I order a lot of products on Amazon, so I know my way around an online purchase. I tend to do a ton of research before I buy - read the reviews, search for comparable brands, etc. And yet some products still have their way of surprising and delighting me, even when I thought I knew what I was in for.
The products on this list below are exactly that. They are a variety of Amazon products I've purchased that have delighted me in the best possible way. Enjoy.
Give Yourself More Outlets With This Socket Shelf
via AmazonRemember my space-deprived bathroom from a few products up? I added one of the socket shelves to my lone bathroom outlet a few months back, and I could not be more pleased. Not only do I have more outlets for hair tools, but I have dedicated USB ports to charge power banks and my Kindle and a shelf where I can stash my phone to keep it away from the sink. It's a win-win-win in my book.
Pocket This Multi-Tool For All Life’s Emergencies
via AmazonHave you ever gotten into a situation where you thought, “Man, a wrench would be really handy right about now?" If not, it’s coming. This keychain tool has it all: Wrench, bottle opener, screwdriver, ruler, bit driver, file, and bike spoke key, in one unit that easily attaches to a lanyard or key ring. And, that’s just as small sampling of the tasks it’ll perform in a TSA-compliant design.
Avoca-Do Pick Up This Avocado Hugger
via AmazonAvocados. They’re hard as rocks in the store but almost over-ripe by the time you get them home. And, if you’re the only avocado eater in your home, you know the struggle of eating one half and trying to figure out how to save the remaining half. This avocado hugger will help preserve your fruit (yes, avocado is a fruit, fight me) until you’re ready to return for round two.
Prop Up Your Digital Recipes With This Recipe Holder Stand
via AmazonCookbooks appear to have gone the way of pagers, VCRs, and cassette tapes. (If you don’t know what a cassette tape is, go ask a Baby Boomer.) I do most of my recipe-keeping on my phone, which means I do most of my cooking with that digital recipe nearby. This recipe holder stand will keep your ingredients and instructions upright and within arm’s reach.
Light It Up With An Electronic Candle Lighter
via AmazonI want one of these just because they look a lot cooler than what I currently use, which is a cheapy cigarette lighter from Walmart. This chic electronic candle lighter is windproof and flameless, delivering more than 60 uses with a single charge. Light your candles, grills, and more with this slim-designed rechargeable device that all your friends will think looks cool while making things hot.
Charge All Your Devices With This Chic Wireless Charging Station
via AmazonMinimalists, unite! You won't find a chicer (is that a word?) wireless charging station anywhere than this three-in-one setup that accommodates both Apple and Android devices. Give juice to your smartphone, earbuds, and smartwatch in one organized wireless station. The chargers are designed to prevent overheating while charging quickly. My favorite feature is the soft blue light indicator, which won't light up your room at night like the Fourth of July.
These Mug Stackers Double Your Cabinet Space
via AmazonI've never seen these mug stackers before, but they're so smart! They let you easily and securely stack mugs on top of each other to effectively double your cabinet or counter storage space. This gadget gets a lot of love from people in small NYC apartments for its space-saving superpower!
This Beauty Blender That Looks Like An Adorable "Lazy" Egg
Sure, your regular Beauty Blender is perfectly functional, but is it fun? If you want to add a little entertainment to your beauty routine, a fun, new blender can be a good way to go. This blender is shaped like Gudetama, a cartoon character from the Japanese brand Sanrio. Gudetama is a "lazy egg" that's always lacking energy – which is pretty relatable for anyone of us who's had to do makeup early in the morning.
This Blanket That Helps You Stay Cool On Hot Nights
via AmazonJust this morning, I woke up in a puddle of sweat, which, let me tell you, is not fun. That's why I literally added this cooling blanket to my cart a few seconds ago (I've been eyeing it for months at this point.) It's made from a blend of natural cotton and special Japanese cooling fibers that help pull heat away from your body. Choose from five colors, including blue, green, pink, grey, and more.
This Cooling Eye Stick That Makes A Good Stocking Stuffer
Don't forget those stockings, people! Teeny-tiny gifts like this cooling eye stick will be a welcome surprise in any stocking. This is especially true if your stocking is typically stuffed with candy or Chapstick. Not to knock those items (because they're both great), but adding a luxurious little gift into the mix never hurts. Plus, this stick works so well, they'll probably want to buy a dozen refills.
“ViewA Filtered Water Fountain Made For Pets
via AmazonYou might think your pet doesn't need this water fountain, but trust me — my little French bulldog started drinking way more water since we got it. The continuous flow simulates the kind of water they'd find in nature (if you wouldn't drink stagnant water, why would you feed it to your pets?). At the same time, the activated carbon filter eliminates any impurities.
