I love staying home. Given the choice between going out (virtually anywhere) and being at home, I’ll pick the latter every time. It’s not that I’m anti-social (O.K., maybe I am just a little); I just love being at home — cozy on my couch, cooking a meal, reading a great book in bed. Home is our happy place (or should be) and all my stuff is here — what’s not to love?
Speaking of stuff, staying home most of the time doesn’t mean you don’t need it. In reality, staying home most of the time means you need more stuff. But, just any stuff won’t do. I need the buys that other people swear by, the things that make life richer, the products that simplify some aspects of my #hermitlife. And, I figured since I was looking, I’d share some of my finds with you: Sweet sheets, closet companions, and great gadgets for storage and organization (I’m particularly fond of Nos. 13 and 30). You’ll be saying, “Home sweet home,” by the time you get to No. 37.
Grab A Chair
A hanging hammock chair that works indoors or out? Sign me up! This one takes up very little room in not in use, accommodates weight up to 400 pounds, and is woven with premium quality cotton and triple-stitched seams. It also has an accessory pocket for your phone. It’s the best buy on Amazon for less than $40 and will get a ton of use.
Holy Sheets
New and fresh bed sheets are my guilty pleasure and, between you and I, I’ll spend just about any amount of money when I find a set that lives up to the hype. This bamboo sheet set is moderately priced at between $60 and $100, depending on bed size but this review is what convinced me: “Buy 76 sets of these sheets.” That’s an oddly specific number but she is “all in” on them and I respect it.
Skirt The Question
There’s nothing like a bed skirt to complete the look of a room and other than it being a pain to put in place, you really have no excuse for not having one. You’re a grown-up. This one will cost you less than $20 and comes in a variety of colors to match whatever you already have going on, from goes-with-everything cream to makes-a-statement eggplant.
Don’t Be A Slob With Your Paint Job
Okay. This gadget is going to blow your mind. It’s a simple design that does SO much. I didn’t realize how necessary this Slobproof touch-up paint pen was until I got one. And now, I can’t stop using it! It has a precision brush-tip, making it easy for anyone to use. Now, ready for the trippy part? Each pen has a patent-pending air-tight design that keeps paint fresh inside for at least 7 years! (Cue mind-blowing sound effect). You’re welcome.
Cook Your Pasta In Minutes With Fasta Pasta
Pasta is such a great staple to have around the house; but if I’m being honest, waiting on the water to boil, then the noodles to cook, then having to strain it to serve? It’s too much. This Fasta Pasta evenly cooks your pasta in minutes, right in your microwave. It even comes with a built-in strainer!
Wet Blanket
You can never have too many blankets, O.K.? This reversible sherpa throw is soft all the way around (literally) with soft microfiber cashmere velvet on one side and ultra-plush faux sheepskin on the other. These come in reasonable sizes from 50-in. by 60-in. to a whopping 102-in. by 90-in. One reviewer said, “I searched for ‘softest blanket ever’ in the Amazon search box to see what would come up, and this one did.”
Bathing Buddy
I love being comfortable, so much so in fact that it could be my middle name. The idea of comfort for me extends beyond the couch, a chair, or the bed … all the way to the bathtub. This stainless steel bathtub caddy is adjustable, expandable, and portable, with room for your phone, iPad, book, drink, and more. The arms are wrapped with a rubber coating so no tub scratches.
Closet Confidential
Some of you are probably thinking, “Why do I need a closet organizer? My closet is an organizer.” Clearly, you’ve never bought more clothes or shoes than you really have room for. Ahem. Anyway, you can add this nine-shelf organizer to give you some unique closet storage options including five bins of various sizes great for everything from undies to socks.
Candle In The Wind
There’s nothing like a candle to refresh a room, whether it’s due to a fragrance or the soft glow it casts. This window candle kit offers six wired candles perfect for your windows (or anywhere, for that matter) with built-in auto sensors, extra bulbs, and suction cups for easy attachment. Not sure about starting out with six? No sweat. You can also buy singles but — let’s face it — single candles are kind of depressing.
Stack Them Up
Stackable furniture risers are one of the best-kept home gadgets out there. Why? Because it can do a number of useful things from rising a desk or bed to a more desirable height to protecting your floors and giving you hidden storage space. This purchase includes eight stackable risers that have anti-skid foam grip pads to prevent movement or rolling.
Get Your Mitts Off Me
If you’re going to do much cooking or baking, you’re going to need oven mitts. These are mini in size but big on performance, with heat resistance to 480 degrees, non-slip silicone striping for grip, and a design that protects hands and wrists. This set of two includes various color options and supreme comfortability that one reviewer referred to as “hand clouds.”
