Life’s Little Helpers: Innovative Solutions To Common Daily Dilemmas

By Ayomitide F

This article was originally published on travelerdoor

Life’s daily grind is like a mixed bag of puzzles waiting to be solved. Challenges are our thing, from the minor annoyance of cracking open a warm beer to the nerve-wracking scenario of a nurse’s needle hunt for an IV. But hey, guess what? We’ve got innovation coursing through our veins, and it’s our superpower against any curveball the universe lobs our way. We are resilient and innovative, and we never back down.

So, we’ve whipped up a fresh lineup of ingenious ideas to sprinkle some goodness into our world. We’ve got solutions brewing, whether talking about a lukewarm lager or that elusive vein playing hide-and-seek from the nurse’s prying eyes. The universe can do its best, but it’s no match for the sheer brilliance of human creativity.

“Library of things”

Ever heard of a “Library of Things”? Well, you are missing out if you haven’t. Folks can borrow all sorts of handy household stuff, just like checking out books from a regular library. Imagine having access to toolkits that could turn you into a DIY master. 

Image credit: TumainiTiger, Reddit

It’s like borrowing a bit of practical magic whenever you need it. And the significant upside is that you don’t have to worry about maintenance, storage, and all that stuff, at least in the long term. It is time to start a new kind of library club!

Hammer Time!

This is one elevator that’s all about giving your hands a break. Yup, you heard it right! It’s got these nifty buttons right at your feet level, so no more touching those germ-ridden elevator buttons with your hands. Kids will seriously have a field day with this—kicking those buttons like there’s no tomorrow!

Image credit: mmartinez42793, Reddit

This invention hits the jackpot, especially when you’re hauling a bunch of shopping bags and your hands are tied up. But we can’t help but chuckle at the thought of all those unintended stops. Can you imagine the elevator going haywire because someone’s just tap-dancing on the foot buttons?!  

Private Conditioning

Check out these awesome jackets designed to keep construction workers cool as cucumbers, even when things heat up! Imagine wearing gear that makes you feel like you’re in your own comfy bubble and saves the day when the sun cranks the temperature dial to scorch mode. 

Image credit: schmistopher, Reddit

Yep, these jackets are your personal air-conditioning – stay cool and puffy while you’re at it! This should be provided to workers by all companies. They’re like the holy grail of workwear, a must-have in any situation where the thermometer’s needle gets a little wild for comfort!

Mall Guide

So, carts are doubling up as tour guides now! Yep, you read that right! Over in France, they’ve kicked it up a notch with shopping carts equipped with a nifty map of the entire store. It’s like having your own personal GPS while cruising the aisles. 

Image credit: le-iboy, Reddit

Imagine the ease – no more wandering aimlessly, looking for that box of cereal or the holy grail of toilet paper. These cart maps would be a total game-changer no matter where you are. Especially for folks like us who’d rather wrestle with a stubborn jar of pickles than ask an employee for directions! 

Light em up

Check this out: a glow-in-the-dark highway! It really is crazy what paint technology has become these days. Now, this is a total game-changer for us regular folks, too. Don’t even get us started on driving at night when the weather’s all moody. 

Image credit: CryptoStunnah, Reddit

This tech could be the ultimate guide, making those night drives a lot of fun. But there is the million-dollar question of how long these babies actually glow. Because, let’s face it, glow-in-the-dark stuff tends to fade faster than a Snapchat story. Without a recharge, they lose their sparkle.

Decathlon

Decathlon, the sporty peeps, may have just switched up the game. They’ve started slapping their labels onto wee bits of fabric instead of the actual gear. And let’s be honest, it’s a total win-win. Someone finally gets it; what a time to be alive! 

Image credit: TheFfrog, Reddit

For all of us who can’t stand those pesky labels digging into our skin, this move is like a big high-five. No more battling those annoying itchy tag residues, either. They’ve heard our label-cutting war cries and answered with this genius idea. 

Bikers station

Rotterdam is already way ahead in the bike game – they’ve got this awesome thing going on where they’ve set up these cool stations to fix up your two-wheeled buddy for free. You don’t have to worry about your tire being wonky or the chain-playing tricks. 

