35 Products You Never Think To Get Until You Need Them

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.

Most of these products help keep our days on track. That is, if we have them in the first place.

BuzzFeed Staff

Promising review: "This is a great product! I travel the highways quite a bit for work, so I pick up a lot of bugs....especially during love bug season, which are very difficult to get off. This is the only bug wash that I've found that works like it says it should!" —Brian Allison

Get it from Amazon for $17.38 (also available in a two-pack).

Promising review: "I’m a teacher of many sweet little kids that will ask nonstop questions whenever I sport a Band-Aid. I like how these darker skin tone ones blend better with my skin so it's not as noticeable. I read from other reviews that the bandages tend to be a little lighter than pictured on the box, so I took that into account when selecting which shade to get. Overall, I’m happy with my purchase (pictured above, right)!" —Danielle

Get it from Amazon for $3.99 (available in several skin tones and styles).

Promising review: "We love the fact that these are unbleached. Our freshly brewed coffee and fresh ground beans still hit the mark of flavor. I’m a first-time buyer and now sold on these." —Leo

Get a pack of 200 from Amazon for $8.99 (also available in white and a 500-pack).

Promising review: "I've been using these paper towels for six months, and I'm very happy with them. They're strong, absorbent, and soft. I also like that they're quick-size, so I can grab a sheet without having to unroll the whole roll. I would definitely recommend these paper towels to anyone looking for a high-quality product." —A. Floyd

Get it from Amazon for $32.12.

One roll of these is gonna clean up messes that'd otherwise take 60 ROLLS of paper towels to tackle.

Promising review: "I've had these bamboo towels for a month now and am incredibly impressed with their performance! They're much larger than a regular paper towel, thicker, softer and more absorbent. I've washed the first ones I've torn off the roll several times now and they DO survive the laundry and perform just as well afterward. I've only used five bamboo towels this month, washed them and re-used. Several times. I would have been through a whole roll of Brawny by now. One caveat...when you wash them, you're supposed to air dry them, so I haven't sent any through the dryer. And I haven't needed to, because allowing them to air dry has not affected the quality of the towels when I 're-roll' them!" —A. Clark

Get a roll from Amazon for $9.99.

"The key difference between the original Dawn dish liquid and Dawn Powerwash is the addition of alcohol. While many of these recipes are calling for isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol to turn OG Dawn dish liquid into Powerwash, the real secret to Dawn's formula is more likely to be ethanolamine, an amino alcohol frequently used in soaps, detergents, and cosmetics for its ability to cut through dirt, grease, etc. With that said, I will not be experimenting with making my own at home and will stick to buying the stabilized product that I know works.

In addition to breaking down grease and grime on my dishes, the fresh scent of the dish spray smells fantastic. Some people complain about it smelling strong due to the addition of alcohol, but from my experience, it's only so strong if you spray it directly under your nose." —Mika Robinson, BuzzFeed Contributor

For Mika's full review, check out "I Tried The TikTok-Famous Dawn Dish Soap Spray And Now Use It Every Day" and get even more info!

Get a bottle and three refills from Amazon for $16.88.

Promising review: "This toilet paper is nice and soft, strong, and does what it needs to. They are decent sized rolls and a good bang for buck." —David Mahon

Get it from Amazon for $27.59.

If you're buying batteries with your smoke detector in mind, some older versions still use 9V batteries...just a friendly FYI (from my spouse, who is in charge of dealing with the smoke detectors in our home).

Promising review: "These batteries truly are a great value. I have been buying them for a while now and have never had any issue with them lasting a long time. I use them in many different items: remotes, game controllers, transistor radio (how retro!), smoke alarm, etc." —JustMe

Get 20 from Amazon for $11.96 (available in multiple pack sizes).

OR if you're looking for a craft to keep you busy, do what I did to an aluminum foil roll (pictured above, right)! If you have aluminum foil and a hammer, you can make a SOLID ball. It looks like magic and it's so fun to do! You literally just hammer the stuff. It's...therapeutic.

