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Health
Alexandra Elizabeth

40 clever products that save you so much money, they quickly pay for themselves

— Amazon

Waste is a major problem these days, and so it’s only natural to think twice before bringing new products into your home. But instead of just adding to the clutter, the clever products here can help save both money and resources, which means they’ll easily pay for themselves in no time. Whether you’re looking to better maintain the items you already own so they don’t need replacing, cut down on the scourge of food waste, or learn to DIY things you’d otherwise hire a costly professional to fix, there’s something here for you. So get scrolling; your wallet will thank you later.

These spiky clog removers perfect for slow drains

Arctic Eagle Drain Clog Removers (3-Pack)

Amazon

Before you spend tons on a plumber, try these drain clog removers the next time your sink or shower runs slow. This set comes with three jagged removers that you insert directly into the drain. The hair or other debris will get caught on the thorns of the flexible snake tool, so you can easily pull it out in no time.

The energy-saving door draft stopper every room needs

Suptikes Door Draft Stopper

Amazon

Whether you’re trying to keep warm or cool air in — or drafts out — this door gap cover is an excellent tool to cut back on energy waste and save you money. Made from flexible silicone, this gap cover has a pre-applied adhesive backing so you can stick it directly in place without any hassle. It’s even easy to trim to your exact length specifications, too.

  • Available colors: 4

A pair of dryer vent cleaners for optimal appliance performance

Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaners (2-Pack)

Amazon

Keeping your vents clean can help prevent appliance fires while also ensuring your machine works faster and more efficiently, so help them stay lint-free with these dryer vent cleaners. These tools feature wooden handles and flexible wire brush heads that let you scrape away debris with ease. Each brush measures 28 inches long for those hard-to-reach spots, too.

These thermal blackout curtains that can cut down on heating & cooling costs

ECLIPSE Andover Solid Tripleweave Thermal Blackout Grommet Curtains for Bedroom (2 Panels), 42 in x 54 in, Grey

Amazon

When a room gets a ton of light, it can be harder on your air conditioning, so keep things chill with these thermal-insulated blackout curtains. They even work in the reverse, helping to hold in heat so that cold air doesn’t come in through the window (which isn’t insulated the way your walls are). They’ve got a classic look and are easy to hang, too, thanks to the convenient metal grommets.

  • Available colors: 6

A set of food containers that help produce last longer

Rubbermaid Freshworks Produce Savers (Set of 2)

Amazon

If you find yourself constantly tossing out food that’s spoiled before you get to eat it, these produce savers can help you save money. The textured base allows water and condensation to drip away from fruits and veggies to prevent sogginess, while the vented lid regulates carbon dioxide and oxygen for optimal freshness. They’re also a cinch to clean, since you can toss them in the dishwasher.

These microfiber mop pads you can use again & again

Reusable Pads Compatible with Swiffer Sweeper Mops - Washable Microfiber Mop Pad Refills by Turbo - 12 Inch Floor Cleaning Mop Head Pads Work Wet and Dry - 2 Pack

Amazon

If you’re trying to cut down on the expense that comes with single-use cleaning products, these reusable mop pads will make your day. They’re compatible with Swiffer mops: Just secure the tabs across the bottom of your mop and clean as usual. Made from absorbent, reinforced microfiber, each of the two pads can be used up to 100 times.

A pack of dryer balls that speed drying time while replacing your dryer sheets

SnugPad Wool Dryer Balls (6-Pack)

Amazon

Laundry products can get so pricey over time, so switch out your fabric softeners for these wool dryer balls instead. Not only do they leave clothes feeling soft, they can also naturally reduce wrinkles and static. Not to mention, they separate laundry as it tumbles, which speeds up drying time and reduces your energy bill. Reviewers are obsessed with them, too, with over 37,000 of them weighing in to give them a stellar 4.6-star overall rating.

A convenient smart plug that helps you power your devices remotely

Kasa Smart Plug

Amazon

Leaving appliances plugged in can ramp up your electricity bills, so get them in check using this smart plug. Just plug it in, pair it with your phone or smart assistant, and you’re good to go. With the accompanying app, you’ll be able to power your electronics off from your phone, or set them on a timer so that they’re not in use when they don’t need to be.

The protective mattress cover that shields your investment from damage

SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector

Amazon

Mattresses can be quite pricey, so make sure yours remains in good condition for years to come with this waterproof mattress protector that’s a best-seller. Not only does it shield your mattress from spills, but it can even block dust mites, too. Simply stretch it over your mattress like any other topper for a simple setup that takes just minutes.

