Why I wrote this

This Hacker News thread inspired me to summarize my purchases and find out what else I may need

First things I can personally confirm

ItemPriceExplanation
LED Panel Lights<$100Bright, efficient lighting for workspaces or home improvement projects.
Electric Toothbrush<$100Improves oral hygiene, gentler on gums.
Bright Desk Lamp<$100Helpful during grey winters
Earplugs (Loop or Foam)<$100Improves sleep quality, reduces noise in loud environments.
French Press Coffee Maker<$100Simple and affordable way to make delicious coffee.
Houseplants<$100Improves air quality, adds beauty to living space, connects with nature.
Digital Kitchen Scale<$100Improves cooking accuracy, makes following recipes easier.
House CleaningVariesReduces household chores, frees up time, reduces stress.
Therapy SessionsVariesSupports mental health, promotes personal growth and emotional regulation.
Quality Cookware<$1000Improves cooking experience and results, enhances flavor.
Philips Hue Bulbs And Google Home<$1000Customizable lighting, enhances ambiance, improves sleep.
Robot Vacuum<$1000Automates cleaning, reduces household chores.

Then things not mentioned in the post

ItemPriceExplanation
Darn Tough Socks<$100Lifetime warranty
Home Soda Machine<$100For sparkling water, like Sodastream. No need to carry bottles anymore
SwitchBot Smart Switch Toggle<$100Timer to open blinds every morning to wake up easier
Noice-Cancelling Headphones (Bose Quietcomfort 35)<$1000Life saving in the office or a plane
CLEW Step-In Snowboard Binding<$1000Crazy to think you have to lock in without them

Things from the comments

Marked with ❌ where I don’t agree after owning, and with ❓ where I hadn’t noticed the difference

Health & Fitness

ItemPriceExplanation
BidetVariesBetter hygiene, reduces toilet paper use.
❌ Ergonomic Keyboard/MouseVariesPrevents wrist strain, improves typing comfort.
❓ Standing Desk<$1000I’m a bit lazy to use it at times
Under-Desk Bike/Elliptical<$1000Integrates exercise into workday, improves fitness.
❌ Fitness Tracker/SmartwatchVariesNot clear what to do with the data
CGM<$100Monitors blood glucose, helps manage diet and health.
Waterpik<$100Effective alternative or supplement to flossing.
Weighted BlanketVariesEnhances sleep quality, reduces anxiety.
CPAP Machine<$1000Treats sleep apnea, improves sleep quality and overall health.
Head Shaver<$100Efficient and convenient hair removal, simplifies grooming routine.
❌ Blue Light Glasses<$100On the shelf, just use apps that change screen color
Chirp Wheel<$50Back pain relief, easy to use.
Theragun<$200Muscle massage, releases knots and tension.
❌ Dynamo-Powered Bike Lights<$100Makes bike slower

Digital Wellbeing & Productivity

ItemPriceExplanation
❌ Dumbphone<$100Reduces distractions, improves focus and mental well-being.
❌ E-ink Phone<$1000Minimizes eye strain, simplifies tasks, less distracting.
❌ iPad Mini (dedicated use)<$1000Focused sketching/reading, promotes digital minimalism.
❌ Password Manager<$100Just use google passwords
❌ Digital Timer<$10Improves time management, reduces distractions.
❌ ChatGPT/Claude Subscription<$30/monthJust use several APIs

Home Improvement & Automation

ItemPriceExplanation
Smart Lock<$1000Keyless entry, enhanced security, remote access.
❓ Air PurifierVariesImproves air quality, reduces allergens.
Chest Freezer<$1000Enables bulk buying, reduces food waste, streamlines meal prep.
Cable Management Boxes<$100Organizes cords and power strips, declutters workspace.
Hoselink Hose Reel>$100Easy to manage garden hose, simplifies watering.
Ember Mug<$100Keeps tea warm

Hobbies & Recreation

ItemPriceExplanation
❓ Musical Instrument (Guitar, Piano, Ukulele)VariesFosters creativity, provides enjoyment, connects to musical communities.
TelescopeVariesEncourages exploration of the universe, sparks interest in astronomy.
3D Printer<$1000Enables creation of custom objects, supports DIY projects and repairs.
Welder<$1000Empowers metalworking projects, facilitates repairs and fabrication.
Oscilloscope<$1000Aids electronics learning and troubleshooting, enhances hobby projects.

