Jul 29, 2023
39 Gadgets That'll Solve Some Of Your Annoying Problems
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed collects a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
You're about to be singing "I've got gadgets and gizmos a-plenty" because you won't make it through reading this without buying at least one thing.
BuzzFeed Staff
Promising review: "I have a small sink and was excited to try this. It did not disappoint! Perfect size and it looks sleek in my bathroom. I have three small grandchildren so I was a little concerned they would create a mess but this works well and dispenses just the right amount of soap. More room on my countertop. I've had this for over two months now and still have not had to recharge it. Do make sure to follow the directions for soap to water ratios. I find adding the water first and then the soap last works best for me. My daughter likes this so much she is ordering as well." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in six colors and two versions).
Promising review: "I would have my daughter shave my back so I shave it all the time and bought this since I’m overseas contracting and I couldn't believe it. I’m one hairy dude and this got it all with zero cuts on the skin I’m very impressed. Used to do my back every two or three months but with this I might be able to do it every couple of weeks. I love it." —ybot
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in two sizes and two variations).
Check out a TikTok of the cup washer in action. To install, you can use the instructions and materials provided to easily hook it up to the hot water line. Note that this won't install on sinks without a flat edge!
Promising review: "This installed easier than removing the existing soap dispenser, which was always a nightmare. This has the same type of jetted sprayer that you would use to jet out a drain line, so yeah it'll spray the stink off of a turd. It cleans baby bottles, Contigo, yeti, spaghetti sauce, baby food, mason jars with a couple of presses. Highly recommended over the messy soap dispenser!" —Chuq
Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in two colors).
Treat Republic is a small business based in Watford, UK. The shop has tons of personalized gifts (we're talking everything from mugs to watches to silver plated footballs) and also has home decor, gardening tools, aaaand more!
Promising review: "This is a cool pen, engraved too, nice finish. Thank you." —Linda Clay
Get it from Treat Republic on Etsy for $22.14 (available with personalization).
Reviewers love this because it doesn't require you to "smart enable" other parts of your home. It's also a great way to turn on your kettle or coffee brewer from the other room so it's ready for you when you get out of bed! It is also compatible with Alexa or you control it with the app on your phone.
Promising review: "This is exactly what I was looking for and had no idea it existed until I saw someone mention it on TikTok! Our front walkway gets pretty dark at night, and I was frustrated with trying to remember to turn on the light every evening and off every morning. I looked into those light sensors you can plug in, but our front porch light is under an awning with enough shade that it would have kept the light on 24/7. This little Switchbot solved the problem. I applied it to the indoor light switch and set the time on my phone. It has worked perfectly ever since." —Alecia McLochlin
Get it from Amazon for $29 (available in white and black).
Promising review: "I live in south Florida so it's hot and humid most of the year. This lightweight neck fan really helps! I like to spend time outdoors but sometimes it's just too uncomfortable. The neck fan makes a difference. The three fan speeds are nice but I like the fastest speed because you can really feel the coolness on your neck. There's a section of the neck band in the middle that is flexible and nonslip. This makes it easy to adjust so it fits just right!" —R. Helfman
Get it from Amazon for $18.87+ (available in two colors).
Promising reviews: "I bought this for my dog: he's a runner! If he ever gets loose, he takes off and gives us a scare. Now I can track him down with ease using my own phone and seeing him on a map. It's such a relief to have his location easily on my phone. The attachment to his collar is also for sale on Amazon, and attaches the tag to his collar easily and comfortably. He has no idea it's there!" —Perrie
"Love my two AirTags, one on my wallet and one on my keys.. Easily go to the 'find my' app on your iPhone and under 'things' track either item. They even make a sound so you can hear and it will guide you down to the half step of whatever you decide to use them for! Perfect!" —Josh & Sav
Get it from Amazon for $27.26.
Check it out on TikTok!
