30 Things Under $25 That’ll Solve Gross (But Totally Normal) Problems We Can’t Control
Jenae Sitzes / BuzzFeed
The pointed end of the tool is ideal for picking out tangles, the stiff bristles work great at removing dust and dirt, and the bristles at the bottom end of the tool can give your hairbrush a deep clean.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes says: "I finally tried out this tool with my Crave Naturals brush, which I used for (*checks Amazon order history*) TWO YEARS without every doing a deep clean of it. I mean, sure, I would regularly pull out the loose hair and whatever I could get to using my fingers, but there was always this gross layer at the bottom I couldn't reach, and I kind of just tried my best to pretend it wasn't there. LET ME TELL YOU: This tool is genius. With barely any effort, it pulled out that gross, years-old layer of *stuff* at the bottom of my brush (the photo above shows that layer already ~dislodged~ by the tool, right before I pulled it out), and now I don't have to feel disgusting every time I run it through my hair. It actually feels like it's doing a better job of *brushing* now too! Seriously, if you are a human with brushable hair on your head, you need this.
"Note: It's worth giving your hair brush a good rinse with soap after that layer of hair and lint is pulled away! I didn't find it was necessary to soak my brush before using the tool."
Get it from Amazon for $11.95.
BuzzFeed / Emma Lord
Promising review: "This thing is amazing!!! Great for area rugs, carpets, and bare floors. To say I hate sweeping is an understatement, dog hair is always floating away from the pile. This rubber broom is a game-changer, with two labs I always have dog hair to be swept up and this gets the job done without hair floating away. It creates easy-to-sweep-up piles of dirt and dog hair. Seriously just buy it, you won’t regret it." —Trista Tozier
Get it from Amazon for $16.44.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Check out a TikTok of the plug-in fly trap in action.
Promising review: "I can’t say enough wonderful things about these handy little bug catchers! They are simple to use, cheap to refill, and catch a ton of small bugs and flies. I have eight of them now, all around my house! It’s a little gross how many tiny flying insects are around…but it makes me feel a lot better now that I have these!" —Chris H.
Get it from Amazon for $14.97 (comes with the device and two glue cards; also available in larger packs).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Got an outdoor can, the kind the mechanical arm on the garbage truck picks up and tips over, with the lid opening by gravity. Placed this on the inside of the lid, near the hinge to lessen the chances of it being scraped off during emptying and no flies/maggots! No apparent odor, just seems to put a big hurt on the fly party that used to be my trash can (litter box contents, remnants of meat, etc)." —Michael E. Bradley
Get it from Amazon for $9.84.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Awkward Essentials is a small biz!
Promising review: "I was extremely skeptical about this product actually working at first. I saw this on TikTok and started reading the comments, which were all positive reviews, so I decided to try. Let me just say I no longer have to awkwardly run to the bathroom after my fiancé and I do the dirty. This product works!" —brittany simmons
Get a pack of 10 from Amazon for $14.99 (also available in a pack of 20).
This pack contains a reusable handle and five single-use heads that you just remove and dispose of after handling your clogged pipes.
Promising review: "Wow. Best thing ever. Seriously. I have had tweezers and sticks and plumbers and chemicals trying to get my master sink to drain. Plumber even said I need an entirely new faucet to get the drain plug part because they don't sell those separately. Well, I have two sinks, a tub, and shower that all match so that was not a valid solution. Doubt I can find the same model. So I bought this thing, stuffed it down, and pulled up hair and black muck. Did it about eight times quickly, ran the water, went right down the drain. Seriously. This is the best tool ever and the best $20 I have ever spent. Everyone with a sink needs this tool. Seriously." —juliejules
Get a five-pack from Amazon for $19.99.
Each box lasts two months!
Promising review: "For anyone who might be a skeptic, please allow me to put you at ease. If you have hyperhidrosis, meaning it can be 9 degrees outside and you're still sweating under your arms, this product has the potential to change your life. I would sweat THROUGH a sport coat before noon. Enter the Sweat Block product. I've had it for three weeks, and it is life-changing. I DO NOT sweat under my arms anymore. I'm still on the original box that I bought three weeks ago. I had to write a review after I was cleaning the garage today in 85-degree heat...I was sweating through my shirt on my back...BUT NOT MY UNDERARMS. It is amazing!" —Frosty McGee
Get a 10-pack from Amazon for $19.99 (also available in packs of two or three boxes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Mouthwatchers is a small business established by Ronald Plotka, DDS, that specializes in antimicrobial toothbrushes designed to get deeper cleans even patients with "great" dental hygiene might miss with traditional brush and floss routines.
