20 Life-Changing Items You Can Buy for Less Than $50

With our busy lives, we often overlook the small things that can significantly enhance our living experience. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple addition to our routine or a small investment in a quality product to bring about a positive change.

There are things, all under $50, that have been life-changers for many. Here are twenty of them:

1. Curved Shower Curtain Rod

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“Curved shower curtain rod…. surprising how much bigger it makes your shower”

A curved shower curtain rod can transform your shower experience. It not only gives your shower a spacious feel but also prevents the curtain from clinging to you. This small addition to your bathroom can bring a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.

2. Sleep Mask/Blindfold

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Photo Credit: Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock.

“I have fairly severe insomnia, and it affects sooo much of my life. a sleep mask is game-changing”

Struggling with insomnia? A sleep mask might be your savior. It aids in creating a dark, serene environment, encouraging a peaceful night’s sleep. It’s a simple tool that can significantly improve the quality of your sleep, and consequently, your overall health.

3. Portable Air Compressor for Car Tires

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“An air compressor for your car’s tires to keep in your car.”

Safety comes first! A portable air compressor ensures that your car tires maintain the right pressure, enhancing safety and fuel efficiency. It’s a small gadget that offers peace of mind during both road trips and daily commutes.

4. Basic Set of Tools

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“One of the reasons I live well on an average income is that I don’t have to pay people hundreds of dollars to do small auto and home repairs. Just changing your own oil and brakes can save you thousands over the life of a car.”

Why pay for minor repairs when you can do them yourself? A basic set of tools empowers you to undertake small home and auto repairs, saving you a considerable amount of money in the long run.

5. Extended Charging Cable

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“I’ve had them for years and I can’t believe how many people still struggle with 3ft cables. They’re not even expensive.”

Say goodbye to the restriction of short cables. A 9-long charging cable allows you to freely use your devices while they charge, bringing convenience to your tech usage and making your space more flexible and adaptable.

6. Water Flosser

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“Water flosser was great at clearing out food trapped underneath my gums when my wisdom teeth were erupting.”

A water flosser is not just a tool, it’s an investment in your dental health. It promotes healthier gums and effectively cleans your teeth, revolutionizing your dental hygiene routine and potentially saving you costly visits to the dentist.

7. Victorinox Fibrox Chef’s Knife

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Image Credit: mcullenlewis/DepositPhotos.

“You can get an 8″ Victorinox Fibrox chef’s knife for less than $50. So long as you treat it with the respect it deserves, it will last 20+ years. You can do the vast majority of kitchen tasks with that one knife.”

A quality chef’s knife is a kitchen essential. The Victorinox Fibrox chef’s knife promises durability and precision, making your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. It’s a one-time investment for a lifetime of culinary adventures.

8. Bidet

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“Where I live bidets are a staple (and by that I mean it’s something like a toilet having a flush, just a default feature) and I’m moving abroad this year. I’m dreading not having a bidet and as soon as I get my own place I’m installing one. please, anyone who doesn’t own a bidet, do yourself a favor and get one.”

Upgrade your bathroom routine with a bidet. Available with warm water options, it not only enhances hygiene but also offers a luxurious touch to your bathroom experiences, promoting comfort and cleanliness in an eco-friendly way.

9. Electric Kettle

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“Electric kettle. Waiting 15 minutes for the kettle to whistle… now only wait 3 minutes. And it does it for French press, which is what I’ve been using for about 20 years. I’m not sure why I waited, besides the fact that I have a galley kitchen, and space is hard to come by. I can also get water boiling for recipes faster, and cut cooking times.”

An electric kettle is a kitchen powerhouse, speeding up your cooking and brewing processes. Whether it’s boiling water for recipes or making French press coffee, save time and energy with this efficient appliance.

10. Quality Insoles

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“Good insoles with solid arch support. Seriously when was the last time you replaced them? Try it. Your back is welcome.”

Step into comfort with quality insoles offering solid arch support. Replacing your worn-out insoles can alleviate back pain and enhance your posture, bringing a noticeable change in your daily comfort and well-being.

11. Heavy-Duty Tape Dispenser

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“Honestly just a good heavy-duty tape dispenser has made my life just slightly easier. Especially gift wrapping.”

A heavy-duty tape dispenser is a handy tool that simplifies gift wrapping and other taping tasks. It’s a small addition to your toolkit that can save time and frustration, making your life just a bit easier.

12. Air Fryer

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“As a single person who ate way too much “to go” food because I didn’t feel like cooking, being able to throw things in the air fryer for 15 to 30 minutes was a God send. I saved money and calories.”