Promising review: "I had resisted my partner's suggestion of buying a robotic vacuum for years. Finally acquiesced...and absolutely love it! It really does the job! Gets the corners, picks up debris, and oh my goodness, the cat and human hair my other vacuum was missing! The self-emptier didn't work the first time because the hair clogged the feeder. But it works now as we run the machine every other day, so there is far less hair to pick up. Navigates throw rugs with ease. I'm entertained by its movements — the way it makes its way around objects — almost makes me believe it really does have a full team 'command central' inside (like the TV ads show)." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $499.99.
I ~hate~ vacuuming. It is very possibly my least favorite chore, so when it came time to make my wedding registry, this was one of the items I KNEW I needed to include. It makes my life soo much easier. We have two cats who shed (and tbh I suppose my hair is part of the problem as well) and it is such a hassle to try to keep up with vacuuming when the hair accumulates so quickly. Having this little gadget has been such a time saver. We usually just turn it on when we are leaving the house and it gets to work right away. I live in a three-story townhouse so we typically empty it between each floor since we have to carry it upstairs anyway (still desperately waiting for someone to invent a robot vacuum for stairs), so I can't attest to how much it can collect at once, but we've never had any issues with it handling each floor of our house.
Promising review: "This is a great tool for a lazy person like me. I've run it every day since I got it a week ago, and it's picking up all the dirt, dust and cat hair I have neglected for ages. I still have to empty the dust collector and clean the filters, but it's nothing compared to having to drag the vacuum cleaner around the house myself! Definitely worth its price!" —Lina L. Yeung
Get it from Amazon for $199.99+ (available in black or white).
I have lived in my house with this system for about a year now and I honestly never thought about needing one of these since I could just control my garage with a little button, but since I've been using it, it is so helpful. If I ever want to go out without bringing my keys I know I can because I can just easily open the garage with this app. BUT, the real benefit that I would never have considered happened to me a few months ago. My husband and I were both out when we got a notification that our fire alarm was going off, obviously we both panicked and didn't know what to do. He got a call from the security company that the fire department was on the way and we knew they were going to beat us there. I soon realized that in order for them to inspect our house they would have to bust through the door. Somehow even in my absolutely chaotic panicking state, I realized I could use this app to open the garage so the fire department could get in through there. *Thankfully* it was just a false alarm, but we talked to the fire fighters after and they said in situations like these they would break down the door if they saw any credible indications of fire (which luckily we didn't have) but they did say that was incredibly helpful for them to be able to just get in without causing harm or just assuming there was nothing wrong and leaving. I was so grateful to have this device and it honestly provides so much peace of mind knowing I can open (or close) my garage from anywhere in case of an emergency or if I just realize after leaving that the door is still open.
Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in three variations).
Promising review: "My new favorite little gadget! I just got it, it's easy to use and it works great so far. It does exactly what it's intended to do. I’m hoping it’ll last, it does seem sturdy. I’m glad it came with two, I gave the other one to my mom who has arthritis and she loves it so far too. She has a hard time squeezing the tube of toothpaste so this is perfect, it's so much easier on her hands. We also like how it allows the toothpaste to now stand on the counter or in the closet when it's stored." —Tanya
Get a set of two from Amazon for $12.98+ (available in two versions and seven colors).
It accurately measures wet *and* dry ingredients so your recipes come out perfectly every time. Plus wayyyy fewer dishes will have to be washed 🙌🏼. The scale easily converts between ounces, grams, and milileters.
This requires two AAA batteries, you can grab some here.
Promising review: "For anyone who does a lot of cooking and/or baking, this is a great kitchen gadget. It can take a lot of weight and the bowl is a more multi-functional vessel for holding whatever you might need to weigh, as opposed to a flat scale. I use this thing multiple times per week and love it." —MistressViolet
Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in two colors).
Promising review: "I live in a two-story house and the farther you get from the router, the worse the signal. There are all sorts of WiFi extenders, some for a lot more money, but I thought I'd try TP-link since I love their smartplugs. For the price, this extender just can't be beat and I have the speed tests to prove it. I can stream with no lagging no matter which room I'm in. Plus it works seamlessly when my Wi-Fi randomly switches from 5 GHz to 2.4 GHz and I've had no connection issues with smart plugs/appliances." —JP
Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
Greenery Unlimited is a family-owned small business is dedicated to creating interiors that support maximum human wellness. They sell plants, pots, and other plant-related accessories. As a company, they strive toward sustainability, paying employees a livable wage, and giving back to communities.
