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60 Weird Things For Your Backyard That Are So Damn Clever
Fast-track your way to an outdoor oasis.
Updated: just now
Originally Published: April 14, 2024
Amazon
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Outdoor spaces can provide so much enjoyment and relaxation, but helping your yard reach its full potential is easier said than done. After all, maintenance can be tricky and decor options can be overwhelming. Luckily, this list is packed with slightly weird but always charming products that can help you elevate your backyard in no time. From unique lighting selections to winged pest solutions, you’re bound to find something clever and useful here. So go ahead and get scrolling — the great outdoors await.
1These Clever Siding Hooks For Hanging Decorations
If you want to dress up the exterior of your home, but don’t want to drill into siding, these hangers are just the ticket. Made from durable, rust-resistant stainless steel, these hangers slip underneath the gaps in your siding to create convenient hooks you can move around as needed. They can support up to 12 pounds of weight, making them perfect for hanging wreaths, small potted plants, holiday lights, and more.
2This Curved Walkway You Can Just Roll Out
To add more visual interest to your space without committing to permanent landscaping, try this roll-out garden pathway. It’s made from weather-resistant wood and can be rolled up for easy storage when not in use, thanks to the flexible rubber cords. Line it with flowers or river rocks for a charming and functional path in your garden.
3The Weather-Resistant Rug That Ties A Space Together
Your patio deserves this outdoor rug which is built to stand up the elements. Not only is it weather-resistant, but it’s built to resist fading caused by UV rays. Available in multiple colors and sizes, it looks perfect under a patio table or in a conversation area. Plus, it’s easy to clean since you can simply hose it down when it gets dirty.
- Available sizes: 8
- Available colors: 6
4These Outdoor Curtains That Lend Some Privacy To Your Porch
Whether you’re decking out your poolside cabana or your back porch, these light-filtering curtains are the perfect companion. They’re lightweight and come with stainless steel grommets for easy installation. They add just a bit of privacy without blocking out too much sun, and they’re even weather resistant, too. Grab a pair in a range of both colors and size dimensions.
- Available sizes: 8
- Available colors: 19
5These Poles To Hang Cafe Lights Anywhere
Add some extra ambiance to your backyard with these string light poles. They’re quite simple to use: Just twist the two pieces that comprise each pole together and drive the forked end into the ground until it feels steady. Once in place, you can thread your lights through the loops on top in any pattern you wish. The listing also offers an option for adding light poles directly to your deck.
6A Set Of Twinkling Solar Lanterns With A Rustic Feel
Add instant ambiance to your space with these hanging solar lanterns. The iron-framed orbs house flameless tea lights in the center, which flicker just like real candles. Simply let the solar panel charge during the day and they’ll run for up to five hours when powered on. They’re even waterproof, too.
7A Sun-Filtering Sail That Instantly Adds Shade
Instead of spending a fortune on a permanent awning, try this sun sail shade that provides the perfect amount of coverage. It boasts sturdy steel D-rings at the corners for installation and can even block out 95% of UV rays without totally obscuring the sun or halting the breeze. And since the material is permeable, it allows rain to pass through, preventing pooling and sagging over time.
- Available colors: 12
8These Solar Fence Lights That Add Extra Visibility
Illuminate your outdoor space with ease using these solar fence lights. Since they have a unique right-angle shape, they’re perfect for attaching to sharp edges like fences, railings, and even stair steps. Not only do they turn on and off automatically after charging in the sun, but they’re also waterproof.
- Available colors: 2
9This Lounging Pool That Keeps You Cool On Hot Days
No need to book a hotel stay when you can enjoy a refreshing soak right in your backyard with this lounging pool that cools you down in sweltering temperatures. It features a ribbed base for traction and even boasts two cupholders on the side to store your refreshments. There’s also an inflatable pillow at the back for neck support.
- Available colors: 6
10The Wasp Traps That Offer Major Peace Of Mind
If you’re plagued by stinging insects, these wasp traps can help. They’re incredibly simple to use: Just peel away the protective cardboard to expose the adhesive and snap the glue guards into place around the cylinders. (This will prevent birds and larger creatures from accidentally getting stuck.) The wasps will be attracted to the bright colors and then all you have to do is dispose of the trap once it’s full.
11A Floating Fountain You Can Use In Birdbaths Or Pools
No matter what type of body of water you’re working with, this solar-powered fountain is an excellent addition to a water feature. You can place it in a birdbath to entertain your feathered friends, but it will also create a refreshing display in a swimming pool, pond, or reflecting pool. It charges up in the sun, and at night, it generates a stunning light show that illuminates the water streams with vivid colors.
