When you spend as much time in the kitchen as we do, little things start to bug you. Some we can live with, and others would require a major renovation to address. But some annoyances are easily solvable with the right gadget. That’s why we’re introducing you to some of our clever kitchen tools that make mundane tasks like emptying the sink strainer, microwaving leftovers, and chopping vegetables just a little bit easier. We even have recommendations for better organization of tricky spots like under the sink.
And all of these finds come from Amazon’s Overstock Outlet, where you’ll find discounted prices on overstock, discontinued, and clearance items. Read on for our top 15 picks — they start at just $4.
Best Problem-Solving Kitchen Gadgets in the Amazon Outlet
Ez Off Jar Opener
Amazon
Even for those with the strongest of grips, some jars are just hard to open. Maple syrup lids get stuck shut, new jam jars are super sealed, or you just don’t have enough elbow grease for your favorite specialty vinegar. Grip pads can help, but this under-cabinet device is the easiest solution. Simply affix it to the underside of a kitchen cabinet and you’re good to go. I use mine for jars of spices, bottles of olive oil, and everything in between.
Wokdada Revolutionary Reversible Chain Mesh Sink Strainer
Amazon
On a recent visit, a relative of mine said, “I’ve got to show you something in the kitchen, you’re the only one who will appreciate it.” Boy, was he right. This mesh sink strainer is the solution to multiple problems. If your sink is slow to drain because the water doesn’t have enough space to flow through, this solves the issue. If you’re sick of cleaning out food gunk multiple times while washing the dishes, this solves the issue. I can’t believe I waited so long to get one.
Tovolo Scoop & Spread Tool
Amazon
We’ve all stared into a mostly empty jar of peanut butter, longing for the last bits a regular spoon or spatula can’t reach. The geniuses at Tovolo decided to put us out of our misery and invented this scoop and spread tool, which is flexible enough to reach into the crevices and corners of jars and appliances (like your food processor bowl) but strong enough to actually get the food out.
Comfify Over-the-Sink Colander
Amazon
If you’ve ever fumbled around for a colander or strainer when washing produce or draining pasta, this is for you. The adjustable colander sits on the lip of any size of sink and makes draining a breeze, even if you’ve got a mound of dirty dishes below it. When it’s time to prep your veggies or mix your pasta, it removes easily and goes with you to the next step.
Sopito 5-Piece Nonstick Platinum Silicone Baking Mats
Amazon
Once you have these silicone baking mats, there won’t be any struggling with parchment paper or scraping cookie bits off a pan you forgot to grease. This set of reusable, nonstick baking mats comes with three sizes, all dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. They’re also great for rolling out dough or putting under a pie or another dish you think might bubble over.
Wanyishun Bamboo Mixer Slider Mat for KitchenAid 4.5-5-Quart Stand Mixer
Amazon
In my opinion, a stand mixer is an item to be displayed. But sometimes, your display spot and where you actually use the mixer aren’t the same, and you have to drag the heavy appliance into position. This bamboo slider mat takes that issue out of the equation; it sets your mixer in a notched tray and has easy-glide feet on the bottom to make lugging the mixer way more manageable. It works so well, you can even move your mixer with one hand.
Tovolo Microwave Splatter Covert
Amazon
Cooking your food in the microwave until it’s hot enough without it splattering everywhere is a delicate process. Even practiced microwave users can end up with tomato sauce or melted butter on all six surfaces inside the appliance. When a paper towel doesn’t cut it, reach for this silicone splatter cover. It’s vented to release steam, stays cool to the touch, and collapses for easy storage. Sounds like a no-brainer to us.
Xyvoltic Silicone Kitchen Sink Faucet Mat
Amazon
Is it always wet behind your faucet to the point your sponge never dries and your counter gets mildew? Then it’s time for a faucet mat. This silicone version wraps around the base of your faucet to create a splash guard and features raised fins over a sloped surface to drain water back into your sink and keep your countertop dry.
KitchenClouds Cushioned Anti-Fatigue Mat
Amazon
A cushioned anti-fatigue mat is just what you need to get through a day of project cooking or baking and wash all the dishes without your body giving up. Look for one with a design that prevents slipping, like the diamond pattern and beveled edge here.
Abter Flex Edge Beater KitchenAid Mixer Accessory
Amazon
At this point, I simply don’t remember what baking was like before I had a flex edge beater for my mixer. Instead of scraping down the sides of the bowl every 30 seconds, I’m free to continue prepping ingredients or check the recipe without worrying. It’s also the perfect gift for any baker in your life — they might even thank you with a batch of cookies!
R&M Cruet Bottle Pourer
Amazon
While squeeze bottles for olive oil are all the rage, this simple topper gives you much of the same functionality for your favorite glass-bottled products. The pourer keeps you from overdoing it, provides a steady stream for even coating, and prevents drips and spills. The pourer also works for alcohol bottles if you’re brushing up on your mixology skills.
Tsuruya Potato Peeler with Eye Remover
Amazon
If you’ve yet to convert to a Y-peeler, here’s your sign to go for it. The design makes peeling fruits and vegetables effortless. This one works for both right- and left-handed cooks and features a swiveling blade so you can peel in any direction.
Everie Adjustable Bakeware and Pot Lid Organizer
Amazon
Stop struggling to find the right sheet pan or cutting board from a jumbled pile and start using a bakeware and pot lid organizer — you’ll be so much happier. This expandable version works in cabinets or drawers and features 10 heavy-duty dividers.
Once For All Safe Mandoline Slicer 5-in-1 Vegetable Chopper
Amazon
A mandoline is one of our favorite tools for easy, consistent prep work, but using such a sharp blade can sometimes be daunting. With this uniquely designed slicer, you move the blade rather than your food, keeping your hands far away from the action. All you have to do is press the handle, and you’ll have neat, even slices in no time. And, it folds flat for easy storage.
Kitstorack 2-Tier Under-Sink Organizers, 2-Pack
Amazon
The under-sink cabinet is the junk drawer of the kitchen. Cleaning supplies, spare sponges, and uncategorizable items mingle in the dark, often neglected space. But with an adjustable under-sink organizer, this area can become a calm, sorted spot. This one boasts smooth, pull-out drawers so you won’t have to maneuver to find what you’re looking for, even if it’s tucked in the back.