Remember when you couldn’t wait to be an adult? You’d get to stay up late, go wherever you want ( whenever you want), and eat ice cream for dinner. Didn’t quite turn out that way, did it? (Except for that ice cream part, you can still totally do that.) Instead, it’s a run-yourself-ragged, pay-all-the-bills, why-is-your-back-hurting? rat race that ends each night with an I-get-to-do-this-again-tomorrow outlook. Sigh. Don’t get me wrong; parts of adulthood are wonderful. But, I often find myself longing for simpler days and a carefree childhood do-over.
The easiest way to manage adulting is to have the right tools in your arsenal to make it easier. Who has time to stir that sauce when there’s a gadget that’ll do it for you? Why would you turn on your lights manually when you can do it with just your voice? How many times have you tried — in vain — to capture the perfect selfie with your dog? These are serious life issues here. I’ve compiled a list of 37 products I think will simplify your life. Whether you need to step up your meal-prep game, stop killing your house plants or get gentle reminders to drink more water (Hydrate!), this list was made for those of us who sometimes eat ice cream for dinner instead of cooking … just because.
A Rainbow Pack of Meal Prep Containers
Are you meal prepping? You should be. Put in a couple of hours of work on the weekend and you can save yourself considerable time during a hectic workweek. Why would you do this, you ask? Well, if you’ve ever found yourself exhausted at 6 p.m. on Wednesday eating cereal for dinner because nothing else is ready … there’s your answer. These colorful meal prep containers are a delightful addition to your refrigerator and if you’re really on the ball, you can color-code your week so you know that blue is for Monday — because, Mondays.
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This Auto Stirrer That Wil Become Your Sous Chef
Who has time to stir? I know I don’t. But, I had no idea I could relieve myself of this task until I found this automatic stirrer. It has three speeds and self-rotates to do the heavy lifting on sauces, soups and other stir-heavy recipes. With this kitchen tool in your arsenal, you can turn your attention to more important matters, like throwing away that mystery meat in the back of your fridge.
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Get Smart With These Wifi Outlets
I bought my parents smart lightbulbs last Christmas so these smart home wifi outlets seem like the next logical step. Pop one of these bad boys (they come in a set of two) into an existing outlet and control things around your home with just your voice. Lights, fans, televisions, the possibilities are endless. A coordinating app lets you have complete reign over these outlets whether you’re at home, at work or on vacation.
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Put Your Plants On Auto-Feed
Green things and I don’t get along. Don’t get me wrong; I love them. They just don’t love me in return. I can never seem to get the not-enough-water/too-much-water, not-enough-food/too-much-food ratio just right. With these indoor plant food spikes, just hide them in the soil and forget about them. Seriously. Your plant will “eat” well for up to two months without your interference.
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A Key Finder That’ll Stop The Hide-And-Seek
What are the top three things you grab when you head out the door? For me, it’s my keys, my wallet and my phone. And, usually, I have to hunt at least one of those down before I can officially make my exit. This key finder is not new technology, but it is highly-reviewed by more than 2,400 people and significantly cheaper than other options on the market. Attach them to your keys, your remote, even your dog and keep track of where your stuff is at a moment’s notice.
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A Water Bottle That Reminds You To Hydrate
I don’t drink nearly the volume of water I should in a day … although I never seem to have a problem inhaling coffee … hmm … What I really need is someone to stand beside me and remind me to chug my H20 on the regular. This smart water bottle is the next best thing. It lights up to remind you it’s time to hydrate and — score! — even has a built-in wireless Bluetooth speaker. You can achieve the 8×8 rule (that eight 8-oz. glasses per day) while rockin’ out at the same time.
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Stop The Contortions With This Razor Extension Handle
There’s no easy way to shave in the shower, am I right ladies? Too many spots, from ankles to armpits, to be able to do it comfortably. You most likely won’t need this razor extension handle for above the waist, but it can come in handy when you’re trying to trim up your legs without posing like a pretzel. It’s perfect for people with limited mobility or, ahem, guys who need a bit of help with their backs. I’m not naming any names.
