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
Aunt Fannie’s Mosquito Repellent Wipes
Swipe this towelette over skin for four-hour protection against flies, ticks, and gnats. The formula is DEET-free and contains peppermint oil, olive oil, and vitamin E.
To buy: $10; amazon.com.
2
Dior Addict Lip Tattoo
These vibrant tints go on like creamy gloss (no mirror needed) but dry in seconds to become a transfer-proof stain that lasts an impressive 10 hours. The brush deposits a wearable watercolor-like veil onto lips so you always look done—but not overdone.
To buy: $30; sephora.com.
3
Perkie Prints
Turn even the most commonplace photo into a portrait-like work of art with Perkie Prints. You submit a photo (yes, even one snapped on your phone), and the Perkie Prints team will cut out the background to turn your pic snapped on the beach into something you’ll want to frame and hang on the wall, allowing you to create custom, beautiful wall art without spending a fortune. Prints can be ordered in a digital format, a variety of hard copy sizes, or even framed.
To buy: From $25; perkieprints.com.
4
Tapplock Smart Fingerprint Padlock
No more forgotten combinations. This gym essential releases at the touch of your fingerprint—or you can use the coordinating app to unlock it via your smartphone. The lock is made from reinforced stainless steel, and a two-hour charge powers the battery for a year.
To buy: $99; tapplock.com.
5
WOOLY Cord Keep
Wrangle your wires into manageable coils with these colorful, supremely charming (and taco-like) felt wraps. You have your pick of color, though a bright one will make finding your neatly stored earphones and charging cords a breeze.
To buy: $14 for two; byrdandbelle.etsy.com.
6
Boon Supply Co.
Blending products and purpose, Boon Supply Co.—launched May 10—offers beautiful everyday essentials that are both affordable (most items cost less than $25) and charitable. Just register a group you care about, such as your local school, and ask friends and family to shop from the online catalog; 50 percent of proceeds fund your cause.