12A Mosquito Repeller That Looks Like A Classic Lantern
Whoever said bug protection couldn’t be stylish has never seen this mosquito repeller lantern that has such a classic vibe. All you have to do is add a fuel cartridge to the center and a repellent mat to the top of the lantern and you’ll create a 15-foot radius of bug-free protection. Each fuel cartridge can last for up to an impressive 12 hours.
13The Wireless Patio Umbrella Light That Clips To The Pole
If you want to add some extra lighting without the hassle of a lengthy installation, this LED umbrella light is exactly what you’ve been looking for. It clips into place on your umbrella pole and boasts multiple LED bulbs that operate via AA batteries. A simple on-off switch makes it a breeze to operate, and you can choose from three brightness settings.
14The Outdoor Pillow Covers That Provide A Pop Of Color
Spice up patio chairs and sofas with these outdoor throw pillow covers. They come as a pair and boast a waterproof construction to protect your inserts from the elements. Machine-washable, they come in a variety of sizes and boast hidden zippers, so they won’t detract from the rest of your decor.
- Available sizes: 6
- Available colors: 33
15The Indestructible Wine Glasses Perfect For Outdoor Use
Few things are as refreshing as a glass of vino outside, so stock up on these unbreakable wine tumblers to enjoy your beverage without the threat of broken glass. Made from durable stainless steel, these tumblers have a sophisticated, stemless silhouette and can help maintain temperature control more efficiently than traditional glass. For added convenience, they’re safe to clean in the dishwasher.
- Available colors: 2
16This Faux Greenery Screen That Adds Instant Privacy
If you’re looking for a quick solution and don’t have time to wait for greenery to grow, this faux ivy privacy screen is the perfect fix. These realistic-looking ivy leaves come with UV protection to help prevent fading and can be expanded to the desired size. They attach to posts and railings with zip ties, so you can combine multiple panels for larger spaces as well.
- Available sizes: 2
- Available styles: 4
17The Tabletop Fire Bowl That’s Compact Enough To Fit Anywhere
Get the roar of a fire on a more manageable scale with this tabletop fire pit that measures just 5 inches across. It has a sleek, geometric concrete exterior and couldn’t be simpler to operate: Just fill it with isopropyl alcohol and light it with a long-handled match. And since it weighs just over 4 pounds, it’s easy to move around from place to place, adding charm at a moment’s notice.
18A Hands-Free Screen Door That’s So Convenient
For instant bug prevention, try this magnetic screen door that turns any doorway into a protective barrier. Simply tape it into place around your doorframe, and enjoy the breeze it lets in without the bugs. The two panels are held together in the center by magnets, so you can walk through it without opening and closing it, and it’ll seal behind you.
19This Sun & Water Spray That Protects Your Outdoor Furniture
Help increase the longevity of your outdoor furniture with this sun and water shield. It protects against both UVA and UVB rays to prevent fading of fabrics, while also increasing water resistance. Each can will cover up to 60 square feet of material, whether you use it on your patio umbrella, outdoor upholstery, grill covers, or anything else you store outside.
20A Wind-Resistant Lighter Specially Designed For Outdoor Use
To light your grill or outdoor candles with ease, you’ll want this flameless lighter. Because it uses an electric arc rather than a flame, you can use it even in windy conditions outdoors. And thanks to its long length, it can easily reach the bottom of deeper jar candles. Just charge it up with the included USB-C cable and you’re ready to go.
- Available colors: 5
21The Sea Glass Wind Chimes That Bring The Beach To You
Bring the tranquility of the ocean to your doorstep with these wind chimes. Featuring a driftwood centerpiece, this unique item has dangling sea glass chimes for a truly rustic and natural feel. And since it’s safe to display it both indoors and outdoors, the opportunities for decor are endless.
- Available colors: 4
22The Whimsical Mushrooms That Light Up Your Outdoor Space
For a totally unique take on outdoor lighting, try these mushroom lights. They’re connected on a string to a solar panel that powers them up for up to 10 hours at a time, so they’re easy on your electric bill. They even turn on automatically when it gets dark. Just drive the staked mushrooms into the ground in a pattern of your choosing and that’s it.
- Available colors: 2
23A Reusable Pouch That Makes Grilling A Breeze
These reusable mesh grilling bags allow you to cook all your favorite foods easily — no more worrying about small pieces falling through the grates. The bags feature a simple snap closure and a nonstick surface that lets you flip foods easily. The bags can be used on electric, charcoal, and gas grills and are heat-resistant up to 600 degrees.