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A Scarf With Hidden Features
The more pockets, the merrier, I say. And, this unisex infinity scarf is definitely bringing the “merry.” With two hidden zipper pockets, you can go sans purse, bag or tote and stick just the essentials — literally — right under your nose. It comes in 17 different colors and would be especially useful for attending sporting events or concerts or even hoofing it through the airport.
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Trolley Bags That Transform Your Grocery Store Trips
If you’re a part of the reusable shopping bag tribe, kudos to you. But, even if you’re not, you’ll find these reusable trolley bags nothing short of amazing. They fit down into a shopping cart with an accordion-style opening that allows you to toss your items directly in. When you’re finished shopping, check out and put the items right back in the bags, which you can lift out and carry right on home. I have had multiple versions of these bags for the past 15 or so years and wouldn’t go to the store without them.
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Knot A Better Keychain Charger Anywhere
Few things are as urgent as the moment between when you see your phone on 1% and when you find a charger. With this ultra-strong keychain charging cable, you can always have one around … so long as you know where your keys are. There are five options available, from pink to gray, to support Apple phones all the way back to iPhone 5 (although you’re really due for an upgrade). Plug in and juice up!
It’s Touch And Go In The Cold
Let’s keep the phone love going with another must-have for chilly days ahead. These touchscreen gloves are an Amazon bestseller and for good reason. They’re comfortable and warm, with an anti-slip design that’ll also help you stay connected when you need to glove up. I like them in gray, but you could go with the yellow and really stand out in the (cold) crowd.
Chop And Weigh With One Device
Kitchen gadgets take up a lot of space. If your cabinets are maxed or you’re just trying to Marie Kondo your kitchen accoutrements, this cutting board-scale combo will allow you to consolidate two tools into one. Chop up your goodies on the bamboo cutting board and weigh them immediately, without having to drag out another device. Pieces are removable so they can be quickly washed and reused or put away.
An Extra Shelf Wherever You Need One
I have two of these socket shelves, both of which have found homes in my bathrooms. Why? Because bathrooms are notorious for being short on space and on outlets, at least for me. With this addition, I now have access to an extra six outlets, two USB ports and a handy shelf where I mostly stash my phone when I’m getting ready in the mornings. It keeps it out of the way so I don’t chance dropping it in the sink.
Hammer Down With This 14-In-1 Multi-Tool
Part of being a successful grownup is having access to the right tools — in this case, literal tools. Maybe you have a fully-stocked garage or maybe you’re just starting out. Either way, this 14-in-1 multi-tool can fill a variety of needs in a space-saving design. It includes a hammer, nail claw, two types of pliers, multiple screwdrivers, various blades, wire cutters and strippers, a soft file and a bottle/can opener. It might be a good addition to the trunk of your car or to tote along on a camping trip.
A Dry-Erase Menu Board For Planning Ahead
I got into the habit of using a menu board like this one a few months back and my prepping and grocery shopping has been better for it. Instead of wandering aimlessly down the aisles or getting home to realize I don’t have what I need, I can establish a weekly menu ahead of time, create my shopping list and get in and out of the store quickly. Oh, who am I kidding, I use grocery delivery. Either way, this is a very handy organizational tool.
You’ll Be A Fan Of This Pan Storage
Sure, it’s easy to just toss all of your pans in a cabinet and slam the door shut. But, if we’re talking about products that make grown-up life simpler, this pan organizer shelf rack is a must-have. You can mount it inside your cabinet (or not) to easily keep your pans and lids separated. That means not only are they ready to grab when you’re ready to cook, but they’re also not knocking against one another leaving scratches and marks.
Charge All The Things With This Wireless Charging Station
If I had a dollar for every time something around here needed charged, I’d have … a lot of dollars. Between a phone, AirPods and two smartwatches, something is always in need of a little juice. This wireless charging station accommodates all of my devices into one sleek bedside stand. The magnetic design means you can configure it however best suits your needs and space.