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No sweat! Just swing by one of these repair havens and help yourself. And guess what? More of these gems are on the horizon as the bike infrastructure grows. By the way, the Netherlands is a total champ in that department – they’re like the front-runners of the bike game.

New style

This airport bathroom has just hacked the game. They’ve got these nifty green and red lights hanging above each stall. So, no more awkward stall door peeking to check if it’s occupied. It’s a traffic light system for bathroom stalls, and it’s surprisingly helpful. 

Image credit: magickaster, Reddit

But the only downside is that this brilliant idea would mess up horror movies. You can picture it: the main character trying to hide from the monster or the bad guys, but there’s no guessing because those green and red lights give him away.

Great times ahead

Well, guess what went down today? The nurse pulled off some next-level moves using an infrared vein finder to get that IV in place. Can we take a moment to appreciate this? We are living in a time when nurses have these magical gadgets that light up our veins like runway lights. 

Image credit: Mochanoodle, Reddit

Imagine the relief – especially for healthcare workers — no more chasing those elusive veins like they’re playing hide-and-seek. This could be a game-changer, especially when those tiny terrors (toddlers) are in the hot seat. So, kudos to whoever brought in the big guns to make life smoother.

A revolution

Down at the local brewery, they’ve taken a refreshingly inclusive approach regarding bathrooms. You won’t find those old-school gender labels here. Instead, what you’ve got are stalls tailored with a thoughtful twist. Say goodbye to the classic “ladies” and “gents” restrooms. 

Image credit: Cyko_Somatic, Reddit

This set of bathrooms has opted for stalls equipped with specific types of toilets instead of just sex-specific restrooms. It’s a restroom revolution that’s both practical and progressive, making sure everyone’s got a comfortable spot to do their thing without any unnecessary fuss. Let’s see how long it lasts, though.

Ramen-ish

It is definitely rare to stumble across a mattress resembling a pile of crispy noodles. This has taken fashion advice from dry ramen, but there’s a good reason for that. You might start thinking that your bed is moonlighting as a bedroom snack.

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And you might be correct, but the quirky design gives our snooze game a nice boost. Guess what they are called? Breathable Mattress! Apparently, they are supposed to prevent suffocation. Fun Fact of the Day: They are commonplace in secure units and psychiatric wards.

New Plug, who this?!

This is what you could call the ultimate plug design – it’s a game-changer! Imagine this: a plug that’s not just a plain ol’ stub to wrestle with but one that’s got a handy hole inviting your fingers to slip through and effortlessly yank it out. Talk about a stroke of genius!

Image credit: Radiant-Watercress-1, Reddit

And guess what? This nifty feature isn’t just about convenience; it’s a superhero for people dealing with arthritis and the elderly. Even though you have not seen this plug design before, it is not so brand new. For ages, Breville, an Australian company, has been rocking plugs with grip-friendly holes! 

Glow in the traffic

This is one funky upgrade – a traffic light with a glowing pole! We’re talking about a rod that’s not just there to hold up the lights but also a shining star in its own right. No more mundane metal poles; we’re jazzing things up with a dash of futuristic flair.

Image credit: m0rejuice, Reddit

Now, we know what you’re thinking – the folks trying to beat the traffic lights aren’t thrilled about this idea. With a pole that’s shining like a beacon, it’s going to be hard to miss. Those traffic light tricksters won’t have their usual excuses: “Oh, I didn’t see the light change!” 

Airport Rush!

Check out this rad airport hack: They’ve set up exercise bikes that double as phone chargers. So, when you’re waiting for your flight, instead of endlessly scrolling through your phone while it slowly dies, you could hop on one of these genius bikes! 

Image credit: analogHedgeHog, Reddit

As you pedal away, you’re giving your legs a mini workout and juicing your cell phone. And you know what would take it to the next level? If they threw in shared screens, you could challenge fellow travelers to a virtual bike race! 

Smart Bathroom

Check this out: a bathroom lock that’s not just your regular privacy guardian but also moonlights as a nifty accessory tray. Finally, an intelligent way to ensure you won’t be part of the ‘I forgot my valuables in the bathroom’ club. 

