31 Inexpensive Products That Are A Combo Of Fun *And* Useful

Apr 26, 2024

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.

This list includes a pasta timer named "Al Dente" and that's all you need to know.

BuzzFeed Staff

The 3-minute song ("That's Amore") is great for angel hair, the 5-minute song ("Tarantella Napoletana") is great for spaghetti, the 7-minute song (the Godfather theme) is great for tagliatelle and more, and the 11-minute song ("Prisoner's Choir") is great for fusilli and more.

Get it from Amazon for $24.69.

Push the lever to dispense a 1-inch piece, or hold it down to create a custom length of tape.

Promising review: "My last tape dispenser that was awful. Threading the tape through the mechanism was a PITA. The gears and springs would fall out when you opened the damn thing. Eventually, the tape started to cling to the roller and would rip the paper I was trying to tape. This design is great; the tape self threads itself when you put it on the rubber bands, the tape stays on the inside of the device until you press the trigger to release it, the tape self cuts when you let go of the trigger. Everything can be done with one hand. Wonderful!" —Billster

Get it from Amazon for $14.50 (available in four colors).

Promising review: "I have tried everything to get my nails to dry when I paint them at home. I’ve tried top coats, water bath with ice, and time (lots of time) waiting patiently for my nails to dry. And after several hours my nail polish is ruined. Today I tried the OPI Rapid Dry spray and my nails dried super quickly! Going on two hours after painting my nails...did dishes and laundry. My nails are still dry and look amazing. I highly recommend this product! Thanks OPI!!!!!" —April C.

Get it from Amazon for $11.88.

Each has a different resistance level so you can customize your workout, and they come with an exercise guide book to get you started.

Promising review: "Before using these, no matter how much I worked out, I never really had that much definition in my thighs but since using these, I'm actually seeing that line I've been waiting to see practically my whole workout life. Not to mention, starting to see a round behind. I love the bright pastel colors that these come in but the best part is they stay up. I have yet to have these even come close of sliding down to slipping while working out. At first they were a bit of a struggle to get on but now, it just feels as though I'm putting on another pair of bottoms. No matter how much I'm stretching or moving, I have yet to see these things tear or shred any sort of elastic. These don't get in the way of my workout and I really do feel the burn while using these." —Ronny Acosta

Get them from Amazon for $15.90+ (available in three color sets).

It comes with a (red) removable organizer too, which is just pure 🧠.

Promising review: "I got this bag today and I absolutely love it. Not only is it super cute but it has so many different compartments. I put all of my lip glosses and balms (which is a lot) and I still had room for hand cream, sanitizer and my other daily makeup staples that I keep in my purse! I love that you can take out the divider and it fits perfectly in my purse. This would be so cute as a clutch too!" —Shelby S.

Get it from Glossier for $35.

It has 100 different recipes to satisfy any Disney fan until the next time they can go to the park.

Get it from Amazon for $11.99 or Bookshop for $20.45 (to support local bookstores).

Reviewers also use it for knocking excess powder off their brushes! It comes with a mixing wand as well.

Promising review: "This palette is great for mixing foundation shades. Between seasons, my skin color changes greatly. The see-through nature of this item is helpful." —Robin M.

Get it from Amazon for $30.

The kit comes with two reusable molds making six different gem shapes each, six soap dyes, lavender fragrance, glycerine melt and the soap base, glitter powder, and the step-by-step guide. The soap is SLS- and paragen-free too! The kit is recommended for ages 8+ but reviewers with younger kids also loved making these (with adult supervision of course).

Promising review: "As a grandmother of seven, three who live with me full time, I’m always looking for unique and educational craft kits and projects for my grandchildren. I bought this soap making kit for my 7- and 12-year-old grandson and granddaughter. I love that it teaches some history and science behind soap making. Easy to follow instructions allowed us to make really beautiful jewel and gemstone soaps of various shapes and colors. Both microwave and stove top directions are included. I love that the soap base is all natural and contains no chemicals like SLS (sodium laureth sulfate). The molds are re-usable too, so the next batch we will be making Christmas gifts for family and friends. Lots of fun and great price, too! Just love this DIY soap making kit!" —Linda

Get it from Amazon for $19.97.

Some reviewers recommend popping a piece of foil or a lid on top for extra heating power.

Promising review: "When I first saw this thing on my recommendation list, I thought 'Wow, is this necessary??!' But then two days later I couldn't stop thinking about it, so I ordered it. I'm very happy I did! I drink my coffee and tea so slow that I'm constantly having to reheat it in the microwave. This warmer keeps the mug (or a glass tea pot) warm and the contents at a nice drinkable temp — key word is 'warm' not 'hot.' The bottom of the device does get warm, so just don't put it on something sensitive to heat or put a small towel under it if you're worried. It hasn't damaged my cheap particle board desk whatsoever." —Bananny

Get it from Amazon for $18.41.

