Keeping certain essential items at home can make daily life smoother and help you handle unexpected situations more confidently. Having the right supplies ensures you’re prepared for common needs, from simple chores to emergencies.
These 15 items are practical and useful to have around, offering convenience and peace of mind when you need them most. This list will guide you in stocking your home with basics that support your health, safety, and comfort.
Tide Laundry Detergent
You should keep Tide laundry detergent at home for reliable stain removal. It works well on common stains like grease, helping your clothes stay clean.
Tide offers convenient options like liquid detergent and travel-size packs, which are great for saving space. Using just a small amount is enough, especially with high-efficiency (HE) machines. Be cautious with detergent packs, as they can be harmful if swallowed. Always store them safely away from children.
Colgate Toothpaste
You should always have Colgate toothpaste at home to maintain good oral hygiene. It helps fight bacteria that cause common issues like bad breath and cavities.
Many Colgate varieties also protect your enamel and reduce sensitivity. Some types even help remove stains when used regularly.
Keep a tube handy to make brushing easy and effective for you and your family.
Braun Electric Razor
You should keep a Braun electric razor at home for quick and easy grooming. It works well both wet and dry, giving you flexibility whether you prefer shaving in the shower or on the go.
Cleaning is simple—just rinse it under warm water and use a little liquid soap if needed. Most models come with convenient charging cases for use anywhere.
Neutrogena Face Wash
You should keep a reliable face wash like Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash at home. It contains 2% salicylic acid, which helps clean deep into your pores and manage acne effectively.
This face wash is fragrance-free and gentle, making it suitable for daily use without irritating sensitive skin. Using it regularly can help keep your skin clearer and healthier.
Dove Body Wash
You want a body wash that cares for your skin while cleansing it gently. Dove Body Wash offers moisturizing formulas with ¼ moisturizers to help protect your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Its products are great if your skin feels dry, as they include ingredients to nourish and soothe. Picking up a bottle means you can enjoy clean, soft skin every day.
Oral-B Toothbrush
You should keep an Oral-B toothbrush at home for effective daily cleaning. Its round brush head is designed to remove plaque better than a manual toothbrush.
Many models include replaceable heads and offer gentle, thorough cleaning. Some even have battery power for convenience.
Using an Oral-B toothbrush helps maintain your oral hygiene and keeps your smile healthy. It’s a simple way to care for your teeth every day.
Clorox Disinfecting Wipes
You’ll find Clorox Disinfecting Wipes handy for quick and easy cleaning around your home. They kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria on many hard surfaces.
These wipes work well on kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, and other common areas. They help reduce germs and allergens without needing extra sprays or cloths.
Keep a pack nearby for fast messes and to keep your space feeling fresh and clean.
First Aid Kit
You should keep a well-stocked first aid kit at home. It helps you respond quickly to minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, and burns.
Include items like bandages, adhesive tape, sterile gauze, tweezers, and antiseptic ointment. Also, add pain relievers and a first aid manual for guidance.
Having these supplies ready makes it easier for you to handle small emergencies without a trip to the doctor.
N95 Face Masks
You should keep N95 face masks at home for situations where extra protection is needed. These masks fit tightly over your nose and mouth to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles.
Make sure to check the fit each time you wear one. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to wear and care for your mask properly. This helps ensure the best protection when you need it most.
Fire Extinguisher
You should have at least one fire extinguisher in your home. A good rule is one extinguisher for every 600 to 700 square feet.
Keep one near the kitchen, where most fires start. Another near your bedroom is helpful for emergencies at night. Choose a multipurpose extinguisher that works on wood, paper, oil, and electrical fires. Make sure you know how to use it safely.
Brita Water Filter
You can improve the taste of your tap water with a Brita water filter. It reduces contaminants like chlorine, copper, and mercury, making your water cleaner.
Filters typically last two months or about 40 gallons of water. Make sure to store new filters in a cool, dry place until you use them.
It’s best to use the filter only with potable drinking water. Keeping the pitcher refrigerated can help prevent mold, but you can also store it at room temperature.
Panasonic Scissors
You’ll find Panasonic scissors handy for everyday tasks around the house. They are designed to cut paper and fabric smoothly, making your small jobs much easier.
The handles are built for comfort, so your hand won’t cramp during use. Having a reliable pair nearby means you’re always ready to tackle quick fixes or craft projects.
Glad Trash Bags
You should keep Glad trash bags at home for reliable everyday use. They come in various sizes to fit your kitchen needs, including tall kitchen bags and 13-gallon options.
These bags are made from durable plastic with reinforced bottoms and double-sided seals. This design helps reduce leaks and makes them stronger for heavier trash.
If you prefer easy handling, look for drawstring options like Glad ForceFlex. They offer a good balance of strength and convenience for your trash tasks.
Gain Fabric Softener
You’ll find Gain fabric softener helpful for keeping your clothes soft and fresh-smelling. It adds a pleasant scent without being too strong or overwhelming.
Using Gain can also help reduce wrinkles and make your laundry feel more comfortable. The scent tends to last a long time, which many users appreciate.
Just be mindful not to overuse fabric softener, as it can build up in machines over time.
Lysol Bleach
You should keep Lysol Bleach on hand for tough cleaning and disinfecting. It works well on kitchen and bathroom surfaces like countertops, floors, and tubs.
This product helps remove germs after you clean surfaces. Remember, bleach disinfects but doesn’t replace regular cleaning. Using Lysol Bleach can make your home safer by reducing bacteria and viruses on everyday surfaces.