While you're thinking of it, you might as well buy parchment paper and cling wrap while you're at it!

Promising review: "This product is durable and far more affordable than the store bought single rolls." —Roger T.

Get it from Amazon for $10.99 (also available in a two-pack).

Promising review: "This spice rack set is an excellent choice and good quality." —TV Junkie

Get it from Amazon for $40.11.

Promising review: "This is the best product for white softball uniforms. It's easy to use, just follow the soak instructions and the uniform comes out like new. No more scrubbing white uniforms (pictures above)!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $25.93.

The floral set above includes 12 porcelain-style paper plates in six different patterns. If you'd like a bulk set that includes cutlery, this 250-piece biodegradable option is a great choice!

Promising review: "These are gorgeous, awesome quality, and they made the whole party. The table was absolutely gorgeous. I’ve never been so pleased with how decor turned out. And they are fully functional, super sturdy. Didn't get soggy. When I was cleaning up I noticed that none of them got weak or soggy from use. I could have even cleaned them and used them again. Of course, I didn't. But that's how good the quality of the paper is. Six different beautiful patterns too." —Yvette Marie

Get it from Amazon for $10.94 (available in two pack sizes).

This works on carpet, hardwood, furniture, leather, rugs, pet beds, crates, and car upholstery.

Promising review: "Ok, I am about to get real here. Let's be honest, this product is for pee, vomit, and poop, and it works like magic. I have a grandpa dog who was starting to have bladder control issues due to hip surgery (he's better now). During that time, this stuff was a miracle worker. But, one day, dear Aunt Flo surprised me a week early and I thought my white mattress would be ruined. I decided to try this out. IT WORKED. Yes. I know that is not what this product is advertised for, but golly. If it can kick Aunt Flo to the curb, it can do anything. I am telling all of my girl friends about this stuff." —Miranda

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in two sizes and three scents).

Promising review: "As soon as I found out that loofahs were actually dried gourds, I searched for my own to cut up. It expands and softens in water. I cut up the loofah for many uses.

- Dish sponge: the shape is oddly ergonomic and comfortable in my hands. I prefer to use it for doing the dishes over the other sponges I've bought over my lifetime. It works on carbon steel pans too. Best of all, this means no microplastics are running down the drain.

- Shower: I strung hemp rope in it and it lathers up with soap. It feels so good on my body, especially because my skin runs dry. Mine did have some black 'dirty' pieces in it which appears like dried parts of the vegetable. It's a natural product so I don't mind.

- Cat toy: I throw it in a box with catnip and my cat goes wild because he can stick his claws in it." —JenniferLo99

Get a 3-pack from Amazon for $11.99.

Promising review: "I’ve tried so many brands of pimple spots, and these are hands-down the best on the market. I’m a performer at Walt Disney World, and a clear complexion is required. Last night, I put these on a few acne problems (a small cyst, a whitehead, and a pimple I shouldn't have picked and has been a bump for about three weeks now). I just woke up and am writing this review in disbelief. THEY'RE FLAT! Gone! All of them! I could cry I’m so happy. The packaging is also ideal because it allows you to conveniently and easily peel the stickers off without stretching them out or folding them back on themselves. Do yourself and your complexion a huge favor! Have these on hand for a stubborn zit when you really need help. Make sure you apply them to completely clean and dry skin." —Caitlyn

Get a 40-pack from Amazon for $8.49.

Just pop one in for a full cycle and let it work its magic. Plus, you only need to use it once a month, so a single, $6 six-pack will last you a while!

Promising review: "Worked very well! We’ve lived in our home a while, and small remedies haven't done much to help clean the dishwasher. I finally decided to give a cleaner a try, and this one worked exceptionally well. The pictures above are after one use of two packs (as per instructions for a particularly dirty washer). I'll definitely be getting more when I run out to help maintain a cleaner dishwasher!" —chocobeanie

Get a pack of six tablets from Amazon for $8.99.