24An Inviting Bird Feeder That’s Just So Lovely
Be a friend to the local fauna with this bird feeder. The roof of this charming home comes off for easy filling, and it has a collection tray at the bottom to allow your feathered friends easy access to their seed. And since it has three different compartments, you can vary the types of food you’re providing based on species and season.
- Available colors: 5
25A Popular Can Cooler For Outdoor Sipping
When you want to keep your beverage properly chilled, look no further than this slim can cooler. Boasting a stellar 4.8-star overall rating, it’s compatible with all slim 12-ounce slim cans and is double-wall insulated for optimal temperature control. All you have to do is twist your can into place, and you’re set to sip. It’s even dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
- Available colors: 25+
26This Ring Toss Game That Brings The Entertainment
Provide entertainment for your guests (or yourself) with no effort at all, thanks to this ring toss game. It evokes a beachy vibe, thanks to the wooden surfboard base and rustic rope detailing. The aim is clear: Try and swing the ring onto the hook to win. That’s it — hours of entertainment await.
27An Instant Birdbath That Fits On Your Railing
Care for the birds in your own backyard by setting up this deck railing birdbath. With a terra-cotta color, the durable plastic basin nests inside a steel wire frame that’s easily installed atop your railing with the vise-like clamp. Just add water and you’ll have an inviting avian spa that doesn’t require any special tools or drilling to set up.
28These Delicate Fairy Lights That Enhance Any Space
Add heaps of ethereal beauty to your outdoor space with these battery-operated fairy lights. You can place them anywhere — since you don’t have to worry about plugging in or getting enough sun — so they’re ideal for everything from lighting up plantscapes to illuminating the underside of your pergola roof. Each set comes with two waterproof strings that measure 33 feet.
29The Unique Incense Sticks That Offer Mosquito Relief
Don’t just tackle pests, set the mood at the same time with these incense repeller sticks. They can help keep mosquitos at bay for more than two hours and are completely DEET free. Instead, they use plant-based oils to deter bugs, including citronella, rosemary, peppermint, and more. Plus, these incense sticks allow for customization, since you can use them with your favorite holders or simply stick them in the ground.
30A Handy Grill Cleaner That Scrapes Off Burnt Residue
Improve your backyard by diligently caring for your barbecue using this grill scraper. Because it doesn’t use bristles to clean, you won’t need to worry about fragments getting loose and falling into your grill. It’s made from sturdy stainless steel and has several different shapes of niches, so it can effortlessly scrape a variety of grate sizes clean. On the back end, there’s even a bonus bottle opener.
31A Magnetic Holder That Keeps Paper Towels Handy
Attach this magnetic rod to your fridge, grill, or other metal surface to keep paper towels easily accessible. The strong magnetic towel holder installs vertically or horizontally and won’t damage or scratch surfaces. The durable carbon steel construction holds up to 6 pounds and can fit various sizes of towel rolls.
- Available colors: 8
32This Stainless Steel Ice Bucket That’s Ready For Cocktail Hour
This stainless steel ice bucket ensures you’ll always have frosty drinks available for your next dinner party or backyard get-together. The matte silver bucket features double-walled construction that keeps ice cold for hours while preventing condensation, and the sleek matte finish won’t show smudges or fingerprints. You can also stow the included tongs in the storage nook on top of the lid.
33This Weighted Napkin Holder That’s Great For Outdoor Parties
Sometimes the smallest, most practical enhancements to a space can make the biggest difference, and this weighted napkin holder is the proof. Constructed from iron wire with a wooden base, this napkin holder features an adjustable weighted hinge that’s easy to open when you need to refill your supplies. When closed, it prevents your paper products from blowing away in the breeze.
- Available colors: 2
34A Pair Of Protective Gardening Gloves With A Snug Fit
When it comes to tending to your garden, you’ll want the right tools to get the job done, and that’s where these gardening gloves come in. They’re made from breathable bamboo with a rubber coating that not only helps protect hands from thorns and other sharp objects, but also enhances traction and grip. And since they’re made with stretchy elastic, you’ll get a secure fit, too.
- Available sizes: Small — 2X-Large
35A Cracked Glass Lamp That Comes Alive At Night
Elevate your nighttime backyard gatherings with this cracked glass light. It features a mosaic-style pattern which is illuminated by an LED bulb for a stained-glass effect that automatically comes to life when the sun goes down. Because it’s solar-powered, you won’t need to worry about charging it, either. Choose from multiple color and style options.