Cooking & Food

ItemPriceExplanation
Rice CookerVariesCooks perfect rice consistently, frees up stovetop.
❓ Instant Pot<$100Versatile cooking, simplifies meal prep, great for busy schedules.
❌ Air FryerVariesHealthy frying alternative, produces crispy results quickly.
❓ Quality CookwareVariesImproves cooking experience and results, enhances flavor.
❓ Cooking Thermometer<$100Ensures accurate cooking temperatures, prevents over/undercooking.
Espresso Machine/Pour-over<$1000Elevates coffee experience, allows for customization and experimentation.
❌ Immersion Blender<$100Quick and easy blending, simplifies food prep.
Quality Spatulas<$100Improves cooking efficiency, reduces food waste.
Car Fridge<$1000Keeps food and drinks cold on the go, convenient for travel and outings.

Personal Care & Fashion

ItemPriceExplanation
Rosemary Shampoo<$100Natural lice prevention, promotes healthy scalp.
Geox Shoes<$100Breathable and comfortable for walking long distances.
MUJI T-shirts<$100High-quality material and comfortable fit for everyday wear.
All-Season Tires<$1000Eliminates need for seasonal tire changes, saves money and time.
Patagonia Better Sweater Vest<$200Warm and versatile layering piece, elevates casual style.
❓ Matching Socks (Multiple Pairs)<$100Simplifies laundry, eliminates sock-matching frustration.

Tools & Miscellaneous

ItemPriceExplanation
Knipex Pliers WrenchVariesVersatile tool for various tasks, high quality and durable.
iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit<$100Essential tools for electronics repair and DIY projects.
Sebo Canister Vacuum<$1000Powerful and quiet vacuuming, built for longevity.
Slanted Soap Dish<$20Prevents soap scum buildup, promotes hygiene.
Mosquito Netting<$100Protects against mosquito bites, allows for comfortable outdoor enjoyment.
Bug Bite Soother (Heat-It/Bite Away)<$100Relieves itch and swelling from insect bites.

Specific & Niche Items:

ItemPriceExplanation
Playdate Handheld Console<$200Unique gaming experience, fosters creativity, encourages game development.
Wiim Mini Streamer<400High-quality audio streaming for vintage receivers, enhances music listening experience.
Meat Thermometer (Meater Plus)<$100Wireless thermometer for precise cooking, simplifies meat preparation.
Sous Vide Machine<$100Precise temperature control for cooking, consistently tender and flavorful results.
Ooni Pizza Oven<$1000Makes restaurant-quality pizza at home, enjoyable hobby for cooking enthusiasts.
Commercial-Style Toilet>$1000Powerful flushing system, prevents clogs, reduces plumbing issues.
Shark Hydrovac<$1000Efficient cleaning for hard floors, simplifies household chores.
Whole Home Humidifier<$1000Improves air quality and comfort, especially during dry winter months.
Litter Robot 4>$1000Automates litter box cleaning, reduces pet-related chores.
Radiance Films Blu-Ray Bundle~$1000Curated collection of foreign and genre films, expands cinematic horizons.
Koss KPH40 Headphones<$50Affordable, high-quality headphones for casual listening.
Helly Hansen Alpha Lifaloft Jacket~$600Premium winter jacket, provides warmth and comfort in cold climates.
VESA Mount Bracket<$100Optimizes desk space, improves ergonomics for monitor placement.
Non-Stick Wok<$200Makes cooking easier, reduces cleanup, especially for stir-fries.
Fruit Trees<$100Provides fresh fruit, encourages gardening, connects with nature.
Gymnastics Rings/Straps<$100Versatile exercise equipment, improves strength and flexibility.
Squat Rack, Barbell, Weights<$1000Creates a home gym, facilitates strength training.
Double-Edged Safety Razor<$100Cost-effective and eco-friendly shaving, closer shaves.
Car Jump Starter<$100Provides peace of mind for roadside emergencies, prevents getting stranded.
Quality Water Bottle<$50Encourages hydration, reduces plastic waste.
Multivitamin/Supplements<$100Supports overall health, addresses nutritional deficiencies.
High-Quality Bedding (Sheets, Pillows)<$1000Enhances sleep quality, improves comfort and relaxation.
Comfortable Backpack<1000Reduces back pain, makes carrying essentials easier.