60 Weird Things For Your Backyard That Are So Damn Clever

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Add some understated ambiance to your backyard with this solar light, which is designed to look like a landscaping boulder. Available in three variations, each one has a built-in solar panel that, when exposed to direct sunlight throughout the day, can power the light for up to eight hours.

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

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

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.

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.

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

While it’s only 7 inches long, this duck pond sculpture packs so much personality. Great for a fairy garden scene or table centerpiece, it’s finely detailed and waterproof. No wonder shoppers have given it a 4.7-star overall rating.

Impress all your guests with this tabletop fire pit that doesn’t just offer plenty of ambiance, but can also be used to make s’mores and other treats. Durably built with a stainless steel base and tempered glass walls, it burns so cleanly that it can be used inside and out. Each order comes with three extendable roasting sticks and a sleek bamboo serving board.

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.

These solar-powered step lights will look like you hired a contractor, but since they can be installed with either included 3M tape or screws, they’re actually a super quick DIY. Available in either warm or cool LED lights, you can also customize the look.

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

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

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.

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

Since these adorable figurines hang onto your existing flower pots, they won’t take up any valuable deck space. But when they’re this impressively detailed and waterproof, they’re sure to make any day a little more fun.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 a several different sized notches, so it can effortlessly scrape a variety of grate sizes clean.

Automate lawn watering, decorative lights, and more with this waterproof extension cord with six outlets with individual covers. Control it with either the on-unit panel or the remote, it also comes with a 6-feet-long cord so it’s easy to position where you need it.

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

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

Elevate your nighttime backyard gatherings with this pretty 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.

• Available colors: 3

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.

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 cupholder, these gadgets are an excellent addition for lawn games that require free hands. And each set comes with four stakes, so you’ll have enough for everyone.

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

These super-popular garden lights have earned more than 8,000 five-star ratings because they’re gorgeous and easy to install. With small, solar-powered bulbs, they sway in the wind to mimic fireflies.

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

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.”

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

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

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.

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.

These mini fans creates air movement designed to keep flying insects away without chemicals, and according to one shopper: “These have been able to keep annoying flies, gnats, & mosquitoes away!” USB- or battery-powered, they’re also easy to place wherever you want them.

Make your backyard into a magical place with these mushroom figurines that are vibrant and lifelike. They’re equally as great in a flower pot as in a fairy garden scene.

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.

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.

With its cracked glass detail and durable metal petals, this solar-powered light looks so much more expensive than it is. Available in a few colors and design variations, it’s backed by more than 2,500 five-star ratings.

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.

Customize the ambiance with this cordless LED lantern that offers four brightness levels you can toggle between with just a touch. Impressively, it offers up to 110 hours of light per charge.

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.

Always have your drinks and snacks on hand — even in a pool, hot tub, or on the lake — with this floating holder. The thick latex material can support up to 50 pounds, and comes in four colors.

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.”

Add peace of mind and style at the same time with these non-slip rubber stair treads designed to look like vintage wrought ironwork. Available in a couple decorative designs (as well a few more utilitarian ones), they’re backed by a 4.6-star overall rating after more than 1,500 shoppers have weighed in.

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.

Made with natural rubber for a durable, non-slip grip, this doormat is an elegant and practical solution that can be used inside and out. “I am really impressed with the quality of this rug,” one fan wrote.

While these solar-powered lights look great on a backyard fence, they’re also great for doorways and driveways. With motion sensors and three lighting modes (including a dusk-to-dawn option), they’re a low-maintenance solution that add so much polish.

Keep your plants nourished and happy with these hanging planters that can water for up to two weeks. They’re transparent so you know how much water is left, a built-in wick controls water levels, and the lightweight material makes it easy to hang.

Brighten things up with this solar-powered light that comes in more than a dozen designs including hummingbirds, flamingos, and mushrooms. It works for six to eight hours on a single charge, and is made of metal and glass.

Water-resistant and solar-powered, these minimalist LED lights are easy on the eyes and easy to maintain. Plus, it can run 12 to 16 hours on a single full charge.

Backyard games don’t have to take up a ton of space and this checkers and tic, tac, toe set proves it. With a dual-sided mat that’s easy to roll up and 24 black and red pieces, everything can be quickly placed into a bag when you’re all done.

Thanks to a 45-inch-long durable wood handle and four strong metal prongs, this weeder lets you get to the root without having to bend over or kneel. That helps explain how it has earned more than 40,000 five-star ratings, including one reviewer who wrote: “The only thing I am sad about is that I didn’t buy this sooner. It’s durable. Easy on the back and makes me look and feel like a professional gardener.”