This exercise ball makes a great chair that engages your core
via AmazonStay fit and alert while navigating that endless Zoom call by sitting on this balance ball that keeps your core engaged. While focusing on the call, you can wiggle and sway to further strengthen core muscles and stay on top of your game. When the call finally ends, lay back over the ball and have a much-deserved stretch. You'll need it!
These Shower Curtain Hooks Are So Convenient
via AmazonKnow how you have to painstakingly remove the shower curtain and liner both when really, you just want to wash the curtain? No more with these shower curtain hooks! Now you can remove just the liner or just the curtain when it's time to wash, which is a billion times more convenient. These are on the way to my hot little hands as we speak, and I cannot wait for the delivery man to show up!
Squeeze, toss and fiddle with this silicone-string ball
via AmazonYou probably know this toy as a Koosh, but since that's a brand name, we'll just call this one a squishy string ball. No matter what you call it, you know the feeling of those silicone strings tickling your palm as you toss one of these babies back and forth between your hands. You wish you have one in your hand right now, don't you? So do I. Get one before your next Zoom call!
Cure The Car Cold With A Plug-In Blanket
via AmazonWhile we're on the theme of keeping toasty, here's a heat-up option that's designed to be used in the car. If they don't have heated seats, this is a dream come true. Simply plug it into any car, truck, SUV, or RV cigarette lighter. It heats up quickly and stays warm until you unplug it (or reach your destination). It's available in four plaid varieties and a solid blue.
This Duvet Cover Will Makeover Your Room
via AmazonWant a quick way to change up your space without doing something drastic like painting or wallpaper? Try this snazzy striped duvet cover set that also comes with pillow shams. It looks like a much higher-end version for less, so you win the home decor game!
These Lucky Brand Turquoise Hoops Can Dress Up Any Outfit
via AmazonI love turquoise jewelry. Maybe it's because I was born and raised in the desert. These Lucky turquoise hoops are not only super cute, but they also do an incredible job of dressing up any outfit. I love pairing them with a black sweater, jeans, and booties!
This Special Glove That Makes It Easier To Give Your Partner A Neck Massage
Again, an Amazon gift card is the perfect excuse to treat yourself. Even if you have a small amount to spend, you can still get something that you'll love forever. This special glove is equipped with roller balls that can knead and massage your aching muscles. While you can definitely use it on yourself, if you have a partner who can help you out, that's all the better. You can even take turns.
“ViewThese Reusable Grocery Bags Are So Stylish
via AmazonReusable grocery bags are always a good idea, and even more so that many stores are now charging for paper or plastic bags! This set will keep you stocked up so you'll always have one on hand when you go shopping. I keep mine in the trunk of my car; the trick is that I have to remember to actually take them in! I like to use them at other stores besides grocery, too, which really cuts down on the plastic bags I have to find a place to store at home.
A Spice Rack That Expands To Fit Your Space
via AmazonI have this spice rack sitting in the space between my stove and refrigerator, making it easier than ever to grab a quick bottle of powdered cayenne pepper anytime my dish needs an extra kick. It's made from durable stainless steel that's resistant to rust, and unlike other racks, this one is easy to wipe clean — I used to have a similar spice rack made from bamboo, and that one required some scrubbing.
I Use This Pepper Mill Every Day
via AmazonIf you're not using fresh-ground pepper in your everyday cooking, it's time to step into the future, my friend. This pepper mill is big and may look a little ridiculous, but I don't have to refill it all that often and it's so fun to crank!
This Ice Cream Maker That Also Works As A Dessert Bowl
via AmazonYou can make your own ice cream and eat it too. This bowl does it all. You can make ice cream, soft serve, frozen yogurt, gelato, or even granitas in it just by following the instructions and recipes. It even claims to make soft serve ice cream in as little as 10 minutes and regular ice cream in 20 minutes. And when it's all ready, you can use the bowl to eat out of too.
“ViewMake Your Pearly Whites Whiter With This Toothpaste
via AmazonHow many times have you tried whitening strips or a whitening gimmick that you found on the internet in hopes for a brighter smile? I know I have. This toothpaste safely removes stains, and the customers can't get enough. "I'm SO glad I decided to try this toothpaste! Not only does it work, but it's so incredibly gentle!" -TikTokAlice
This Cosmetic Organizer Will Clean Up Your Countertop
via AmazonIf your bathroom counter looks anything like mine, you're going to want this cosmetic organizer asap. It can hold all manner of lotions, serums, perfumes, hair products, and makeup and accessories all in one convenient, tidy tower that spins to show you exactly what you've got. It's also got over 11,000 stellar reviews for space-saving, ease of assembly, and the difference it makes in available storage space!
Pulling this stretchy noodle will help you focus
via AmazonThis five-pack of multi-colored stretchy noodles is just begging for you to take a tug. By directing your physical energy to this sensory activity, you'll free up your mental energy to focus on the Zoom call at hand. Each noodle is one foot long and stretches up to eight feet!
