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Tag: Home Goods

Essential Items Every Homeowner Needs

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Home | Updated: October 23, 2024
Medea Giordano
Author
Medea is a writer and editor covering products across categories like beauty, pets, and home since 2017. Her commerce and lifestyle writing has appeared in WIRED and The New York Times. She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and three cats.
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

A house needs a lot of things. Some are exciting to plan, like cozy furniture and decorations to make the space feel like you. But there are also essentials to keep your abode safe, clean, and functioning comfortably from roof to foundation. You don’t need to buy every single item on this list at once, but it’s worth considering what’s needed for your space. Start with safety, like smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, and then move on to the fun stuff like sheets and fancy showerheads.

Prices are accurate as of October 23, 2024. Subject to change.

Table of Contents

  • Health and Safety
  • Tools and Backups
  • Home Goods and Supplies
  • Just in Case

Photos courtesy of Amazon

Health and Safety

Your home should be your safe space where you’re warm, comfortable, and relaxed without worry of potential threats — be it from intruders or accidents like fires or minor injuries.

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Fires and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention

These should be on the top of your list because it takes very little money and prep work to protect yourself. It’s recommended to keep a fire extinguisher on each level of your house, including your basement. Smoke alarms should also be on every level, and the National Fire Protection Association recommends including them in each bedroom, too. Carbon monoxide detectors get the same recommendation as well, but at minimum, should be installed outside bedrooms so they’ll wake you up if they go off.

Fire Alert Home2Pro Fire Extinguisher
$40
BUY NOW Amazon
First Alert Dual Sensor Smoke and Fire Alarm
$56
BUY NOW Amazon
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector
$22
BUY NOW Amazon

Security and Cameras

You don’t need your house to be as heavily guarded as Fort Knox, but there’s some peace of mind that comes with setting up a basic alarm or cameras. For an alarm system, I like SimpliSafe because it lives up to its name in terms of simplicity in setting up and using it. There are several premade bundles to get you started, or you can build your own system with exactly what you need — I particularly like the brand’s video doorbell. Wyze makes affordable, reliable cameras too. At the very least, we recommend changing any exterior door knobs and deadbolts once you move in. The old owners could have given copies of keys to anyone. For around $20, you don’t have to wonder who that might be.

SimpliSafe 5 Piece Wireless Home Security System
$200
BUY NOW Amazon
Wyze Cam v4 Indoor/Outdoor Camera
$36
BUY NOW Amazon
Amazon Basics Exterior Door Knob
$20
BUY NOW Amazon

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First Aid Kit

You can buy a premade first aid kit that should cover most of the essentials. We recommend DIY-ing it, or taking stock of what’s included in your kit and adding in a few additional items that are relevant to your family’s needs. See our first aid kit buying guide for more helpful products and advice, but below are some of the most important things to add to what you already have on hand.

Rhino Rescue Burn Kit
$24
BUY NOW Amazon
Ever Ready CPR Mask
$10
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Gauze Pads
$19
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Sting-Kill Anesthetic Swabs
$10
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TickCheck Tick Removers for People and Pets
$5
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North American Rescue C-A-T Combat Application Tourniquet
$31
BUY NOW Amazon

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Photos courtesy of Amazon

Tools and Backups

You don’t have to be the handiest person on the block, but you should have some basic tools should you need to hang a picture, fix a leaky faucet, or clean your walkways after a winter storm. And while we hope you never have to deal with a power outage, it’s a good idea to keep some battery-operated items on hand. These are some of our favorite tools and backup options.

FastPro 220-Piece Home Tool Set
$70
BUY NOW Amazon
Crafstman Wet/Dry Vac
$140
BUY NOW Amazon
Louisville 5-Foot Step Ladder
$99
BUY NOW Amazon
Snow Joe Shovelution Strain-Reducing Snow Shovel
$46
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Amazon Basics AA + AAA Battery Pack
$12
BUY NOW Amazon
Bolder by Anker Rechargeable LC90 LED Flashlight
$34
BUY NOW Amazon
Black Diamond Spot 400 Lumen Headlamp
$50
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Vornado MVH Space Heater
$60
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Anker MagGo Portable Charger
$90
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Home Goods and Supplies

When it comes to home goods, you likely already have everyday cleaning supplies on hand, but we have a few more suggestions as well.

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Cleaning

If you have more than one bathroom, have a plunger and toilet brush for each one — no one wants to walk through the house with a plunger at the exact moment company arrives. You should also have a solid vacuum and mop. Dawn and white vinegar are essential cleaners and can be used for nearly everything.