Image credit: zOneNzOnly, Reddit

You know how it goes, right? You try to be all ninja-like and balance your phone on the toilet paper holder, only for it to leave your screen with a battle scar. No more playing the “Should I put my bag on the icky floor?” game! 

Tit for Tat

Look at that! A sweet little haven for those conversations you want to keep away from prying ears. Sounds pretty cool. You’d think, but the ones with their noses buried in their phones can’t even spot the booth in the first place!

Image credit: PG_Gargle_Blaster, Reddit

These booths are tailor-made for those moments when you need to vent your feelings at the top of your lungs through the phone. It’s your arena to unleash your frustration, to have a shouting match with your best friend about who’s the superior Avenger, or to just let loose without worrying about raised eyebrows.

The Sidekick swing!

Aw, how heartwarming is this? This is no typical playground ride but a magical contraption that lets parents and their little ones swing side by side. It’s like a shared adventure in the air, a chance for parents to relive their childhood while creating unforgettable memories with their kids. 

Image credit: J0N90, Reddit

How adorable! This swing is more than just equipment; it’s a vessel of togetherness, laughter, and genuine connection. Well, this is all sweet and games until the police have to remove some tipster from the children’s swing!

Lifesaver

Do you know what’s blowing our minds? It is this vending machine right smack in the hospital dishing out the kind of meals with “healthy” and “affordable” in the same sentence! Those two words rarely hang out side by side, especially when discussing grub.

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It’s slinging out salads that look green and alive, not like they’ve been hanging around since last week’s lunar eclipse. And the smoothies are made of natural fruits, not just sugar masquerading as berries. Plus, the price tag won’t have you digging through your pockets. “Healthy and affordable” – what a revolution! 

Occupied!

Those parking ramps come equipped with these snazzy lights that let you in on the parking scoop – whether there’s a sweet spot waiting for your car or you’re out of luck. It’s like having a parking fairy with more LEDs and fewer sparkles. 

Image credit: Meet_your_Maker_LL, Reddit

And guess what? These cool gizmos are not just a Mall of America exclusive. These parking angels are making their presence known in various corners of Europe, proving that the light-up parking game is strong across the pond, too.

Anti-sunburn

This gadget takes the hassle out of sunscreen application. This thing is like a sunscreen dispenser that’s totally hands-free, swirling around like a sun-soaked dance as it showers your skin with that protective lotion. We know a lot of people who’d love this.

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But hold up,won’t we need to strip down for this sunscreen fiesta? The last thing you want is to get your chic swimsuit covered in lotion art. And it’s probably not free. This price might make you stick to asking strangers on the beach for a hand with sunscreen.

Wonky Wheelie

Guess what? A UK supermarket has devised a genius solution for those pesky shopping cart wheels that seem to have a mind of their own. They’ve introduced a cool tag that you can simply slap onto carts with wonky wheels. 

Image credit: qwerty11055, Reddit

We’ve all been there. Pushing and pulling like a tug of war with a cart that’s convinced it’s auditioning for a dance competition. But this supermarket is like, “Hold my soda,” and boom, problem solved. And let’s not even get started on how much IKEA needs this game-changing tag IMMEDIATELY!

The Lair

Well, check this out – this table isn’t just your run-of-the-mill dining table; it’s got a sneaky trick up its wooden sleeve: A secret compartment tucked away right beneath the surface. That’s some James Bond-level stuff! That sounds like a pretty cool feature, right? 

Image credit: Flying_Blueberry559, Reddit

We are totally sold on the idea. And that is fair enough; who wouldn’t want a spot to stash away the random mess when an unexpected company decides to drop by? It could hide anything away – from jigsaw puzzles to your precious chocolate stash. Now, that is a win-win!

Recycling

Over in Sweden, they’ve taken recycling to a new level with these super clever bins. Instead of your usual boring containers, these bins sport covers molded into the shapes of boxes, bottles, and cans – talk about a visual guide for what belongs where! 

Image credit: helloitsduke, Reddit

It’s like recycling with training wheels, making it a breeze for everyone to pitch in and do their part. They better refrain from replicating this in the good ol’ USA. Oh boy, can you envision the chaos? We’d have Karens stuffing cardboard boxes into the bottle-shaped bins!