These clever vent covers that make your home more energy efficient

Muscle MagVent Magnetic Vent Cover (3-Pack)

Amazon

If you’ve got vents that pump air into spaces where it’s just not needed, cover them up with these magnetic vent covers to save on energy costs. They work with most metal vents and can be easily trimmed to your desired dimensions. You can also use them to partially cover a vent and redirect the airflow, too.

A cash-saving container that preserves your herbs

NOVART XXL Herb Keeper

Amazon

Many recipes that call for herbs don’t tend to use heaps and heaps, leaving you with leftovers, so ensure those leftovers stay fresh with this herb keeper. The herbs sit in a small amount of water, shielded with a well-vented glass cover that nestles into your fridge. Change out the water as needed and you’ll have herbs that can last as long as three weeks.

The natural-looking markers that can revive old furniture

DAIXISM Wood Furniture Repair Set (13 Pieces)

Amazon

There’s no need to pay tons to replace or professionally restore your furniture when you can simply deliver a touch-up with these wood furniture repair markers. The set comes with six markers and six crayons in a range of natural wooden shades, like maple and mahogany. For slight discolorations, simply swipe on the marker, and for deeper nicks use the waxy crayons to fill them in. You’ll be left with furniture that looks fresh again.

These super absorbent dishcloths that are also reusable

Swedish Wholesale Swedish Dishcloths (10-Pack)

Amazon

Spills are no match for these Swedish dishcloths, which can absorb 20 times their weight in seconds. They’ll save you money over time, too, since one cloth can be used 100 times, taking the place of pricey single-use paper towels. Because of the textured finish, they’re also great for scouring, which makes them the perfect hybrid between a sponge and a towel.

  • Available colors: 7

A fan-favorite pet hair remover that will last for ages

Chom Chom Roller Pet Hair Remover and Reusable Lint Roller

Amazon

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Ditch the expensive sticky linter rollers for good with this reusable pet hair remover. Simply swipe the inner fabric tube back and forth over your desired surface to generate a static cling that grabs up pet hair, lint, and more. Then, press the release button to open the chamber, so you can empty out the hair and keep on using it whenever you like.

This dry cleaning alternative you can use right at home

Dryel At-Home Dry Cleaner Starter Kit

Amazon

Cut back on your professional cleaning expenses with this at-home dry cleaner kit. It comes with a pen for working out stains, a spray for wrinkles and odors, and a detergent sheet that goes into the included laundry bag, which then goes right into your dryer. Just run your clothes for 15 minutes to steam clean them without fading or shrinking.

The coffee pod substitute that lets you use your own grounds

K&J Reusable K Cups (4-Pack)

Amazon

Not only do store-bought single-use coffee pods cost a ton, they’re also not the best for the environment, so change things up with these reusable coffee pods. Each pod features a fine, stainless steel mesh filter into which you can load grounds of your choosing before inserting it into your Keurig machine as usual. After each use, just rinse it out or load it into the dishwasher.

  • Available colors: 2

These pet food covers that fit a variety of can sizes

Bonza Pet Food Can Covers

Amazon

If your pet doesn’t eat an entire can of food in a single serving, keep it fresh with these food can covers. The silicone lids have three different grooves on the bottom, allowing them to snap into multiple can sizes. While the covers aren’t meant for long-term food storage, they’ll keep your pet’s food from drying out so it’s still appealing when they’re ready to come back for seconds.

A set of flexible silicone lids for stashing leftovers with ease

Unwasted Reusable Silicone Lids (7-Piece Set)

Amazon

Throwing out leftovers basically means throwing out cash, so save them both with these silicone lids — they’re a much cheaper alternative to plastic wrap. This variety pack comes with multiple sizes of stretchy lids that expand to fit over both square and round containers. They create an airtight seal for freshness, won’t leak, and can even be cleaned in the dishwasher.

The snack bowl you can actually cook your popcorn in

POPCO Microwaveable Popcorn Popper

Amazon

Buying kernels instead of pre-portioned popcorn bags can save you money over time, so make the switch by using this microwaveable popcorn maker. The silicone bowl — which you can snack directly out of when you’re done, btw — has fill line markers inside, allowing you to measure out your kernels just right. Simple pop on the lid, add any butter or flavorings you might want, microwave it, and enjoy.

  • Available colors: 15

A speciality spray that makes quick work of tough wine stains

Emergency Stain Rescue Chateau Spill Red Wine Stain Remover

Amazon

There’s no need to send that cabernet-soaked shirt out for dry cleaning, because this red wine stain remover is here to spare your wallet. Just spray it on, blot it out, and rinse it away to reveal clean carpets, clothing, upholstery, and more. While it’s most effective on fresh stains, it can even remove older, set-in stains as well.

