10 Amazon Must-Haves Under $20: The Hidden Gems of 2020
Amazon. If it’s not already an addiction, it’s at least a staple. While the majority of us have continued to do our part and stay indoors, particularly during the first half of 2020, we heavily relied on the Amazon Angels to deliver our wants and our needs. Having been a Prime member for many years, I wanted to share 10 (+ 1 bonus) of the best purchases I’ve made, nine of which are under $20.
*Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means there is NO additional cost to you, but I may earn commission if you click through and make a purchase.
1. anti-touch door/bottle opener & stylus
If there’s ever been a time to keep germ free, 2020 is it. With the COVID-19 pandemic sadly continuing to make millions of people sick and taking the lives of many, the message of staying as sanitary as possible has been clear as day. Between the masks and gloves at times, I recently purchased an anti-touch door opener. This three-set genius product has been amazing in recent times when I don’t want to touch a door, elevator buttons, or a keypad while using a credit card. It comes in a set of three, is incredibly durable - and even has a bottle opener if you need one! I just keep one on my keys at all times.
*Note: Make sure you sanitize the product too after use. It doesn’t get rid of germs! I’ve been using medical grade Isopropyl Alcohol Spray or spray sanitizer after each use.
$9.78
$14.99
2. Wireless car charger & mount
There is nothing worse than your phone running out of battery with no charger in sight. This wireless car charger has been a game changer for me. Not only does the device itself hold up my phone without sliding around while driving, but it also charges my phone - and fast. Probably the best part, it works while my phone case is still on.
3. ECO-SMART fleece hoodiE
Let me start by saying this is from the men’s department. If you’re not already aware, women’s prices for products and fashion is frequently jacked up - even when it’s the same product. This same hoodie from the same brand, retails between $17 - $39, for women, depending on color and size. It’s insane! This incredibly affordable hoodie has been my go-to ever since I bought it late last year. It has a fleece lining, is super comfortable, machine washable, and part of the eco-friendly range made from plastic bottles - which I’m 100% happy to support. I’m currently in Seattle and it’s the only warm thing I brought - and it’s doing the job exceptionally well! *Note: Next time you’re buying something like razors, take a quick look at the men’s department. You’ll be shocked to learn the same product, in blue, retails for less than your pink one!
$14.99
$14.99
4. ORGANIC JAMAICAN CASTOR OIL
Back in February, I had this crazy allergic reaction to the glue that was used to hold up my eyelash extensions. In just one night, not only did my extensions fall out, but so did my real relatively long and strong lashes. It was crazy and incredibly confronting. For months I didn’t use any mascara or anything on them and let them rest. But unfortunately, even when they started to grow back, they were so weak, they’d just fall out. I had heard of lash and brow serums but wanted to speak to my optometrist about it before I had any other crazy reactions. She recommended one of the more popular lash serums, but also said if I wanted to go the more natural route, try an African Castor Oil. I found this one on Amazon with many amazing reviews and I’m so glad I did. Not only does it come in a large bottle but they also have two tubes ready to go for your brows and lashes. And the best part, I saw results within the first two weeks! I swear by this product and have turned so many friends and family members onto it too.
5. Hypoallergenic 100% SILK PILLOWCASE
There are many reasons silk pillowcases have seen a rise in popularity in recent years. Silk has hypoallergenic properties and a natural resistance to allergens such as dust mites, fungus, and mold. It’s also very beneficial to your skin - as it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles - especially if you’re someone who sleeps on your side. It can also help smooth your hair and reduce the amount of breakage. I go one further and only use silk scrunchies now too. I’ve bought quite a few of this Mulberry Silk pillowcase over the years and with its great reviews and affordability, I will continue to as well.
$16.99
6. High pressure detachable shower head
My apartment came with a standard attached shower head that barely let out any water. And as the months went by, it just got worse and worse. When I was at the point where I would plan my days around rather showering at the gym that I knew I needed to make a change. I didn’t know if a new shower head would do the trick, so boy was it a lovely surprise when such a low price one from amazon turned my frustrating daily shower experience to something like a spa. This high pressure shower head was incredibly easy to install, has six different pressure features, has never had an issue (touch wood), and as a bonus, makes it super easy to clean the bath. I can never go back to the way it was before.
7. WATERPROOF NOTE PAD
Sticking to the shower theme, how often do you come up with some of your greatest ideas while you’re bathing? Especially once my showers became more enjoyable, ideas would flow and reminders would come through - to be forgotten once again once I finished up. Enter waterproof notepad! I actually first saw this while watching a YouTube video where Nicole Scherzinger gave a tour of her incredible spa bathroom. And there were the Aqua Notes. I was somewhat skeptical about how it works, but somehow it does. It lives in my shower and comes with a pencil that reads, ‘No more great ideas down the drain!’ One of the best things I’ve ever purchased off Amazon.
$9.50
$4.99
8. makeup brush cleaner pad
Let’s be honest, for the most of us, we don’t clean our makeup brushes as much as we should. For some reason in the moment I think to myself, ‘This is so easy, I should do this more,’ yet, time and time again, I don’t. This pad however has made the experience incredibly easy. It has different size dots and patterns for the different size brushes and I know it’s getting a good clean. The back has a suction pop-socket like thing so you can either hold onto it easily or suctioned onto something.
9. MICROFIBRE HEADBANDS FOR MAKEUP AND MAKEUP REMOVAL
There is nothing worse than seeing someone with a full face of makeup that didn’t make it down to there neck or wasn’t blended into their hairline. One makeup days, I take great pride in ensuring my bronzer reaches my hairline and my neck isn’t forgotten. These headbands are great for ensuring your tresses aren’t in the way when you’re painting your face like Picasso. And in the same way, they’re even handier when it comes to removing your makeup. I use these every night to ensure I’m really cleansing everywhere. After all, no-one wants a clogged hairline!
$11.49
$29.99
10. soma plant-based water filter
When I moved to LA, getting a water filter was a must. I never found any that actually looked decent though, so tried my luck at attaching a filter to my actual tap. When that didn’t work I knew I just had to search harder to find one that suited my aesthetic. Enter Soma. Yes, it’s over $20, but it deserves to be. With the sustainable white oak handle and the clear oval shaped body, it’s a beautiful addition to my kitchen and my water is fresher than ever. There’s different sizes and even an extra sleek glass design one - I just didn’t trust myself not to break it. And making this water filter even more special, it’s made from 60% plant-based and renewable materials, which means a lower carbon footprint. This is the kind of brand I’ll go out of my way to support.
11. robot vacuum cleaner
I just couldn’t do an Amazon round-up without paying respect to my most favorite all-time purchase, my Ecovac. This little bundle of joy, who' I’ve named, George, has been the most loyal little guy ever. I actually love cleaning. I love cleaning the kitchen, countertops, I don’t even mind the bathroom - but that all stops with sweeping and mopping. I don’t know what it is, I just can’t do it properly and I hate the task. Enter George. He’s WiFi compatible so I can tell him to clean right from my phone or use the remote he came with. He can go under my bed and couch, and even after two-years together, he works just like he did on day one. Also did I mention he can mop too? The best Amazon purchase!
