is you're scrubbing.

Unless You Have a Brush Hero, That Is

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/LdrXYL_oFKM?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] It transforms your hose into a powerful, rotating, scrub-brushing, cleaning machine! No batteries are needed — the water pressure from your hose causes the scrub brush head to spin around. That also means you only need one hand to help with the job! Each Brush Hero comes with two different heads: a soft brush for cleaning delicate surfaces, and a power brush for heavy-duty scrubbing.

When You're Stuck in Your Car, Every Second Counts

via: GiddyUp

Most of the time, all you have to do to get out of your car is reach down and pull the handle, but what about when your car is rolled over or filling up with water? In moments like these, you need to stay calm, think clearly, and act quickly in order to save your life. You also need the right tool for the job.

Enter: the CrashSafe

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZoLIx_FvFLg?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] During everyday use, the CrashSafe acts as an adapter and plugs directly into your cigarette lighter, but when you need it during an emergency, it becomes so much more. Use the recessed pin to break a window, the hidden blade to cut your seatbelt, and the built-in flashlight to signal for help or see in the dark. This is definitely one of those things you want to buy before you need it.

Calling All Insomniacs!

via: GiddyUp

If you ever have trouble falling asleep, you know how stressful it can be. Soon, the only thing you can focus on is how you can't sleep, and that just stresses you out more! You may finally be able to drift off to dreamland, but it feels like as soon as you, your alarm is ringing and you're supposed to be awake.

The Dodow Might Be Able to Change All That

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/uZFkTwhcraU?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] All you have to do is turn it on, then begin to breathe along with the halo it projects onto your ceiling. The rhythmic glow helps you clear your mind, slow your breathing, and relax your body so can quickly drift off into a deep sleep. The Dodow was built by insomniacs specifically for other insomniacs and is backed by concrete, scientific research. Plus, it's super delightful to look at!

Your Daily Shower Isn't Nearly Relaxing Enough

via: GiddyUp

In fact, I'm guessing that most days, you jump in, scrub up, rinse off, and are out in about five minutes flat without giving yourself the chance to relax and actually enjoy your shower. There's nothing wrong with being efficient, but wouldn't you much rather have a spa-like experience every time you shower (even if you only have five minutes)?

With Essio, You Can!

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/z_z4_q-4XKE?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] Simply clip the Essio attachment onto your showerhead pipe, insert a pod, and turn on your shower. In a matter of seconds, your shower will be transformed from an everyday, humdrum experience into a relaxing aromatherapy session. This kit comes with everything you need to get started, including three different essential oil blends: Unwind, Breathe, and Passion. You can set it up and enjoy a relaxing shower in about 60 seconds.

Is Your Check Engine Light On?

via: GiddyUp

Every time my check engine light comes on, I have a mini panic attack. How much is it gonna cost me this time? Can I safely get to a mechanic, or is something seriously wrong? Unfortunately, I don't really have any way of knowing until I can get the car to a professional. I dread the entire trip there.

If Your Car Ever Acts up, You're Gonna Want FIXD

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/jDasRRpmWZ0?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] It's an awesome little diagnostic tool that can really ease your worries about your car. Simply plug the small device into your cars OBD port and pair with the phone app. In a matter of seconds, FIXD will automatically start telling you why your check engine light is on...and whether it's actually something serious. It'll even tell you the consequences of continuing to drive with the issue.

Wearing High Heels Doesn't Have to Hurt!

via: GiddyUp

Getting dressed up for a fancy occasion can be a lot of fun — most people enjoy looking nice and having their hair and makeup look on-point. Unfortunately, it's not all exciting fun. Eventually, you have to put on your shoes. If you're wearing heels, that can mean you're going to suffer through hours of foot pain.

But If You Have Vivian Lou Insoles, You Can Enjoy a Pain-Free Evening!

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/wjRVp6WIeqQ?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] Designed by a podiatrist, a rocket scientist engineer, and a lover of high-heeled shoes, Vivian Lou insoles are the only insoles that let you wear high heels all day long without pain! Rather than simply adding squishy padding, Vivian Lou inserts actually rotate your heel bone up and back, shift the weight off the ball of your foot, and evenly distribute it throughout the front of your foot and your heel, which is much more comfortable.

You Deserve to Feel Secure No Matter Where You Are

via: GiddyUp

What do you usually do with your wallet or other valuables when you head to the beach or pool? Hide them in your shoes? Wrap them in a towel? Not exactly a foolproof plan, if you ask me. But what else can you do? It's not as though you can drag a heavy metal safe everywhere you go, right?

However, the FlexSafe Is a Lightweight Safe You Can Bring Anywhere!

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/UmCljPyrgBk?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] It's a portable safe that can be securely locked around pretty much any fixed object. It's made from five layers of slash-resistant material and includes RFID blocking material to keep your digital assets as secure as your physical ones. It's also water-resistant, so all your money, jewelry, and gadgets are protected against both would-be thieves and water damage.

It's the Middle of the Night and You Have to Make a Quick Trip to the Restroom

via: GiddyUp

(Surprise, surprise.) What's your move gonna be? Turn on the bathroom light and blind yourself, making it so you can't get back to sleep? Sounds like a bummer! Keep the lights off and feel your way around in the dark? Sounds dangerous! Luckily for you, there's a third option.

