Owning practical, essential items is a key step towards mastering adulthood and embracing responsibility.
Life is inherently unpredictable, and while no one can foresee the future with absolute certainty, we can take steps to be better prepared for the curveballs it throws our way. In this quest for readiness, practical items can make a significant difference. From essential safety gear to organizational tools that keep life running smoothly, having the right products at your disposal can enhance your sense of responsibility and preparedness.
We've compiled a list of must-have items that reviewers swear by for boosting their personal and home management. These range from emergency safety essentials that you hope to never use but will be grateful to have on hand, to organizational tools designed to streamline daily tasks and keep your life in order. You'll also discover some surprisingly exciting adult-oriented products that, while they might not have seemed thrilling in your younger years, are now essential parts of a well-managed life.
Our goal is to introduce you to gadgets and tools that can transform your approach to responsibility. Whether you're looking for practical solutions for unexpected situations or seeking to add some efficiency to your daily routine, we hope you'll find inspiration and practical items that make your journey through adulthood a bit smoother and more organized.
1. A pair of car window breakers and seatbelt cutters
We've written about car window breakers before — they're a compact safety tool that's great to have in your center console or glove box in the event of a car emergency where you have to exit the vehicle. It's a tool we hope you never have to use, but you'll be glad to have.
2. A handy reminder for pet feeding
Before you ask, yes, this comes in a "Did you feed the dog?" version, too. Super handy for kids and families taking care of a pet or just anyone who struggles to remember if their furry friend got fed, this magnetic reminder is an interactive way to ensure a proper feeding schedule.
3. A set of lavender-scented poop bags
In lavender or unscented versions with the option of purchasing 120, 270 or 600 bags, these leakproof poop bags will come in handy whenever you need them. Whether you're a dog parent, cat parent or human parent who's tired of smelly diapers, these bags are here to keep everything gross inside and let your hands stay clean.
4. A "Tub Shroom" sink hair catcher
The definition of an adult purchase, this catcher insert goes in your drain to trap hair and lint. Say goodbye to clogged showers and sinks with this reusable and easy-to-clean catcher.
5. A stylish compost bin
Once you start composting, you may be surprised how much less trash you have. Something like this stainless steel compost bin is good-looking enough to take up space in your kitchen and is an easy way to start composting more regularly.
6. A protective laptop carrying case
Students, commuters, tech lovers alike will enjoy this water-resistant, laptop-carrying bag with an adjustable strap. It has an outside pocket for your wallet or phone, internal storage for your laptop, tablet and files, and padded sides to keep everything snug.
7. An expandable fire emergency ladder
Don't be confused by the brand's name — this emergency ladder isn't just for kids and can hold up to 1,000 pounds. It's made with a smart tangle-free design that comes in 13 and 25-foot options with foot-wide, anti-slip rungs for extra safety. It attaches to most windows and is designed to be easy to use in an emergency.
8. A Brita water dispenser
Have cold, filtered water whenever you need it with this 27-cup Brita dispenser. The replaceable filter lasts for two months or 40 gallons of water, and the slim and long fit works in most fridges. Reviewers say it helps keep them hydrated and feel better about using less plastic. Win, win.
9. The Bissell Little Green
The Bissell Little Green is consistently a best-selling item at HuffPost and is often deemed a must-have for pet owners. It's small but mighty and is right there for both wet and dry messes on carpets, furniture, your car and more.
10. A bottle of makeup brush and sponge cleaner
If you can't remember the last time you cleaned your makeup brushes, it's probably time to clean them now. This fragrance-free "shampoo" is gentle on your supplies while still keeping them clean and nice for your skin.
11. A handy first aid kit
It's probably unsurprising to see a first aid kit on this list, and you're right; having 350 pieces of medical supplies is a great way to feel responsible. Ideal for a home, car, workplace or travel bag, it comes in a compact carrying box and contains everything from cotton swabs to alcohol prep pads.
12. An Owala FreeSip water bottle
Owala FreeSip bottles are anothers favorite among both readers and our staff. You can sip it with a straw or swig it from a larger opening. The leakproof lid will give you peace of mind on the go, and the fun color combos will fit any style.
13. A set of 36 AAA batteries
Another thing you always need exactly when you can't find it — get yourself a set of batteries and never stress about taking them out of the TV remote again. This set contains 36 AAA batteries, but you can also buy them in 8, 12, 20, 100 and 1,000 counts.
14. 20 rolls of Bounty paper towels
A good roll of paper towels will save you time and money. This set of 20 rolls of Bounty will ensure you always have some when you need them, and you can use less of each roll on each mess.
15. 32 rolls of Scott toilet paper
Listen, we all need toilet paper — and frankly, it's more responsible to have it than not to have it. Remember the TP-hoarding situation of 2020? Grab this set of 32 rolls of Scott toilet paper and be glad you did.