Stop Bugging Me
When the weather turns warmer, the fruit flies come out to play — and they are my archnemesis. This indoor fruit fly trap might be my saving grace. Small with a discreet design, the powerful UV light lures bugs in and then refuses to let them go, thanks to the glue boards inside the unit. This is a tinier version of an outdoor model perfect for porches and patios.
Sponge Away
I tried to think of a good SpongeBob reference to throw in here but I’ve got nothin’. This sponge holder is a classic embossed design (or an optional farmhouse style), either of which blends with any type of decor. Use it to let your sponge air dry, which works even better thanks to this holder’s elevated design. A place for everything and everything in its place, as my grandmother used to say.
Lazy Days
Imagine sitting at the dinner table and never having to utter, “Can you please pass the …?” This lazy Susan turntable offers a 360-degree spin, making it easy to reach from any side. It’s a great addition to a cabinet or pantry to neatly store and organize spices or condiments but it’s also ideal for countertops (rotating coffee bar, anyone?) or keeping tabletop additions convenient for everyone.
In The Shadows
Somewhere along the way, we stopped collecting memories and decided to rely solely on taking photos and videos … and that’s where we screwed up. This shadow box display case lets you capture those memories in a unique “bank”-style box that’s great for everything from newspaper clippings to movie or concert tickets. Choose from eight different styles for a unique way to preserve the good times.
On The Record
I have a sizable record collection … with no discernible storage solution. This vinyl storage holder is a must-buy for vinyl fans since it can accommodate up to 50 LPs at one time. The acrylic ends are shatterproof and clear, making it easy to see your collection, and the flip-style design lets you peruse your choices with a simple flick.
Off The Shelf
These aren’t just any floating shelves; these are criss-cross intersecting shelves that not only serve as storage but are also visually interesting. This purchase includes a set of two shelves in espresso, gray, natural, walnut, and white finishes. Reviewers love the aesthetic they provide, with one adding: “Definitely one of my best purchases on Amazon, and I would purchase it again.”
Potty Mouth
There are lots of disgusting household chores that need to be done, the grossest of which is cleaning toilets. I love this plunger and brush combo because it consolidates a cleaning implement and an, ahem, de-clogging implement in one polished stainless steel holder. The best part is that both the brush and the plunger are covered and out of sight because nobody wants to see that.
Cushion The Blow
Readying the deck, patio, or porch for warmer weather ahead? This outdoor chair cushion is designed for Adirondack deck chairs and is made from water-resistant material made to withstand the elements. Each cushion has double piping, fabric ties, and a band for secure fastening as well as a plush headrest that can be added or removed depending on your mood.
Stool Sample
A folding step stool is going to come in handy more times than you realize, whether a kid needs it to reach a box of cereal, you need it to get in those cabinets over the refrigerator or someone could use it exactly how it’s pictured. (When they’re done with yours, send them my way.) This has a 300-pound weight limit and a non-slip surface.
A Nice Rack
An over-the-door rack is probably one of my favorite home hacks because it gives you extra storage in a place you wouldn’t normally have any. I slap these racks on every door (within reason) for everything from bath towels to umbrellas and sports equipment. This one, made of bamboo and stainless steel, is a modern spin on a storage solution you can use anywhere.
Don’t Be Salty
When is a lamp more than just a lamp? When it’s hand-carved from a giant chunk of Himalayan salt and converted into a lamp that naturally ionizes the air. This Himalayan fire bowl salt lamp is not only beautiful to look at, but it’s also functional by providing light (with a dimmer) and has some added health benefits. It’s worth a try for under $30.
Cut A Rug
Bath mats don’t have to be boring, especially if they’re going in a bathroom just for kiddos. These bath mats are made from thick and durable memory foam for a comfortable experience and are quick-drying so nobody will leave wet footprints all over the place. The dino print pictured is adorable but you can also choose from chevron, stripes, ducks, and more.
Out Of The Top Drawer
If I had a dollar for every utensil drawer organizer I’ve bought (because I’ve moved and it doesn’t fit from one place to another), I’d have a lot of dollars. Enough dollars, in fact, to buy this bamboo option that expands to fit any drawer size. Choose options from three to 10 slots to accommodate your cutlery (and your drawers, of course).
Space Saver
Looking for an inexpensive way to free up some space — without throwing a bunch of stuff away? These vacuum storage bags are ideal for everything from pillows to blankets to bulky sweaters and towels. Use the included hand pump for travel (they make packing a breeze) or a regular vacuum for quick suction at home. You can snag these in a variety of sizes and quantities.
