Unearthing quirky tools that simplify life is one of my husband’s expressions of love. We have rechargeable motion-triggered lights in the kids’ closets. He’s installed cord organizers on our nightstands to keep our chargers organized. And I’ll forever be grateful to him for showing me this electric pepper grinder.
What quirky items ease your life? Here are seven responses from our CoJ team, and I’m eager to hear yours…
Joanna, founder/editor
Lifesaver: Zara Home stool
“In our apartment, there are several spots — a chair in my bedroom, our guest bed — where we require small surfaces for setting down a book, glass, or phone. Rather than splurging on expensive side tables, I opted for a couple of small stools. They’re compact enough to fit anywhere, under $40, and visually pleasing. My water glass is happily sitting on one as I write this very blurb!”
Joanna, founder/editor
Lifesaver: Libby app
“I enjoy listening to audiobooks during long drives (especially now that I frequently drive an hour to Freddie’s house), and the Libby App allows you to borrow audiobooks from libraries. I particularly love listening to memoirs by comedians — I’ve enjoyed those by Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Mindy Kaling, and I’m currently queuing up the new one by Jeffrey Hiller (of Somebody Somewhere fame).”
Christina Chaey, food writer
Lifesaver: Timer Timer
“I’m in love with this cooking timer. The vibrant display allows me to instantly see how much time remains, even from a distance. Plus, it helps me stay phone-free so my phone isn’t covered in crumbs and spills. My absolute favorite usage is to set a 10-minute timer while washing dishes or cleaning around the stove — my two least favorite kitchen chores. It inspires me to complete as much as possible in those 10 minutes and serves as a reminder that you can do anything for 10 minutes — even scrub a baking dish with stubborn bits of hardened cheese.”
Maureen, marketing director
Lifesaver: Dimmable light
“I had been on the lookout for ages for a small, dimmable light for my kids’ rooms and finally stumbled across this $12 one from Ikea! It’s the perfect size, unbreakable (has already been knocked over numerous times), and features a simple on/off switch. Added bonus: My daughter loves yellow, so she was thrilled.”
Kaitlyn Teer, newsletter editor
Lifesaver: Silicone bags
“These reusable bags are great for carrying sandwiches and sliced fruit to the beach or storing leftovers, especially random items like when a recipe calls for just half an onion. We also used them for snacks on our recent road trip. They’re incredibly sturdy and clean up easily in the dishwasher. I even gifted them to my sisters-in-law as stocking stuffers.”
Jannelle, editor
Lifesaver: Dishwasher sign
“During the week, our home is filled with wonderful and caring family members who help look after my children while I work and spoil me by assisting around the house, like unloading the dishwasher. To facilitate easier communication, my husband ordered this ‘Clean/Dirty’ magnet, which has instilled such a small yet remarkable sense of order in our home.”
Alex Beggs, food writer
Lifesaver: Water bottle holder
“I got this water bottle holder for hikes and long walks. I adore the nostalgic color scheme — it makes me want to drink Pepsi and watch E.R. Sometimes I don’t use it for a water bottle at all, but for my sunglasses, chapstick, hand sanitizer, and a few Andes mints. It turns out it’s just the right size for baseball games and concerts, where they enforce strict size regulations on bags.”
Now it’s your opportunity! Please share your useful discoveries below…
P.S. Five additional low-cost items that simplify life and the best sneakers for extensive walks. Also, what are your hyper-specific love languages?
(Photo by Kayla Johnson/Stocksy.)
**Budget-Friendly Items That Improve Daily Life**
In today’s fast-moving world, discovering budget-friendly items that can enhance daily life is essential for many. These products not only increase convenience but also contribute to overall well-being. Here are some economical items that can significantly impact your everyday routine.
1. **Reusable Water Bottles**
Staying hydrated is vital for good health. A reusable water bottle is an environmentally friendly and economical way to ensure you have water readily available. Seek bottles with insulation to maintain your drinks at the desired temperature.
2. **Portable Phone Chargers**
As the dependence on smartphones grows, a portable phone charger becomes invaluable. These compact devices keep your phone charged throughout the day, eliminating the worry of a dying battery.
3. **LED Light Bulbs**
Transitioning to LED light bulbs can drastically lower your electricity bill. They have a longer lifespan and consume less energy than traditional bulbs, making them an intelligent investment for any household.
4. **Coffee Makers**
For coffee enthusiasts, a personal coffee maker can save both time and money. Brewing your coffee at home costs less than purchasing it from a café, and you can tailor it to your preferences.
5. **Meal Prep Containers**
Investing in a set of meal prep containers can assist in planning and organizing your meals effectively. This not only saves money by decreasing dining out but also encourages healthier eating habits.
6. **Bluetooth Speakers**
A portable Bluetooth speaker can enhance your music listening experience without straining your budget. Whether you’re at home or on the move, these speakers deliver high-quality sound and are user-friendly.
7. **Houseplants**
Integrating a few houseplants into your living space can enhance air quality and elevate your mood. Many plants are low-maintenance and affordable, making them a wonderful addition to any home.
8. **Yoga Mats**
A yoga mat is a versatile item suitable for various exercises, not just yoga. It provides a comfortable surface for home workouts, promoting a more active lifestyle.
9. **Electric Kettle**
An electric kettle is a handy device for swiftly boiling water. Whether for tea, coffee, or instant meals, it saves time and energy compared to using a stovetop kettle.
10. **Smart Plugs**
Smart plugs let you control your appliances remotely, adding convenience and energy efficiency to your household. They are easy to set up and can be managed through smartphone applications.
Incorporating these budget-friendly items into your daily life can create a more efficient, enjoyable, and cost-effective lifestyle. By making small investments in these products, you can elevate your quality of life without straining your finances.
