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These smart, smart gadgets will really improve your home (Picture: Mixed Retailers)
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Although I was initially skeptical, I really enjoyed the benefits of bring smart gadgets into the house, ever since I moved in with my far more tech-savvy boyfriend. And while I was just about able to operate a light bulb from my phone, I quickly became familiar with a whole range of different smart products.
From robots that vacuum and mop your floors to cat flaps that let you track your favorite felines remotely, I firmly believe that gadgets that simplify or automate processes at home are a worthwhile investment. If, like me, you like the idea of your home being as easy to handle as possible, then these gadgets are sure to make an effective addition to your abode!
Trick : Download the smart life application. In my experience, you can control just about any brand of smart product from this one app, which is way more convenient than having your light bulbs in a different location from your smart outlets.
Amazon
Start by switching to smart plugs
Smart plugs are one of the simplest smart products you can buy, but they will instantly prove how useful it is to introduce automated elements into your home. These come in a pack of four, can be controlled both via Alexa and the app, and scheduled to turn on or off at certain times. I use the app for everything from double checking that I haven’t left my straightener on to programming the electric blanket to turn off after a few hours.
£31.99 from Amazon
Amazon
Install a video doorbell to ensure you never miss a delivery
When it comes to smart doorbells, there’s plenty to choose from, but I still think Ring has the best range. Boasting an easy, wireless setup, it sends you instant notifications whenever motion is detected or the doorbell is pressed, and also lets you hear and talk to anyone remotely. via the app – which is especially useful if you’re expecting a delivery but aren’t at home, so you need to share a safe hiding place for your package.
£89.99 from Amazon
Amazon
Let Alexa keep track of all appointments and reminders
Much more than just a speaker, the Echo Dot gives you access to the famous Alexa! Not only can you use Alexa to control your other smart devices, she can also set timers and provide reminders, add to your shopping list, and let you know what’s next for the rest of the day.
£24.99 from Amazon
Amazon
Brew your coffee the second you wake up
If it’s not broken, don’t fix it, but that doesn’t mean you can’t upgrade it! Despite the growing demand for smart and expensive home appliances, it’s safe to say that I’m pretty attached to my standard coffee machine. So rather than upgrade it, I stuck this smart button pusher right next to the “On” button and used the app to configure it to turn on my machine at a certain time each morning.
£29.99 from Amazon
Amazon
Switch to smart bulbs to make any device dimmable
Replacing standard bulbs with smart bulbs is one of the simplest yet effective things you can do if you’re looking to make your home more suitable for you. With these, you can turn the lights on and off and dim them using the app, as well as schedule them to turn on or off at specific times.
£9.99 from Amazon
Amazon
Invest in a smart thermostat to better monitor energy consumption
With such high energy bills, it’s worth keeping an eye on your usage throughout the month, so you can see any areas where you might be able to cut costs. This one is a bestseller with over 5,000 5* ratings, and reviewers love that it turns itself down even when you’re not home.
£179.99 from Amazon
Amazon
Install a cat flap that can be monitored and controlled remotely
My two cats are really my together world, so installing this pet door has made looking after them a lot less stressful. The smart smart cat flap scans each cat’s microchip to ensure only your registered pets are allowed in or out, and the app allows you to remotely lock and open the cat flap, as well as notify you when a cat leaves or enters.
£212 from Amazon
Amazon
And install an automatic feeder so they never go hungry
If I go out for dinner or drinks after work, in addition to using the Sure Petcare app to remotely lock the cat flap and make sure my babies are inside, I will also be using this automatic feeder for their give them dinner. Opening the door to hungry cats isn’t a welcome after a few drinks – so it’s a much better solution.
£79.99 from Amazon
Amazon
Get this helpful robot that loves vacuuming and mopping
Instead of spending your valuable time vacuuming and cleaning your floors, get a robot! This smart guy has 18 different types of sensors that help him plot the perfect route, several different cleaning modes, and will even return to his charging station when finished.
£172.69 from Amazon
Amazon
Try this temperature controlled mug if you always heat up hot drinks
If you always have to reheat forgotten coffee mugs in the microwave, this set of matching mugs and coasters will save you time and hassle. You can put it on the coaster to keep it warm all day, but the mug also has an 80-minute built-in battery. Moreover, it is available in three different colors and can also be controlled via the app.
£125 from Amazon
Amazon
Replace the basic baby monitor with this affordable indoor camera
Whether you’re looking for a way to keep a close eye on your precious pup when he’s home alone, or just want to stay alert to any fussing noises coming from the baby’s crib while you watch TV, this fantastic indoor camera is up to the task. task. It offers 360 degree visibility, two-way talk and will notify you if noise or motion is detected.
£49.99 from Amazon
Amazon
Check that you have locked the back door from the comfort of your bed
Worrying about forgetting to close the downstairs windows is one of the most annoying things I think about when I’m already snug in my bed (rivaled only by realizing I have kinda need a pee), so I love that putting these smart sensors on my doors and windows, I can just use the app to check rather than having to leave my cozy duvet!
£18.99 from Amazon
This article originally appeared on HuffPost UK and has been updated.