Promising review: "These self-watering pots are really great and hassle free! I put my raphidophora in there and it's doubled in size with minimal care from me!" —Joanna Poon
Get it from Greenery Unlimited for $32 (available in three colors).
Promising review: "At first I was a bit skeptical that a charger like this would really have the power capacity to charge my iPhone 11 and/or my iPad. It made me a believer after the first couple of days of charging on a trip out of the US. It charges our phones very quickly and can charge two iPhone 11s twice before it needs any additional charge. It can power a device while it is plugged into the wall charging itself too! This would be a great gift for anyone that travels frequently or as an emergency charger." —Dewayne R. Blair
Get it from Amazon for $29.99.
Sagely is a family-owned small business founded by husband-and-wife team Ellie Glazer and Ivor Miskulin, who spent three years designing the ideal, stress-free pill storage solution. The silicone lids are super secure, but also designed for gentle and easy opening and closing to account for users with dexterity issues.
Promising review: "Love this thing!!! I'm only 30 and didn't want an old lady pill box... and this one was modern and cool. The little slots to push in pills is fantastic and the containers are very large. It keeps my huge vitamin pills on either side and could fit over 10 large ones if needed. Love this thing. Worth the price and looks like it'll last forever. I do wish the magnets were stronger. They just keep them in place but will slide off if bumped. I assume this is helpful for people with arthritis. It's an easy fix. I take down one days worth of pills, set it on my counter and now I'm not too lazy to take my pills!" —Chicken McNugget
Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in four colors).
Promising review: "Five things I love about this — and I don't even like exercising: 1.) I didn't have to put it together! Yippee! 2.) You can set it to the tension you're in the mood for. 3.) It doesn't hurt my spine when I do sit-ups — those pads are actually comfortable. 4.) It's more than sit-ups and can be a real workout (if you want, lol!) Watch the videos…they're not lying. 5.) I don't have to leave it out when I'm done — it really does fit under my couch." —Palmetto Girl
Get it from Amazon for $89.98.
Promising review: This little thing works great. I have never waxed my upper lip as my hairs were always very light.. but as I near menopause they were starting to get thicker / more noticeable. I did not want to wax so trued this. Works perfect for my needs. My teen son actually 'borrowed' it for his mustache that's starting to grow and his unibrow, lol. I was like, you did what?? So, I just ordered him his own in blue." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in five colors).
iJoy is a small business that specializes in headphones and tech accessories.
Promising review: "I rarely write a review (this is the second in the past few years). One of the best purchases in a long time. Nice design and very practical. It solves all of my problems as it can go any direction. It's worth every penny. I turned around and bought two more. I am about to buy my fourth one. Love this!" —Pond P.
Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in five colors).
Promising review: "Awesome product. Works every time. Especially handy with old wine where the cork has dried. Pops it right out. Highly recommend." —heco 5375
Get it from Amazon for $18.97+ (available in eight colors).
Promising review: "My son often does things in the dark like change lures and ties on for fishing tournament, and this provides a creative option rather than awkwardly holding a flashlight to phone in his mouth!" —Jessica blanton
Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in eight styles).
Check out a TikTok of the portable ink-free Bluetooth printer in action.
Heads up! This requires thermal paper to operate — grab 100 sheets on Amazon for $20.99!
Promising review: "This specific printer is lightweight but very sturdy. The app is super easy to use; it's got a media library that has layouts and other clipart styles. The printer is also relatively quiet and I have not had any issues with loading the paper straight, you just have to be dedicated to inserting the paper. Do not be super gentle with the paper or it will print on the paper crooked. Customer support is awesome and the quality if nice and worth the price, in my opinion. The paper, as stated in other reviews, is costly however I think not paying for ink evens it out." —Kapizanami
Get it from Amazon for $209.99 (available in four colors and with an optional case).
Check out a TikTok of the electric knife in action.
