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Novelty items often get a bad rap. They're seen as frivolous, gimmicky, and destined for a dusty corner of your junk drawer. But what if we told you that some of these quirky gadgets and seemingly useless trinkets actually hold the key to solving everyday problems and making life a little bit easier? Prepare to be amazed as we unveil 24 one-trick ponies that are surprisingly useful for everyday life. Get ready to discover hidden potential in the most unexpected places and learn how to turn those novelty items into indispensable tools.

 Automatic Pill Dispenser With 28-Day Electronic Medication Organizer: Simplify Your Medication Routine And Stay On Track

Review: "I bought this pill dispenser for my 91 yo mother with memory issues. It has helped sooo much. I feel so much better since she started using it. It was easy to set up and maintain. Easy to dispense the pills and only the ones needed. It locks so no one can get in it and take pills out on order or extras." - Terri Mahoney

Amazon.com , Just another reviewer Report

Greymom
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is 69.99 on Amazon, not 9.99

Stannous Flouride
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You can use the light gray 'Report' button at the lower right of a post to get stuff corrected and they're pretty good about fixing it. I already did this one.

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Glitcher
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These have never been $9.99, not on Amazon or anywhere else.

Kipper
Community Member
1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

$119.99 if you have the bad luck to be north of the border!

RELATED:
    #2

    Extend The Life Of Your Favorite Shoes With Self-Adhesive Inside Shoe Repair Patches

    Extend The Life Of Your Favorite Shoes With Self-Adhesive Inside Shoe Repair Patches

    Review: "I destroy the inside heels of my shoes, and I put these on when I get a new pair and it makes them last so much longer. The adhesive is very strong, doesn't wiggle, and the material is soft. I have used them to patch a hole on this inside, it worked perfectly. I've bought two sets now. Highly recommend!!" - Rylee

    Amazon.com , Lauren Yoder Report

    Owen
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think these things could fix a lot of clothes...

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    Splash Without Worry: Waterproof Shoe Covers For Rainy Day Adventures

    Review: "I got this because it not worth to buy pricey rain boot. When I saw this product that can cover my running shoe. Also, easily to fold up to pack in my suitcase. Save tons of space. I walk all over it and I have no issue at all. Like slipping, tripping, or other. Thumb up!" - Jon5793

    Amazon.com , Victoria A. Wolfe Report

    atheist_cleric
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Used to be called "Rubbers". Cheaper to replace than the shoes.

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yup. My dad used to have some when I was a kid that he'd wear over his dress shoes when it rained. We also use them in horseback riding to keep our boots clean if it's mucky at shows. I used one to extend the life of a paddock boot that had a hole in it too. They don't come up as high as the ones in this pic - they just go over the bottom of the foot part. Tingley is the brand most of us use.

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    Deborah B
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    these are going to get holes in so fast.

    #4

    This Ain't Your Grandpa's Canary In A Coal Mine! The Indoor Air Quality Meter Chirps Up When Your Air Needs A Refresh

    This Ain't Your Grandpa's Canary In A Coal Mine! The Indoor Air Quality Meter Chirps Up When Your Air Needs A Refresh

    Review: "Super easy to set up and it works! We set our up and after charging it and mounting it the bird fell down. We opened windows and about 10 minutes later the bird went upright. People have commented how cool it look, going to buy as a gift for a family member as well." - M English

    Amazon.com , Off-Grid Family , semina Report

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is totally BS science. And a rip off.

    Truice Zer0
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    $189 to tell you to open a window? What happened to... "Man I could use some fresh air!" #opens-window 🤦‍♀️

    Garth
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I know it's time to open a window after a beans and burrito dinner when my plants droop......🤣

    Kipper
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    $281.57 😱. Just open a window when it feels stuffy.

    Anonymous
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sheesh, that's most of the way to a PurpleAir sensor to record and report air quality for the worldwide map they run. Or you could buy a coway air filter for around that much and actually do something about particulates (not CO2 concentration though).

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     Quick-Release Bug Catching Tool & Magnifier: Observe Creepy Crawlies Up Close, Then Set Them Free!