Clorox Toilet Plunger and Bowl Brush Combo Set
$18
BUY NOW Amazon
O-Cedar Spin Mop
$46
BUY NOW Amazon
Bissell 2252 Upright Vacuum
$135
BUY NOW Amazon
Reusable Rubber Cleaning Gloves
$10
BUY NOW Amazon
Dawn Dish Soap
$17
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Distilled White Vinegar
$11
BUY NOW Amazon

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Home Goods

Sheets get expensive, so the thought of buying multiple sets can be nauseating. However, you don’t want to be stuck sleeping on dirty sheets just because you couldn’t do laundry that day. If you find an inexpensive brand you like (I like Bedsure), get at least an extra set or two so you always have fresh sheets on hand.

Swapping your showerhead is an easy change to make a previously used shower feel new. If you live somewhere with hard water, Jolie’s showerhead softens it and filters out things like chlorine and heavy metals. If you don’t need to filter your water, you can still get a great new, clean showerhead under $50.

Bedsure Bamboo Cooling Sheets (Queen Size)
$60
BUY NOW Amazon
Jolie Filtered Showerhead
$165
BUY NOW Amazon
AquaCare Handheld Shower Head
$30
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Air Purifiers

Having air purifiers changed my life from constant allergy attacks and I recommend them to anyone who also deals with indoor and outdoor allergies, as well as those with pets and carpets. But if you live somewhere that deals with frequent wildfires, having a few in your house can be absolutely essential in breathing comfortably.

Levoit Core300-P Air Purifier
$100
BUY NOW Amazon
Bissell air320 Smart Air Purifier
$340
BUY NOW Amazon
Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Air Purifier
$230
BUY NOW Amazon
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Photos courtesy of Amazon

Just In Case

You don’t need to fill your basement doomsday-prepper style, but it’s smart to keep some backup essentials available just in case a freak storm rolls through or a sudden injury or life change keeps you from getting to the store easily. Remember that having a backup doesn’t mean hoarding all the toilet paper from your local grocery stores. You can help yourself without inconveniencing others.

Other than what’s listed here, keep a case of water, non-perishable foods, and a backup of your pet’s food — and keep an eye on expiration dates so you can use it before it goes bad and then replace it.

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Amazon Basics Toilet Paper (30 Rolls)
$25
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Amazon Basics Paper Towels (12 Rolls)
$23
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Gorilla Grip Heavy Duty Can Opener
$12
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LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
$20
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FosPower Emergency Weather Radio
$40
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Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator
$400
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About LeafFilter

Gutters are designed to channel rainwater away from your home, and more importantly your home’s foundation. If they’re clogged with debris, water can overflow and seep into your foundation, walls, and roof leading to significant water damage and costly repairs. LeafFilter is the nation’s top-rated professionally installed gutter guard. Their proven micromesh technology prevents debris from entering your gutters, allowing water to flow freely. With a clog-free guarantee and a lifetime warranty, your home is protected from roof to foundation, season after season. Schedule your FREE gutter inspection and estimate today.

Schedule Now!

Featured Image Credit: JulieK2/ Shutterstock

This story was paid for by an advertiser. Better Report's editorial staff was not involved in the creation of this content.

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Medea Giordano
Commerce Editor

Medea is a writer and editor covering products across categories like beauty, pets, and home since 2017. Her commerce and lifestyle writing has appeared in WIRED and The New York Times. She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and three cats.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated: August 8, 2024
Posted In: Home
Hero Image Credit: Better Report
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18 Products You Need in Your Problem-Solving Toolkit

Home | Updated: January 31, 2026
Nishka Dhawan
Author
Nishka Dhawan is a versatile editor and writer who’s worked her magic at places like ABC OTV, NBC Select, Rolling Stone, Reviewed (USA Today), and Digital Trends. Whether she’s crafting product reviews, managing content, or producing TV specials, Nishka loves telling stories that resonate. In her free time, she loves reading romantic books, watching reality TV, or playing the next best video game. You can also find her baking brownies and other delectable treats in the kitchen.
Better Report

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

We deal with problems every day, from minor to major. There’s not always a quick fix, but sometimes, you wish there was a solution to that creaking door or the pesky stain you just can’t seem to get off your favorite shirt. That’s where these amazing products come in, helping to ease your frustrations just a tiny bit. What’s more, all are under $50 each, so you won’t break the bank or get stressed over the next little inconvenience.

Prices are accurate as of January 30, 2026. Subject to change.