Riding Shotgun

Have you ever had those moments on the bus when your legs practically beg for a break? Well, these foldable bus seats were made for you! Instead of the usual cramped situation, you can unfold these seats to give your legs the freedom they deserve. 

Image credit: Meeshamoosha, Reddit

But then, is it necessary? After all, it’s a bus ride, not a cross-country voyage. These ingenious seats are fantastic for stretching out, but let’s keep it real and remind ourselves that they’re meant for those moments when the bus isn’t packed like a sardine can! 

Pick Your Side

The streets of Manchester are tackling litter in the coolest way possible. They’ve got these awesome ballot bins like a smackdown between “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.” Those side-by-side bins are like a friendly rivalry for cleanliness – they track how much trash gets dumped in each one. 

Image credit: _DeanRiding, Reddit

And right here, Barbie’s on a roll, leaving Oppenheimer in the dust. It is a genius move to make people think twice before tossing their junk around. A fantastic idea would be to do this on Derby Day when Manchester United and Manchester City clash on the pitch and in the bins!

Casting

Look at that sleek, waterproof cast specially crafted for the ankle. But the cherry on top? You can scratch that itch without summoning a wire hanger ritual. Say hello to the era of zippers and chic designs with the gladiator vibes.

Image credit: funkikomedina, Reddit

Gone are the days of those Plaster of Paris casts that throw in the towel after just a dip in the pool. This is the game-changer we’ve all been waiting for, designed to withstand even your most aquatic adventures. And at the end, you get some fascinating tan lines once the cast finally comes off! 

Pull this

These little sparks of genius make you go, “Well, duh, why didn’t we think of this sooner?” A simple solution like those fan pull chains tells you what to do to avoid getting tied into that weird tango of confusion!

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Many of these ideas are brilliant common sense, staring us right in the face! And if you’re in a tango yourself, congrats because you just found the antidote. You better adapt this genius concept before risking a shoulder dislocation from all that chain-pulling confusion.

Utopia

Now, this is the Super Saiyan of benches. It has a nicely heated surface, wireless charging, and shelter from harsh weather. It has it all! Yep, you read that right – this bench is not just about providing a comfy spot to rest your tired legs! 

Image credit: Lezbi_Nerdy, Reddit

It also comes fully equipped with some tech magic to keep your gadgets juiced. Sometimes, all we need is a warm place to sit and a chance to recharge our phones while waiting for transportation. South Korea really is the land of dreams. 

Astroworld

You won’t believe the cool trick this hospital pulled off – they’ve got this faux LED window smack on their ceiling. And let us tell you, we are totally digging it! All those medical spots should take a page from their playbook and sprinkle in some of this calming goodness.

Image credit: TheGrimReefah, Reddit

A hospital can be the most depressing place. But this virtual window up above casts a serene scene. It’s like a breath of fresh air amid all the clinical chaos. This could transform any gloomy hospital experience into a less stressful one.

Finnish connection

Finland buses have put a quirky twist on their ways of expressing gratitude. With these nifty buttons, passengers can say thanks without uttering a word. Now, you might be scratching your head like, “Wait, why not just say ‘Thank You’?” 

Image credit: _Goat_Juice_, Reddit

That is a valid question, mainly if you’re not accustomed to the Finnish social atmosphere. But guess what? Finland has its groove; talking to strangers on the road or bus isn’t their jam. Instead, they embrace the Nordic pact of silence.

Germaphobia

Have you ever seen those escalator handrails under a UV light? It’s a horror show of epic proportions – a wild grime party you wouldn’t want to touch even with gloves on. Thankfully, this airport just leveled up its game. 

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They have introduced an escalator that takes matters into its own hands (well, handrails, to be precise). Oh boy, this incredible thing sterilizes itself! Can you believe it? You and your fellow germ-conscious comrades can finally embrace those handrails without cringing. What a time to be alive! 

Park Time!

This park bench has a secret weapon up its sleeves – the ability to transform into a handy table. Now that’s a game-changer! You have your regular bench mode for those solo moments of contemplation and every other day when you want to take in the scenery.