The GlowBowl Will Turn Your Bathroom into a Party Zone

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/nMCoOiks2GI?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] Or, if you're not looking to party, it'll at least let you use the restroom without having to blind yourself with the overhead lights. Simply clip the GlowBowl onto the rim of your toilet and select the color you want it to emit (there are 13 different ones to choose from!). The motion sensor will automatically turn the light on whenever someone makes a nighttime visit.

Your Current Keychain Is Probably a Jangly Mess, Right?

via: GiddyUp

People can hear you coming from a mile away just from the jingle jangling sounds of your overloaded keychain. Is that a Blockbuster loyalty tag I see there? Dude. It's time for an upgrade. Why not go with something that can easily fit in your pocket, provides easy access to all the keys you need, and won't wake the whole neighborhood every time you take a step?

I'm Talking About the KeySmart

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/XwSW4d-SNVw?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] Simply screw your keys into place and you'll end up with something that looks like a Swiss army knife (except instead of knives, it's keys). You can also add accessories like a bottle opener, thumb drive, or flashlight, turning the entire thing into a handy multitool. No more jangling! Your neighbors and friends will thank you.

Time for a Smudge Check!

via: GiddyUp

If you're currently wearing glasses, do me a quick favor. Take a quick glance at your lenses. They're filthy, aren't they? I don't know how it happens, but every time I look at my lenses, they're smudged beyond recognition. And if I don't happen to have a microfiber cloth nearby, I'm forced to suffer through the smudges.

Peeps Are Super Portable Glasses Cleaners!

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/embed/AA9Hy0sgMgM?rel=0&showinfo=0&iv_load_policy=3" expand=1] Peeps works on all types of glasses. You can use either the retractable brush to clean off dust and fuzzies, or the unique tweezer-esque polishing pads to wipe away smudges and grime without leaving any smears behind. It uses carbon molecular technology — the same cleaning technology used in space! If it's good enough for NASA, it can probably handle anything you're going to throw at it.

The Photostick Makes Backing Up Photos a Snap!

All you do is plug it in to a USB port, click “go", and Photostick automatically finds and backs up their pictures. That’s it –no “finding the right folder". No “wrong directory". No issues. It works on both PC’s and Macs, and it can save up to 60,000 photos. It’s about as easy as it gets. And trust us, your family and friends will love the fact you got them this the next time a virus kills their computer and they lose everything. You’ll have saved the day by saving their photos. Yay you!!"

VIZR Adds a "Heads Up Display" To Your Car for Cheap!

via GIPHY

Once relegated to fighter jets, super high-tech heads-up displays are all the rage in ultra-lux modern cars. Don't happen to have one of those particular automobiles? No worries! VIZR adds a heads-up display to any car, utilizing a patented technology that pairs with your smart-phone. Utilizing a specially engineered translucent display, the VIZR offers a safe, clear windshield view of your smartphone’s GPS, day or night! It’s almost like you're driving in the latest video game with a HUD, only in real life. And it keeps the hands free, and your eyes on the road.

The Neck Hammock is THE KEY to Resolving That Stiff Neck

Designed by a practicing physiotherapist, the Neck Hammock uses cervical traction to help relax spasming neck muscles and increase neck mobility. It raised almost $1 million dollars on Kickstarter, and ever since has been a huge hit across the gadget-sphere, with innumerable fans like Dr. Oz touting its effectiveness. Does it look funny? Sure. But you won't be laughing when you feel how well it works.

Bondic Can Fix Basically Anything

What’s Bondic? It’s a futuristic liquid plastic that can fix, fill, and bond basically ANYTHING. It's not a glue -- it's a liquid plastic welder. Apply the liquid plastic to anything you're looking to fix, then cure it with a specialized UV light and BOOM, it's fixed! Fans tout its ability to re-attach broken eyeglasses, fill and repair fraying power chargers, refill holes in leaking plumbing. Even fix broken dishes!

You'll Never Lose Anything Again With the XY Find It

This coin-sized tracker is one of my favorite gadgets I've found in a long time (and I've written about a LOT of products). Just place the XY Find It on your keys, in your purse or in your wallet, on your dog's collar or even in your car -- attach it to anything you want to lose, and you won't lose it! The included app allows you to track down all of your most prized possessions. It displays your distance from the lost item, and sounds an alarm so you can pinpoint its exact location. Just think: no more harried mornings searching for your keys in the couch!

ScreenKlean Is The World's Most Advanced Screen Cleaning System

We all spend hundreds or thousands on our smartphones, tablets, and HDTVs, but how many of us actually invest in decent products to keep them clean? I know my own iPhone is covered in seemingly permanent smudges. Good news: you don't have to spend a lot of money to find a great way to keep your devices smudge-free. The genius-level innovators behind ScreenKlean created an “intelligent" carbon molecule, which attracting and lifting away any and all traces of grime. That's right -- not only will it wipe away the grease and grime, ScreenKlean will also wipe away any and all built-up bacteria on your phone. And considering where so many people use their phones for reading and entertainment, that seems like a pretty good idea ;)

AirBolt is the Tiniest Smart Lock on the Market

The huge Kickstarter hit is now available for all the rest of us! This TSA-approved smart lock is perfect for using anywhere you need to keep your bags safe and secure. Opening the lock is as simple as swiping on your phone. You can even track your luggage in real time with the AirBolt, and it'll even notify you if anyone is tampering with your luggage. Yes, the future is here.