Most reviewers recommend sizing up, especially for a more relaxed fit.

Promising review: "I've never worn pants that make me as happy as these do. I feel like I'm being enveloped in a cloud. I sized up (good idea), due to other reviews. I'm also sensitive to non-breathable clothes, particularly at night, but these haven't made me feel too hot so far." —Torrey Baldwin

Get them from Amazon for $38.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 12 colors, plus leggings styles and sweats without the lining). They're also available in men's sizes S–XXL.

How much productive procrastination, you ask? Let me quote the listing: "At one hour per puzzle (that's pretty fast!), eight hours of solving per day, it would still take two months of solid solving to finish this book."

Get it from Amazon for $13.19 or Bookshop for $22.31 (to support local bookstores).

Promising review (it's long but good!): "So I have super dry lips. Years of anxiety, picking at them, dry weather making them crack, fragile skin... nothing ever works. Literally nothing. You name a product or trick and I've tried it. Scrubs, balms, masks, lotions, potions, oils, whatever. I've tried it. It never. ever. works. Most of the time my lips feel MORE dry, which is astounding. I feel like my skin figures out what I'm trying to do and rearranges its molecules to resist the treatment I'm trying. I gave up for a long time, but I'm tired of not having those super pretty instagram worthy soft looking lips. My dry haggard witch lips were making me sad and angry that I can't find anything that works. On a whim, I was browsing a random BuzzFeed listicle about good skincare products — and this product popped up. I read a comment and someone with a situation similar to mine who sung the praises of this stuff. Deflated and sad about myself, I decided 'Why not throw another few bucks at the problem. Worst case it stays the exact same, best case it actually gets better.' Holy ———. It got better. SO much better. This is the first time I've been able to use a product regularly when I feel my lips drying out and it ACTUALLY hydrates them. I put it on before bed and wake up excited to smooch my partner over and over again telling them 'FEEL MY LIPS, FEEL THEM'. It isn't goopy or thick, it doesn't feel like smearing vaseline on my face, it doesn't make me break out around my lips. It isn't heavy or grainy, it's super light and doesn't feel like it's seeping into my skin. It doesn't take a lot and I can FEEL it actually working to moisturize and not just seal moisture — which I am already lacking — in. It isn't a coating, it feels like it actually absorbs into my lips. I never leave reviews, ever. But I also never had a product like this that actually works like it says it does with more efficacy than I ever expected. If you're like me or I sound like you, trust me. Try this. Just give it a shot and you will NOT be disappointed." —Sarah

Get it from Amazon for $13.60.

Promising review: "I ordered the five pack and am SO happy I did. These eye patches are so easy to use and stay in place and the gold color is so fun. I was able to move around my apartment (do dishes, do laundry etc) while I had them on. They perked my eyes right up and felt incredibly soothing. I think keeping them in the fridge and then applying them would add to their refreshing nature. They are easy to remove from their packaging and come with plenty of extra serum that I rubbed into my neck and chest." —Keely

Get a box of six pairs of masks from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in two versions).

Promising review: "I’m thrilled to have purchased these! Amazing soap sheets. The scents are not overwhelming. I have sensitive skin and, does not irritate my skin. Hands feel soft, clean and smells great. My 6-year-old son loves these. With pretty much everything still closed down, due to COVID-19, we have been doing a lot more outdoor activities. It’s nice to have soap handy when in middle of hiking or biking and, need to wash hands before eating lunch. I would strongly recommend these soap sheets." —Ann

Get three packs of 100 sheets each from Amazon for $11.99 (available in lemon, orange, lavender, a variety pack of the three scents, or unscented).

I have also used Babyfoot and it...reeeeaaaalllllyyyyyyyy works!

Promising review: "I'm obsessed. This stuff works exactly as expected. Definitely soak feet for about an hour, put on booties for an hour, then rinse with soap and water. Soak every day after, and for the next two weeks, for five to ten minutes...wear socks as much as you can and at least for 20–30 min after daily soak. Tops of your feet and ankles will not peel off in sheets, but that skin is usually much softer than bottom of the foot. Bottom of feet and toes started peeling about 48 hours after treatment. Big peeling started about 24 hours after that. This even softened the feel of two large surgical scars on my ankle and foot. Tips: Do NOT moisturize at all during peeling process. Don't do this within two weeks of having your bare feet exposed to the public...it's kind of gross in a neat way. I have very sensitive skin and didn't get any kind of irritation. It's impossible to NOT peel the huge pieces, but make sure you stop peeling if you get resistance. Soak for 10–15 min and wait for the skin to soften if you must peel. You don't want to create wounds or sore spots. I'm hooked and will do this again and again." —Shannon

Get it from Amazon for $25.