This multi-use laundry bag for safely washing delicates

iDesign Mesh Laundry Bag

Amazon

Use this laundry bag for tons of practical benefits around your house. For example, delicate items like lace and bras can get ruined if they’re washed with everything else, but this zippered mesh container can protect them from snagging on other items and save you cash. This breathable bag is also a great travel companion, allowing you to easily separate out dirty from clean clothes in your luggage.

The extraordinary paste that can clean nearly anything

Stardrops The Pink Stuff

Amazon

This all-purpose cleaning paste (affectionately known as The Pink Stuff) is here to tackle stains on everything from wood to glass, stainless steel, ceramic, jewelry and more. Because it’s a mild abrasive, it gently buffs away stains with ease. It does the work of multiple cleaning products, so you can spend less. Just scrub it on with a damp sponge and rinse it away.

These space-saving fridge organizers you’ll wish you’d gotten earlier

GREENCO Fridge Organizer Bins (Set of 6)

Amazon

When your fridge is so messy you can’t see what’s in there, food can spoil before you’ve gotten a chance to eat it. So save your produce and your cash with these fridge organizer bins that put everything on clear display, thanks to the transparent construction. You’ll get a set of six BPA-free plastic bins in a range of sizes, including narrow options for snacks, larger options for fruit, and one perfect for stacking cans.

A miracle kit that fixes car scratches with ease

Meguiar's Quick Car Scratch Eraser Kit

Amazon

The hassle and cost of auto body work is unparalleled, so skip the shop and fix small scrapes yourself with this car scratch eraser kit. This kit consists of a gentle abrasive cleaner, a foam pad, and a microfiber cloth to fix your nicks in no time. Just secure the pad to your power drill, add some cleanser, and make four to six circles on the affected area to remove the scratch. Then wipe it all away with the polishing cloth when you’re done.

This handy lunch tote that will actually get you excited for leftovers

Upper Order Durable Insulated Lunch Box Tote

Amazon

Packing a lunch or bringing your leftovers is an excellent way to cut down on waste and save money, and this insulated lunch box tote can encourage you to do it more often. Not only does it have practical food features like an insulated lining to keep items temperature controlled, but it also comes with an optional shoulder strap so you can use it like a traditional tote. You can even use the outer pocket to stash you phone, keys, and more.

  • Available colors: 2

The genius cloth that wicks away makeup with just water

Makeup Eraser The Original

Amazon

If you’re looking to save on single-use wipes, this makeup eraser cloth is up to the challenge. It’s made from absorbent fibers that grip onto makeup and clear it away — even waterproof makeup. The best part: all you have to do is add water (no cleanser required). Each cloth can last for up to five years and can be laundered in the washing machine when it needs a cleaning.

  • Available colors: 9

A set of coordinating food containers for more organized storage

Simply Gourmet Airtight Food Storage Containers - Set of 3 Flour and Sugar Canisters for Pantry Storage and Organization - Marker & Labels Included

Amazon

These food storage containers are an excellent way to keep food fresh, thereby preventing costly food waste. Each of the three 22-cup containers has an airtight locking lid to keep oxygen and moisture out. In addition to their practical transparent construction, they also come with charming chalkboard labels and markers, so you can tell the flour apart from the confectioners sugar with just a quick glance.

This helpful cleaning kit that leaves jewelry sparkling

Complete Jewelry Cleaning Kit Polishing w/Cloth, Brush and Jewelry Cleaner Solution for all Jewelry. Gold, Silver, Diamond Ring Cleaner, Earring, Fine & Fashion Cleaning Made in the USA

Amazon

Save money and time by shining up your jewelry right at home with this jewelry cleaning kit. It’s simple to use: Just load your items onto the tray, dip them into the cleaning solution, scrub them down with the tiny brush, and polish them to a sparkly finish with the cloth. It’s safe to use on a range of materials, from diamonds to pearls to silver and more.

These clever sneaker cleaners you can use on the go

SneakERASERS™ Instant Sole and Sneaker Cleaner

Amazon

Brighten up your kicks in no time with these sole and sneaker cleaners. The tiny pads are ultra portable, which makes them great for travel and use on the go. Just add water and use the bottom of the textured pad to buff away stains and scuffs with ease. They’re even reusable, too.

A vacuum specifically for your car that will save on detailing costs

ThisWorx Portable Car Vacuum Cleaner

Amazon

Cut down on car detailing costs by tidying up your vehicle as you go with this car vacuum cleaner. It plugs directly into your car’s 12-volt outlet, so you’ll never need to worry about recharging. It comes with a tube attachment, a brush head, and a flathead hose for vacuuming hard-to-reach areas. And since the power cord is 16 feet long, no spot will be out of reach.

