6 Clever Items to Simplify Your Life
Real Simple’s mission, through its 17 years, has been to simplify your life with smart finds like these.
1
Open up envelopes, packaging, or even cut out your favorite articles with this clever cutter. The silicone sleeve slips over your pointer finger—just press down at a 45-degree angle to engage the ceramic blade. It’s strong enough to cut through three pieces of paper at a time.
To buy: $10; thegrommet.com.
2
The only thing more coveted than counter space is purse space—so we always love an ingenious two-in-one product that clears up clutter in our bags. This slim mirror also houses a powerful rechargeable battery, so you’re protected against a dead phone and an embarrassing post-lunch lettuce smile.
To buy: $17.50; bloomingdales.com.
3
Never wonder, “Where did I put that lighter?” again with this equally stylish and utilitarian stoneware. It holds a handful of strike-anywhere matches and features an unglazed rim to conveniently light them up.
To buy: $32; uncommongoods.com.
4
Your favorite water bottle now comes in party size. Swell’s new pitcher-sized canteens house 40 ounces of ice-cold water (and keep it cold for 24 hours) or piping hot coffee (which will still be steaming for 12 hours)—perfect for parties, picnics, camping, and more.
To buy: $55; swellbottle.com.
5
This genius gadget from New Zealand will have you spending less time weeding (and less time complaining about an overworked wrist). Just hook the tool around the weed and pull—the single prong will effortlessly dislodge weeds with roots intact.
To buy: $10; store.moma.org.
6
Feel out of the loop in your city? Check out Maply—a crowd-sourced map where users can plug in what’s happening nearby, like festivals, activations, conferences, happy hour deals, and garage sales. It updates in real time, so you’ll never miss the cool thing that’s happening only a couple of blocks away again.