CLEVELAND, Ohio — Life is so busy and fast these days that sometimes you just need a little extra help with tasks. We all look for anything that can make our regular to-dos easier, faster, or less boring.
For example, when getting ready for work. Dry shampoo has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially when you’re in a pinch and have to go out. Or, for added peace of mind, you can utilize a water leak detector that will send you a text message and sound an alarm for any leaks or problems.
As a subscriber to myself, fellow reporters at cleveland.com and the Plain Dealer, and editor Chris Quinn’s free text messaging service, I’ve shared dozens of my favorite products that make life easier in the hopes that they’ll help others. I have submitted points. Mr. Quinn received over 100 responses to this topic.
In this multi-part series, we compile our best product suggestions, starting with the first five items below. At the bottom there is a link to purchase the product online.
Subscribers and reporters answered questions immediately. Found an innovative product that you rely on? Email information about it to [email protected]. I may introduce it in the next article.
The first 5 products in part 1 are:
Duluth Armachillo Cooling Men’s Underwear
Men’s Duluth Armachillo Cooling Underwear is comfortable and stretchy. There’s also microscopic jade embedded in the fabric, which helps the underwear feel cool against your skin as you walk, run, and jump. Nylon/spandex/knit fabric wicks moisture from your skin and prevents chafing. The waistband of the underwear is secure, so you won’t have to adjust it during the day.
“Duluth Armacillo underwear for hot weather!” — Suggestions from subscribers
OXO Softworks 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer
The slicer is an all-in-one tool to pit, slice, and split avocados. Remove the pit from the stainless steel part. The slicer peels the avocado from its skin and cuts it into seven pieces. This tool has a soft, non-slip grip and is top rack dishwasher safe.
“If you love eating avocados like me and want avocado slices for your salads or sandwiches, I discovered this slicer years ago and have been using it ever since. Use a butter knife to slice. I’ve tried doing that, but it always ends up being a mess. The slicer has serrated blades that allow you to easily cut around the skin without it being sharp to the touch. It comes with a pit remover that pops out with a twist. After removing the pit, push the blade in the center of the tool into the avocado to create even slices. , remove to a salad or plate.” Kaylee Remington of cleveland.com
Govee water leak detector
Water leak detectors sound an alarm when they detect water droplets or leaks. Wirelessly alerts you when the battery is low. You can also adjust the alarm sound to your liking. The device has a sealed and waterproof design, so it can be used for long periods of time even in humid locations.
“My water alarm saved my butt last night. I bought it a few years ago at the recommendation of a plumber. Last night I left the sink on and it just turned on at Fairview Tavern. I got a text alert as I sat down to dinner. It was a quick fix, but without the alarm it would have been a complete mess.” Rich Exner of cleveland.com
brown sugar bear
Brown sugar bear is a product that retains the moisture and softness of brown sugar for about 3 to 6 months. The bear is made from specially fired clay. Soak in water for 20 minutes and add to brown sugar, cakes, cookies, marshmallows, dried fruit, etc.
You can also use Bear Dry to absorb moisture and keep spices, salt, crackers, pretzels, etc. dry.
“Did you know that once a year a recipe calls for brown sugar and you take out the bag and the sugar is one big stone? This little guy makes sure that doesn’t happen. Several times a year , just soak it in water.” — Mike Rose of Cleveland.com
dry shampoo
Dry shampoo is a great option when you’re in a rush: just a few sprays will soak up oils that make hair sticky and leave it looking fresh.
Dry shampoo is a powder product that absorbs moisture from your hair, leaving it shiny and non-greasy. When you use dry shampoo, you don’t need to use water, so it’s one less thing you have to do every day. You can rest assured that the oil, sweat, and odor from your hair will be absorbed by the shampoo.
Dry shampoo is so popular that it’s hard to find a brand that doesn’t offer it. You can find it at every price point, from drug store brands to professional products like Ulta.
“Dry shampoo. Game changer!” – Suggestions from subscribers
The above products are available online:
Duluth cooling underwear: Duluth Trading Company $15.99-$49.99
Avocado slicer: $11.99 at Walmart | Buy The Container Store for $9.99 | $9.99 at Macy’s | Sur La Table $9.95
Water leak detector: Walmart (Kidde Brand) $34.84 | Home Depot (YoLink brand) $19.06 | Best Buy (SimpliSafe brand) for $19.99 | Amazon for $49.99
Brown Sugar Bear: $16.99 (3 pack) at Walmart | Luxury Chef for $15 | $9.95 on Etsy | $9.88 on Amazon
Dry shampoo: walmart | Ulta | Sephora | Aveda
Kayleigh Remington is a commerce reporter and subway reporter for shopping and entertainment. cleveland.com And the Plain Dealer.read her work online.