Promising review: "Super easy to hold and use, the on button is perfectly placed, and the blade length is just right for carving turkeys or large cuts of beef. Super sharp blades and a case with meat fork makes for a complete package." —john alexander
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in two styles).
Promising review: "Before: three remotes, one for the screen (on/off), a separate one for the sound system (volume) and of course the fire stick remote. After: just the one convenient integrated unit. No more scrambling to find which remote to do what I want, cause it's all right there in the one unit. I wish I'd have bought one years ago cause the multi-remote Tango got old real fast." —Chapman B.
Get it from Amazon for $26.99.
Check out a TikTok of the iced tea maker in action.
Promising review: "I used to buy bottles of tea in the store and decided to look for a least expensive way to still enjoy iced tea. This is most definitely an easy way to do it, especially with increasing prices of everything these days. I was spending at least $50–$60 a month purchasing bottles of tea, now I’m only spending $4–$5 every month or two on tea bags." —Kathy B.
Get it from Amazon for $27.99.
Promising review: "I ordered one based on reviews and it did not disappoint. I like my coffee HOT and my water COLD, and this lets me know exactly what to expect. It keeps ice for HOURS, as in well over 24 if the lid is on and over 12 even if the lid is off. Best feature ... I've managed to drop it TWICE in as many days and although the top is a little scratched (I had a sleeve from a different bottle that almost comes up to the lid), thermometer still works. Still leakproof. Couldn't ask for a better thermos." —Kelly H.
Get it from Amazon for $29.99.
Promising review: "My sister was constantly reheating her coffee; she’d pour it, sit down with it, take a sip, set it down and open her computer. Then minutes later she’d take another sip, get up to reheat her coffee, or ask me to do it, take a sip set it down again, go back to her computer then try to take another sip, get up to reheat it again, take a sip, set it down… well it goes on all morning. BUT not anymore. She pours her coffee, sets on the warmer and she never has to reheat it at all. I love it when a product does just what is expected of it: keeps your coffee warm." —Shashadow1
Get it from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in five colors).
This can be programmed with seven different light settings, seven different calming "wake up" noises, and to start gradually lighting up at 30, 20, or 10 minutes before you wake.
Promising reviews: "I got this recommendation from TikTok and it really has helped especially with Oregon winters where the sun is not out by the time the alarm rings. It has several peaceful alarm settings and even has night music to put you to sleep. The sunrise with the alarm piano is what I play to wake me up every morning and it is a way better way than to wake up to an annoying phone alarm." —Amazon Customer
"I saw this on TikTok and was influenced to by it. I have a hard time falling asleep but the sleep function really helps. It also makes it a lot easier to wake up in the morning." —Christen
Get it from Amazon for $32.88+ (available in two finishes).
For those messes on your couch or any other place you may not be able to set this machine, there is a brush attachment so you can clean every mess, no matter the surface.
Promising review: "This worked even better than I expected! My dog had three nights of that horrible medicine/sickly-induced diarrhea. I already hand scrubbed my wool entry rug and used my upright carpet cleaner (w/ pet stain tool), and I was sure I was just going to have to replace it (which was very expensive). My co-worker swore by the SpotBot, and it was better to spend a fraction of the cost as a last ditch effort. Totally in awe of how simple and completely effective! Easy to fill up, pretty sizable tank but not heavy to carry. Literally just set it down and push the button, and it dings when it's done. I only had to use the quick clean setting (especially on wool), and you can't even see where the accident happened." —SW
Get it from Amazon for $185.39.
Check out a TikTok of the handbag light in action.
Promising review: "This item is one of those things I didn't think I needed (but bought anyway) but now won't ever be without! The light just sits in my purse and turns on when it's bounced or bumped. The light is soft but effective at the same time. It is really a lifesaver if you're always feeling like you need to dump out your purse to find what you are looking for! Great gift too." —D. Leander
Get it from Amazon for $29.50.
It's also great to use while scrolling in the bath so you don't get your phone wet — check it out in action on TikTok!
Promising reviews: "The best purchase. Honestly, this is the coolest; it's lightweight, and it's easy. I’m glad I bought it." —Justine Laviolette
"TikTok made me buy it. I got it to use for my Anki decks, and so far have been loving it. Makes changing slides so much easier." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $20.95+ (available in three colors).