You Made Your Bed
Transform your bedroom entirely with this luxury comforter that prompted one reviewer to say, “Do not hesitate to buy this comforter.” This down alternative comforter is a perfect substitute to goose down for all the comfort and none of the sneezing. Enjoy a variety of colors and year-round comfort in a style that can be easily washed and dried — guess where? — right at home.
Walk The Line-r
I know all the reasons that wired shelving makes sense. It’s super handy in the garage and in the pantry … until you try to stack things on top of it and they immediately decide to perch sideways. These shelf liners transform wire shelving to flat shelving so everything sits how it should. This is a five-pack set and comes in various sizes for your perfect fit.
Hang Up
I’m in the process of ridding my home of plastic hangers and moving exclusively to these velvet hangers. These have notched shoulders and 360-degree swivel hooks but best of all, the non-slippery surface keeps clothes where they belong — on the hanger and not on the floor of your closet. These come in 30-, 50- and 100-packs in various colors, if that sort of thing is important to you.
Take Out The Trash
Have you looked at trash cans in a store lately? They are so expensive. Why would I want to pay $50 for a receptacle I use to throw literal garbage in? This $24 version is great for a bathroom, bedroom, or home office. This stainless steel step trashcan has a lid to keep everything undercover and an inner bucket that lifts out for convenient emptying.
Hold Up
Got more kitchen gadgets than drawer space? This stainless steel utensil holder will handle your spatulas, ladles, spoons, tongs, whisks, and more with a brushed stainless finish. Take it from this reviewer: “Update: I like it so much, I’m back for more. I think they make nice presents for the cooks among my family and friends!” And, it’s only $12.
Nothing But Net
I’m seriously eyeing this pop-up mosquito net tent for summer. I mean, I could enclose myself in this bad boy with blankets, pillows, and a book and read in peace, free from mosquitoes, bugs, and other flying critters. This is also large enough to pop over a queen (or even king!) bed. “I love to sit outside in the shade and read but flys [sic] were annoying and were driving me crazy,” according to one reviewer who was definitely not me but could’ve been.
A Mixed Bag
If you’re not saving your plastic grocery bags, what are you even doing with your life? This wall mount bag saver can fit a gazillion bags (not a scientific measurement) and has an extra-wide opening for grabbing a bag as needed. Mount it on a wall or inside a cabinet, closet, or pantry, one reviewer shared, “They are sturdy and hold quite a large number of bags. They dispense easily and are attractive.”
Mop Top
A steam mop changed my life and I’m (almost) not exaggerating. Next on my list is a set of replacement pads like these that are compatible with several Shark steam mop options. Washable and reusable, these pads are soft to the touch but great at grabbing onto dirt and debris and whisking it away. Use it on hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile, marble, stone, and other hard surfaces.
Pillow Talk
As much as I love new sheets, I might like new pillows better and this set of pillows from Fern and Willow earn high marks from shoppers. Filled with a down alternative and complete with a plush cooling gel, these are a safe bet for stomach, back, and side sleepers, which is something of an anomaly in itself. That $40-50 price range for two is pretty sweet also.
Red Wine Redeaux
I have a healthy skepticism about cleaning products. What works for one person doesn’t work for another … you know how that goes. This red wine stain remover earned universally glorious remarks from reviewers, including this one: “I sprayed the stains with water, then the Chateau Spill and rubbed with a soft rag. GONE! I’ve walked back up there about six times to make sure I wasn’t just dreaming this. The only question I have is can I buy this by the gallon??”
If The Shoe Fits
I have a shoe issue … well, a problem. It’s a shoe problem and the people who know me (especially those who’ve ever helped me move) can attest. I have one of these over-the-door shoe organizers in my closet and it helps with flip-flops and shoes I find myself wearing less. (Out of sight, out of mind?) This has 24 pockets, which means you have room for one. more. pair.
Grocery Run
I need to be a better person and use reusable grocery bags but I just can’t convince myself to do it. Heavy duty with both straps and handles, this set of four features washable fabric and a foldable design so you can stash them away when not in use. Each bag can support up to 65 pounds and replaces up to six single-use plastic bags or four paper bags.
Lost Your Marbles
I’ve had a marble paper towel holder for 20 years and I’ll never choose another option. Why? Because it’s so heavy, you can grab a paper towel with one hand and the base never moves. Felt protective foot pads prevent countertops from scratching and the hand-crafted natural gray and white marble is a guaranteed win no matter your decor.
Shower Time
When I come across a product with almost 200,000 Amazon reviews, it’s reason enough to stop and see what all the fuss is about. This shower curtain liner has something of a cult following for its heavy-duty waterproof design that’s also eco-friendly with no overwhelming plastic smell. Magnets on the bottom help keep the liner in place and whether you have a shower stall or a standard bathtub, you’ll find a size for you.