    Review: "You know the feeling where you want to get a bug out of the house and need to find a shoe or tissue to get them? Well this magical device comes to the rescue providing a way to make sure you get them and can put them wherever you want. Perfect for spiders!" - Mikkel Leslie

    Amazon.com , Alex , A.C. Wood Report

    Karizma Kaliko
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They used a brown recluse for a model for a bug catcher?? 🤣🤣🤣

    Deborah B
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    House spiders shouldn't be put outside. They die.

    BSteel13
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oof! the spider in that pic is a brown recluse! Hopefully they are just showing the kiddos or something which ones to avoid. Does look like they're outside so. Neat idea!

    Owen
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I just wear some gloves. And they don't cost 14.99.

    Cass Malone
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wouldn't have saved THAT spider though

    m.w.
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wasps shouldn't venture inside. They die.

    Suzanne Thielke
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Simply spray with a liquid (like glass cleaner). It weighs them down, they fall, and ZAP!

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    #6

    Ditch The Fear Of Fingertips And Embrace The Versatility Of The Once For All Safe Mandoline Slicer

    Ditch The Fear Of Fingertips And Embrace The Versatility Of The Once For All Safe Mandoline Slicer

    Review: "This device is definitely worth it. It can slice vegetables so fast! You can adjust the thickness or Julian them. I feel it’s safe so you won’t injure yourself. The feet suction to the work space. It’s easy to clean and stores well.
    Five stars!!" - Jill

    Amazon.com , Random Guy , Fatemeh Panahi Report

    Blesson Martin
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Fear of fingertips? Would hate to be that person

    A RS
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    As someone that sliced a large portion of my finger off while using a mandolin, I have a deep fear FOR my fingertips when slicing and dicing food!

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    Garth
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ahh, the days of Ron Popeil and the VegiMatic.....order in the next 30 minutes and we'll throw in the extra slicing blades.....but wait.... there's more....😁

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     Collapsible 2-In-1 Salad Spinner & Colander Strainer: Spin, Drain, And Store - The Space-Saving Solution For Salad Lovers

    Review: "Was looking for a simple way to wash and spin lettuce and this is great. Also use it with veggies. Best thing is it doesn’t take up a huge amount of space for storage. Just don’t overload it. But super clever design." - ABB

    Amazon.com Report

    Garth
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Just like the old Salad Spinner.

    #8

    Ignite Your Child's Inner Engineer With An Interactive Marble Run Stem Accredited Toy

    Ignite Your Child's Inner Engineer With An Interactive Marble Run Stem Accredited Toy

    Review: "These are amazing! You can build and rebuild a bunch of different ways. Really fun figuring out different ways to make the inclines work for distance and my son (8) can play with this by himself for hours, but I actually enjoyed doing it with him too." - Bren S.

    Amazon.com , Sheryl C , umair Report

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    But don't let their playful appearance fool you! These next few items might seem like mere novelties, but they pack a punch when it comes to tackling everyday tasks. Get ready to discover the hidden talents of these unassuming gadgets and how they can make your life easier.

     Salad Chopper With Bowl: Chop Your Way To A Perfect Salad In Seconds!

    Review: "I bought this since my husband loves chopped salads. It is quality and fun to use. The bowl is also an attractive serving piece. I told several people about it and they plan to purchase the set for themselves" - Judith M. Silvasy

    Amazon.com , Lyn Report

    Bianca Saville
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    wow. it automatically adds the ingredients too.

    Garth
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Stab it 23 times and you have a..... Caesar Salad.....🤣

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     Ergonomic Kneeling Chair: Because Sitting Shouldn't Feel Like A Workout For Your Back

    Review: "I did lots of online research prior to my NYPOT kneeling chair purchase! I am SOOOO happy with it! It is comfortable, supportive, perfect height, and keeps my abs and posture properly engaged while working in my Art Room! It was a bit difficult to assemble, but my husband did a great job!" - Laura Errera

    Amazon.com , Jessie T , Jessica Wood Report

    Garth
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This has always looked like either a birthing stool, an art form, or a torture device sold by IKEA

    Jenna Logan
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have to say that looks uncomfortable:/

    burncreek
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Had a similar chair years ago and yes, while it’s good for your back your knees will give in eventually 😔

    Lauren Moore
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My dad's secretary had one of those in the 80s!

