More New Products for the Home – Functional, Fun or Frivolous?
It is typically at this time of year that stores and websites begin to inundate us with new products and ideas designed to make home life more functional and even a bit more fun. Some of the products may be truly innovative, but many are merely a fad. Of course, it’s always interesting to see the ideas and technologies even if at this point some may seem slightly “off the way”. Take a moment to consider the innovativeness, functionality and value of these new products. Then, judge for yourself…
Dual-Purpose Refrigerating Range
If you leave for work in the morning and wish dinner to be
ready when you get home, this may be just the product for you. This
state-of-the-art product is the hot new oven with the cool refrigeration
feature. You can keep your chicken chilled or your casserold cool until it’s
ready for cooking – right in the oven! It keeps your dinner in “cold storage”
prior to the programmed start time, then automatically switches to roast or
bake. In the event you arrive home late, it keeps your dinner warm, or even
refrigerates it again!
www.whirlpool.com
Dual-Purpose Barbecue & Fireplace
Ever wished you could enjoy a barbecue, then just keep the
fires bruning for a cozy evening outdoors? A new hybrid barbecue/fireplace unit
coming to the market soon is designed especially for cool outdoor evenings.
Essentially it’s a fireplace cage suspended on wheels with the addition of a
cooking grill. You can start the unit with charcoal for cooking and then, when
dinner’s done, add a couple of logs for instant ambience!
www.hedonics.com
Auto-Lid Trash Container
Is it a struggle to open the trash can because you ands are
full of garbage? We’ve seen garage doors open when cars pass the sensor, and
lights go on when we cross a path, so why not a trash can that opens when we
approach it, and closes after it’s been fed? This touchless system could save a
nasty spill if you’ve got yourself more than a handful of disposables!
www.itouchless.com
Slow-Release Tree Irrigator
Do you have young trees without an established root system? These trees need small amounts of water applied frequently, especially during extended dry spells. This automatic irrigation system is a large pouch that tifts like a collar around a tree’s trunk, and is filled with water from your garden hose. It releases the water slowly over time, so there is a greater ground absorption, and minimal runoff.
Solar-Powered Fountains
Do you like the sound of running water and the beauty of a
garden fountain? These decorative water fountains with miniature pump/sprayer
units are powered by built-in solar panels. Some are made to float on your pond
and draw water from beneath, while others can be wall-mounted or fence-mounted
in a cascading step design that circulates its existing water supply. Relax in
the garden and let the sun do it’s work.
www.hedonics.com
Self-Powered Flashlight
Have you ever noticed that your flashlight is always out of
batteries just when you need it most? This flashlight doesn’t use solar power
or common batteries. Instead, it works on a principal similar to a wind-up
radio. All you do is give it a shake, and you get up to 15 minutes of
uninterrupted light. It’s an ideal emergency tool, great for cottages and
campsites.
www.itouchless.com
Rechargeable Air Compressor
Power tools have become smaller and easier to use-and now
air compressors are following suit. Next time you need air in your car,
bicycle, or air mattress, you can fill it up with an air compressor that’s
about the size of a portable power tool. It has a rechargeable battery, just
like hand-held power drills and screwdrivers. Easy to store. Easy to use.
www.brookestone.com
Ultrasonic Stain Remover
Getting a stain on a favorite item of clothing is so
frustrating. This new gadget effectively removes serious clothing stains using
ultrasonic technology. The “magic wand” (about the size of an electric
toothbrush) is attached to an ultrasonic unit about the size of a kettle.
Simply look up the stain type, add a cleaning fluid, and ZAP with the wand! The
stain is miraculously broken down by ultrasonic energy waves and soaked up by a
spongy under-pad. Imagine how much money you could save by rescuing expensive
clothing from being ruined!
www.tide.com
Digital Camera/Binoculars
With the development of digital zoom capabilities this was
bound to happen. The combination of binoculars and digital camera, lets you
enjoy the view while capturing detailed close-ups from a distance. It’s sure to
become popular with nature lovers and sports enthusiasts.
www.hedonics.com
Of course, there are a lot of innovative products available, with both practical and pleasing applications. But, if the products you choose are new to the marketplace, or only available through an unknown dealer or retailer, you should be cautious about product warranties, money-back guarantees, and customer satisfaction policies. Be especially careful when buying something via the internet, telephone, or mail order.