An air fryer is a boon, especially for single individuals or those who prefer quick meals. It not only saves money and calories but also encourages home-cooked meals, promoting a healthier lifestyle.

13. Sunscreen

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“Recently diagnosed with skin cancer. Can confirm, use sunscreen.”

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, regular daily use of SPF 15 sunscreen can decrease your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by about 40%, and lower your melanoma risk by 50%. Moreover, it prevents sun-induced aging signs like wrinkles and age spots.

It’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 for daily use and SPF 30 for extended outdoor activities.

14. Fidget Spinner

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Image Credit: nito103/DepositPhotos.

“I have anxiety that’s been getting steadily worse, nothing has helped so far except for a fidget spinner. I have one as a ring too and it’s done more to help me than therapy and meds have. It’s not 100% effective but it does help in high-stress times as I found out this week (camping, massive storm, major panic). I don’t know how or why it helps but I’m so happy to be able to calm myself massively with a little bit of plastic or metal in my hand.”

In high-stress situations, a fidget spinner can be a calming presence. It has helped many individuals manage their anxiety more effectively, providing a simple yet effective tool to calm oneself in stressful situations.

15. Decent Pillow

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Photo Credit: fizkes/Shutterstock.

“Neck support pillows are great.”

The correct pillow can aid in maintaining the natural alignment of the neck and spine, preventing neck and back pain. For back sleepers, a pillow should support the natural curvature of the cervical spine, with adequate support under the head, neck, and shoulders.

Side sleepers, on the other hand, require a thicker pillow to maintain a straight and natural horizontal line for the spine. Incorporating the right pillow based on your sleeping position not only facilitates restful sleep but also fosters spinal health, showcasing the deep-seated connection between sleep and overall health.

And if your a stomach sleeper… well read this article on how it causes neck and back pain.

16. Quality Earplugs

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“A good set of earplugs. I got a set of Loops for a concert this summer, and tested them out at home first, to make sure they fit okay. Turns out, a lot of my irritability comes from being over-stimulated by noise. Evening is especially a trigger, when everyone’s home – lots of talking, kitchen noises, kids arguing, Fortnite music… Anyway, I can hang out with everyone now, instead of telling everyone to quiet down or retreating to my room. Genuinely life-changing.”

Noise can be a significant source of irritability. Quality earplugs shield you from unwanted noise, allowing you to create a peaceful environment wherever you are, and enhancing your focus and peace of mind.

17. Udemy Course

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“I paid 19,99 for a Udemy course, five years ago! today I am working as a developer for a big city in Germany. It is my dream job!”

Education is empowerment. A Udemy course can be a stepping stone to a brighter future, offering you the skills and knowledge to pursue a fulfilling career, all from the comfort of your home.

18. Used Bicycle

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Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock.

“A used bicycle. My first as an adult was a free bike, added new tires, and started riding to work. Upgraded after a year with the money saved once it became a serious daily thing. I have saved thousands over the years by not driving a car to work.”

Opt for a green and healthy alternative to driving. A refurbished bicycle saves you money, promotes physical health, and is a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle.

19. Electric Toothbrush

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“I used a standard toothbrush until I was about 20 because I always thought ‘it’s the same thing,’ but after using my first electric one I never went back.”

An electric toothbrush offers a superior cleaning compared to manual brushing. Make the switch and experience healthier gums and brighter teeth, bringing a confident smile to your face daily.

20. Tiger Balm

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“Tiger balm is $10 in most pharmacies. great headache/pain relief. I barely even take Advil anymore.”

Natural and effective, Tiger Balm offers relief from headaches and pains. It’s a cost-effective solution that many prefer over regular painkillers, bringing comfort in times of physical distress.

Enhancing one’s quality of life doesn’t always require grand gestures or hefty investments. Sometimes, the smallest additions can have the most significant impact.

From ensuring a good night’s sleep with a decent pillow to protecting your skin with the right sunscreen, these under $50 purchases are here to bring comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury to your daily routine.

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Sources

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Image Credit: Krakenimages.com/DepositPhotos.
  1. skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/
  2. spine-health.com/wellness/sleep/pillows-different-sleeping-positions
  3. reddit.com/r/ask/comments/15b3wld/what_can_you_buy_for_less_than_50_that_will/?sort=confidence

This article was produced and syndicated by Viral Chatter.

Martha A. Lavallie
Martha A. Lavallie
Author & Editor | + posts

Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.