A photo of Tide Pens box
Courtesy of Amazon

For Stains: Tide Pen Stain Remover

If you’re a messy eater or deal with unexpected spills often, the Tide Pen helps keep your clothes stain-free whether you’re at the office, on a date, or running errands. It’s compact so it fits right in your pocket or work tote, and it eliminates coffee, ketchup, wine, and even tea stains. Simply press the pen’s tip onto the stain to release the cleaning solution, rub it in with the microfiber pad, and let Tide do its job. You can even repeat the process for stubborn stains.

BUY FOR $7 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Mystyle Purse Organizer
Courtesy of Amazon

For Cluttered Bags: OMYSTYLE Purse Organize

I don’t know about you but my work tote is always a mess — I can never find my keys, pens, or anything else that’s essential in there. This purse organizer changed everything for me. It has 13 compartments, so it neatly stores everything from makeup to granola bars. Now I can separate where I keep my keys from my credit cards, so I know where they are in a pinch. I love the zippered compartment to store essentials like loose cash or IDs. Six sizes are available depending on the size of your everyday bag.

BUY FOR $23 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Squeaks Gone Lubricant Oil bottle
Courtesy of Amazon

For Squeaks and Creaks: Squeaks Gone Lubricant Oil

If you’re struggling with squeaking and creaking doors, try this lubricant oil. It breaks through rust and corrosion, loosening rusted door bolts, and eases friction on fans, cabinet drawers, and squeaky bed frames.

BUY FOR $18 AT AMAZON
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A photo of Ohill Cable Clips
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For Tangled Cables: OHill Cable Clips

If you have a bunch of cords leaving your TV or laptop, or you just have too many wires on your bedside table, these cable clips can help tidy the mess. They stick on surfaces and keep your charging cables neatly in place, preventing them from getting tangled with each other or falling while not in use. There’s 16 in a pack, so every room in your house is covered.

BUY FOR $8 AT AMAZON
A photo of ther GE night lights and box
Courtesy of Amazon

For Dark Hallways: GE Automatic LED Night Light

If you have trouble finding your way to the bathroom at night and don’t want to blind yourself with your overhead lights, choose these night lights. They sit nearly flush against the wall and automatically turn on when the lights go out. They’re not blinding, but are just soft enough to help see in the dark.

BUY FOR $8 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Wet Brush
Courtesy of Amazon

For Knots and Tangles: Wet Brush Original

I wake up with tangled hair every morning, and if it wasn’t for the Wet Brush, I’d show up everywhere with a messy mop. Despite having soft bristles, this brush works well to detangle stubborn knots without pulling and protects against split hairs and breakages. I have straight to wavy hair, but it works well for curly hair too.

BUY FOR $10 AT AMAZON

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A photo of a Tile Mate
Courtesy of Amazon

For Lost Keys: Tile Mate

I don’t know about you but I constantly misplace my keys. On a normal day, that’s frustrating. On a day when I’m already running late, it feels disastrous. A Tile Mate helps prevent the frenzy. Simply attach it to your keys, bag, or anything else you want to keep safe and use your phone or smart home device to ping it the next time you can’t find it. It has a range of 250 feet and is even water resistant, so it can handle the occasional drizzle without giving out. iPhone users may also like Apple AirTags, but I appreciate that the Mate has a cutout for your keychain already included.

BUY FOR $20 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Chom Chom Roller
Courtesy of Amazon

For Pet Hair: Chom Chom Roller Reusable Lint Roller

Disposable lint rollers are great for clothes, but if you have pets, you’ll go through hundreds of those sticky sheets trying to keep your furniture hair-free. The Chom Chom Roller easily removes pet hair as well as other dust and debris from your couch, pillows, carpet, or anywhere else your furry friend is shedding and traps it in the built-in receptacle. One Better Report editor has owned one for years and it’s as capable now as it was brand new.

BUY FOR $25 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Auvon Weekly Pill Organizer
Courtesy of Amazon

For Daily Medication: Auvon Weekly Pill Organizer

Whether you’re taking a bunch of supplements and vitamins every day or have medication that you absolutely can’t miss, a pill organizer helps make that routine easier. No more opening multiple bottles or trying to remember if you took your pill that day already. Because it saves so much space, I love using it when I’m on vacation. I store my pills in the conveniently labeled slots and never have to worry about missing one again.

BUY FOR $6 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Veken 8-Set Packing Cubes
Courtesy of Amazon

For Packing: Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes for Suitcases

You may go into packing with lofty goals, but inevitably, things end up getting shoved in — either at the end of your trip or before you even leave. Instead, organize your clothes and accessories with ease with these packing cubes meant to separate sweaters, pants, underwear, and toiletries so you always know where something is. Plus, they have see-through panels so you can quickly see what you’ve stored where. There’s even a bag meant for dirty laundry. They’ll fit in your suitcase or even in a duffel bag if you’re heading out on a shorter trip.

