Entertainment
28 Multi-Use Products On Amazon That Are Basically Life Hacks
Figuring out a truly good life hack is one of those things that, once it happens, can make you see the whole world in a totally different light. That's sort of what discovering these multi-use products on Amazon for the first time is like, too.
From a hair clip that doubles as a multi-tool to a blender that turns into a to-go bottle, buying stuff that has more than one purpose is a great way save space, time, and money. Hell, some of these multi-use products even find ways to make tedious tasks easier, too. And while an umbrella with a flashlight for a handle might seem like a gimmick, these weird but genius inventions are backed up by rave reviews from Amazon users who swear these products are indeed life-changers.
Want to find ways to simplify ordinary tasks and maybe save a little money along the way? You don't have to spend hours searching for life hack tips online. All you need are a few of the items included in this slideshow. Each product is so much more than meets the eye and can help ensure that no matter what life throws at you, you have the tools to come out on top.
1. This Two-Sided Makeup Brush That's Great For Highlighting And Contouring
CLOTHOBEAUTY Pro Duo Makeup Brush, $13, Amazon
Featuring a rounded end on one side and an angled end on the other, this double-sided brush will seriously pull its own weight in your makeup bag. The rounded side features straight and wavy fibers for powder application and highlighting, and the angled side features wavy fibers for applying bronzer or blush to the cheekbones. And it's not just convenient for tossing in your toiletry bag either; it's also a high-quality brush. The synthetic vegan bristles are dense and — according to dozens of reviews — ultra soft.
2. A Simple-Looking Silicone Hot Pad That's Actually The Ultimate Kitchen Accessory
Love This Kitchen Silicone Hot Pad, $12 (Set of 2), Amazon
At first glance, this silicone hot pad may not look like anything special, but it's actually its simplicity that makes it so versatile. Made from flexible, mildew-resistant silicone that's heat-resistant up to 442 degrees Fahrenheit, the pad functions as a trivet, pot holder, spoon rest, jar opener, and so much more. Every small detail serves a unique purpose, from the textured surface which is perfect for ensuring a tight grip for unscrewing a tight lid to the slightly raised edge that creates a wall to contain liquid messes.
3. A BBQ Multi-Tool That'll Make A Pit Master Out Of Anyone
KOVOT 6-in-1 BBQ Multi-Tool, $22, Amazon
Whether you consider yourself a pit master or you're a total beginner, this six-in-one BBQ multi-tool will seriously up your grilling game. It functions as a bottle opener, grill scraper, spatula, serrated knife and has a flashlight and an extendable set of tongs. Plus, it's made from durable stainless steel, so it's built to last.
4. This Extremely Versatile Food Cutter And Cutting Board That'll Change The Way You Prep In The Kitchen
Rose Kuli Food Cutter with Cutting Board, $12, Amazon
This multi-functional kitchen utensil primarily functions as a pair of high-powered kitchen scissors with a built-in cutting board but it also features a bottle opener and vegetable peeler. The stainless steel blades of this clever tool are rust-proof and won't tarnish over time the way other kitchen knives can. This is basically like getting six different kitchen tools in one handy gadget, so it will save you both space and money.
5. A Two-Sided Memory Foam Pillow With A Gel Insert That'll Keep You Cool All Night Long
Classic Brands Cool Gel and Memory Foam Pillow, $37, Amazon
Perfect for hot sticky nights as well as chillier ones, this reversible pillow features a cool-gel insert on one side and memory foam on the other side. Unlike the fleeting relief of the fickle "cool side of the pillow" that so many of us turn to in desperation in the middle of the night, this gel insert actually regulates your body temperature, disperses heat, and promotes airflow to help keep you comfortable for hours. When you aren't looking for reprieve from the heat, the soft yet supportive memory foam cradles your head and holds your neck and shoulders in an optimal sleeping position. Plus, the pillow has a 5-inch loft, which makes it good for side, stomach, and back sleepers.
6. A Two-Sided Eyeliner That Makes Doing Your Eye Makeup Easier
Vogue Effects Eyeliner Stamp, $13 (2 Pack), Amazon
Featuring a traditional fine-tipped eyeliner pen on one side and a stamp for creating a winged-effect on the other side, this dual-sided pen is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy way to do their makeup. And it's not just a gimmick, with a near-perfect five-star rating on Amazon, this eyeliner is one of the most popular options on the site. All you have to do is line up the stamp from the corner of your eye to the end of your eyebrow to create the same wing on each side. Then you can use the fine-tipped pen to line the rest of your eyelids.
7. This Two-Piece Bowl For Prepping And Serving Snacks
Home and Above Bowl and Drainer Set, $20, Amazon
This bowl and drainer set is just what you need when you're serving fruits, veggies, and other snacks. The inner bowl of this simple but cute accessory has strainer-style drain holes in the bottom, which make it easy to wash fruit and veggies. Once you shake it all off, you can place the inner bowl back inside the larger one. The bottom features four corners, where you discretely discard seeds, nut shells, and other uneaten parts of a snack.
