{"data":{},"content":[{"data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"3rqd3NcobPdOBBZUrKDuuf","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[],"nodeType":"embedded-entry-block"},{"data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"1FQDMKjCjj45KT3I3tfd1T","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[],"nodeType":"embedded-entry-block"},{"data":{},"content":[{"data":{},"marks":[],"value":"We’re all about shopping smarter here at theSkimm, especially because your money is hard-earned. So we’re firm believers that you can buy problem-solving products that’ll stretch your money far by doing the hard work for you. 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The Best Problem-Solving Products Under $50 We’ve Ever Bought
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Ban.do, Tower 28, Amazon
This post was originally published in March 2021 and has been updated.
Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.
We’re all about shopping smarter here at theSkimm, especially because your money is hard-earned. So we’re firm believers that you can buy problem-solving products that’ll stretch your money far by doing the hard work for you. These are the hacky things that are incredibly useful around the house and will save you time and energy. The best part? They won’t break the bank, either. Small products, big results.
A bestselling garlic press that crushes garlic in seconds…
There are countless reasons why Skimm’rs love it so much. It has a comfortable ergonomic design that makes it easy to squeeze and it even comes with a garlic peeler and brush. And just when you thought it couldn’t get even easier, it’s dishwasher-safe and rust-proof. Buy it ASAP. ($14.99, Amazon)
A bracelet tool so you can clasp jewelry without struggling…
Hold one end of the bracelet steady with the tool, while your other hand can easily work to open the clasp. It’s also great for those with wrist pain or limited mobility since there’s no twisting or turning involved. ($8.99, Amazon)
An acrylic collator for multipurpose organization…
PSA: You don’t have to use a collator just for mail or paperwork. It’s the ideal size for storing wallets or clutches upright in a closet. We also think this would make a great charging zone to keep cords and other technology organized. ($39.99, The Container Store)
A collapsible water bottle for days on the go…
This water bottle from Stojo is a must if you carry a lot with you. It’s made of a soft, flexible silicone that’s dishwasher- and microwave-safe. It’ll hold up to 20 ounces of water and is ultra-lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about lugging a heavy water bottle around. (Unknown, Amazon)
A mini spatula set to get every drop out of makeup bottles…
If you’ve ever owned a bottle of foundation, you know how frustrating it is to see so much go to waste. Enter these mini spatulas. They’re designed to fit in the nooks and crannies of small bottles, so you don’t have to throw away your bottles of makeup and skincare that still have product left. ($9.99/8-pack, Amazon)
An electric wine opener that can also vacuum seal bottles…
Upgrade your happy hour with this opener that can uncork up to 80 bottles in a single charge. And no — it won’t break corks in the process. If you don’t finish your bottle, just use the vacuum sealer option to preserve freshness and flavor. ($39.59, Wayfair)
A tool kit that isn’t an eyesore…
So you can always stay prepared. This handy zippered pouch comes with a 10-foot tape measure, a claw hammer with four mini screwdrivers that nest inside the handle, and a regular-sized screwdriver with a reversible head. Who needs a TaskRabbit now? Not you. ($34.95, Ban.do)
A 4-in-1 colander, steamer, splatter guard, and trivet…
This one is made of food-grade silicone that’s heat-resistant up to 550 degrees. It makes straining pasta, cleaning veggies, and resting hot pots so easy. It folds down into itself for compact storage. Just pick from two colors and throw it in the dishwasher when you’re done. ($40, Great Jones)
A rescue facial spray for a daily pick-me-up…
Whether you want to soothe stressed-out skin or give yourself a quick skincare refresh during the day, this spray from Tower 28 will do the trick. It’s safe for all skin types and is great for those with eczema. It has hypochlorous acid in it, which is naturally found in your white blood cells and helps fight harmful bacteria and inflammation. When you spray it, you’ll trigger an immune boost that signals to your skin to repair and heal any irritation. You can use it on your face or on any other patches of skin that need some love. ($12+, Sephora)
A personal safety alarm when you’re traveling home alone…
Here’s the extra layer of protection you might be looking for. This mini alarm and strobe light is super loud. It comes in a ton of bright colors so it’ll be easy to spot in your bag, but we recommend attaching it to your keys for even easier access. To activate it, simply, remove the top pin. (And then pop it back in to turn it off.) You can use it multiple times and it’ll last you up to 40 continual minutes. Each one is hand-tested and a percentage of the profits are donated to organizations that support women’s safety, shelter, and health. While you’re at it, check out more of our personal safety picks. ($27.95, Amazon)
