We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.
Sure, you can call me a picky shopper. I like what I like — and usually, I'll only spend my hard-earned cash on products that I know. If something seems out of the ordinary, I'll put it back on the shelf. But since I've began shopping on Amazon, that's changed. In fact, I've come across so many things gifts that even picky people will love. They're so cool — and, yes, out of the ordinary — that even I can't resist adding to my cart.
I'm referring to stuff like gadgets that cut through cold butter and make it easy to spread, mini spatulas to get every last drop of your beauty products out, essential oil diffusers for your car, and even an all-in-one avocado tool that splits, pits, and slices. Because even though the sky is the limit when it comes to Amazon, there are always a handful of standout items that are sure to make you — or anyone you're buying them for — happy.
That's right: Whether you're shopping for yourself or a “discerning” friend, there are tons of clever products on Amazon that they're sure to love. So what are you waiting for? That diffuser isn't going to buy itself, and neither is the avocado tool.
Why dirty up a knife and spoon preparing avocados when you could just use this handy tool? It's designed to split, pit, and slice your avocados, and the non-slip outside helps you maintain a firm grip. Plus, the pitter is even made from rust-resistant stainless steel.
There's no drilling required to install this smartphone wall mount — just use the included glue and hooks to stick it anywhere you like — even the shower. Pop your phone into the holder and it sits neatly behind a window that’s anti-fog and waterproof, and still touchscreen reactive. It's designed to provide a neat, handsfree viewing experience with nearly any smartphone.
With an ergonomic design that contours to the shape of your neck, this memory foam pillow allows you (or a partner) to thread an arm underneath without it going numb, solving an age-old pillow/spooning issue. And the best part? The arched inner frame, topped with cushy memory foam, promotes proper spinal alignment for excellent snoozing.
For less than $20 while it's on sale, get the new 2020 Lite version of the fan-favorite Fire TV Stick. If you don't need to control your television with the Fire Stick, this affordable little unit has you covered for effortless streaming you can control with your voice. It doesn't just work for Netflix and Prime video, either. Use it to play music, watch live TV, and more. It has a 4.8-star overall rating after more than 18,000 reviews, so you know it's a tried and true option. For another great deal, check out the Fire Stick 4K that comes with a voice-controlled Alexa remote. It's on sale for $39, which is 20% off its original price of $49.
Kick your morning coffee up a notch by frothing up your milk with this electronic whisk. It also works great when mixing batter, whipping cream, or beating egg whites — and since the whisk is made from stainless steel, it's even resistant to rust.
With its unique ergonomic design that helps reduce strain on your wrists, this ice scraper clears away frozen windshields faster and easier than many others. The compact size is perfect for small cars; simply keep it in your glove compartment until your car freezes over.
With 36 bright LED bulbs around the frame, this clip-on ring light helps illuminate your selfies no matter how dark it is where you are. It also works great when streaming or recording video, or even while adding shine to your cosmetic mirrors. Plus, the brightness is adjustable by up to three levels.
Drilling holes into the wall can be a little daunting. Luckily, this rack doesn't require drilling, as the magnets in the back allow you to hang it up on metal surfaces. There's space for two paper towels, spices, jars — and the hooks on the sides let you hang up other tools.
The next time you wake up with tired, puffy eyes, just give your face a few swipes with this ice roller. Not only is it great for helping to reduce inflammation, but many reviewers found that it also helped them get through their migraines.
Add Alexa to your car with the Echo Auto, which syncs to your phone and plays directly through your car’s speakers. Use it to check traffic and weather, stream music, listen to books on Audible, and more — all hands free.
You don't need to bring all your makeup brushes with you when traveling — just grab this compact set. It comes with five interchangeable brush heads as well as two handles. But the best part? The tin it comes packaged in doubles as a handy travel case.
Unlike most lap desks, this one features a slot for your smartphone — and there's even padded space for a mouse. The dual-bolster cushions allow air to flow between your legs to keep you from overheating. Plus, it'll fit any laptop up to 15.6 inches.
Made from high-quality natural rubber latex, these resistance bands are perfect for everything from squats to bicep curls. They range in weight from 3 to 6.7 pounds — and since they're color-coded, it's easy to track your progress as you tone up.