    Julie Vrs
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    looks like king edward VII's 'love' chair 😭

    #11

    Stay Cool In Any Situation: The Versatile Folding Telescopic Fan Adapts To Your Needs

    Stay Cool In Any Situation: The Versatile Folding Telescopic Fan Adapts To Your Needs

    Review: "This is the best portable fan ever. I have to have a fan to take with me for traveling and this fan is 1000% better than any others I’ve tried. Keeps a charge for a really long time! Works great on all speeds. Light is great. It’s super cute and the carry bag is great. Made really well and doesn’t feel like it will break." - Lexi Brumley

    Amazon.com , Antonio DeLaCruz Report

    Glitcher
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You can get similar ones for much less.

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    #12

    From Tangled Mess To Tidy Success: Cable Management Kit For A Stress-Free Setup

    From Tangled Mess To Tidy Success: Cable Management Kit For A Stress-Free Setup

    Review: "I wanted to keep the cable management clean under my desk, but I didn’t want a massive cage, these work perfectly to keep the cables hidden while staying sleek and out of sight" - Drake Buffington

    Amazon.com , Amazon Customer , AZ shopper Report

    Truice Zer0
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They have these of all sizes at your local Lowe's or home Depot... Probably better bang for your buck as well...

    Owen
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Use cable ties? I guess it depends on the setup.

    Robert Whitford
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't need them if you only run one wire though, WOW

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     Typhoon Match Kit: The Only Matches That Laugh In The Face Of Mother Nature

    Review: "Extremely highly recommended! Excellent for lighting your tinder if it’s slightly damp, or in breezy conditions. Great addition to my fire starting kit for camping. Be prepared!!!" - Joe P, Georgia USA

    Amazon.com Report

    David Brown
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have these and they're much better than a lighter. If it's pouring rain they light like it's a sunny day. Lighters don't stand a chance against these.

    Anonymous
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Close the lid, don't accidentally light them all!

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     Stainless Steel Oil Filter Pot: The Must-Have Kitchen Tool For Healthier, Tastier Fried Food

    Review: "What's not to love about the most convenient way to do small deep frys? 1-2 person french fry servings just got so much easier to make randomly! If you're considering this, buy it you'll love it!" - Matt

    Amazon.com , Ines Report

    Anonymous
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ffs something that small is begging for a boil-over fire. No thanks.

    D Gibson
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Deep oil frying at home is way too dangerous , imo.

     Air Pressure Pump Bottle Opener Set: Pop Bottles Like A Pro, No Corkscrew Muscles Required

    Review: "I saw this advertised and had to try it. The price is really nice for all that you get. I've used all the items, the opener is very easy to use, and the corks come right out! I like the wine aerator, and the seal cutter too. Great value." - C. J. Saute

    Amazon.com , Arrit Gashi , Vicky Report

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    #16

    Say Goodbye To Burnt Bottoms And Hello To Perfectly Cooked Dishes With An Automatic Pot Stirrer

    Say Goodbye To Burnt Bottoms And Hello To Perfectly Cooked Dishes With An Automatic Pot Stirrer

    Review: "Cooking Chili which is thick and heavy. Simmered at 195 to 200 degrees for 1.5 hrs. Worked better then expected. It is adjustable to center in all different size pots and extra stir for higher volumes." - George

    Amazon.com , Dom Report

    Glitcher
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's super expensive when you could just set a 5 minute timer and read a book.

    Now that we've explored some practical problem solvers, it's time to delve into the realm of the truly unexpected. These next few novelty items might raise an eyebrow or two, but their surprising usefulness will have you wondering, "what next?" Get ready to discover even more clever gadgets and gizmos that will have you reaching for your credit card!

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     Full Body Non-Slip Bath Pillow: Your Bath Time Just Got A Whole Lot More Comfortable

    Review: "This product is a dream come true. Makes taking a bath more comfortable. The fabric is soft yet provides just the right amount of spongy cush, so it's a pleasure to relax. The pillow is perfect and just the right thickness to cushion the head. Easy to remove and hang up to dry. Very pleased." - Susan

    Amazon.com , Itsjustme , Nicquel Report

    Angel
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ahhh yes, make it that much easier for me to fall asleep in the bath... sounds dangerous. I need it

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     Rock Shape Hidden Key Holder: The Sneaky Safe That's Right Under Their Nose (Or Foot!)