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord loves these: "I use an electric toothbrush usually, but I feel like I'm getting a much more satisfying clean from these?? Especially because I tend to get yellow stains between my teeth no matter *how* much I floss, and these bristles seem to actually target that a lot more effectively."
Promising review: "I absolutely love this toothbrush!! TikTok made me buy it and I will never own anything else again. My teeth feel clean all day long like I went to the dentist but better. I even have a sonic toothbrush and this blows it out of the water. Don’t hesitate…buy this for your teeth!" —Amy
Get a set of two from Amazon for $9.99.
They even come with their own convenient little case. Read more about tongue scraping at Cleveland Clinic.
Promising review: "I recently purchased this tongue scraper, and I must say, it has made a significant difference in my oral hygiene routine. The scraper is easy to use and efficient in removing any buildup on my tongue. I have noticed that my breath stays fresher for longer, and my tongue feels cleaner throughout the day. The scraper is also easy to clean and store, making it a convenient addition to my daily routine. Overall, I highly recommend using a tongue scraper, and this one in particular is a great choice." —Kelsey
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $8.76 (also available in a copper style, various packs, and another shape).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
If you suspect you have tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths), talk to your dentist or doctor! They can perform a physical exam or imaging scan and deliver a diagnosis.
These also come with an LED light to get right to the source of the problem.
Promising review: "I'm in my early 30s and just started getting tonsil stones. Until a few months ago, I never even knew what these things were! Anyway, I've been struggling with cotton buds to fully remove the stones, but I couldn't get rid of them, and they would just come back within the week. I received this and OMFG...best investment ever. No struggle holding my phone as a flashlight while awkwardly poking myself in front of my badly lit bathroom mirror. I sat comfortably at my vanity, used one hand, and removed the whole stone in less than a minute. Why did I not know this was a thing? Why have I been struggling? Get it! Stop struggling, suffering, and awkwardly dealing with this ridiculous condition...trust me." —Wren
Get it from Amazon for $9.93+ (available in two colors and a multipack).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
ChooMee is a small biz based in Northern California that specializes in innovative products to solve everyday feeding challenges.
Promising review: "It's made my life better. I can hand over a pouch to my screaming 1.5-year-old in the carseat while driving and not worry about puree getting everywhere!" —Puking Kitty Gravy Boat
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $9.98 (available in five color combos).
Promising review: "I have very hard water that leaves hard-water buildup and nasty stains. It’s embarrassing to have guests over because the toilets are so gross! I have tried so many products and cleaning solutions — from natural essential oils to harsh chemicals so strong I was lightheaded for the rest of the day. Well, I tried out this pumice stone after reading about it in a BuzzFeed article, and honestly the hype is real! It does take some elbow grease, but it's light enough that I didn’t break a sweat! The stone does get used up, but I think this one should last me a couple of years at least. So if you have embarrassing toilets, try this!" —Stephanie Ray
Get it from Amazon for $9.25 (also available in packs).
Promising review: "I was looking for a dry shampoo that would be easy to use on the go for a trip I was taking. I had no issues taking this through TSA and it was so easy to use on the go. You literally just pat the poof on your scalp and then rub the powder in. I do have black hair so dry shampoo is usually very visible in my hair, but I didn't have any harder time than usual rubbing this powder in. It did a really good job of soaking up all the oil and giving my hair volume. I'm not a fan of the price for the amount that you get, but it is lasting longer than I thought it would. I would definitely recommend and will purchase again." —Teresa
Get it from Amazon for $18 (available in six shades).
Promising review: "This product WORKS! You won’t be disappointed. I used to get embarrassed taking off my flats in my office because they smelled so bad, but not anymore! My work flats make my feet sweaty and this spray helps keep the awful odors away at least four to five days (probably longer but I was so excited I just sprayed my shoes again because I liked the smell haha!) The lemon is strong and the eucalyptus I love, so I would purchase again! Although it will likely last a while! I have a little boy who gets sweaty feet also so I’m sure I’ll soon be using this in his shoes also." —Traeannah Brown
Get it from Amazon for $13.95+ (available individually in three scents, a pack with all three, or a two-pack with their odor-eliminating powder).