Ever wish you could jot down a few quick notes while you're working? This rectangular dry-erase surface is not only the perfect size for your desk, but it also works as a stand for your keyboard. And since it's made from durable glass, you can easily erase and reuse it as many times as you like.
Expand your Alexa throughout your home with the Echo Dot, which has a shocking 787,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating. It lets you manage smart devices using just your voice — so you can switch on a lamp, dim the kitchen lights, choose a movie to watch, and pump up the thermostat all from the couch if you want.
Not only are the handles made from eco-friendly bamboo, but these toothbrushes also feature bristles that are infused with detoxifying charcoal. They're BPA-free as well as recyclable. And since the bristles are soft and flexible, they easily reach into any hard-to-clean areas.
Simply shine this UV light over any dubious surfaces in your home, and it'll help eliminate up to 99.99% of harmful bacteria. Slowly sweep it across any object or surface you want to clean, from doorknobs to keyboards to public toilets. Its portable size makes it easy for disinfecting at home or on the go.
I'm always forgetting to charge my phone when I go to bed — but if I had this bedside lamp? I'd always have two USB ports where I can easily plug it in. Each order comes with one included LED bulb, and there's even an extra outlet on top for extra gadgets.
Just plug this miniature diffuser into the power outlet of your car, and you'll be able to enjoy your favorite essential oils while driving. The water tank is large enough for about two hours of continuous mist — and it even features two USB ports so you can charge your phone.
By simply popping your feet up on this foot rest, it'll help keep your legs moving while improving your blood circulation. The anti-slip grips on the bottom allow you to roll it back-and-forth without it sliding away, and it's made from sturdy, natural wood — not plastic.
Not only is this tumbler double-wall insulated, but it also features a stainless steel infuser built into the top. Fill it with your favorite blend of tea, or even pack it with loose leaves to create your own custom flavor. One reviewer even wrote that "It's also very sturdy. I've knocked it over twice now and it didn't chip."
There's nothing like taking a bath after a stressful day, and this caddy's tablet stand even lets you watch movies while you soak. The arms expand to fit bathtubs small and large. Plus, there's even a cupholder for you to keep a wine glass.
The Amazon Echo Show is like having a personal assistant that’s always at the ready. Its smart display can play your favorite TV show, function as a digital photo frame, play audiobooks, pull up recipes, or even become a spot for hands-free video calls with loved ones. Almost a quarter million people rate it a whopping 4.7 stars, and it's a solid gift for just about anyone on your list.
Forgetting to turn your webcam off is easy — especially during a busy workday. Why not give yourself some peace of mind with these covers? Once you're ready for a video call, just slide the hatch over so that your camera is visible.
Tired of having to shave away unwanted hair multiple times a week? This epilator can help keep your skin hair-free for up to four weeks. The massage rollers help calm your skin as you remove strands — and many reviewers even wrote about how it's "easy to use."
This microfiber towel wrap from Kitsch makes it easy to swaddle up wet hair with a quick twist. It’s thick and soft, and holds short or long hair neatly out of your face as it gets to work absorbing water. It dries hair faster and more easily than using a standard towel, and is neatly portable if you want to take it on the go.
Cruelty-free and lightweight, these lotions are perfect for anyone who loves fresh fragrances — or even if you simply have dry skin. They're formulated with nourishing shea butter as well as vitamin E. Plus, each order comes with six scents: cherry blossom, lavender, shea almond, rose, jasmine, and peony.
Looking for a gluten-free alternative to pasta? This spiralizer lets you turn vegetables into delicious noodles — everything from zucchini to carrots. The non-slip finger guard helps keep your hands protected from nicks, and the entire gadget dissembles for easy cleaning.
When you've finally grown tired of only using your yoga mat to stretch, why not incorporate this wheel? It's made from high-quality PP material that's durable under pressure. Plus, you have the choice of two colors: purple/pink, or grey/blue.