Check Out These Cacti That Dry
I just had to add these to this list when I saw how cute they were. This two-piece cacti dryer ball set will add whimsy to your wash when you toss them in your dryer with your freshly-laundered clothes. The spikes on the cacti help aerate your laundry, drying it faster and saving you money on your energy bill. Dryer balls are also known to help reduce wrinkles, which eliminates ironing. I call that a win-win.
The World’s Longest Charging Cable
OK, the title of “world’s longest charging cable” might be a bit of a stretch, but at 15 (15!) feet long, it’s no slouch. Measuring in at two-and-a-half Andre the Giants (the former wrestler was 7’4″ tall), you can easily plug it into any available outlet and sit comfortably on the other side of the room. Unless, of course, your room is the size of a football field.
Guard Your ID With This Security Stamp
One of the things no one really tells you before you become an adult is how actively you’ll have to try to protect your ID from criminals and creeps. This security stamp is a good place to start. By rolling it over confidential information printed on checks, bills and other documents, you can obscure your personal details from prying eyes. This is a great alternative to keeping a shredder around because it takes up far less space.
Get The Picture With This Complete Hanging Kit
You’re going to spend a lot more time in your adult life hanging — and re-hanging — things than you ever realized. Grab this complete picture-hanging kit and speed through the job. You’ll have everything you need in one place, including a hammer, leveling tool with ruler and more than 200 pieces of hardware to fit any job. Picture yourself organized. Pretty cool, huh?
Protect Your (Wine Glass) Neck With Stemware Holders
Did you just tilt your head sideways a bit at the photo of these trying to figure out what they are? Meet the silicone stemware holder, times four. These flexible purple tethers temporarily attach your stemware to your dishwasher to keep them safe during the wash cycle. If you hate handwashing your wine glasses and prefer the convenience of putting them in the dishwasher, these are a requirement for your kitchen.
You’ve Got To Know When To Fold Up This Cutting Board
One of the great mysteries of the world is how to transfer chopped veggies from a flat cutting board to a dish or pan without making a mess. This foldable cutting board might be the answer. Chop on the board as normal. When you’re ready to add ingredients to your pan, simply squeeze the handle to form a chute down which you can safely guide all that chopped goodness. It even comes in three sizes: mini, small and large.
Modernize Your Move With These QR Code Storage Labels
The first time I ever found myself lusting after these QR code storage labels was during one of my many moves. “Just imagine,” I said to myself, “how easy it would be to find what you need when you get where you’re going.” I didn’t end up buying them then, but I should have. Affix a small label to a box, add items and create a visual inventory for yourself with the matching app. This would be great for attic or basement storage as well.
One Bottle To Rule Many Kitchen Tasks
I’m back with another space-saving hack for your kitchen! At first glance, it appears like any other old bottle, but really get in there and look and you’ll find eight different tools nesting in one wine bottle-shaped apparatus. For your money, you’ll get a funnel, juicer, grater, egg cracker, shredder, can opener, egg separator and measuring cup. Phew! You’ve just eliminated several standalone gadgets in one colorful package.
Get Carried Away With These Plastic Grocery Bag Holders
There are two types of people in the world: The type who’ll make multiple trips to the car for grocery bags and the type who’ll load themselves down with all the bags in one trip. I fall into the latter category. These plastic grocery bag holders simplify that task. They can hold up to 80 pounds by combining multiple bags onto one handle to make it quicker — and easier — to transfer from your car to your kitchen.
Nano Towel The Day Away
Many of today’s skincare products are full of harsh chemicals that are just plain bad for your face. With these makeup remover towels, you can exfoliate away the oil and makeup on your skin with nothing more than water. Take off any kind of makeup, from foundation to mascara, with this reusable hand towel-sized piece of material. The product description claims these towels also exfoliate your skin. Buy it as a single or a pack of three.