Promising review: "This is one of those things that I wish I'd found years earlier. I've suffered from mortifying, stress-induced under-boob sweat for most of my adult life. Also, I'm a lifelong Seattle girl who gets upset when it's warmer than 65 degrees outside. So when I stumbled upon this product, I was curious enough to buy a small pack. And yes, I've come back for MORE! For real, I won't put on a bra without one of these liners now. It absorbs all the moisture from heat and stress. And because it's a really soft bamboo/cotton mix, my skin is finally not feeling tortured under there! To the makers of this ingenious life-changing product: thank you thank you thank you! Sincerely, all the grateful ta-tas you've helped to care for." —Niko
Get a three-pack from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in women's sizes M–XXL and in three colors).
Not only do you get the bottle but also three nozzles (two for adults and one for kids) and a 30-pack of nasal wash salt packs. Read more about nasal rinses and allergies at Mayo Clinic — including important info on using distilled or sterilized water.
Promising review: "I love the design of this. Very practical and easy to use/clean. If you haven't used a Neti pot before, the first time is a lot like getting dunked in a swimming pool. You have to learn to relax your nasal passage and become accustomed to the water flowing from one nostril into your sinuses and then out the other nostril. By your second attempt, this becomes easy. After a week of using this, I noticed my ear canals were clearer. The first use left my nose clean and clear. Seriously, if you are suffering from congestion/allergens, try this (or another Neti pot) out. It is simple logic. Flush your entire nasal passage and reduce allergens. Nothing fancy, just cleaning your pipes." —New to this
Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in three colors).
The kit includes: three attachments (flathead, extendable, and brush), carry bag, filter brush, and spare HEPA filter.
Promising review: "I am a woman who loves a clean car, but with this virus, I can't take my car in to have it cleaned anymore, so now it's up to me, and I hate to clean the inside of my car. I hate taking my large vacuum out to the car, pulling it this way and that, just trying to do a good job. When I came across this wonderful little vacuum, I ordered it. I love it. First it is little and light, but don't let that fool you. It cleans my car in no time, and with that 16-foot cable, I could also clean my trunk without a bit of trouble. Don't get me wrong, I still don't like to clean my car, but I don't hate it anymore. It does a wonderful job." —Coco
Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in two colors, a cordless version, and a version with a light).
Promising review: "OMG this stuff is the best! My nails were damaged, and one nail split down the middle. A week and a half later, it’s completely healed and they are finally growing. I have tried OPI nail repair, but it never worked. I've been trying to get them back to normal, and this is the only stuff that works. Also, cuticle oil helps. Believe me, I’ve tried them all. Two times a day. This stuff works!!! It’s also good for toes. Be patient, your nails will grow.🥰" —80405
Get it from Amazon for $17.99.
Promising review: "I had five awfully painful plantar warts on my foot for about four months. They were all about a 1/4 inch apart on the ball of my foot and I had a massive one under my second toe. It was becoming hard to walk with how painful they were. This was a Hail Mary and it worked phenomenally. The gel coats well right where you apply it. It doesn’t have an awful stench. I applied it every three to four days for a couple of weeks. I noticed the pain was less and less until I didn’t notice any. Last night I was actually able to pull and peel the remains of the dead warts out!! Kinda gross, but kind of cool. Seriously, this product works. If you have annoying warts...this is the answer!!!" —CJ805
Get a kit with the gel and 12 patches from Amazon for $12.89.
Promising review: "I really loved this product. I am currently waiting for a new Invisalign set. My old Invisalign needed to be cleaned. I read the reviews and decided to purchase. OMG it worked! There was a fresh taste and they were clean. I wished I had found this product sooner. I did let them soak overnight only because I had been wearing them for the last four months. Nothing happened to Invisalign; there was no weakness or anything. Just very clean and fresh. If I could have given the product 10 stars I would have." —Lisa R.
Get 120 tablets from Amazon for $18.81.
Promising review: "These laundry detergent cup holders are great. They fit the detergent bottle well with the adjustable screw. The detergent cup now has a nice home for one hand dispensing and there is no longer the dreaded detergent puddle on top of the washing machine." —Jules
Get a set of two from Amazon for $5.99.
Promising review: "After seeing this on BuzzFeed and looking at the reviews along the way, I literally bought this because of another review that said it fixed her muffled iPhone 11. So glad I did!! I had the exact same issue with hearing people on my iPhone 11 and was SO frustrated. But this worked instantly. Stuffed a square of the putty into the very small receiver you hear out of and for the first time in months I can hear people clearly and loudly out of my iPhone without being on speakerphone. I am so happy I don't have to get a new phone. I used them to clean my AirPods as well; it was good to see all the gunk come out despite not having an issue with sound for them. Definitely a great purchase." —jtd
Get a 24-pack from Amazon for $12.99.