Get notifications on your phone when motion is detected with this super easy-to-install Blink smart security camera. It also lets you have a conversation over the camera thanks to the two-way audio feature. For less than $25 while it's on sale, it's an easy way to add peace of mind to your home, even if it's just to check on your pet. With more than 40,000 ratings and 4.5 stars overall, it's a popular pick. Want a little more? You can also purchase the Blink Mini camera with an Echo Show 5 for $49.99 (originally $124.98), a savings of 60% for the bundle, too.
Most lint rollers are large and bulky — but not this one. Its slim design allows it to fit into nearly any bag for easy clothes cleanup on the go, and each order comes with 30 sheets. Plus, they're 100% recyclable so that you don't need to worry about their impact on the environment.
With its waterproof design and five different speed settings, this vibrating face brush is great for clearing out dirt from clogged pores. The rechargeable battery lasts for up to 200 uses, and it even helps stimulate blood circulation so that your complexion is left glowing.
Nails, hair pins, screwdrivers, nail clippers — this magnetic block can keep all of those and more looking neat and tidy. The sleek exterior is made from genuine bamboo, while the adhesive backing makes installation a breeze. Plus, it even works great for cleaning up crowded drawers.
When your feet are throbbing and sore after a long day, just run them over this roller. It's designed to mimic the feeling of real fingers as your arches rock back-and-forth, and the dense foam bumps are resistant against collapsing flat.
The all-new Echo Dot is back with a new design, and is seriously discounted while sales last. With all the same features that made the Echo Dot a best-seller, this smart speaker has Alexa built in, can be used as a hub for your smart home devices, can play music, tell you the weather, and so much more. Get it for less than $30 if you act fast.
Not only are these scrunchies covered in soft velvet, but each one also features a hidden pocket where you can stash coins, cash, or even a few extra bobby pins. The zipper blends in with the scrunchie so that it's hardly noticeable, and many reviewers wrote about how they're "super cute."
Condiments, lotions, liquid foundation — these miniature spatulas are slim enough to get every last drop out of practically any bottle. The flexible silicone head contours with the curve of the bottle so that it's easy to scoop everything out. Plus, both spatulas are BPA-free.
I'm always losing stuff between the seats in my car, which is why I stuffed it with a pocket organizer similar to this one. Not only does it keep items from falling in the cracks, but it's also made from high-quality leather that easily wipes clean — just in case of spills.
Just warm these slippers up in the microwave, and the insoles will absorb heat to help your feet stay toasty. They're also great for helping to soothe away aches and pains in sore feet. Plus, you have the option of four colors: light gray, red, pink, or grey.
Collard greens, rosemary, parsley, kale — you name it, and this stripping tool can help remove the leaves from the stems of your favorite greens. The curved edge can also be used to chop up herbs, and one reviewer wrote that it's "so much easier than picking the leaves off."
You'll never have to bend over to tie your shoes with these lock laces, as the strong clasp keeps them firmly in place without any adjusting. They can be set tight enough that you can even wear them while running — and since one size fits all, they're great for kids as well as adults.
If the back of your entertainment center is as messy as mine was, these cable organizer boxes are a must-have. Each order comes with three in varying sizes — they'll fit everywhere from underneath desks to behind your television. They're even ventilated for extra airflow.
Paying for professional microneedling sessions quickly adds up, whereas this derma roller set is available for less than $20. The needles are ultra-tiny, painless, and get to work when you roll the tool gently back and forth over the treatment area. They help exfoliate and awaken skin, while making it easier to absorb serums and lotions.
If you're in a public bathroom that's out of soap, just pull a small soap sheet out from one of these dispensers. Every order comes with four dispensers that each hold 50 sheets of soap (200 in total) — and they're the perfect size to keep in your bag, or even take with you while camping.
Delivering 1200 water pulses per minute with two different pressure modes, this flosser is a must-have for anyone who doesn’t like messing with string flossing. It comes with two flossing tips and is powered by two AA batteries for easy, cordless portability. Use for just one minute a day for a fresher, cleaner mouth.
Even if you aren't using a hair dryer, this brush can help your hair dry faster than others — and is gentle on delicate wet strands. The design allows for more air to flow through when brushing, and the ultra-soft, flexible bristles help reduce breakage. Over 7,000 happy heads rate this a superb 4.8 stars.
