Here is an on-going list of extremely useful, and effectively essential, things that are, and continue to be, an integral part in my life. If I had kids, I’d make sure they all owned at least one of these. In no particular order.
- Headlamp – Rechargeable batteries, multiple beam choices, bright light, water resistant. Possibly the single most useful tool I own. From dog walking, to beach walking, to fixing various things, to trimming dog claws, to general illumination, a wearable, hands-free headlight takes my number 1 spot.
- YakTrax – Arguably one of the best gifts ever given to me, walking dogs and general moving around in icy conditions without fear of falling is a big weight off my shoulders especially as I get older. Dogs have 4 legs, I only have 2. Broken and injured limbs have no place in my life.
- Stepladder – A few years back, we bought a foldable Cosco step stool ladder with polypropylene steps and a tray at the top. Despite having other heavy duty metal ladders of various functions (convertable, telescoping, etc), this is always my go-to ladder. It’s the perfect height for tasks around the house and it’s the most stable with grippy feet and wide steps. Love this thing.
- Toaster Oven – It can do it all. A nice, large sized oven does everything from toasting to baking, to dehydrating without having to turn the big one on. Pretty much essential in my life.
- Letter Opener – I never knew that many people don’t use these. A long piece of metal to not only open mail cleanly, but also functions as a package opener, wrapping paper cutter, rough hole maker, and for various other chores that need a sturdy, pointy piece of metal. As a bonus, can be used as a defensive weapon.
- Wet/Dry Vacuum – Wow. How much more useful can a tool get? Spilled liquids? Easy. Spilled solids? Done. Small area? There’s an accessory for it. Large area? Yup. Large pieces of debris? *SHHUUNNK* Up the hose it goes. I’ve gotten to the point where I’d rather use a wet/dry vac to clean my bathroom instead of sweeping or wiping the dust. And it does a great job of it too. Stairs, floors, rugs, cars, whatever the surface, there it is. Seriously. If you don’t have a nice one, get one.