Reviewers say they're not only body-friendly but gentle enough to use on your face — even if you have sensitiveoracne-prone skin.
Promising reviews: "I used ONE wipe after playing flag football and I just needed to write a review to share how amazing this product is! Look at the difference — you can see how well it got the three layers of sunscreen off of my face and the dirt off of my legs! And I only used one wipe. It left my skin feeling clean and refreshed. I will be making sure I have some in my workout bag and football bag each time!" —ALT
"I bought these for my son who has athletics first period. He likes these a lot and says he doesn’t stink after using them and he feels clean throughout the day after using them. It does not break his skin out and he’s had no other issues. They are small and individually packed to make it easy to put in his backpack." —Blyn
Get a pack of 10 for $10.99 (also available in three larger packs).
Promising review: "I love the variety of scents that linger long enough to work for the purpose intended. I love giving them as gifts!!!" —AML
Get it from Amazon for $4.79+ (available in six sizes).
Era Organics is a small family-owned business that makes plant-based products targeting a variety of skincare needs.
Promising review: "I think it kind of has an odd but not off-putting smell, if that makes sense. But this nipple cream is the best stuff I have ever used (I've had four kids). This will be a staple baby gift for future reference from me, and if I ever have another I'll be getting this before I deliver. TMI train ahead for sensitive folk: This round of breastfeeding started off awful. She made my nipples so sore and cracked/chapped/blistered (literally had rows of blisters on blisters at one point). It was so bad I was in tears with even a nipple shield. I saw this stuff and tried it. It was night and day. I'm talking near instant relief. In a couple of days I could nurse without the shield and without being brought to tears. Love this stuff!" —Amber
Get it from Amazon for $14.99.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
You'll get one set of refills that will last you up to two months; additional refills are available on Amazon when you run out! You can also try the Little Genie XL and jumbo refills that will last up to four months.
Promising review: "I live on the second floor of an apartment building and I have a 3-year-old son. My cat's litter box is in the living room. I clean the litter box daily and was finding it difficult to take it down to the first floor trashcan daily because I couldn't leave my son alone or was too exhausted after he went to sleep to do so. If I put it in my regular trashcan, it of course smelled up the entire room. I use this daily to get rid of the litter and don't smell a thing. I even asked guests if they smell anything, and I've heard that they can't smell anything at all. I think it works better than my Diaper Genie did. Highly recommend!" —M
Get it on Amazon for $23.99.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
It's best to use this with unscented clumping litter, like Dr. Elsey's, since any litter that has deodorizing properties can mask the smell of this attractant, making it ineffective.
Promising review: "This product works! We took in a kitten several months back and she would use the litter box sometimes, but also was at least once a day peeing on my bed and pooping on the floor beside my bed. I found this, bought it, and on the first night of sprinkling it in her litter box, she used it from there on out. Even with litter changes, I’d still use some just in case. She’s not peed or pooped anywhere else since and I don’t really use it anymore other than here and there, so it’s not just going to waste." —Jessica Benjamin
Get it from Amazon for $10.90 (also available in a pack of three).
Promising review: "Used it on our tubs, toilets, sinks and shower. Compared it to the It Works Bathroom you can get at The Dollar Tree. It took one bottle of this stuff to achieve the same result as three bottles of the It Works. I will buy this again, hands down. I tried the powder, which was good for scrubbing and soaking the tub, but the spray was fantastic for the shower and sink. Just sprayed, walk away for a few minutes and wipe/rinse." —Carrie D.
Get it from Amazon for $10.97.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I bought this product because the needle in my Keurig 2.0 keeps clogging, causing inconsistent brew and taste. These cleaning cups fixed both of my issues, and I especially liked that it was really quick and easy to use. I put the cleaning pod in and ran one cycle, then took the pod out and ran a rinse cycle to clean out any leftover grinds. FAST, EASY, and GREAT results… VERY HAPPY!!" —Corey West
Get a pack of six from Amazon for $9.95 (also available as a 12-pack).
It only takes 15 minutes to clean — just run the water, pour it in, and turn the jets on!
Oh Yuk is a family-owned small business based in Minnesota that specializes in PhD chemist-formulated cleaning products for home appliances, from dishwashers and washing machines to hot tubs and jetted bathtubs.
Promising review: "This stuff is great! We just bought a house and my hubby cleaned the jetted tub twice with a strong bleach solution. I bought this product based on the reviews and tried it after. Look at the crud that came out of the jets. Now our tub is all sparkly and clean! 😊" —Becky
Get it from Amazon for $17.84.
The reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
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