Check out a TikTok of the remote page turner in action.
Psst — a lot of reviewers like to pair this with a gooseneck tablet holder so it'll stay upright in front of them without having to hold it!
Promising review: "This product makes reading so damn convenient. It's so easy to hold, you can strap it onto your wrist so you don't misplace it when using it. So far the battery life has been spectacular. I just mirror my iPad screen to my TV and make the font size hysterically large and get under my covers and just click away. I don't have to move a muscle. I don't know why I didn't buy this sooner. I’m so obsessed. This is a must have for anyone who reads from a Kindle or iPad. Just cocoon yourself under your blankets and enjoy your book without having to stick a hand out into the cold to turn the page. It sounds lazy but trust me once you have a clicker, you won't know what to do without one." —Jessica
Get it from Amazon for $32.99.
Check it out in action on TikTok!
This includes six Apple device cords (but you can get short USB-C cords for Android devices as well).
Promising review: "The corner of our kitchen was a 'grab bag' of devices all on chargers of different lengths. I bought this so that we could properly support the iPads, tablets, backup chargers, and Wi-Fi jetpack from an organized space. This device is very convenient: one power port in and six USB ports out. The device came with six iPad cables, so I had to dig out some of my shorter USB-C cables for those devices. I would buy this again. The little dividers seem pretty sturdy and you only have to put them in when you have thinner devices; and can leave one out for a thicker device. TikTok made me buy it and I don't regret it!" —Bargain Hunter
Get it from Amazon for $17.89.
Promising review: "Perfect device that doesn't plug into your laptop! I put my mouse on this when I think I’ll be away for more than five minutes (bathroom, kitchen) during working hours so no one thinks I’m a slacker. Undetectable by work. It makes a regular sound so I lay this on top of a small magazine or thick coaster so I don't hear that." —Suzanne
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in eight styles).
Promising review: "I saw these on TikTok, and since I have so much trouble finding quality headphones, I decided to try it. I’m very happy with the sound quality and comfort of these. I’m able to fall asleep to my music or podcast without having to limit myself to sleeping on my back or losing an ear bud in my bed in the middle of the night. It makes working out easier as well. The value is worth the quality. I would recommend." —Thunder Muffin
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in 16 colors).
Check out the automatic pan stirrer in action on TikTok!
Promising review: "Honestly I laughed at myself for buying this. I stopped laughing the first time I used it! What a help! It freed me up to do other things while it stirred the sauce that needed constant attention. Bought another one! Not laughing now!" —Luvdvm
Get it from UncommonGoods for $25+ (available as battery-power or rechargeable).
Nori is a woman-owned small business based in Connecticut hoping to make your life easier with this all-in-one travel iron and steamer.
Promising review: "I am not an iron girl, but this product sold me. It is so easy to use. The Nori is portable, so I take it with me everywhere. It has helped me to look sharp at weddings and weekends away. At home, I can refresh my dresses and shirts before starting work and going out. I would highly recommend this product to everyone who might be thinking of a change. No more heavy irons and dry cleaning for me. Thank you Nori!" —Elizabeth M
Get it from Nori for $120 (available in six colors).
I recently went on an eight hour flight and I was super annoyed about the concept of wearing wired headphones that are stuck in my ears for that long. I knew the only way I was going to be even reasonably comfortable is if I was wearing my over-the-ear headphones, but of course the problem with that is that they use Bluetooth. Thankfully, I've been writing about this product for awhile so I figured this would be the perfect opportunity to give it a try. It is honestly the perfect answer to being able to use your own Bluetooth headphones. I would absolutely recommend these to anyone going on a long flight!!
Promising review: "You don't know it yet but you need this. A friend recommended this and I decided to try it. It works well in flight. Huge improvement in comfort and sound quality over the airlines headphones. Also used for various tours when traveling. Again far more comfortable than the typical tour listening equipment." —PJ14
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in three variations).
See it in action on TikTok!