  • Available colors: 2

The waterproof pen that brightens your grout on the cheap

Rainbow Chalk Grout Pen

Amazon

There’s no need to re-grout your tile when this grout pen can brighten it up like new at a fraction of the price. When grout is stained beyond repair, simply color it in with this waterproof pen that dries in a flash and leaves grout looking white and fresh. Each pen has a convenient precision applicator and comes with enough ink to cover 150 feet of grout.

A tabletop sharpener to keep your knives in mint condition

KitchenIQ Knife Sharpener

Amazon

Banish dull knives for good with this sharpener that can extend the lives of your blades. Simply set it on the counter or table, and let the nonslip backing grip the surface with ease. Then, pull your blade through either the coarse or fine sharpening slot to revive the sharpness in seconds.

  • Available colors: 3

This mini heater that warms just the space you need

Amazon Basics Mini Ceramic Space Heater

Amazon

This mini space heater lets you avoid cranking the heat through the whole place when you only want to warm one room at a time. Because it’s made from ceramic, it offers fast, efficient heat distribution. Just plug it in and you’re good to go. Rest assured it’s well loved by Amazon reviewers, too, over 30,000 of whom have weighed in to give it a solid 4.5-star overall rating.

  • Available colors: 4

A convenient bidet attachment that saves t.p.

Brondell Bidet

Amazon

Upgrade your personal hygiene routine with this bidet. It boasts an incredibly slim shape to prevent gaps underneath the seat and adjustable pressure controls so you can customize your experience. The retractable, self-cleaning nozzle is another added bonus that makes this bathroom accessory quite appealing.

This spray-on stain remover that’s great for pet messes

Angry Orange Stain Remover

Amazon

There’s no need to shell out for professional carpet cleaning when this stain remover lets you do the job yourself. Simply spray it on and let the active enzymes get to work not only lifting out stains but also neutralizing smells from whatever mess your pets throw at you. It’s safe to use on a variety of surfaces and doesn’t contain any bleaches, parabens, or sulfates.

The baking mats that save you on parchment & cooking sprays

POPCO Pack of 3 Silicone Baking Mats Set, Cooking Mats Professional Non-Stick Liner for Making Cookies, Macarons, Bread and Pastry (Multicolor)

Amazon

Lay out these silicone baking mats and you’ll be able to cut down on single-use supplies like parchment paper, cooking spray, and aluminum foil. The mats come three to a set in small, medium, and large sizes and there are helpful measurement markings if you want to use them to roll out dough or bake pizzas. They’re BPA free, easy to clean, and can withstand temperatures well over 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Available colors: 3

A crystal-clear thermometer that will keep you from overcooking meat

Kizen Digital Meat Thermometer

Amazon

If you’ve ever overcooked a roast, it can feel like throwing money away, so prevent that catastrophe before it starts using this digital meat thermometer. It has an easy-to-read LCD screen that generates a temperature reading in just three seconds or less. The stainless steel probe folds easily down when not in use, and the magnetic body means you can store it directly on the grill or fridge.

  • Available colors: 2

This planner that helps you organize your budget

Clever Fox Budget Planner – Coiled Budget Book with Colorful Pages, Monthly Financial Planner, Budgeting Organizer & Expense Tracker Notebook, Finance Journal, 8.5x9.5″ Hardcover – Black

Amazon

Sometimes the best way to save is by holding yourself accountable to better practices, and this budget planner can help. Inside its sleek faux leather cover are tons of useful guides and charts to help you track your spending, commit to your goals, and break down your budget into simple categories. It’s all there, printed on premium, heavy-duty paper.

  • Available colors: 6

The glass-cleaning cloth that doesn’t require any chemical cleaners

Pure-Sky Window Glass Cleaning Cloth - JUST ADD Water No Detergents Needed – Streak Free Magic Ultra Microfiber Window Polishing Towel - for Windows, Glass, Mirror and Screen - Leaves no Wiping Marks

Amazon

This glass cleaning cloth lets you save on not just paper towels, but on glass-cleaning solution too. Miraculously, all you have to do is add water and this microfiber polishing towel can buff glass to a clear, sparkly finish without streaks. It’s also great for mirrors, cars, bathrooms, and more, and can be laundered to a fresh clean in the washing machine.

A pack of snack bags you won’t need to throw out after just one use

Qinline Reusable Food Storage Bags (10-Pack)

Amazon

Food storage bags can get expensive over time, so switch to these reusable bags instead. This set comes with 10 bags in a range of sizes, from gallon to sandwich to snack. They’ve all got leakproof seals that keep your contents airtight and protected. Simply wash them with soap and water and reuse.

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