- Available colors: 4
36The Grill Mats For No Lost Veggies & Easier Cleanup
If you hate losing thin, small veggies through your grill grates — or just wish cleanup was easier — these grill mats are for you. The slim construction and fiberglass coating make them both nonstick and thin enough to still leave those desirable grill marks on your meat and veggies. They protect your grates from grease buildup and can be cleaned with ease in the dishwasher when you’re done.
37A Set Of Stakes That Give You A Place To Put Your Drink
If you don’t have enough surfaces, holding a drink outdoors can be more of an annoyance than a benefit, which is why these drink stakes are so useful. Comprised of a stake that goes into the ground and a supportive, coiled cupholder, these gadgets are an excellent addition for lawn games that require free hands. The various colors in the set mean you’ll easily be able to tell your drink apart from others, too.
38A Cozy Hammock Chair With Nautical Vibes
Add extra seating with ease, thanks to this hammock chair that’s just as fun as it is practical. Made from a breathable yet durable cotton-blend fabric, this chair can support up to 500 pounds and comes with the hook and cord you’ll need to hang it. And thanks to the classic blue and white stripe design, it evokes relaxing oceanside energy.
- Available colors: 6
39This Heart-Shaped Float That Adds A Pop Of Color To Your Pool
This heart-shaped pool float is constructed from durable and UV-resistant PVC material, so it’ll look good all season long. The float has a generous 50-inch width and 400-pound capacity, giving you plenty of room to relax and stretch out. Plus, the double valve allows for quick inflation.
Available colors: 6
40These Convenient Straps That Both Carry & Store
Don’t lug around heavy hoses and extension cords on your own, because this two-pack of storage straps makes transporting and storing much easier. Made from sturdy nylon, this strap features a hook-and-loop closure with a reinforced, easy-to-grip handle for easy carrying. It also loops effortlessly over clasps and holders for simple stowing, too.
- Available colors: 2
41These Giant Scoops That Grab Leaves, Clippings & More
Whether you’re weeding or gathering up yard clippings, these leaf scoops make the task easier. Simply slip your hands through the handle on the outer sides and use them to enhance the reach and width of your grasp. Plenty of users appreciate the boost, with one five-star reviewer writing, “Have to admit I wasn't sure if these would make a big difference, but to my surprise, they did. Got the job done in a much shorter time. Comfortable and convenient.”
42An Elevated Bed That Helps Keep Your Pup Cool
Ensure your backyard is just as inviting to your pup as it is to you with this cooling mesh dog bed. By elevating the bed off the ground with a metal frame, this dog bed creates airflow underneath that helps prevent your pet from overheating on hot days. It’s durable, too, with frames that support dogs up to 85 pounds. It’s also ideal for older dogs, since the suspended construction can help reduce pressure on their joints.
- Available sizes: 4
- Available colors: 6
43These Clever Tents That Keep Bugs Away At Picnics
Enjoy the ambiance of dining al fresco without the threat of bugs attacking your meal with these food covers. They’re essentially mesh tents that sit atop food, preventing flies and other insects from landing on the provisions. Better yet, they’re collapsible for easy transport and storage.
- Available colors: 2
44These Pretty String Lights That Are Perfect For Adding A Cozy Glow
Add warm, cozy ambiance to your backyard parties using these LED string lights. They feature flexible silver string that’s perfect for wrapping around things or filling a mason jar. With 20 in a set, each strand of lights features 3.3 feet of long-lasting LEDs. And they’re battery-operated, so you don’t need to worry about recharging them.
45A Pair Of Lights That Magnetize To Your Grill
Make sure your barbecue is properly illuminated with these grill lights. They boast a magnetic base, so you can stick them on your grill in a variety of positions and move them around as necessary. The bulbs are attached to goosenecks, so you can adjust them until you’ve got the perfect angle. They even come with a carrying case for secure storage.
46These Easy-To-Use Kitchen Claws For Perfectly Shredded Meat
Keep your hands cool and mess-free with these durable meat-shredding claws. Their design can be used as a stabilizer while carving meat or as a quick way to prep pulled pork, chicken salad, and more. These claw tools also feature an ergonomic handle and are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
47A Magnetic Paper Towel Holder That Secures To Your Grill
This carbon steel magnetic paper towel holder is the perfect solution to messy hands at your next barbecue. Since it easily adheres to metal, you can stick in on the side of your grill and move it around as necessary. It can be mounted horizontally or vertically and is also a great solution for indoor use if you’d rather not drill holes or use permanent adhesives.