8. A Water Bottle That Doubles As A Wallet
Contigo Kangaroo Water Bottle with Storage Compartment, $13, Amazon
Perfect to take to the gym, beach, or on a run, this water bottle doubles as a wallet for your essentials. It's BPA-free and the lid automatically seals between sips to prevent leaks. It also comes with a carabiner so you can attach it to your bag or belt.
9. This All-In-One Shaving Kit That's Perfect For Travel
Sphynx All-In-One Travel and Portable Razor, $18, Amazon
Compact and safe to carry in a bag, purse, or carry-on, this airport-friendly portable travel shaving kit is perfect for shaving on-the-go. It comes with a refillable water spritzer, pre-shave moisturizing bar, and two individual razor blades, all in one handheld device. To switch between the spritzer, moisturizing bar, and blades, simply twist the knob on the front, and when you're done, put the cap back on and pop back in your bag.
10. An Emergency Tool So You'll Be Prepared For Literally Anything
LaySun Car Emergency Tool, $10, Amazon
Unexpected accidents and emergencies can happen all the time, but when you have a multi-functional preparedness tool, you may be able to manage those setbacks more easily than you would have otherwise. It features a whopping 12 tools, including a screwdriver, ice pick, saw, emergency flash beacon, and so much more. Reviewers say this surprisingly affordable gadget is a lifesaver, literally, and that the glass hammer and stainless steel seatbelt cutter functionality can be vital in the event of a serious vehicle collision.
11. This Over-The-Sink Cutting Board That Has A Colander
Good Cooking Over-the-Sink Cutting Board, $28, Amazon
Not only will this cutting board add counter space to a tiny kitchen by turning your sink into prime real-estate, but it also doubles as a strainer. It extends to fit most kitchen sinks, comes with a removable silicone colander with a stainless steel rim, and is perfect for chopping and rinsing ingredients before cooking. Plus, since this is also made from BPA-free silicone and is dishwasher safe, it's easy to maintain.
12. A Three-In-One Curling Iron Brush That's Suitable For All Hair Types
SwanMyst Curling Iron Brush, $30, Amazon
This ultra-convenient three-in-one styling tool features a bristled barrel to comb your hair while you curl or straighten it. As if that didn't make it enough of a timesaver, it also heats up to 430 degrees Fahrenheit in a mere 30 seconds, so you can get your hair done and be out the door in no time. Plus, it's made with ceramic, tourmaline, and ionic technology to help enhance your hair's shine.
13. This Tool Set That Makes It Easier To Open Jars, Cans, And Bottles
Lovatic Multi-Jar Opener, $15, Amazon
Opening jars, cans, and bottles is about to get a whole lot easier with this multi-jar opener, which works on everything from bean cans to water bottles and so much more. Ideal for those with arthritis and gripping issues, all you need to do is place the can lid opener onto the lid at the appropriate size, twist, and voila, it should easily open the seal sans any slippage. It also has tools to aid in opening various types of tabbed cans as well as features a classic bottle opener. "This opener has really helped eliminate the frustration [of opening lids]," wrote one reviewer. "It works great and so versatile due to all the size options. Highly recommend."
14. A Weird But Brilliant Travel Pillow That Doubles As An Eye Mask
Wrap-a-Nap Travel Pillow, $25, Amazon
Block out light (plus distractions) with this innovative travel pillow, which is made with plush fleece and a down-alternative filling to deliver incredible softness as you snooze. This adjusts to fit the shape of your head and can help turn any surface into a pillow. It also delivers lumbar support and attaches to a tote or pack, so you can travel with it anywhere.
15. This Multi-Cooker That Can Do Anything From Deep Fry To Steam
Presto Kitchen Kettle Multi-Cooker, $25, Amazon
Whether you love making soups, casseroles, or fresh veggies and rice, this multi-cooker is the convenient and hands-off way to cook dinner while you go about your day. It deep fries up to six servings and comes with a versatile basket, which you can snap on for deep frying, steaming, and blanching.
16. A Travel Steamer That Also Has An Ironing Function
Aicok Clothes Steamer, $40, Amazon
Steamers are great for releasing wrinkles quickly but they can't aways provide the freshly pressed appearance an iron can. Enter: this steamer and iron hybrid that not only combines these two appliances but is sized for travel. It heats up in 15 seconds and the steamer can run continuously for up to 12 minutes.
17. A Surprisingly Versatile Silicone Whisk That Will Save Space In Your Kitchen Drawers
Smartpan Silicone Whisk, $12, Amazon
This may look like your standard silicone whisk, but unlike most whisks, it can be adjusted to four different sizes. This makes it easier to store and more convenient to use. It's flexible, BPA-free, and made from a soft silicone that won't scratch your pots and pans. Plus, you can expose it to heat up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
18. This Windproof Umbrella That Comes With A Flashlight In The Handle
M&M² Travel Umbrella, $21, Amazon
An invention so brilliant I can't believe I never thought of it before, this umbrella features a flashlight for a handle. Angled and featuring LED lights, the flashlight handle is perfect for navigating dark inclement weather, and with the addition of reflective strips on the edges of the umbrella, it's a must-have if you ever find yourself walking along the side of the road in the rain. The ribs of this are made with flexible fiberglass, which adds resilience. It also folds down to 12 inches and is easy to store in a bag or in the car.