Get Yourself Into This Steamer Situation
I seldom iron. (Sorry, Mom.) It’s just a life choice I’ve made and I’m comfortable with it. But, that doesn’t mean I want to leave the house a wrinkled mess. Instead of throwing clothes in the dryer (yes, we all know you’re doing it), invest in an inexpensive fabric steamer. This one is powerful, portable and compact and also heats up quickly. You can use it on material from cotton to silk and everything in-between.
Smell Like A Rose With These Travel Antiperspirant Wipes
Someone once said there are only two things in life you have to do: Pay taxes and die. I’d like to add “wear deodorant” to that list, please. We’ve all had that awkward moment in public when we think we catch an unpleasant whiff of ourselves. These travel antiperspirant wipes will eliminate any uncertainty. Stash them in your purse, your gym bag, your desk drawer, even your car and you’ll be smelling like a rose in no time.
Perfect Your Pics With This Pooch-Friendly Add-On
Pooch pictures are life. Honestly, I’d much rather look at selfies of you with your dogs than ones without. This dog selfie stick will help you capture Fido’s attention while you snap the perfect shot of you and man’s best friend. The description says this little contraption will fit just about any phone or tablet, meaning you have no excuse not to give your pup his moment to shine.
Hot Sauce In My Bag, Swag
A shout-out to Beyoncé for popularizing the lyric above and the idea that you really shouldn’t leave the house without hot sauce. This sriracha hot sauce keychain ensures you’ll really be equipped when you’re out and about and a hot sauce emergency arises. I really just want to spend the $10 to see the looks on people’s faces when I pull this out of my bag. If you liked it, then you should’ve put Sriracha on it.
Whip Up A Tasty Treat With This Milk Frother
The first time I tried the internet trend known as dalgona coffee, I thought I was literally going to whip my arm right off. I knew immediately that I needed a handheld milk frother like this one to speed up the process (and save my muscles). This will do the job in a matter of seconds and is perfect for all of your at-home coffee creations. Because, after all, you’re an adult and you can’t drink a $5 latte out every day … or can you?
A Bathtub Tray To Elevate Your Bubble Baths
Some people are shower people; some people are bath people. I’m a bath person, and I’ve found some pretty great hacks to make them better over the years, including this bath caddy tray to hold all your important stuff. Dedicated slots and cut-outs are made for your tablet or cellphone, wine glass and candles. The whole thing lays across your tub and is flat for easy storage when not in use.
Step To Any Challenge With This Portable Folding Step Stool
This one’s for my vertically-challenged folks: Where y’all at? This portable folding step stool will come in handy in a pinch, more times than you even realize. I have one in my closet, one in my bathroom and one in my kitchen … and I’m not even short. The textured surface and anti-skid footpads will keep you firmly planted wherever you set this up, and it folds and unfolds with just one hand.
The Black Sheep Of The Bathroom
No one — I repeat, no one — likes to go on the hunt for toilet paper when the urge strikes. This black sheep toilet paper holder keeps up to seven rolls within arm’s reach, transforming a naked sheep into a wooly sheep along the way. You can mount it on the wall or leave it standing on the floor. Just, please, fill it up.
This Reusable Food Wrap Is The Bee’s Knees
Plastic wrap is so bad for the environment, but so darn convenient. That’s why I started looking for alternatives. This reusable beeswax food wrap is genius. Made from organic cotton, organic jojoba oil, ethically harvest beeswax and tree resin, these wraps are biodegradable, sustainable and so much better than traditional plastic options. This listing has seven wraps in small, medium and large sizes, and the patterns are cute to boot.
Coffee For One, No Check Please
Once upon a time, I used to buy coffee out. Like, almost every day. Sometimes, twice a day. Now, I am a reformed coffee drink buyer and reserve those only as occasional treats. Instead, I like this single-serve pour-over coffee maker from the brand OXO, which I am mildly obsessed with overall. Pour-over coffee gives you a consistent, balanced brew, and the enclosed tank evenly distributes water over grounds. Pass the creamer!