Promising review: "We love Star Wars in our house and this makes waffle/pancakes more fun! Easy to use and clean. Stores well. Great addition for all day Life Day celebrations!" —ShinyNicoll

Get it from Amazon for $15.99.

If you get home after an exhausting day, you deserve a nice bath to relax in!

Promising review: "My husband loves baths and I purchased this mainly for him because he's a big person and every little bit of extra water depth he can get is wonderful. You can really get an extra two to three inches. The suction cups fit easily on the tub and you don't have to use much pressure at all. They stick as soon as you push a little and you can even hear a little 'click' sound as you push each one, telling you it's sealed. Our cover never 'floats off' or comes off the tub until we take it off, and when we do, it is easily removed. All in all, a great purchase!" —artsqueenbee

Get it on Amazon for $7.99 (available in nine colors).

This book covers what whiskey is, how it's made in different regions, how to start choosing and collecting bottles, and of course, a guide to doing your own tasting complete with glossary and food pairings. Reviewers say that anyone with any interest in whiskey should get it!

Get it from Amazon for $18.99 or from Bookshop for $27.89 (to support local bookshops).

Promising reviews: "This... this! I don't know what sort of sorcery this is, but this thing totally works, and it's freaking me out! I tested it by standing outside for a few mins (I live in the south, very humid) and then came back inside and rolled it along my nose. Sucked that oil right up!! I cannot believe I have been wasting money on blotting paper when this was out there (and reusable)! Totally buying some for my sister and friends. If you're on the fence about it, JUST BUY IT!" —Stellar

Get it from Amazon for $12.99.

Btw, now the roller comes in a rose quartz version you can store in the fridge for a soothing face massage!

Promising review: "These are just as lovely as I had hoped. They are tall and have plenty of space for writing. The colors match the picture, the edges are nice and clean, and the paper is sturdy so there are no crumpled corners. I'm very impressed with this item and will be buying more!" —Amanda Cash

Get it from Britishbookart on Etsy for $3.86.

Britishbookart is a UK–based small business, and everything they use is 100% recycled and/or biodegradeable.

It's also great for yogurt + toppings, soup + side dishes, or any other meals you'd like to keep separated! They're microwave- and dishwasher-safe too.

Promising review: "We have used these for cereal but get the most use with Thai food. We put curry or soup in one side and another dish we don't want to get soggy in the other side" —Jannada

Promising review: "It's just a bowl but unexpectedly, it is a quality piece in every way. I use it for cereal/milk, chips/dips, wings/sauce... & that's just so far. I'm sure I'll find other uses as time goes by. I realize I sound like an employee but I'm NOT. I just really like using this bowl. It heats, reheats & cleans up easily! It's a keeper." —Katail

Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in three colors, plus multipacks).

Promising review: "This is pretty much the best invention since, well, since spoon rests — only a whole lot better!!! I've always hated transferring a dripping spoon to a separate spoon rest or plate. I've often left my utensils in the pot with the food only to burn my hand because of transferred heat or have a not so high quality utensil soften in the soup. This pot clip works so well. It clips easily to the side of my pots and fits the handles of all of my utensils and the little rubbery projections firmly grip keeping the utensil from sliding. I bought a second one for myself! Great invention!!!" —Yeah-Nah

Get it from Amazon for $8.62.

I've bought and gifted this pillow, and it is indeed great.

Promising review: "This pillow changed my life. Birthday for someone you're in love with? Wanna show your teacher you appreciate them? Does your hairdresser give you solid looks for solid prices and you need a Christmas gift for them? Does your neck need support late at night when you're playing scary video games in the dark at 2 am when you should be studying for finals? This shrimp neck pillow was the answer to all those questions. Its so comfortable. It's so fashionable. It's so iconic. No one will ever disrespect you with this on your neck. If you have doubts, take my word for it. This pillow is where it's at." —McHoot

Promising review: "So, I got the for my grandfather as a joke at Christmas. I lived with my grandparents in high school, and he would ask me on a daily basis if I liked shrimp. It's become this ongoing thing with us for the last decade. My grandmother and I talk on the phone everyday, and everyday I hear him telling her to "ask Gabi if she likes shrimp". So when I saw this, i thought it was perfect and had to buy it. I wasn't expecting him to actually use it. Well, apparently he wears it 24/7. He finds it's super comfortable and he uses it while watching TV, while driving, while sleeping, and he loves all the compliments he gets on it. Definitely the best gift I have ever given to anyone." —Gabrielle White

Get it from Amazon for $16.99.

Reviewers say they actually catch (human and pet) hair too!

