Shopping·12 min read

21 Top Problem-Solving Products Skimm'rs Bought in 2021

the best problem-solving products of 2021
Photo: Amazon | Design: theSkimm
December 17, 2021

If it wasn’t already obvious, we love products that can make everyday life a lil’ simpler. Things that can solve some of life’s most annoying problems? Sign us up.

And now, we’re looking back on 2021 and giving you the scoop on what problem-solving products Skimm'rs loved the most. From things that’ll help with decluttering to clever cleaning solutions and more, say hello to the products you won’t ever regret buying.

PS: We’re also revealing your most-loved books, clothes and accessories, home products, self-care items, things under $25, and overall bestsellers. Check ‘em out here.

holiday wrapping paper roll holder

A gift wrap storage unit for all those wrapping paper rolls you've collected...

Lots of cute prints for every occasion, but no place to put them? This unit has smaller pockets for ribbons, gift bags, cards, and tissue paper too. Just slide it under your bed and presto — out of sight. ($22.95, Amazon)

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anti-fog glasses spray

Something to help prevent your glasses from fogging when you wear a face mask…

Ah, face masks. We’ve been dedicated to wearing them. But we’re over the way they make our glasses fog up. Sound familiar? This anti-fog spray works on all types of glasses, and doesn’t call for constant application. A few spritzes and you’re good for the day. Sigh of relief sold separately. ($8.99, Amazon)

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diamonds and jewelry cleaning brush

A jewelry cleaning brush that'll make your diamonds sparkle... 

We're not kidding. Your earrings, rings, and necklaces never looked this good. The secret is in the cleaning solution and brush tip that'll gently remove dirt and grime. Bling-bling. ($6.99, Amazon)

Buy it
fidelity app

An app that helps make money-ing easier... 

Close your eyes and imagine being able to plan, save, and invest in one place. Now open your eyes and check out the Spire® app. It lets you set financial goals based on what’s important to you. Then provides info and tips that can help you prioritize and reach ‘em faster. Can we get a “yes, please”? (Free to download, Fidelity)*

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rubber broom to collect pet hair

A rubber broom that’ll pick up pet fur like a dream...

It’s basically magic. The broom works on carpet, tile, and wood floors. When you’re done, place it under running water to wash. It’s that easy. ($12.98, Amazon)

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pimple patches to help heal breakouts

A pimple patch to remove all the gunk that sits underneath your skin…

Stress breakouts, we’re looking at you. These hydrocolloid patches cover pimples and reduce inflammation. They work to extract pus, healing the skin along the way. You can apply one before heading to bed and then remove it in the morning. We’re talking minimal effort. ($12.99/36 pack, Amazon)

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produce containers to keep fruits and veggies fresh

Produce savers that’ll prevent your food from molding too soon…

These containers regulate oxygen and carbon dioxide flow. So your fruit and veggies last longer. That’s right. Lettuce won’t wilt. Blueberries won’t soften. Plus, the built-in filter never needs to be replaced. Pro tip: Don’t wash produce before putting it into the containers. Just drop everything in and store ’em in your fridge. Then wash the food before you eat it. ($7.99+, Amazon)

Buy it
fabric shaver to rid clothes and blankets of pill balls

A fabric shaver to revive old sheets, sweaters, and towels…

Goodbye, little pill balls. You can run this tiny, battery-powered device over furniture, too. It’ll eat up those annoying tiny fuzzies and loose threads. So you can freshen up what you already have, instead of buying brand-new sheets and sweaters. Win. ($12.99+, Amazon)

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mold and mildew gel for showers and bathrooms

A mold and mildew gel if the corners of your shower are literally turning black…

Just let it sit for three to five hours and then rinse away with water. The powerful, concentrated formula will cling to tiles and sealants to knock out icky grime. It’s also bleach-free, non-acidic, and low on odors. Get cleaning. ($12.99, Amazon)

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bug bite tool to make bites less itchy

A suction tool to help relieve those itchy mosquito bites... 

Bug bites be gone. This genius gadget works to remove the irritant left underneath your skin that causes itchiness and redness. You’ll be able to stop a reaction in its tracks, leaving the bite visibly smaller. You can even try it on bee and wasp stings. The true MVP of your next tropical getaway. ($9.95, Amazon)

Buy it
under-cabinet jar opener

A jar opener that’ll do the hard work for you...

