Some things in life are just better when you have extras. Whether it’s a time-saver, a stress-reliever, or a practical win, buying certain everyday essentials in multiples can make your home run more smoothly. You don’t have to go full minimalist or full-on stockpiler—this is about striking the perfect balance between convenience and preparedness. Here are the items that savvy, organized people always seem to have more than one of.
1. Phone Chargers
Phone chargers always seem to disappear or break at the worst possible time. According to Wirecutter, the wear-and-tear on cables can build up fast, especially if you’re using the same one in multiple places. Keeping a few extras around—in your car, at your desk, or in your suitcase—makes daily life a little smoother. It also means you’re never scrambling right before bed or a trip.
You don’t need to buy the most expensive version either. A solid third-party charger with good reviews usually does the trick. Just be sure it’s certified for your device to avoid damage or slow charging. Once you have a backup or two, you’ll wonder how you lived without them.
2. Reusable Water Bottles
One reusable bottle is great—having a few is even better. The Spruce recommends keeping several on hand so there’s always a clean one ready when you’re heading out. That way, you don’t fall back on buying disposable plastic ones when you’re in a rush. Plus, it’s easier to stay hydrated when water is always within reach.
Different bottles can serve different needs. Maybe you want an insulated one for work, a lightweight one for the gym, and a wide-mouth bottle for smoothies. Keeping extras on rotation means you’re prepared for anything. And honestly, it makes sticking to your hydration goals way more doable.
3. Dish Towels
Dish towels work hard in any kitchen—and they get gross fast. Good Housekeeping points out that bacteria can build up in damp towels within a day, which is why you should swap them out regularly. Having a big stash of clean ones means you’re never stuck drying dishes with a dirty rag. It also lets you toss them in the laundry without stress.
Choose a mix of absorbent and quick-drying towels so you’re ready for spills, baking projects, or drying off produce. You can even designate certain towels for different tasks. That small bit of organization can help keep your kitchen cleaner overall. Plus, who doesn’t love a fresh towel at arm’s reach?
4. Socks
Nothing disappears in the laundry quite like a sock. According to The Washington Post, the average person loses more than a dozen socks a year—so buying extras is just practical. Sticking to similar styles or colors also makes matching easier and less frustrating. If you’ve ever had to leave the house in mismatched socks, you know the struggle.
Keeping a few sealed pairs in your drawer or suitcase is a simple fix. You’ll always have a fresh pair when you need it—whether it’s for a workout or a last-minute weekend trip. Some people even buy identical socks to streamline laundry day. It might sound small, but it makes a big difference over time.
5. Toothbrushes
Your dentist probably already told you—your toothbrush should be swapped out every 3 to 4 months. But life gets busy, and we tend to forget. Keeping several unopened toothbrushes in the cabinet ensures you can make the switch when needed without an extra trip to the store. It also comes in handy when guests stay over unexpectedly.
Having multiples also helps if you travel frequently. You can keep one in your overnight bag so you’re never caught unprepared. Choose ones with soft bristles to be gentle on your gums. And don’t forget to stock some extras for kids, too.
6. Umbrellas
Umbrellas are another thing that seem to vanish just when it starts pouring. Whether you leave one behind at a restaurant or lend it to a friend, extras are always useful. Keep one in your car, one in your bag, and another by the front door. That way, you’re never soaked and scrambling.
Compact foldable umbrellas are perfect for stashing in backpacks or work totes. A larger one by the door can serve the whole family. Consider getting a mix of neutral and fun patterns to suit different moods. When the weather turns, you’ll be glad you planned ahead.
7. Kitchen Sponges
Sponges are inexpensive and indispensable—but they wear out quickly. Even if you’re diligent about rinsing and drying them, they should be replaced often to avoid spreading bacteria. Keeping a stash under the sink makes it easy to toss old ones without guilt. A clean sponge makes kitchen cleanup way more pleasant.
