Happy happy Tuesday, friends!
Whew!
Yesterday, we went deep in health and wellness, and so today, we’re going to go light and frivolous (but hopefully still helpful!). I *was* going to blog about something else, but then after a random conversation in the car with my family after church on Sunday, I switched things around.
We started chatting about gadgets which lead to us talking about gadgets around our house which lead to me making a list of of our 10 BEST HOUSEHOLD GADGETS.
Are they really “our best”? I’m not sure, but they’re the 10 we came up with on the fly as we drove home from church 🙂 .
In no particular order, here they are:
Our PURA!
We’ve had ours about a month now, and I still love it! I bought one to put upstairs in my family room where the kids “live”. I don’t ever burn candles up there because you know…rowdy kids and dogs…and this has been the perfect solution to you know…it smelling like kids and dogs. You don’t just plug it in, you use your app to control the scents and how/when they’re released. The app is great, it’s easy to use, I love the timers, everything about it makes this mama’s heart oh so happy!
I cannot remember if I’ve ever shared this with you before, but we love our MY Q! We have had ours now for about 18 months, and we use it all the time. It’s super easy to install (even if you’re not techy, you can do it!), and what it does is allow you to open and close your garage door or electric gate from your phone (even if you’re not home). Not only that, but it tells you if your garage door is open or closed and how long it’s been in said state. If you are ever at the grocery store and think “did I close the garage door”, you can check. If you are on the other side of the world and let’s say your neighbor needs to get inside and borrow your lawnmower, you can open it for them (and then close it back). It’s so fantastic, and I’m often surprised how frequently I use it.
.
Because if you’re not trimming the wicks of your candles, you should be! My WICK TRIMMERS are a must at my house! Before lighting a candle, I also trim the wicks. By doing this, the candles burn longer, cleaner and more evenly. They are a must for us!
How many times have I discussed these WATER SENSORS? They are legit amazing. Seriously, they have saved my home water damage on several different occasions. All you do is place them near areas that could get wet (like behind the washing machine, behind toilets or the pipes under a sink) and then the minute moisture touches them, your phone starts notifying you. They are crazy sensitive too which makes them really amazing in the event that your pipe is in fact, leaking. We love ours!
One of my team members gave me a CORDLESS ELECTRIC MIXER for Christmas and seriously, my mind was blown. Where has this been all my life?! A mixer that I can pull out and not make cookies while simultaneously wrestling the cord? Brilliant!
Yes, I know, but you guys! I love my POTATO MASHER, and it’s certainly one of my favorite “gadgets”. Browning ground beef? I use it. Making guacamole? I use it. It’s the easiest little tool for many other things besides just potatoes.
Kensington said this was her favorite gadget, and the rest of us agreed! For Christmas, her grandparents gave her this BLUE TOOTH RECORD PLAYER, and she has LOVED it! She can listen to her records on a speaker (wonderful!) or…her blue tooth headphones (even more wonderful when the rest of us are tired of listening to her music). It’s pretty darn amazing.
Andrew is the person at our house who hangs all the pictures/photos/whatever on the wall, and he swears by this LASER LEVEL. It’s pretty cool when he uses it because yup, that laser knows exactly where he should put that nail to make sure whatever he’s hanging is in the right spot. If you find yourself hanging things often and tired of using a normal level, he highly recommends this one.
Yeah, all of us laughed but agreed when Andrew said our POOPER SCOOPER in the backyard was a pretty fabulous gadget. We are all certainly thankful for it.
And of course, I think my HEATED EYE LASH CURLER is the most amazing gadget 🙂 .
Okay, please spill the beans! Off the top of your head, what’s a gadget you use often that you absolutely love? I would love, love to know in the comment section!
Happy Tuesday! I’ll see you all back here tomorrow! xx
Elspeth says
So many fun and useful gadgets! U do love the wick trimmer! Super helpful for burning candles!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Erin says
We have the water sensors and MyQ. Both fantastic.
Jennibell says
I don’t think I could live without my iPad. I read books on it, do my Bible study on it, journal in it, have my timers set in it, listen to music on it, watch a movies on it, answer, texts, email, shop… It is truly the one thing that I use all the live-long day. In fact, I’m reading and commenting on this blog on it right this minute 😉
Mix and Match Mama says
That is one piece of tech I have never had. Am I missing out???
Monica says
Yes!!!
Alison Althouse says
OMGoodness… I’m stunned that you’ve never had an iPad… I use mine the same as mentioned above but I also I carry mine from room to room, use it for work (I manage in-store tastings for a MD winery), write up blog posts for my wine blog, use it to draw out ideas before painting them on burp cloths, read my Kindle books, and use it for all the social media things. I have a keyboard case that makes using it incredible similar to a full size laptop but it’s so much more portable. HIGHLY recommend getting one… you’ll be amazed that you lasted so long without one.