A collapsible dishwasher rack that’ll sit over the sink for drying…
Introducing a dependable space-saver. It has a built-in utensil caddy and lots of strength to support heavier pots and lids. You can pull it out once the dishes are washed and then stow it away when they’re dry. It’s designed to promote extra airflow and can be thrown into the dishwasher for a quick rinse. ($45, Food52)
A tool that’ll make your hairbrush as good as new…
You’ll never have to use your bare hands to clean things up again. One end has a small, dense brush that you can angle to get any residual hair out of hard to reach spots. The other end has a metal comb to help get you a more detailed, deeper clean. It works on many types of brushes and is small enough to take on the go. ($11.99, Amazon)
A fabric shaver to revive old sheets, sweaters, and towels…
You can run this tiny, battery-powered device over furniture too. It’ll eat up tiny balls of fuzz and loose threads. You’ll be able to freshen up what you already have, instead of buying new sheets and sweaters. (Unknown, Amazon)
An anti-blister balm for Band-Aid-free feet…
Before you slip on newly purchased shoes or sandals that rub, apply this balm to places that typically form a blister (like the back of the heel). It has vitamins A and C to soften skin and restore moisture. It’s also vegan and made with plant-based ingredients. ($9.00, Amazon)
A tablet that’ll banish funky tastes from your reusable water bottle...
Fill up your container and drop one in. It’s made of a mix of ingredients (like baking soda and citric acid) and it’ll fizz up to get rid of germs and odors. You can leave the tablet in for 15–30 minutes before rinsing out. The best part? The water you’re drinking won’t taste murky. PS: Check out our full review. ($15.00, Amazon)
Nonslip hangers that will keep your clothes off your closet floor...
Made with silicone and stainless steel, these not only prevent your stuff from getting wrinkled or sliding off, but they’ll also help you save that precious rod space. Each one can hold five items (pants, scarves, towels, you name it) to free up extra closet space.($18.99/4-pack, Amazon)
A pimple patch designed to stop zits in their early stages…
Once you notice a blemish forming, clean the area and apply a patch. The microdarts will dissolve to release a formula directly into the skin. We love these because they actually heal the blemish (and stop us from picking). ($8.19, Amazon)
A filter that may help you avoid some classic hangover symptoms…
Yes, you read that right. This tool removes histamines and sulfites — which can cause reactions like congestion, red cheeks, and headaches. Luckily, it won’t affect the taste of what you’re drinking. ($11.99, Amazon)
A tiny gadget that’ll prevent your hair from clogging the shower drain…
Thank goodness for a tool that’ll make our least favorite chore easier. This TubShroom sits inside the drain and catches any hair loss while washing. Plus, it won’t block water flow. ($11.99, Amazon)
A clasp that helps keep your necklaces from tangling…
Now you can layer two or three pieces together without creating a giant knot. This clasp will keep each strand separate, all while making it easier to put everything on. ($14.99+, Potionnumber9 via Etsy)
Silicone air fryer liners that’ll make cleanup easy…
Using your beloved cooking appliance just got even better. These protect your air fryers from any food residue, grease, and grime. They’re dishwasher-safe, nontoxic, and can withstand heat up to 450 degrees. Because you’ll be using a reusable liner instead of the paper ones, you'll reduce waste, too. (Unknown, Amazon)
A wall-mount dispenser that makes it easy to store all your grocery bags…
Mount this stainless steel dispenser directly on your wall for quick access. You can condense bags, keep them within reach, and reuse them instead of using paper or plastic options at the grocery store. ($29.99, Amazon)
Produce savers that’ll prevent your food from molding too soon…
These containers regulate oxygen and carbon dioxide flow to help fruit and veggies last longer. They’ll keep leafy greens crisp and berries mush-free. Plus, the built-in filter never needs to be replaced. Pro tip: Don’t wash your produce before putting it into the containers. Just drop everything in and store them in your fridge. You can wash your food before you eat it. ($24.99, Amazon)
A tablet that’ll clear buildup in your dishwasher...
PSA: even your dishwasher needs cleaning. Once you start seeing streaks on your glassware or smell a funky odor when you open the door, you’ll know it’s time. Drop in a tablet to clear out any leftover detergent or mineral buildup. You can either add a tablet to a full load or run it empty. Our team has tried these and they work like a charm every time. (Unknown, Amazon)
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