Household Things I Didn't Know I Needed Until I Became A Homeowner

Scrub Mommy

I know what some will think – “It’s just a sponge, big deal.” Yes it may be just a sponge, but what a great sponge it is. Cleaning dishes is probably one of the least glamorous – and my most hated – parts of homeownership, but this dual-sided scrubber and sponge can handle any mess, from stubborn baked-on grease to delicate glassware. The smiley face design is not just cute; it’s functional too – its "eyes" can be used to grip small utensils, and its "mouth" cleans spoons and other items effectively. On top of that the sponge is super durable and doesn’t scratch, plus it dries quickly, reducing bacteria buildup. Shopee always has bundle deals so you can stock up on these sponges. 

Smart Lights

Until now, I still get the feels when my dining lights automatically turns on at 7pm. And if I’m not home when it turns on, I get back to a house that’s lit up. Setting the mood or just having the right lighting for activities like reading or hosting a dinner party is also crucial. That’s where smart lights come into play. These lights can be controlled via smartphone or voice commands, allowing you to change the brightness, colour, and even set schedules for when they should turn on or off. They’re a fantastic way to add convenience and ambience (who doesn’t love a cosy pinkish-orange hue?) to your home, and they're energy-efficient too.

Google Speaker Assistant 

I’m no techie, just a very busy person – and this tech gadget and smart assistant has made managing my household so much simpler. From setting reminders and creating shopping lists to controlling smart home devices like the aforementioned smart lights, the Google speakers has become my virtual personal assistant.  It’s great for hands-free help in the kitchen when I’m looking up recipes or need a timer. I’ve also upgraded and added a Google Nest Hub in the kitchen so I can actually watch recipes be played out as I cook (but I also use it to watch Real Housewives). I also have an automated trigger for every morning when it wakes me up and also reads the news and provides weather updates.

Wet Dry Vacuum 

I never knew how dirty floors could get until I had two cats. A steam vacuum changed the game for me. Unlike traditional mops that just push dirt around, a steam vacuum uses high-temperature steam to deep clean floors, effectively killing germs and bacteria. It works wonders on most surfaces, leaving them spotless and sanitised. This one comes with plenty of raving reviews from customers who say it’s the best buy they have made because it does all the hard work for you. Heads up though, you still need to clean the mop head regularly and empty the tank when you’re done cleaning. 

Novelty Cat Scratchers (that double up as decor)

To keep the cats occupied and busy, I’ve set up a little “village” of assorted cat houses and scratchers so they can play all day even when I’m working. I have one shaped like a laptop, an onsen house, a takoyaki stand, a carrot, a coconut tree and more. The good thing is that it all kinda goes with my eclectic decor anyway. 

Cooling Foam Mattress Topper

We know about keeping both sides of the pillow cool all night, but wait till you try sleeping on a mattress that feels like a cooling oasis. Unlike regular mattress toppers, the cooling version regulates body temperature, allowing for a more restful sleep. It’s made from breathable materials like gel-infused memory foam that dissipate heat and prevent you from waking up sweaty and uncomfortable. It’s like giving your mattress a little upgrade and is a lot cheaper than buying a brand new mattress. 

Zinus 3” Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper With Fitted Cover, $139, Buy it now

Squat Step Stool

This might seem like a strange one, but trust me, having a squat step stool in the bathroom will elevate your pooping experience. If you’ve never used one, it helps to align your body into a natural squatting position when using the toilet, which can help with digestion and make the whole experience a lot more comfortable. It’s one of those things you didn’t know you needed until you tried it, and now I can’t imagine my bathroom without it. It’s a small change with a big impact on comfort and health. Plus, it tucks neatly away under the toilet when not in use and is inexpensive

Toilet Bidet Attachment

I’ve always had a bidet (the spray gun type) in the toilets of the homes I’ve lived in but one trip to Japan and I wanted a fancy bidet. Thankfully, you can find a simple manual version of it that is inexpensive and relatively easy to install. Adjustable water pressure and easy installation make for a refreshing clean after each use. Plus, it can be a huge money-saver in the long run since you’ll significantly cut down on toilet paper usage.

 American Standard Axisse Slim Smart Washer II Manual Bidet, $149, Buy it now

Stainless Steel & Cast Iron Cookware 

Maybe it’s too much of watching cooking shows or The Bear but when I got my own place, cooking was no longer about convenience but also about flair. And also comfort. But it also made me want to invest in quality kitchenware. Unlike Teflon pans, these options are free from harmful chemicals and are incredibly durable. Cast iron pans and pots are great for cooking steaks and making stews, while stainless steel is perfect for stir-frying, making quick dishes, and most other cooking. I might be biased but food definitely tastes better when cooked in a cast iron pot. 

KitchenAid Stainless Steel Frying Pan/Skillet, 12 Inch, $69.79, Buy it now
Staub Cast Iron Round Cocotte, 22cm, $212.44 (U.P. $298), Buy it now