If you use different sponges for dishes and counters, stocking up makes even more sense. You can rotate through them more often and avoid mixing up tasks. Buying them in multipacks is often cheaper per sponge, too. Just be sure to store them in a dry area so they last longer.
8. Pens
There’s something oddly satisfying about always having a working pen within reach. Whether you’re signing forms, jotting down a grocery list, or sketching out ideas, pens seem to disappear quickly. Stocking up on your favorites ensures you don’t have to borrow or scrounge around every time you need one. Keep a cup on your desk, a few in your bag, and a couple in the kitchen drawer.
Multiples also mean you can stash a pen wherever inspiration—or necessity—strikes. You won’t think twice about lending one out or losing one now and then. Go ahead and buy a few colors or styles to suit different needs. When you’re organized this way, even small tasks feel easier.
9. Lip Balm
Lip balm is one of those things you never need until you really need it. And when you do, it’s always in the wrong coat pocket or purse. Buying a few and stashing them in your nightstand, car, gym bag, and work desk means dry lips are never a problem. It’s a tiny item that makes a big difference in your daily comfort.
Choose a formula you love, then grab a multipack. That way, you always have one at hand—no need to dig through your bag or make a last-minute stop at the store. Some people even keep tinted versions for a little color on the go. Whatever your preference, more than one is a smart move.
10. Food Storage Containers
You never realize how many containers you need until you’re packing lunches or storing leftovers. Between lids that vanish and containers that get stained or cracked, extras are always helpful. Buying matching sets makes stacking and storing a breeze. Having multiples on hand means you’re always ready, even after a big meal or party.
They’re also great for organizing non-food items, from craft supplies to bathroom essentials. Go for a variety of sizes to handle everything from soups to snacks. Labeling can also help streamline your fridge or pantry. A well-stocked container drawer is every home cook’s secret weapon.
11. Hand Towels
Hand towels go through a lot—especially in bathrooms and kitchens with frequent use. Having multiples means you can swap them out often and still have clean ones ready. A fresh towel instantly makes a space feel more welcoming. Guests appreciate it, and so will you.
Choose a few different colors or patterns to add variety and help with sorting. Fold and store them neatly so you can grab one at a moment’s notice. They’re also useful in unexpected ways—like wrapping up a hot dish or wiping down a car dashboard. With extras on hand, you’ll always feel prepared.
12. Reusable Shopping Bags
Even if your area doesn’t require them, reusable bags are a smart choice. They’re sturdier than plastic, easier to carry, and better for the environment. Keeping multiples in your car, near the front door, and in your purse or backpack means you won’t forget them when it matters. Plus, they’re handy for more than just groceries.
Use them to carry library books, gym gear, or snacks for a road trip. Some even fold into tiny pouches that fit in your pocket. Go for washable, durable materials so they last. Once you have a few on rotation, plastic bags won’t even cross your mind.
13. Notebooks
Whether you’re a journaler, planner, or just someone with a busy brain, extra notebooks are never a bad thing. One can live on your desk for work notes, another in your bag for ideas on the go, and a third beside your bed for late-night thoughts. Each one serves a different purpose but makes life feel more organized. And there’s something so satisfying about cracking open a fresh page.
Keep a mix of lined, blank, and grid styles depending on your needs. You never know when inspiration will strike—or when you’ll need to make a to-do list on the fly. Having a few at the ready helps you stay on top of things. And honestly, collecting them can be part of the fun.
14. Batteries
Remote controls, flashlights, cameras, toys—batteries power a lot more than we tend to think about. Running out at the wrong time can be surprisingly frustrating. Buying multipacks and keeping extras in a drawer or storage box is an easy way to avoid that problem. Just be sure to rotate your stock so nothing goes to waste.
Keep a small organizer to separate sizes and types. It makes grabbing the right one fast and easy. You’ll also be ready when the smoke detector starts chirping or your wireless mouse dies mid-project. Batteries aren’t glamorous, but they’re always good to have on hand.
