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One of these 13 gadgets could be the hero your junk drawer needs (here's why)
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The fabled "junk drawer" gets a bad wrap. What is a junk drawer if not a place to keep useful knick-knacks and gadgets tucked away, without the clutter of random cables or cords, mismatched chargers, and more? Thankfully, I know just the gadgets to keep on hand that will upgrade your messiest household drawer into an uber-functional oasis.
Also: 6 cheap kitchen gadgets that will make your life easier for under $20 (I promise)
From tiny blades to staple essentials like lighters and scissors, here's every gadget I keep in my home's junk drawer within arm's reach (and why).
The junk drawer gadgets I swear by
This mini box cutter from Slice is a staple. I now have one in my office drawer, one in my console table by the door for heavy deliveries, and one in my kitchen junk drawer. They slice open boxes with ease and little effort, and they're the perfect size for tossing into a drawer. The blade is made of ceramic for extra durability and sharpness, and the outside is magnetic, too,
Yes, your AirPods get dirty, and this AirPods cleaning tool is a lifesaver. I personally keep mine in my kitchen junk drawer so it's easy to find and always on hand. This $7 gadget includes a scraper, brush, and soft tip for easy cleaning.
Also: Your AirPods are gross. Grab this tool to keep them clean
Sure, you can keep this somewhere else, but this is one of my favorite junk drawer stash items. It makes it easy to weigh my bags before I arrive at the airport, and it eases travel stress for just $10. This is probably one of my best purchases yet.
For heavier boxes and larger packages, Slice's bigger box cutter is also essential. Like the smaller box cutter, it slices with ease and precision, and includes a curved ergonomic handle for added safety and comfort. There's also a ceramic blade that can cut through cardboard, vinyl, cardstock, tape, and more.
An extra pair of scissors is key for any good junk drawer. They come in handy for so many things, and I always appreciate having them on hand so I can keep my kitchen scissors reserved for just food.
You can never have too many charger blocks, in my experience. I like keeping this Anker wall adapter in my kitchen junk drawer, thanks to its two-port design. The USB-A and USB-C design allows me to charge my phone and devices, as well as other random gadgets like my cat's wireless water fountain.
The iSesamo is durable, flexible, and surprisingly capable. You can use it to open gadgets or gizmos (or for many other things). It's a nail-saver and really helpful for prying open tough remote backs, and more.
Also: This $12 gadget quietly became the most useful thing on my keychain
This $7 tiny tool is the best gadget for items wrapped in shrink wrap or thin cellophane that's difficult to slice open with scissors or larger blades. It's a tiny ceramic blade that's perfect for everyday life.
This electric lighter is easy to use and rechargeable via USB-C. It's perfect for lighting candles, grilling, and more, and I rarely need to recharge it. It's a great alternative to traditional lighters or matches.
Prone to pesky bug bites? Heat It could be for you. It's available in USB-C or Lightning adapters. It plugs into your phone and delivers a warming zap that's supposed to quell itchiness from bug bites. ZDNET's Adrian Kingsley-Hughes says it could make a difference if you're an outdoorsy person, and as someone who also owns one, I can confirm that it works. It's a great addition to a junk drawer or even a medicine cabinet or first-aid kit. I use mine almost weekly in the summer months.
Also: This USB-C accessory gave my iPhone and Android a surprisingly useful functionality
Perfect for lifting stickers, price tags, and other annoying adhesives, this scraper is such a staple household tool. I've used it on several kitchen appliances that had leftover adhesive on them from installation and unpacking.
Koala cleaner is my go-to for keeping my devices streak, smudge, and dirt-free for under $10 -- the best thing to have on hand for gadgets, gizmos, glasses, and more.
Also: The $8 accessory keeping my expensive tech gadgets looking like new (and how it works)
I actually keep this bladed tool with my wrapping paper and gift bags, but it cuts through paper like butter, making it easy to maintain a clean line all the way through. Plus, it minimizes hand cramping. It's going to be a game-changer this holiday season.