Install this opener underneath a cabinet via the adhesive backing and three included screws. It can be used to open jars and bottles of all sizes. It’s also a great solution for anyone with limited use of their hands. The magic lies in the metal teeth that’ll grip lids with ease. ($17.99, Amazon)

Buy it
hyperchiller ice coffee tool makes drinks cold in under a minute

A tool that makes iced coffee in less than 60 seconds…

We’re not lying. It also works on other drinks like alcohol, soda, and tea. All you’ve got to do is freeze the cooler overnight. Then in the morning, pour in your freshly made drip coffee and boom — instantly cold. ($24.99+, Amazon)

Buy it
bracelet tool so you can fasten bracelets alone

A bracelet tool so you can clasp jewelry without struggling…

This device helps you keep a hold of one side of a bracelet while you use your other hand to open and close the clasp. No more awkward wriggling. ($7.99, Amazon)

Buy it
curved wallet to fit into front pocket

A wallet that marries function with design and makes for a great gift...

Because he’s probably still using that one he got all those years ago. This leather option has a curved design that fits perfectly into his front pocket. It’s a safer — and more comfortable — way to stash all that cash. It can hold up to six cards plus full-sized bills, and has an ID pocket. And if that doesn’t seal the deal: It has RFID-blocking protection (which keeps his private information, well, private). ($65, Rogue Industries)

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vaccine card holder

A vaccine card and passport holder for your next big trip…

You may have a passport holder, but this leather case is made specifically for travel in the COVID era. A leather flap holds your passport while a plastic pocket hangs on to your vaccine card. Bonus: It comes in a bunch of colors and can also be personalized. ($19.90+, EvtodiCom on Etsy)

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brass cable clips to hold charging wires

Brass cable clips that’ll organize your charging cables and look chic…

Consider these clips a small style win. Say goodbye to cheap-looking plastic ones and hello to brass clips that marry function with sophistication. You can use them for your WFH setup and for lamps you have placed around your home. Sometimes it really is the little things in life. ($12.98+/2 pack, Brighttia on Etsy)

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velvet storage trays for jewelry

Individual velvet trays you can place inside a dresser drawer…

Since they’re sold separately, you can choose exactly which ones you need for your collection. The trays can stack on top of each other, allowing for compact storage instead of taking up too much space in a single drawer. The velvet lining will protect items from scuffs and scratches, and each tray is available in three colors. Time for some personalization. ($9.99+, Packmille on Etsy)

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necklace clasp so you can layer multiple necklaces at a time

A layered necklace clasp so you can stop yours from tangling…

This way you can layer two or three necklaces together without creating a giant knot. This clasp will keep ’em separate and makes putting them on even easier. ($11.04+, inBlissJewelry on Etsy)

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anti-chafe balm for sticking skin

An anti-chafe balm that’ll provide long-lasting comfort...

Use this between your thighs, on your heels, and where shoulder straps rub to prevent that dreaded discomfort. It’s made from plant-derived ingredients, is allergen-free and vegan, and won’t clog your pores. Comfort city, population: you. ($8+, Amazon)

Buy it
plastic bag holder

A wall-mount dispenser so you can stop storing bags inside each other…

Ah, the classic method. One big bag to store other, smaller bags. Stop the madness. This dispenser can hold everything for you. So you can keep bags and reuse them over and over again. ($15.49, Amazon)

Buy it
amazon music submission

A music subscription so you can tune out all your distractions…

Goodbye, loud roomies; hello, supreme focus. With this membership, you’ll get unlimited access to podcasts, songs, and thousands of playlists so you can easily disregard the dog barking or whatever other chaos coming from the room next to ya. Plus you can listen in offline mode, which is great for those afternoon-walk breaks where your Wi-Fi can get a lil’ spotty. PS: If you sign up now, you’ll also get three months free. Headphones on. ($7.99/month for Prime members, Amazon Music Unlimited)

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*This denotes a sponsored post. 

If you buy anything from this article, theSkimm may get something in return. Oh, and if something’s out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) when we published. Thanks.

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