Promising review: "I have sensitive skin and these are great. They're super easy to use and convenient. I love that I just grab one and throw it in. No hassle with cups and lids. My clothes smell so good afterwards. My suggestion: make sure you're buying the ones with the 96 count. If you look you can see that the ones with 96 are usually the same price as the lower quantity." —cory

Get a 81-pack from Amazon for $21.25.

True is a Black-owned and veteran-owned business based in Atlanta, Georgia. BTW, one bag is enough for 101 loads!

Promising review: "Been without softener for awhile. Hard to find a great environmentally-friendly product. This product will be my go-to softener. No static and clothes are fresh and fluffy." —edward m.

Get it from True for $18.99.

The ants will bring this sweet-tasting poison back to their colony and after a few days, BAM! This kills both the workers and the queen.

Promising review: "We had a few ants roaming the house. My husband hates ants and started spraying poison all over our house in response. We have three cats and a dog so that was concerning to me. The ants kept coming back day after day and he kept spraying and they kept coming. I told him we needed to put out traps and I found this product. Within minutes, we could see the ants attracted to these baits. My husband is now feeling encouraged and we are proud to have won the battle (pictured above)." —Review Mistress

Get a box of 12 from Amazon for $13.50.

Promising review: "I was sooo skeptical and confused about how they’d work but the gel solidifies and with every flush, suds wash through with the water and it really makes a fresh difference. Also the scent is light but really nice and fresh! I recommend these 100%! They’re super interesting but they do the job." —Janet

Get six stamps from Amazon for $4.99.

The canister comes with 90 wipes. 


Promising review: "I love these wipes. They worked great for taking off grease and everything else listed, they hold up to hard scrubbing, and have enough product in the wipe to not dry out before you're done with it. Great buy for the garage." —Jessica



Get it from Amazon for $11.95+ (available in nine sizes).

Promising review: "I purchased this for pain relief for cuts, scrapes, or burns because I know it works. I will definitely be purchasing more. This was a very good buy." —Nurse T

Get it from Amazon for $9.36 (available in two formulas).

This includes 110 13-gallon trash bags. Remember to grab some recycling bags while you're at it!

Promising review: "These are my favorite garbage bags. They are durable and, trust me, they are put to the test with my kids. No one wants to take out the garbage so they just stuff more and more in! They also smell nice." —Jay

Get them from Amazon for $23.90.

If I had a quarter for every time I needed a stamp and couldn't find a single one in my house, I could buy, sigh, so many stamps.

Get them from United States Postal Service for $27.50 (available in six booklet sizes).

Promising review: "I was surprised by the great look and feel of this box. The box is very sturdy and the cards inside are beautifully arranged by artist.

You get a booklet about the artists and the cards themselves are just gorgeous." —Eliza120

Get it from Amazon for $20.66.

Promising review: "I had never ordered generic ink cartridges, but these wear perfect. And it comes with plenty of refills! These are my new favorite!" —Jill LS

Get them from Amazon for $23.99.

Promising review: "This shaving cream is my favorite for my bikini line and underarms. It really helps my skin and reduces redness and bumps." —Elizabeth N.

If you'd like a foaming option, check out this Skintimate pack or this Gillette set.

Get it from Fur for $32 (or $28.80 if you subscribe).

Promising review: "When I started using this I was immediately aware that even a few inches from the litter box there was no smell. It does exactly what it promises, clumps and dumps with no dust or fall out. That's my opinion. But the last word would have to go to my cat who uses it and is in a better position to comment...unfortunately she cannot but I will take her continued usage as a compliment and recommend this on her behalf." —Lew Troop

Get an 18 lbs. bag from Amazon for $17.99 (available in four sizes).

Promising review: "What is there to say about poop bags? Plenty! After having spent years using cheaply-made poop bags, I can honestly say that these bags are the best thing as far as poop bags are concerned. Granted, you can go to your local dollar store and find cheap ones, but I guarantee you, you will NOT find the quality in those that you do with these bags. With the other bags, one could see and feel just how flimsy they were. Using these Earth Rated bags, I not only am able to cover my whole hand while bending over to pick up the whole pile, but I also no longer worry about the bags breaking on me while doing so. My wife and I both LOVE these bags and will never buy another brand again." —GeauxBucks!

Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in two sizes and in lavender or unscented).

Promising review: "This is better in all aspects than any other toothpaste I have ever used. As long as I can get this product, I'll never use any other." —RDBing

Get a 3-pack from Amazon for $14.37+ (available in two styles).

Promising review: "Listen up, fellow tape enthusiasts! This is a game-changer! Not only does it have 50% more adhesive than your standard tape, but it's also wide enough to cover all of your taping needs. Whether you're sealing up boxes, hanging up posters, or just want to tape random things together for the fun of it (no judgement here), this tape will do the job and then some. And let's not forget about the satisfaction that comes with a perfect tape job — it's like a little piece of heaven on earth. So, if you're like me and love to tape things, this is a must-have in your tape arsenal. Just be prepared to become addicted to the perfect tape sound it makes when you tear off a piece — it's music to the ears." —Ken

Get it from Amazon for $11.49.

Promising review: "This is a reliable brand. I loved this purchase because with long hair myself, and boys growing up still learning to be civilized, I never know what's causing the drain to go slow. It could be our hard water for all I know, in which case, sorry for blaming you, boys. Regardless, the drain always gets cleared up, but the big size allows me to fix it right when I notice instead of having to wait until I remember when I’m at the store three weeks later." —Belle

Get it from Amazon for $8.57.

Here's why my BuzzFeed Shopping colleague loves it:

"Not only is it super hydrating for my hands (LOL @ constantly hand-washing now and forever!), but the yuzu scent is also just calming and lovely, and I'm obsessed with how light and frothy the foaming suds are from the soap." —Emma Lord

Promising review: "I will admit, I first saw this soap on TikTok and thought that it would be a nice soap to try since I do seem to be washing my hands all the time these days. I was so excited when I received it to give it a try, really just to see the pretty foam flower. I was very pleasantly surprised when I pushed down (twice) to get the foam to come out. Not only is the flower cute, but the foam is thick and luxurious and makes your hands feel totally moisturized after you wash them. The smell is very pretty and not overpowering at all. My teenager loves it too and is now finally washing her hands more like she is supposed to. I bought them for every bathroom in the house as well as the kitchen. I almost don't want to recommend it so they don't run out of stock!" —Audra Williams

Get it from Amazon for $18.

These bulbs have a CCT (correlated color temperature) of 5000 K, which is closest to natural daylight (although keep in mind they will be quite bright). FYI, the lower the CCT, the warmer the light source is, so you can pick the temperature that best suits your space.

Promising review: "It's sunshine in a bulb. In the kitchen without a window, the light appears as natural sunshine. Over the desk, it's more comfortable on the eyes. In the bathroom, brighter for shaving and natural sunlight doing makeup. Great for a reading lamp, in the garage...everywhere you want to see clearly. I will buy more." —Carol

Get a two-pack from Amazon for $12.10+ (available in four different pack sizes, warm or cool, and in lower watts).

I'm not shy about my cult-like love for this water brand. I have sweatshirts, hats, and decor dedicated to it. My fridge was always stocked with their mountain water. Then I needed a new fridge just for my Liquid Death, because other dumb food and drinks were taking up too much space. This stuff? It's good stuff.

Promising review: "I never knew water could be so hardcore. Then I met Liquid Death. Thinking it was just a normal water brand with cool marketing, I cracked open a tall boy and tossed it back. The details of what happened next are fuzzy, but before I knew it, I was standing around a shallow grave paying tribute to what was my thirst. It all happened so fast. One minute my thirst was right there. Just like it had always been. Then in a blink of an eye and a gulp of the throat, gone. A life cut short by ruthlessly cold water in a can." —Stephen B.

Get it from Amazon for $16.14+ (available still or sparkling).

Reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.