Image credit: p50cal, Reddit

But when you’ve got a date, snack, or a sketchbook in tow, bam! It folds out into a table, ready to hold your goodies. There are some cons, too. Instead of enjoying your solitude like a park bench philosopher, there is a high chance that someone waltzes in to sit across from you.

Tier 3

Introducing the ultimate hydration hub: the 3-Way Water Fountain. This ingenious creation isn’t just your regular old drinking station – it’s a triple-threat marvel designed to cater to humans and their furry friends alike. It is one of those things you didn’t know you needed.

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You can quench your thirst, refill your water bottle, and even provide a refreshing sip for your four-legged companions. It’s a one-stop shop for all things hydration – convenience and inclusivity rolled into a single, innovative package. We are all covered.

The Zone

Dude, this mall really is ahead of the times! They have this super smart setup where you can wash your hands without even stepping into the bathroom zone. Congrats to the OCD people who are all about keeping their hands clean and germ-free.

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Bathrooms are cool, but some of us cannot handle the whole scene with all those funky smells and whatnot. So no more fretting about the bathroom dread because this genius spot is tailor-made for people who keep those hands spick and span. Hats off to whoever thought of this game-changing setup.

Go Pro!

So, this bridge has this funky fencing with holes, but not just for show. Nope, those gaps are actually strategically placed for cameras. You know, like those lenses that capture all the scenic views and urban hustle-bustle for posterity. 

Image credit: bigmeechum, Reddit

You might wonder, “How long until the first camera takes a long fall?” It’s a legitimate question. With those camera-sized holes, it’s almost like they’re daring us to test our diving skills. But it is nothing you can’t handle, right?

Light in the Snow

This little addition to the lamp-post is about to change the game, especially for those folks up there in Canada! Do you know those days when snow carpeted the entire town overnight, leaving you to guess where the sidewalk vanished? 

Image credit: Some_Guy_From_Sweden, Reddit

Well, fret no more. Here’s the scoop: a clever light rigged to the lamp-post that works like a charm. When snowfall strikes, it beams down an image onto the ground, showing you exactly where that elusive sidewalk is hiding. Voila!

Sushi flow

They’ve cracked the code to pizza box perfection far east in Japan. You know how sometimes you’re on a mission to rescue that mouthwatering pizza, and by the time it reaches home, it’s doing the limbo dance under one corner of the box? 

Image credit: SaekoZ2, Reddit

Well, Japan says no more. Their boxes come with a genius middle handle like a superhero cape – no more gravity-defying acrobatics in that box! Once you get home, what you have is your lovely pizza intact and ready to be devoured. Arigato.

Thoughtful Bustops

So, you’re waiting for the bus, minding your own business, when suddenly, a car goes zooming by and splashes a puddle of grimy water and dirt all over you. Not exactly the refreshing shower you were hoping for, right? It’s okay, buddy; we’ve all been there before. 

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These bus stops in the UK were built with those incidents in mind. All they needed was to flip the script. They face the opposite direction to shield folks from getting an unintentional curb-side shower of muddy water and grime.

IKEAed

This bookshelf from Ikea came with what you can call a nail ninja. You know, the kind that holds those tiny nails and gives them a perfect aim. It’s like having a personal assistant for your DIY adventures. Sure, it might take a bit of trial and error to master. 

Image credit: KRA2008, Reddit

But once you’ve got the hang of it, no more sore thumbs from hammer mishaps! The real gem of the idea is about getting that nail exactly where it needs to be – sinking into the chipboard without wreaking havoc on the sleek veneer.

Yarn

Have you ever been tangled up in the yarn dilemma, unsure about how much you need for your project? Fear not; this guide has come to the rescue. This little hack is like having a yarn crystal ball that predicts just how much fluffy stuff you’ll need to whip up your creative masterpiece.

Image credit: OfficialJrizzle, Reddit

This infographic banner comes super handy, like your trusty sidekick when it comes to sorting out the yarn dilemma for your latest project. Whether you’re aiming for a cute beanie or tackling a massive blanket, this graphic has your back.