- Available colors: 8
48A Centerpiece That Can Add A Cozy Glow To Your Outdoor Table
Fill this candle centerpiece with tea lights or votives to add ambiance to your next outdoor gathering. The circular iron centerpiece can hold six to eight candles, as well as a large pillar candle or floral arrangement in the center. The centerpiece also fits perfectly around a patio umbrella pole.
49These Stainless Steel Grilling Tongs That Come In Three Sizes
These heavy-duty tongs are constructed of durable stainless steel with silicone grips and heads, so they’re nonslip and heat resistant up to 480 degrees. They come in three sizes and have a number of convenient features, including a locking mechanism, hanging loop, and scalloped edges for a better grip on foods.
50These Silicone Coasters With A Pretty, Kaleidoscopic Design
With an indented design to keep any spills or condensation contained, these silicone coasters are both pretty and practical. Available in over a dozen colors, the coasters come in a set of six with a convenient holder to stash them. The silicone material is heat resistant, and the generous size works for all sorts of drinkware.
- Available colors: 16
51The Supportive Knee Pads That Make Gardening Easier
If planting new florals or pulling weeds has become a pain in the back (and knees), these gardening kneeling pads are exactly what you’re looking for. Made with thick foam for cushioned support, these knee pads still maintain a lightweight feel. Just secure them in place with the adjustable elastic straps and you’re ready to get to work.
52A Classic-Looking Pitcher For Batch Cocktails & More
Whether you’re serving lemonade or sangria, this glass pitcher is the perfect companion to any beverage. It has a classic look that’s sure to complement a variety of styles, plus several practical features, like the easy-to-grip handle and twist-and-lock lid. It’s designed to fit in your refrigerator door, and thanks to its generous half-gallon capacity, you’ll spend more time with your guests and less time refilling it.
- Available colors: 2
53These Clever Lawn Aerators That Strap To Your Shoes
Yard maintenance can be grueling, but these lawn aerator shoes make it fun. Aeration is important to help improve the flow of oxygen and water to the roots of your grass, and these metal spikes create perfectly spaced perforations in your soil to do just that. All you have to do is strap them on using the adjustable closures and walk across your lawn.
54A Meter To Help You Keep Your Water Usage In Check
Water is an important and expensive resource, and this digital water meter can help you keep an eye on your use. It attaches between your house and your water source connection and provides a clear digital readout of your consumption in gallons as well as your water flow rate, too. And thanks to its compact size, it’s unobtrusive.
55This Garden Stake To Give Climbing Plants Extra Support
Give your potted plants a boost with this sturdy moss pole. They feature a stackable design so you can tailor it to the height your plant needs. “Why did I wait so long to purchase these?” one shopper asked. “Not only do my plants look happier but the functionality is phenomenal and so easy to use. My plants look beautiful! I keep a few boxes on hand to add to the top as my plants grow.”
56These Textured Glass Tiki Torches For Your Patio Tabletop
If your backyard is a prime entertaining space, these textured glass tiki torches are a cozy addition to your patio table. They can be grouped together or used individually, and the patterned glass gives them an elevated look. Each 12-ounce fill of fuel provides up to five hours of burn time.
57A Rust-Proof Metal Tray & Rake For Cleaning Up Pet Waste
This heavy-duty scooper makes yard clean-up a breeze. The metal rake helps pick up leaves, pet waste, and other unsightly debris, and the three-by-seven-inch tray is large enough so you won’t have to keep making multiple trips to the trash can. Best of all, its aluminum construction is rust-proof.
58A Defrosting Tray For The Grill
This defrosting tray is exactly what your outdoor grill area is missing. All you have to do is place your frozen food on the non-stick surface for quick and even thawing. The highly conductive food-safe aluminum remains at room temperature to defrost your food safely and efficiently. Reviewers rave about how fast this tray defrosts.
59This Mixology Kit That Helps Shake Up The Perfect Cocktail
This bartender kit has everything you need to create professional drinks right at home. The 10-piece set includes a stainless steel shaker, cocktail tools, and a bamboo storage rack to keep everything tidy. The leakproof shaker eliminates mess and when cocktail hour is over, everything can go right in the dishwasher.
60These Hanging Glass Terrariums That Come In Sets Of 3
If you’re looking for a fun way to add personality and charm to your outdoor space, these hanging terrariums are an easy way to do so. They come in a set of three with each piece having slightly different dimensions. Strings come included.
This article was originally published on April 14, 2024