19. A Multi-Tool That That's Small Enough To Carry Right In Your Hair
Monkey Business Mini Multitool Clip, $10, Amazon
It looks just like a hair clip, but what's amazing about this mini tool clip is that it has such incredible versatility. This tool works as a serrated knife, box cutter, screwdriver, ruler, nail file, scraper, and bottle opener. Oh, and a hair clip, obviously! Basically, it's like carrying an entire toolkit right in your hair, so you'll be really ready for anything.
20. This Pack Of Silicone Sponges That Reviewers Say Are A Must-Have For Cleaning
JJ Company Silicone Sponges, $11 (7 Pack), Amazon
Scrub away set-in stains and bid stinky sponges goodbye with these cool silicone sponges, which are far tougher and longer-lasting than traditional sponges. They can even help penetrate a variety of surfaces to get hardened substances to loosen up. But despite their ability to lift stubborn messes, they won't scratch porous surfaces or pots and pans. But that's not all they do, reviewers say that in addition to helping make cleaning easier, these also work great as coasters and pot holders.
21. A Vegetable Peeler And Slicer That Can Handle All Your Produce-Prepping Needs
Joseph Joseph Rotary Vegetable Peeler, $9, Amazon
This rotary peeler comes with three stainless steel blades — including a standard, serrated, or Julienne option — which you can use to peel to perfection. For potatoes and carrots, reviewers recommend using the standard blade while tomatoes and kiwis are a better fit for the serrated blade. If you're trying to get thin matchstick strips, you'll want to use the Julienne blade, and since you just have to unclip it when you're done, cleaning up is super easy.
22. These Weird-Looking Claw Gloves That Are Actually Great For Gardening
Inf-way Garden Genie Gloves, $8, Amazon
These gardening gloves will fit you like a second skin, and that's part of their appeal. Made from latex and breathable nylon, these claw-like gloves are weird looking, but they are actually awesome because the built-in claws allow you to dig and plant without hand tools. One size fits all with these waterproof and puncture resistant gloves, which are also secure enough that they'll protect your hands from a lot of common injuries while gardening.
23. A Cooling Band That You Can Wear In 12 Ways
Chill Pal Cooling Band, $12, Amazon
Whether you're golfing, gardening, exercising, or just sweating because it's hot, overheating can be a serious problem. With this cooling band, however, you can stay chill even while the mercury rises. To start, just soak this in cold water, then wring it out and give it a snap to activate the cooling function. When it dries out, all you need to do is dampen it again.
24. These Non-Stick Mats That Makes Grilling Even Easier
Grill Mat, $8 (Set of 5), Amazon
Instead of overcooking or using a lot of oils or fats to grill, you should try these grill mats. Whether you have an electric or charcoal grill, these mats ensure heat is distributed evenly and food turns out delicious. They won't scrape or scrub grates, and since they're heat resistant up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, these mats are ideal for cooling everything from steak to burgers and kabobs.
25. A Collapsible Lantern That's Great For Camping, Hiking, And Other Outdoor Adventures
Survival Frog Collapsible Lantern, $20, Amazon
This lantern charges via solar power and collapses down into a disc you can easily pop in your purse, but what makes it really useful is that is doubles as a smartphone and tablet charger. It also has an SOS signal making it a must-have for any emergency preparedness kit.
26. This Portable Blender For Scrumptious Smoothies On-The-Go
TOWABO USB Juicer Cup, $35, Amazon
Both a blender and a to-go bottle, this portable blender makes whipping up a smoothie or a juice quick and easy. Simply add your desired ingredient, turn it on, and when your drink is ready, pop the cup off and walk out the door. Plus, it charges via USB for maximum convenience.
27. An All-In-One Fur Remover And Lint Brush That Pet Owners Will Love
Evriholder FURemover Broom with Squeegee, $5, Amazon
For pet owners, getting cat or dog hair all over the place is basically par for the course. But with this brilliant two-sided brush you can both brush your pet and remove pet hair from clothes and upholstery. The thick bristle side is perfect for grooming both long and short-haired pets while the fine bristle side lifts not only pet hair but even lint from furniture and fabric.
28. This Suction Cup Reacher With Endless Uses
Vive Suction Cup Grabber, $15, Amazon
This isn't the sexiest purchase you'll ever make in your life, but when you're nestled deeply in bed or on the couch and don't want to get up, you'll really appreciate this practical little suction cup grabber. Lightweight and durable, it can add 32 inches to your reach, so you can grab things on a coffee table or behind tight places just out of reach — the uses are endless.
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