Promising review: "The holy grail of portable chargers!!! I was traveling to Disney for vacation and knowing me, I would drain my battery with just taking pictures alone. I wanted a portable battery but didn't want a carry a cord either, so I was excited when I found this little baby! It does exactly as described, pretty pink color, and I get one full charge of battery for my iPhone 11. Get it, you will not be disappointed!" —Meghan Doble
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in six colors).
The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
Promising review: dispenses just the right amount of soap. More room on my countertop. Promising review: I’m one hairy dude and this got it all with zero cuts on the skin I’m very impressed. Note that this won't install on sinks without a flat edge! Promising review: It cleans baby bottles, Contigo, yeti, spaghetti sauce, baby food, mason jars with a couple of presses. Promising review: Promising review: Our front walkway gets pretty dark at night, and I was frustrated with trying to remember to turn on the light every evening and off every morning. This little Switchbot solved the problem Promising review: The neck fan makes a difference. The three fan speeds are nice Promising reviews: Now I can track him down with ease using my own phone and seeing him on a map. Promising review: Gets the corners, picks up debris, and oh my goodness, the cat and human hair my other vacuum was missing! Navigates throw rugs with ease. Promising review: I've run it every day since I got it a week ago, and it's picking up all the dirt, dust and cat hair I have neglected for ages. If I ever want to go out without bringing my keys I know I can because I can just easily open the garage with this app. I was so grateful to have this device and it honestly provides so much peace of mind knowing I can open (or close) my garage from anywhere in case of an emergency or if I just realize after leaving that the door is still open. Promising review: We also like how it allows the toothpaste to now stand on the counter or in the closet when it's stored Promising review: the bowl is a more multi-functional vessel for holding whatever you might need to weigh, as opposed to a flat scale Promising review: For the price, this extender just can't be beat and I have the speed tests to prove it. Promising review: I put my raphidophora in there and it's doubled in size with minimal care from me Promising review: It charges our phones very quickly and can charge two iPhone 11s twice before it needs any additional charge. It can power a device while it is plugged into the wall charging itself too! Promising review I'm only 30 and didn't want an old lady pill box... and this one was modern and cool. Love this thing. Worth the price and looks like it'll last forever. Promising review: It doesn't hurt my spine when I do sit-ups I don't have to leave it out when I'm done — it really does fit under my couch Promising review Promising review It solves all of my problems as it can go any direction. It's worth every penny. Promising review: Promising review: Promising review The app is super easy to use The printer is also relatively quiet and I have not had any issues with loading the paper straight, Promising review Promising review: No more scrambling to find which remote to do what I want, cause it's all right there in the one unit. Promising review: This is most definitely an easy way to do it, especially with increasing prices of everything these days. Promising review: I like my coffee HOT and my water COLD, and this lets me know exactly what to expect. Still leakproof. Couldn't ask for a better thermos Promising review Promising reviews: It has several peaceful alarm settings and even has night music to put you to sleep. Promising review: Literally just set it down and push the button, and it dings when it's done. Promising review It is really a lifesaver if you're always feeling like you need to dump out your purse to find what you are looking for! check it out in action on TikTok! Promising reviews: Promising review It's so easy to hold, you can strap it onto your wrist so you don't misplace it when using it. I don't have to move a muscle. I don't know why I didn't buy this sooner. I’m so obsessed. Just cocoon yourself under your blankets and enjoy your book without having to stick a hand out into the cold to turn the page Check it out in action on TikTok! Promising review: This device is very convenient: one power port in and six USB ports out. TikTok made me buy it and I don't regret it Promising review: Promising review I’m able to fall asleep to my music or podcast without having to limit myself to sleeping on my back or losing an ear bud in my bed in the middle of the night. Check out the automatic pan stirrer in action on TikTok! Promising review: It freed me up to do other things while it stirred the sauce that needed constant attention. Promising review: No more heavy irons and dry cleaning for me. It is honestly the perfect answer to being able to use your own Bluetooth headphones Promising review: You don't know it yet but you need this. See it in action on TikTok! Promising review: It does exactly as described, pretty pink color, and I get one full charge of battery for my iPhone 11