    Review: "This key hide-away will blend in perfectly among other river rocks. Its texture is slightly sticky, so when you sprinkle sand over it, it looks like the real thing. Even knocking on it doesn't reveal that it's a fake rock." - Amazon Customer

    Amazon.com , Jane A , Amazon Customer Report

    Mandy Groshong
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Gonna look real conspicuous at the door of my third floor walk-up

    Garth
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Now the world knows to look for this rock...

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    Bamboozled By Foot Pain? Let The Shiatsu Foot Massager With Heat Knead Away Your Worries

    Review: "This is an amazing product that felt like heaven on my feet and legs. I use this with the magnesium mist and my magnesium body butter from Pura Vida Chicas and it is just the icing on the cake for me being on my feet all day every day!!!" - Amazon Customer

    Amazon.com , Shree Report

    Julie Vrs
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    the couple on the left sharing it xD

    Sassycat7777
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But does something look a little off about the one person using it? The bend in the leg? Ah maybe it's just me...

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    Bloobee bloobee bloo bloo bloo
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This has been in my Amazon cart for a couple years now. I just can’t bring myself to spending the money on it

     Electric Food Warming Tray: Keep Your Dishes Deliciously Warm, Even When You're Running Late

    Review: "Extremely happy with this food warmer! It's a game-changer for keeping my meals warm and fresh for hours indoors and makes outdoor get togethers easier. The temperature control is precise, the design is sleek and compact, and the cleaning is a breeze. Highly recommend!" - Amit khattar

    Amazon.com , Marina Report

    Ka Se
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Keeping the meals "warm" for hours could be, depending on the temperature, be a health hazard.

    D Gibson
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Just cool the food and refrigerate it until the late person gets home. When the person is ready let them reheat the food. Warming trays can be faulty and the improper temp. causes bacteria growth. Don't risk food poisoning.

    Glitcher
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The FDA recommends not leaving cooked food out for longer than 2 hours. After that, it's safer to toss it.

    Garth
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I should get one for my wife....when I have been out with my buds and get home late she always leaves the sweetest notes...."Went to the movies....Dinner is on the stove, you just need to lite it...the gas is already on..."

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     Flat Water Bottle: Stay Hydrated Without The Bulky Bottle Bulge

    Review: "The shape makes this perfect to place in the pocket of the seat in front of you. No more constantly begging for mini cups of water from the flight attendants or having to deal with a bottle thar doesn't really fit anywhere. The material is nice and sturdy as well." - Mr. M

    Amazon.com , Babur , Kateryna Vohra Report

    Truice Zer0
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Where are you guys flying to and from that let's you bring your own water?! TSA throws that ish away here

    Anonymous
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Many airports have water filling stations. Even the ones that don't have them usually have a bathroom.

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     Toothpaste Squeezer Rollers: The Must-Have Tool For Frugal Brushers And Neat Freaks Alike!

    Review: "You need this if you hate when toothpaste is squeezed from the top or middle of the tube. This is a great little product that is simple to use and keeps the tube upright so toothpaste doesn’t get on the countertop." - Goodtoo

    Amazon.com , Rhea Garcia , Sharon L.Cee Report

    Stewart Nagle
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or just squeegee it against the edge of the counter for free!

    D Gibson
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There is a key that is much cheaper and works perfectly.

    Megan
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I actually really like this one. It's sturdy enough that it stands upright when toothpaste is low. It's easy enough for my kids to use. Easy to clean. It replaced me using old bobby pins to roll down a tube over and over.

     Professional Electric Knife Sharpener: From Dull To Dazzling In Seconds!

    Review: "Great product and easy to use. After trying to use various sharpening stones I bought this unit and was amazed at how sharp I could get the knives. Definitely worth the money." - Bruce

    Amazon.com , Paul D. Report

    Glitcher
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I recently got a version of this. Make sure the brand you choose (mine was half this price) has suction cup feet so it doesn't slip when you pull your knives through it

    D Gibson
    Community Member
    1 year ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It is always better to have high quality knives professionally sharpened by the friendly local butcher.

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     Portable Outdoor Flip Chair: Your Pool Party's MVP (Most Valuable Perch)

    Review: "This exceeded my expectations for a pool ledge seat. Sturdy yet comfortable, not to mention light with a built in handle to move it around. Strong bolts make it easy to open and shut, but give a solid feel when using. Perfect for relaxing on the "EDGE" with getting in." - CTD

    Amazon.com , MomofThree Report

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