Use this applicator to spread lotion around the center of your back, or even use it to reach that itch you just can’t reach to scratch. The handle is 17 inches long so you can get to every corner of your back without having to stretch to hit the right angle. Since the pad isn't absorbent, there's no need to worry about wasting any lotion.
Upgrade your smart setup with the all-new Echo. In addition to its new spherical look, the round device offers impressive sound with a woofer and Dolby audio technology, and it can be controlled by your voice when connected to Alexa. You can stream music and ask questions — and thanks to the built-in Zigbee smart home hub, you even control other smart devices inside your house. With a 4.5-star rating and over 2,500 positive reviews, it's sure to impress.
Available in five different Jedi-accurate shades, these lightsaber chopsticks actually light up — and many reviewers wrote about how they're "easy to hold." While you don't need the force in order to use them, they do require three LR41 batteries — though one set comes included with each order.
By popping your monitor onto this stand, you'll instantly have storage space for pens, phones, notebooks — or whatever else you can fit inside the two drawers. It's able to hold up to 100 pounds, and the bamboo construction is durable yet lightweight.
Just give your glass of red or white a few of these wine drops, and they can help remove the sulfites and tannins in your pour. The formula is gluten-free as well as non-GMO, and each bottle comes with enough for about 55 glasses of wine.
They may look like simple accessories at first, but these bracelets unravel to give you 12 feet of military-grade paracord rope. And if that isn't enough, get this: There are also four other survival tools that come built into them: a fire starter, compass, emergency whistle, and knife.
Rolling up your food bags can still let air leak inside, whereas using these sealers to heat them shut will help keep your snacks fresher for longer. There's also a small hidden blade for slicing open packaging, and they only require two AA batteries (which aren't included).
Don't have enough space for a nightstand? Not a problem — just hook this shelf onto your bed frame. It’s 15 inches long and holds up to 50 pounds, so you can store your books, laptop, and more. There’s a slot for cables so you can easily charge devices, and a cupholder to keep bevvies safe. Plus, the walls around the sides help keep things from slipping off.
Keep one of these slicers on your gift wrap tube, and you'll always have a pair of "scissors" when it's time to package up a gift. They'll also keep your wrap from unraveling when it's in storage. Plus, the blade is securely tucked away to help keep your hands protected as you cut that paper with precision.
These silicone mats are so much more than simple microwave splatter guards. You can wrap them around hot pot handles on the stove or use them to pull out baking trays from the oven. The raised grooves give you a firm grip, and they work great as trivets in a pinch.
Once you've finished chopping up your ingredients, slide them to the end of this cutting board and into the storage slot. It sits high so you don’t have to stoop over while chopping, and storage drawers keep everything neat and safe until ready to be cooked. Two bonus graters let you have your way with cheese and veggies, and a groove in the back prevents chopping juices from messing up the counter.
Don't squint at your phone just to watch a movie — pop it into this screen magnifier so that you can see everything that's going on. It folds down flat for easy storage when you're not using it, and it even works great when gaming. Simply add your own Bluetooth mouse or keyboard, and you're ready to play.
Say bye-bye to torn up toast — this spreading knife has a blade lined with slots that curl cold butter for a smooth spread. There’s a larger slot at the top of the knife if you really want to go HAM with the butter, and the other side works as a regular butter knife. One reviewer calls it “the best thing since sliced bread.”
Don't have a good spot to put your foot up while you're shaving? Just put this foot rest in your shower. It's small enough that it doesn’t crowd your space, and has a convenient compartment for storing your razor, cream, and foot file (drainage grates keep things neat). It’s also great for propping up feet when giving yourself a pedi from the couch.
Don't have space for a bulky water bottle in your bag? Then it's time to upgrade to this sleek alternative. The slim profile easily fits into bags of nearly any size, and the cap is spill-proof so that there's no need to worry about leaks. Choose from four colors: clear, pink, brown, or black.
With an easy-to-install mounting kit that comes included, you can stick this key rack practically anywhere in your house. It features real black amp fabric, as well as genuine rubber piping. But the best part? You also get four guitar plug-style keychains with each order.
This article was originally published on Dec. 18, 2020