Shoot some mini hoops to relieve tension on your Zoom call
via AmazonSince mini basketball hoops were invented, there've been office workers shooting hoops during meetings. There's no reason for that to change just because we're stuck working from home. If it won't be too distracting to your Zoom call, why not take some shots at this mini basket while chatting away? Or, if that's a bit too much activity for your call, mini hoops make a great tension reliever in between marathon Zoom sessions.
These Snow Scrapers with Fleece Lined Gloves Make Snowy Mornings Tolerable, Almost Enjoyable
via AmazonWaking up in a winter wonderland is beautiful, right up until you realize you’re late for work and there is a sheet of ice on your windshield. Every time I slip my hands in these, I’m so thankful for this purchase. For under $15, I’ve bought these scrapers as stocking stuffers for every driver in my family. I can’t quite say these will make your cold, snowy morning fun, but certainly more tolerable!
This Bra Bag Protects Bras in the Washing Machine
via AmazonNo, you don't have to hand-wash your bras! Not if you invest in these bra laundry bags, one of the most practical inventions I've come across lately. The rigid plastic frame forms a protective case, preventing any damage to the underwire, lace, and hardware on bras.
Here's one 5-star review:
"I bought these to replace some previous bags that had not held up. These bags are great quality and have held up extremely well. They have room enough for 2 bras. The zipper is sturdy. The seams are well constructed on these, so they will not be splitting anytime soon." --Jean Ann Lopez
A Massage Gun To Loosen Your Muscles
via AmazonWhat makes this massage gun so awesome is the fact that it can reach a muscle depth of 10mm. This reach results in you getting a deep tissue massage without having to pay a premium for it.
This unit comes with 6 separate heads and can operate at 20 different speeds so you're guaranteed to find a setting that's perfect for you and those aching muscles.
This Differin Gel Will Give You Clear Skin
This Differin Gel has thousands of Amazon users claiming it's helped them with their acne, leaving them with the clearest skin they've ever had. According to the manufacturer, it's the first OTC Rx-strength acne-fighting retinoid. Don't believe me when I say it's good? Just look at the thousands of reviews.
This Body Scrubber Made From Hygienic Silicone
via AmazonSince silicone is naturally non-porous, it's resistant to mold and mildew growth — which makes this body scrubber perfect for your daily shower. You don't have to throw it out like a regular loofah, either. Once it gets too dirty for your liking, pop it into a pot of boiling water for a few minutes to clean away any bacteria or grime.
My 13" MacBook and Accessories Are Secure and Easy-to-Carry in This Sleek Laptop Case
When I got my new laptop, I wanted a compact, lightweight case to hold it — something different from the traditional black leathery thing. This sleek pink sleeve is adorable, has a padded laptop compartment, special protection at the corners, and a big zippered pocket with elastic bands to hold accessories in place.
This Liquid Exfoliant Has A Cult Following For A Reason
A skincare routine wouldn't be complete without a good exfoliator. It gets rid of dead skin cells and helps unclog pores. The Paula's Choice liquid exfoliator is gentle enough for everyday use and has been linked to healthier skin, improved skin texture, and smaller pores. When I say I've never added something to my cart as fast as this one, I'm not lying.
These Heel Cups That Can Help Alleviate Pain From Plantar Fasciitis
They may not be the most glamorous thing on this list, but if you suffer from heel pain or plantar fasciitis, you won't regret buying these heel cups. The durable elastic provides the ideal amount of pressure for added support, and the ventilation holes help keep your feet from getting too sweaty. Or, if your heels are dry and cracking, these cups can even help prevent them from drying out when paired with your favorite lotion.
This Bikini Trimmer Has Been My Favorite for Years
I used this little bikini trimmer for years, and when it finally died on me, I hit Amazon right away for a new one. Though I tried other brands and models, this one is still my favorite. And it's only $17.99! You can use it in or out of the shower. It's got an adjustable trim head to get just the right length. And it's cordless, so it's super easy to use.
Get Baby Soft Lips Overnight With This Lip Mask
I've had dry lips my entire life. I thought that no matter how much chapstick I put on, this was my unfortunate fate. One day a good friend of mine posted about this lip mask on Instagram, and my life was changed forever. A small amount of this moisturizing berry lip mask gets rid of dry skin in a matter of hours and leaves you with soft kissable lips overnight.
Wireless Earbuds That Are Just As Good As The Pricey Alternatives
More than 95,000 Amazon buyers rate these wireless earbuds 4.5 stars. That means they rock! They have a universal fit, are easy to pair with your devices, and are automatically on and connected. Bonus: they come in a variety of colors, so you can pick your favorite.