Mix and Match Mama says
Now I feel like I’m doing it all wrong! Why don’t I have one?! What size is yours? I feel like I see them in so many different sizes.
Natalie Lyles says
Yes love mine. I can’t believe you don’t have one, Shay. You must try one and get one of those apple pencils with it. You can write directly on it.
Carrington says
What are your favorite pura scents?? We just got one and I’m obsessed!
Aparna says
Totally agree! Can’t live without mine!
Rho says
How do you journal on it? This intrigues me – please share. I can type faster than I can write, so I would be all about this. Do you use an app? Type or use a pen? THanks for any info you’d be willing to share about journaling on an iPad. I basically use mine for youtube and interest.
Detroit Duchess says
Those water sensors are genius!
Kelly Marie Sites says
I have the Aera (exactly like the Pura) and love it. Same thing. I love my blue tooth speaker so I can listen to music, sermons or podcasts when I’m in my bathroom getting ready or in the shower. I love my Fit Bit so much- it tracks my sleep and steps, and more. And finally, not sure it’s tech, but I LOVE AND WOULD DIE WITHOUT IT, my Podcast app. and Kindle).
Kathy says
A cordless mixer is genius!
Josie says
Use this instead of your potato masher for ground meat. It is SO much better!!
https://a.co/d/7RqrLKy
Jodi says
Yesssss.
Sheaffer says
Okay, buying #2 right now! Heaven knows I need it!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I was thiiiiiiiiiiis close to just calling you out in my post and telling you to get it.
Erika Slaughter says
I had to check my website to make sure I was reading Shay’s post and not Sheaffer’s. WHY have you not already bought this for her? It would have made the perfect gift!
Mix and Match Mama says
I know!! It was meant for her!
Kara says
Just bought the pooper scooper for our new doodle pup and the Q for my OCD husband so we can stop turning around on the way to church/dinner ect to check the garage door! haha thanks for the recommendations! We love our Echo device and my cordless sweeper!
Lisa N says
Outlet remotes. Just in one room I have two lamps and during the season, the Christmas tree operated by remote control. Even better than the tree being on a timer. With as many lamps as you have, it would be a must.
Mix and Match Mama says
Well why don’t I have those??
Kate says
How long would you say one of the Pura scents last?
Mix and Match Mama says
I am replacing mine today for the first time. On my app, it says both are still working but low, and since it’s been a month, I am going to swap them out.
Catherine Silver says
I just got a Pura. Which scents do you like?!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve only tried two so far, but I really like them. I’ve tried Pineapple Cilantro and Volcano.
Tasha says
Hi Shay, thanks for sharing! I know this is not a wellness post but since you posted about the Pura and candle wick trimmer I thought I’d ask; as you delve more into the holistic health space, what are your thought on eliminating possible harmful chemicals? Have you switched any of your candles, cleaning products, skin care, or makeup, etc. for more clean versions? If so, do you have any recommended products?
Mix and Match Mama says
Slowwwwly I’ve entered into this space. I am one of those people who get overwhelmed with too much change and then revert back to my usual ways if I go to quickly (because I am not big on change), but yes, it’s something that I’m much more aware of/learning more about/considering/all the things right now.
Dana P says
Before you go all out, there are plenty of accounts now who explain why a lot of this stuff isn’t necessary or actually that concerning. Charlotte Parler and Foodsciencebabe are a couple I’ll mention. I was knee deep in all of the the environmental working group, “clean” apps, etc. and I feel so much freedom now!
Allison says
Agree with myQ! I use it all the time, it is awesome!
Jessica says
I love my kitchen scissors. I used them to cut fat off meat before I cook it, use them to cut up any meat when cooked, cut pizza with it, cut quesadillas into fourths with them, cut crusts off sandwiches, cut up my turkey bacon to put in my scrambled eggs….and the list goes on. I use them multiple times everyday.
Mix and Match Mama says
I should have said that! You’re right!! Those are invaluable in the kitchen!!
Kay says
My rice cooker! I really hesitated over getting one as I usually used TJ’s frozen rice. However, this inexpensive little gadget makes really good quality/homemade tasting rice and it’s SO easy. It’s like the slow cooker-you feel like you’re superwoman “making rice” while getting 100 other things done. Highly recommend! I have the basic “aroma” brand but I’m sure any one would do.
Kelly says
I second this! I am always hesitant to buy something that only does one thing, but I LOVE my rice cooker!! It’s not like it’s even that hard to make rice on the stove but with the rice cooker, I just put it on and can forget about it and it’s perfect every single time. Even my husband commented recently about how he was skeptical at first but now really loves it.
Mix and Match Mama says
My SIL uses her rice cooker all the time too. I’ve never even really considered buying one, but you guys are starting to convince me!
Jenn says
My frother- it has changed my coffee game! It makes me most perfectly-frothed half & half.
