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The 9 homeware buys that made me a better adult

Spoiler: yes, owning a multi cooker counts as character development.
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There comes a time in every twenty-something’s life when you realise that maybe eating two-minute noodles from a chipped bowl on your couch isn’t the adult life you envisioned.

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For me, that moment came somewhere between the third broken coffee mug and the fifth time I burnt my toast.

But instead of spiralling, I decided to do the most grown-up thing I could think of: get some home appliances for my new apartment.

Now, I’m not saying a vacuum changed my life—but I’m not not saying it. These are the best (and surprisingly aesthetic) homeware buys that genuinely made me feel like I had my life together.

Or at least like I could host a dinner party without panic-Googling “how to cook pasta”.

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9 homeware items to buy for your first apartment

The Ninja Combi 14-in-1 Multicooker

$499.99 at Ninja

Best for: Replacing half your kitchen

If your kitchen’s feeling a little crowded (hello, rice cooker, slow cooker, steamer, air fryer…), this all-in-one multitasker clears the clutter. It bakes, sears, air fries, roasts and even proofs dough—basically everything but the dishes.

It’s also great for lazy weeknight meals that still taste like you put in effort.

The Dreame H12 Pro Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner

$799 at Amazon

Best for: Cleaning your floors without lifting a finger

Vacuuming and mopping in one pass? Yes, please. This wet and dry vacuum handles spills, dirt and dust in one go, then self-cleans and hot-air-dries its brush like it’s no big deal.

The Bedgear Balance Performance Pillow

$334.48 at Amazon

Best for: Neck pain relief and waking up fresh for work

Designed to align your head, neck and spine, this pillow helps ease neck pain so you can actually wake up feeling rested (and ready for that 9am meeting).

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The Sheridan Romi Check Quilt Cover Set

$249.99 at Sheridan

Best for: Adding charm to your bedroom

Being an adult means dressing the part—and that includes your bed. These chic Sheridan sheets (say that three times fast!) are as gorgeous as they are grown-up.

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The Ecoya Guava & Lychee Sorbet Reed Diffuser

$49.95 at Ecoya

Best for: Getting rid of that “dusty apartment” smell

No matter how often you clean or crack a window, some spaces just need a little scent upgrade. This diffuser fills the room with tropical freshness, and it looks seriously chic on your coffee table while doing it.

The ECOVACS DEEBOT T30S

$1,999 at Amazon

Best for: Letting a robot (and handheld) do the dirty work

This clever little combo handles everything—from daily floor cleans to those hard-to-reach corners—without you lifting more than a finger. With powerful suction, a self-emptying base and even a built-in handheld vacuum, it’s basically your entire cleaning routine in one sleek machine.

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The KitchenAid Artisan 9 Speed Hand Mixer

$189 (usually $209) at KitchenAid

Best for: Homemade bakes with zero mess

If you bake semi-regularly—or just want something reliable for weekend scones or pancake mornings—this hand mixer is that. It’s powerful, easy to use, and looks luxe on the counter for under $200.

The Country Road Cedar & Mahogany Hand Care Duet

$99.95 at Country Road

Best for: Adding a touch of luxury to your bathroom

This beautifully boxed set features a 500mL hand wash and hand cream infused with Australian botanicals and a refined blend of bergamot, cedarwood, amber, and vetiver. Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free, it’s the perfect self-care treat.

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The Nespresso Vertuo Pop Solo

$229 at Nespresso

Best for: Cafe-quality coffee at home

The Vertuo Pop is perfect if you want café-level coffee at home—without dropping $6 a day or giving up half your bench space. From espresso shots to big mugs, it’s cute, compact and seriously clever.

Read next: These new Hommey bathroom essentials put the beige mum to shame

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