Practical Dinnerware

Cool idea in housewares we wanted to pass along. While shopping for new dinnerware we decided to go with something uber-practical: Glass Pyrex Pie Plates. The shape lends itself to many different types of fare, from salad to stew to pasta to ice cream to anything. These are essentially a bowl and plate in one. We got them at approx $2.00 a piece at a discount store, although we have seen them for quite a bit more in higher end retailers. The clear glass coordinates with any decor (colors and patterns are available if you wish) and they stack just as ordinary dishes do. They are super durable and can be used in the oven, microwave, fridge or freezer. This plate style is also great for kids as the sloped sides make for easier transport without spills from kitchen to table and easier for eating with a higher lip to push against. Plus their nearly unbreakable nature makes these indispensable for everyday use.

Quick and Dirty Closet Light

If you hate dark closets and want to light them automatically when opened, this is a less than ten dollar solution, assuming you have a source of power available. Even if not, the nine foot cord gives a fair amount of flexibility about where to add an outlet if batteries just won't do. Of course a single bulb may not provide perfect lighting depending on your setup, but as one reviewer noted, you can use an outlet to plug adapter to allow for more options (he used a light rope) while retaining the switch functionality. All in all, while it's not pretty, it's cheap, quick, highly rated, and removable if you're renting.