Beth Valenta says
Honestly had to think, but my Echo Dots are all over and I love music, weather, asking questions, etc.
Meg says
But which one is in all the bathrooms? Lol
My favorite gadget is my Google home hub—I add smart plugs to my lamps, Christmas tree, anything that plugs in, and control it with the app (or say Hey Google, turn on the bedroom lamp). And all while displaying pictures from my Google Photos app.
Mix and Match Mama says
The water sensor! They have saved us from pipe leaks and toilet overflows several times.
Elizabeth says
Every time you post about the Pura I almost buy one, but the reviews get me every time. They tend to have a common theme- connectivity issues and they don’t turn off as scheduled and therefore the scents inserts (not sure what they’re actually called) run out very quickly. Have you had issues with either of these two things? I’m guessing no, since it made your top ten, but would love to hear your feedback on those issues commonly mentioned in the reviews. 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m one month in with zero issues!
Heather says
Unrelated but- when is your podcast coming back?!
Mix and Match Mama says
I think we’ve retired from podcasting. There just wasn’t enough time in our day.
Amy says
I love my pizza cutter. I use it to cut so many things especially when my kids were younger.
Susan Schroder says
A Dyson handheld vac is a must have. Love my and use it daily.
Mix and Match Mama says
YES!! I love my stick vacuum too!!
sandi says
Someone above mentioned kitchen scissors… I have three because one or two are always in the dishwasher. The convenience of the Alexa for setting timers, adding quick items to my grocery list (or the ease of family members adding needed groceries) and playing music while I cook makes it a cool gadget for my kitchen.
Ruby Huling says
To go along with the wick trimmer, I have the electronic arc candle lighter! Funny thing though, the teenage boys grab their ears every time I light a candle. No one else hears anything!! And I agree with another reader, I couldn’t get through my day without my iPad!
Leah Z says
We sometimes turn on our arc lighter in another room just to see if our teens scream! Ha! It gets them every time.
My favorite gadget is our air fryer. I just gave in and got one a couple months ago and now we use it almost every day!
Jessamyn Peace says
I keep meaning to buy water sensors! Thanks for the reminder! I never before heard of trimming your wicks before you said it awhile ago, but my toenail clippers work brilliantly 😆
Catherine says
Shay, I think I remember you using a sound machine. I cannot find one I like after trying several. Could you please link the one you use? Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
We use a variety at our house. All of my kiddos except for one asks their Alexa to play “white noise” (so that’s how they get their sound at night), Mades uses our very, very, very old legit sound machine in her room that we’ve had since Smith was a baby and then Andrew and I use one on Apple Music piped in through our Sonos in our bedroom.
Heather Williams says
Have you tried this USB Lighter you can also pull the wick up with it as well.https://www.amazon.com/Electric-Lighters-Windproof-Flameless-Rechargeable/dp/B08QRWDHVT/ref=asc_df_B08QRWDHVT/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=475792708712&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14391231198708863545&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9026543&hvtargid=pla-1185735768469&psc=1&mcid=f398f22674e1344a9181e14193c21382&gclid=CjwKCAiAxaCvBhBaEiwAvsLmWDdB5rM5cml79sL0f6cO_XuW2wxBOlHd4RXG_c16WC8PyUglBKpgeRoCD8EQAvD_BwE
Rhoda Watson says
Shay, Something was weighing on me after the reading the comments section on your IF post the other day. I just wanted to say that, I for one, am absolutely loving the inclusion of more health related topics on your blog but, I sometimes sense an air of uncertainty in your posts. Almost as though you are second guessing whether these topics are the right things to include on your blog or whether you will be seen as giving unsolicited advice. As women, I think we are always looking to learn from our friends. I read your blog as if I was having a chit chat over coffee with a bunch of friends. We are all able to make our own choices whether it be to buy that sweater, use that recipe, or try tweak something diet/exercise related.. It’s just great to have that airing of ideas. You look (and feel great) so I’m so glad that you are sharing what’s working for you! I welcome your transparency. Please don’t listen to the lone rude critic who rudely painted your readers as braindead sheep. I love most of your content and if it’s something I’m not too interested in I just skim or skip, no big deal. I can’t see why some people feel the need to be abrupt and negative. OK…glad I got that off my chest as it was bothering me that I didn’t address it at the time.
Mix and Match Mama says
Well goodness, THANK YOU for such a sincere, honest and encouraging comment. I am more grateful than you know. I so appreciate you being a part of this community and taking the time to share this with me. xx
Sara Wolf says
We have My Q and we were able to link it to our Amazon account and have our packages delivered inside the garage. We’ve had SO many neighbors have packages stolen from their front porch in broad daylight so we just have the Amazon delivery person place it in the garage using My Q! I used a clear plastic storage container and just labeled it with “Amazon deliveries” and it has been the best!
Mix and Match Mama says
Great idea!!!!