BUY FOR $18 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Mighty Patch box
Courtesy of Amazon

For Pimples: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch

So you’ve woken up with a pimple, or worse, picked at one and now it’s more noticeable than before. Mighty Patch is your solution. Made from hydrocolloid, the Mighty Patch soaks up fluid from the pimple, reducing its size within eight hours. I use them all the time when I have a breakout and can confirm that they work — be it by healing an already enflamed pimple or by keeping me from picking new ones. 

BUY FOR $13 AT AMAZON
A photo of The Pink Stuff cleaner bottle
Courtesy of Amazon

For Cleaning Nearly Everything: Stardrops The Pink Stuff All Purpose Cleaning Paste

This viral paste can be used on nearly any surface. Use it to clean greasy stoves, stained pantries, mucky grout, and even dirty shoes — it really is that versatile. I particularly like it for quickly cleaning all the gunk off my bathroom tiles. That alone makes it worth every penny.

BUY FOR $6 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the NapFun Neck Pillow
Courtesy of Amazon

For Traveling: NapFun Neck Pillow

Traveling economy for long distances can be draining on your body, but especially on your neck. A neck pillow makes it easier to sleep on a long-haul flight (or drive), keeping your neck comfortably in place and preventing aches and pains later. This one is made from memory foam and has front and side chin support — much more than your standard neck pillow — and an adjustable cable to keep it in place. It also comes with a portable travel bag and the cover is machine washable.

BUY FOR $16 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Yishu Power Strip
Courtesy of Amazon

For Cluttered Outlets: Yishu Surge Protector Power Strip

Do you live in an apartment or an older home with limited outlets? This handy power strip has eight outlets, plus three USB-A ports and one USB-C port. It also has a six-foot cord and surge protection built-in.

BUY FOR $13 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Squatty Potty Simple Bathroom Stool
Courtesy of Amazon

For Bathroom Breaks: Squatty Potty Simple Bathroom Stool

Modern bathroom amenities are thankfully better than the days of chamber pots and outhouses, but despite the advancements, we still tend to go incorrectly. Humans are meant to squat when they poop, not sit. The Squatty Potty is designed to reduce strain and relax your muscles. There’s a reason this product is a bestseller on Amazon — it honestly cuts your bathroom time in half. The brand sells several different stools, including those made from stylish bamboo, but this model is really all you need. As the name suggests, it’s simple and effective.

BUY FOR $20 AT AMAZON
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A photo of the Hamilton Beach Dual Breakfast Sandwich Maker
Courtesy of Amazon

For Busy Mornings: Hamilton Beach Dual Breakfast Sandwich Maker

If you love breakfast but hate making it during busy mornings, this breakfast sandwich maker will save you time and sanity. Layer ingredients as instructed, from the base to the egg to the toppings. You’ll have a delicious sandwich in five minutes and you hardly have to put in any work.

BUY FOR $55 AT AMAZON
A photo of the Pyrex 9-piece set
Courtesy of Amazon

For Meal Prepping: Pyrex Simply Store 9-Pack Glass Food Storage Set

Meal prepping can save you a ton of time and money during busy work weeks. But when it comes to storing all that prep work, it’s best to avoid plastic containers as much as possible — especially if you’ll need to pop them in the microwave at work. Instead, use this Pyrex set which comes with nine glass containers to store everything from meat to veggies. They are dishwasher and microwave-safe and are made from tempered glass to resist stains and odors.

BUY FOR $38 AT AMAZON
A photo of reflective running belt
Courtesy of Amazon

For Runs: Sport2People Water-Resistant Reflective Running Belt

This water-resistant reflective running belt keeps you visible and safe in the dark and also holds any important items like your cards and keys. It even has a phone holder so you can focus on your exercise without leaving all your necessities behind. It’s adjustable from 24 to 51 inches.

BUY FOR $15 AT AMAZON
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Feature Image Credit: Courtesy of The Pink Stuff

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Nishka Dhawan
Writer

Nishka Dhawan is a versatile editor and writer who’s worked her magic at places like ABC OTV, NBC Select, Rolling Stone, Reviewed (USA Today), and Digital Trends. Whether she’s crafting product reviews, managing content, or producing TV specials, Nishka loves telling stories that resonate. In her free time, she loves reading romantic books, watching reality TV, or playing the next best video game. You can also find her baking brownies and other delectable treats in the kitchen.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated: October 3, 2024
Posted In: Home
Hero Image Credit: Better Report
Advertisement

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