Promising review: "These cute little waving saguaro cactus dryer balls are perfect. I’ve bought other dryer balls that dried and cracked after a month, these are over three month of heavy use and look as fresh as the day they were delivered on my doorstep. Great value and your clothes will dry faster as well as more efficiently because the saguaros tumble and separate your clothes for more efficiency. 🌵" —Christian B Staller

Promising review: "I’m OBSESSED with these. I have a cat who sheds like a double coat dog, and these things knock off ALL his hair in the dryer. I use them for my clothes, his bed, EVERYTHING. Dryer sheets didn’t do anything, and my clothes would be wrinkled as well. There’s no extra scent, and clothes are hair AND wrinkle free! I use all four at the same time, but two would work fine if you don’t worry about heavy lint/pet hair." —Anya

Get a set of four from Amazon for $8.99.

Never underestimate a problem solver that's *also* fun.

Promising review: "I was replacing rather expensive Lightning cords at least three times a month. I finally purchased these and started using them and have yet to replace another cord! It is a big savings over time!" —Faith H.

Get a pack of eight from Amazon for $7.99 (also available in seven other sets, including fish, fruits, and more).

Promising review: "Best purchase ever. Seriously. I thought after buying it I would regret it, $20 for a 5-foot blanket is a lot. But no. I opened the box containing its full glory, and I was stunned. I tore open the package, eager to experience the greatness of the Tortilla Blanket. The world around me will never compare to this blanket. As I wrapped it around myself, years of happiness sprung to my eyes, the pure softness was too much for my mortal body. I was consumed by the ultimate power of this breath-taking blanket, and now it will never leave my side. I cannot let this true beauty go, never." —Mary Maples

Promising review: "This blanket is my current go-to gift, I keep a supply on hand. Everyone loves them! these are lightweight, soft, and perfect for making yourself into a burrito while walking around the house. Soft, snuggly, best gift that you'll want to keep!" —AngieZ

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in five sizes and 10 colors and styles, including pizza and waffle patterns).

Promising review: "Got this as a present for my fiancé — so dang adorable! Fits a decent amount of loose leaf tea in it well, seals great to keep any little pieces from coming out, sits in any of our coffee cups easily, and looks so cute while brewing. The neck sticking out makes it very easy to take out of the cup after brewing, and it's dishwasher safe! An awesome present, he loves it! Came on time and in great shape, would buy from again." —Sabrina

Get it from Amazon for $16.95 (available in three colors).

Aaaand it has USB ports so you can easily charge your phone.

Promising review: "I LOVE THIS CLOCK!!! The only improvement would be to have the date on there too. But other than that it’s going on my favorite Amazon purchases list. Such a good looking, sleek design, I keep it on the lower brightness which is perfect and if you need a BRIGHT view of time this clock is bright on that setting. Like the USB plug, I have it next to my desk computer set up for when I’m on Zoom and now can keep better awareness of time. I’m ordering another one for my office so just hope the clock will work for the long haul." —Anagev

Get it from Amazon for $21.55 (available in 12 colors)

It even comes with a 32-page booklet about the ~history~ of the tube man. Reviewers note it can go through batteries pretty quickly, so if you plan on using the little dude a lot (and really, who wouldn't?!), get a 9V adapter like this one.

Promising review: "Dear Wacky Waving Inflatable Tube Guy, Thank you for bringing much-needed joy to my tiny, home desk. When I feel a little blue, I switch you on and boop! Like magic, you dance and sway, headbang, and even drop and snap like it's your job. Because, well, I guess it is. You may be tiny, but you're mighty in the fun department. Thank you, Wacky Waving Inflatable Tube Guy, for taking my mind off 2020, even if it's for only a few minutes at a time." —Lindsey

Get it from Amazon for $9.58.

You can order this with or without the sand and rocks. The only thing that you will need to purchase separately is the 2.6-oz. gel fuel cans, which you can get from Amazon.

Promising review: "Absolutely wonderful! It’s a great little addition to our patio and we decided to use Sterno so we can roast marshmallows! We love the craftsmanship on it and think it is well-made! Perfect!!!" —Andrea Lavender

Get it from 1Man1Garage on Etsy for $19.60.

1Man1Garage is a small business based in Nashville, Tennessee.

Brought to you in part by my current Vampire Diaries rewatch.

Promising review: "I purchased this as a gift for my friend who is a fantastic cook--she uses fresh ingredients almost exclusively — but pressing fresh garlic is a task usually delegated. No longer — Gracula is there for her. She uses him nearly every time she needs garlic (which is basically daily) and months later still makes a point of saying how much she enjoys the gift. I'm pretty sure she likes it better than other gifts I've gotten her which were more expensive/thought out, and I'm fairly certain it's what took me from 'good friend' to 'best friend,' but it be that way sometimes. Anyway, definitely recommended for people who cook with garlic and have a sense of humor." —L

Get it from Amazon for $22.95.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.