17 Useful Products You Need if You Live Alone

We’ve all felt the frustration: You’re reaching and reaching to find the zipper, but it’s behind your back and a bit too low to grab. This handy helper attaches to a zipper so you can easily do the job yourself. ($29.99, Amazon)

This device helps you keep a hold of one side of a bracelet while you use your other hand to open and close the clasp. Never forget Samantha’s pearl bracelet incident on “Sex and the City.” ($8.99, Amazon)

This multiuse cart is great for grocery runs, trips to the laundry machine, and any errands that require carrying a heavier load. It folds down so it can be stored compactly in your car or a closet once you’re done. The fabric is even weatherproof with seven different compartments to store things like beverages, produce, or any bulky items you wanna take on the go. Plus, you can remove the bag and turn the cart into a dolly. The handle is cushioned so it can absorb the shock from any bumpy surfaces. ($32.47+, Amazon)

Install this opener underneath a cabinet with the adhesive backing and three included screws. It can be used to open jars and bottles of all sizes. It’s also a great solution for anyone with limited use of their hands. The magic lies in the metal teeth that’ll grip lids with ease. ($18.55, Amazon)

In a situation where you could use an extra layer of protection? Enter: this mini alarm and strobe light. The alarm is super loud — as loud as a jet engine 100 feet overhead. It comes in a ton of bright colors so it’ll be easy to spot in your bag, but we recommend attaching it to your keys for even easier access. To activate it, remove the top pin. (Pop it back in to turn it off.) The battery will last you up to 40 continual minutes. Each one is hand-tested and a percentage of the profits are donated to organizations that support women’s safety, shelter, and health. ($26.95, Amazon)

Homemade sauce? Yes, please. Standing in front of the stove constantly stirring the ingredients? No, thanks. This gadget is your answer. It works best for simmering or low-heat liquids. You just set the timer and it does the rest. Now you’ve got the time you need to finish your other chores around the kitchen. ($25+, Uncommon Goods)

This step has a grip top so you can feel safe while reaching the top shelf; no slipping or sliding here. Plus, it can hold up to 300 pounds and folds away for easy storage. Keep it in your kitchen, your closet, or both. ($18.01, Amazon)

It’s got night vision and a 110-degree wide-angle view. When it detects motion or sound, it’ll send notifications to your phone. It connects to your home Wi-Fi system and even allows you to speak to your dog if they’re in the middle of a barking spell. No more chewing furniture legs while you’re at work. ($34.99, Petcube)

This system is designed for any door, and it has a built-in rechargeable battery so you can install it anywhere. The vertical field of view means you can check your surroundings from head to toe, plus built-in intelligence can identify the difference between a person, package, animal, or vehicle. The compatible phone app keeps a log of recorded motion, so you can look back and see what was going on around your house. ($157, Amazon)

Upgrade your happy hour with this cordless opener that can uncork up to 30 bottles in a single charge, and it won’t break corks in the process. It also comes with two vacuum-sealed stoppers, so you don’t need to stress about spilling an entire bottle if you couldn’t finish it in time. Psst…it has a foil cutter that’ll remove pesky seals in no time. ($34.99, Target)

We’re talking basic essentials for minor maintenance — nothing too flashy. The set includes an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, pliers, a hammer, and more. It’s everything you need to hang framed photos, tighten screws, and complete some DIY projects. It also comes in pink. ($22.95+, Amazon)

Lettuce won’t wilt. Blueberries won’t mold. These containers regulate oxygen and carbon dioxide flow, so they keep your precious produce from spoiling. Plus, the built-in filter never needs to be replaced. Now you won’t need to run to the grocery store just to pick up more fruit and veggies. ($39.99/4-pack, Amazon)

Fingers crossed you don’t have to put this set to use, but better safe than sorry. It holds a ton — from standard flex bandages to nonstick pads and antibiotic packets. You’ll even get 16 ibuprofen pills. It’s a home essential that you’ll never regret owning. ($24.99, Amazon)

You’ll be prepared for that random power outage or late-night trip to the bathroom. This compact flashlight is always ready to use. It charges while it’s plugged in and brightens your space. Its LED light is four times brighter than standard LED technology, and illuminates objects up to 30 meters away. Plus, the outlet prongs are retractable, so you can hold it comfortably. ($28.99/3-pack, Amazon)

Whether you’re storing pasta or veggies, these won’t stain. They’re ideal for meal prep, so you can portion out your batch-cooked meals. Containers can be placed directly into the microwave to be heated or on the top rack of the dishwasher for cleaning. ($12.99/10-pack, Amazon)

Pop these underneath the legs of your desk, that heavy chair you love, your dresser, or even your couch. A soft foam layer will prevent your furniture from falling off the sliders when you move it. Plus, it’ll protect your carpet and make rearranging your space a breeze. ($14.99/16-pack, Amazon)

It’ll make it easier to manage your to-do and grocery lists. The device can also provide daily news briefings, weather reports, and traffic updates. Plus, it can connect to your Spotify, Amazon Music, or Apple Music account to play your favorite tunes. You can ask it questions if your hands are too full for a Google search. It can even replace your current alarm clock and control compatible smart devices (like lights and appliances). Thanks, Alexa. ($59.99, Amazon)