19 Everyday Items Most Americans Can’t Live Without

Written By Babatunde Sanni

Certain items are indispensable for Americans for the simple reason that they make life easier and more comfortable. We’ve compiled 19 of these items and explained why we can’t imagine our lives without them.

Smartphones

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Smartphones are essential to modern living, helping us communicate, stay entertained, stay informed, and make a living. We even shop, bank, and navigate unfamiliar areas with them. Talking about a Harris Poll survey, Business Insider says the fact that Americans can’t do without them applies more to individuals below the age of 50.

Coffee

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In America, morning routines start with a cup of coffee, as it’s seen as a booster to get activities done on time. Coffee is so revered that data shows that over 62% of Americans say they drink it every day, and seven in ten say they drink it every week. Many Americans also have coffee makers stationed at home to support this daily ‘necessity.’

Air Conditioning

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Air conditioning provides comfort during hot weather by maintaining a pleasant indoor temperature. This makes it a staple in American homes and workplaces, especially in hotter regions. It helps improve overall well-being and productivity by creating a comfortable environment. Despite utility costs, a whopping 90% of American households use it every year, on average. 

Refrigerators

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Of course, it’s easy to understand why Americans and everyone else around the world can’t seem to do without refrigerators. These appliances help preserve our foods and keep our beverages cold, ensuring we always have items that are safe to eat (for longer) and enjoyable as well. 

Debit/Credit Cards

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Debit and credit cards offer convenience for everyday transactions, providing a secure and efficient way to make purchases both in-store and online. Many people rely on their cards for everything from grocery shopping to paying bills. Credit cards are so important to Americans that 191 million have a credit card account, and half have two accounts

Washing Machines

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The convenience of washing machines cannot be overstated. These appliances save time and effort by efficiently cleaning clothes, and they make laundry a manageable chore with various settings to handle different fabrics and stains. Washing machines are an essential part of maintaining a clean and presentable wardrobe, and their energy-efficient models help conserve water and electricity as well.

Televisions

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Televisions remain a central source of entertainment in American homes, offering access to news, sports, movies, and TV shows. They provide relaxation and enjoyment and also serve as a gathering point for families. Many households even have multiple TVs, ensuring everyone can watch their favorite, diverse programs.

Microwaves

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Microwaves are indispensable for quickly heating up meals and snacks, saving us time and energy. They are particularly ideal for busy schedules, allowing for quick meal preparations, whether it be reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or steaming vegetables. These appliances essentially offer convenience that is hard to beat in any kitchen.

Internet Access

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Reliable internet access is vital for work, education, and entertainment, enabling remote working, online learning, and streaming services. It connects people to a vast array of information and resources, facilitating communication and productivity. A stable internet connection is now considered a basic necessity in most American households, supporting everything from virtual meetings to smart home devices.

Cars

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Reliable transportation is a key component of American life, making cars crucial for commuting, running errands, and traveling. They provide the freedom to move around conveniently and are essential for many people’s daily routines, especially in areas with limited public transportation. Modern cars come equipped with advanced safety and entertainment features to support Americans’ love for them.

Laptops

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Laptops  enable access to documents, emails, and online resources from anywhere, offering portability and functionality for work, study, and entertainment. They allow people to stay productive on the go and enable a level of flexibility that makes them essential tools in both professional and personal settings. Some even use them for leisure activities like video editing and gaming.

Reusable Water Bottles

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Reusable water bottles have become a daily necessity for staying hydrated. They offer convenience for carrying water to work, the gym, or during outdoor activities. They support a healthy lifestyle by encouraging regular hydration and reducing the need for disposable plastic bottles. High-quality water bottles are durable and eco-friendly and also come in various designs to suit personal preferences.

Headphones

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Headphones provide a personal audio experience for music, podcasts, and calls, essential for commuting, exercising, and working in noisy environments. High-quality headphones enhance sound quality and comfort, making them a favorite accessory for many Americans. Noise-canceling models are particularly popular for creating a focused and immersive listening experience.

Alarm Clocks

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Helping people wake up and stay on track throughout the day, alarm clocks are vital for maintaining punctuality in daily schedules. Whether it’s a traditional clock or a smartphone alarm, this tool is crucial for ensuring productivity and meeting commitments. Modern alarm clocks often include features like gradual wake-up lights and customizable alarm sounds.

Dishwashers

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Dishwashers save time and effort by efficiently cleaning dishes, pots, and pans. They are essential for maintaining a tidy kitchen and reducing the daily workload. Modern dishwashers offer various settings to handle different types of cookware, and energy-efficient models also help conserve water and electricity, adding to their appeal.

Toothbrushes

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Electric and manual toothbrushes are fundamental for maintaining oral hygiene and helping prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Regular brushing is a daily essential that supports overall health and well-being. A good toothbrush, whether electric or manual, is a must-have in every household, with advanced models offering features like timers and pressure sensors.

Streaming Services

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Streaming services provide access to a vast library of movies, TV shows, and music, with platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Spotify offering endless entertainment options. Catering to diverse tastes, these services have become a key part of relaxation and leisure time for many Americans. They also offer original content, adding to their appeal and popularity.

Fitness Trackers

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Fitness trackers monitor physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns, supporting a healthy and active lifestyle. They also help people stay motivated about their health and fitness goals. These devices provide valuable insights and reminders, and Americans particularly love advanced models that offer personalized recommendations and track a variety of activities, including running and swimming.

Electric Kettles

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Electric kettles offer quick boiling for tea, coffee, and cooking needs. They are more efficient than stove-top kettles and provide precise temperature control, too. This appliance is a kitchen essential, simplifying the process of making hot beverages and preparing meals. High-quality electric kettles also often feature keep-warm functions and fast-boil technology, which Americans find even more helpful.

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