These 10 Smart Plug Tricks Made My Home Feel Way Smarter
Smart plugs might not look like much, but I've learned they're one of the most useful smart home gadgets you can have. With just one plug, I've turned regular things, like my old coffee maker and living room lamp, into smart devices I can control from my phone. No upgrades, no rewiring, just plug and go.
At first, I only used them to switch stuff on and off remotely, but that barely scratches the surface. Now I've got routines set up, schedules that save time in the morning, and I can even track how much energy certain devices are using. It's one of those small changes that quietly makes life way more convenient.
If you're looking for fun and practical purposes for your plugs, consider these 10 creative uses for your smart plugs. You can also check out which appliances you should unplug to slash your electric bill and the best temperature to set your thermostat to save money.
Upgrade waking up
It's not always easy to get out of bed in the morning but smart plugs can make it a little more pleasant. Use a smart plug to sync your bedside lamp and radio to greet you with your alarm to help you wake up and get motivated to start the day.
Is coffee a key component to starting your day? Same here, which is why I use a smart plug to automatically brew a pot in the morning. Just remember to fill your coffee maker with grounds and water the night before.
You can also schedule your electronic toothbrush to begin charging when you wake up and stop after a few minutes (to save some energy -- it doesn't need to charge all day). Or, program your curling iron to heat up 20 minutes after waking up.
Tell Alexa to turn off the lights
The 5th-gen Amazon Echo Dot with Clock is perfect for using voice commands to control your smart plugs.
Ry Crist/CNET
Most smart plugs are compatible with smart home ecosystems, adding another level of convenience to a device already made to simplify your life.
Instead of pulling the app up on your phone and (somewhat) manually turning the lights out at night or creating a schedule that may turn the lights out before you're ready, simply tell your smart home hub to do it. Be sure to name the smart plug so your hub knows which device to turn off.
Or let IFTTT do the work
Now we're really talking about "smart." Many smart plugs are built with IFTTT capabilities, enabling you to pair them with other smart devices and automate how they interact.
For example, with a compatible smart plug and thermostat, you could automate a fan to turn on automatically if the temperature gets a little warm and then turn it back off when it's cooler. You could also do the same with a space heater when the temperature drops.
For home security, try setting your smart plug to turn on a lamp when your outdoor camera detects activity in the backyard or automatically set a lamp to turn on at sunset and off at sunrise.
A kick for the kids
My personal favorite is that while we know how smart devices like plugs and lights work (mostly), to a child, it's nothing short of magic.
Have the app for your smart plug ready, then proclaim your uncanny ability to turn the lights on or off at your command. Use a countdown or the trusty "abracadabra" to really sell it, then hit the button.
Your audience is sure to be captivated but what's even more fun is letting them be the magician. Instruct them to use a word or gesture to control the lights and use your phone to make it happen each time they do.
Fair warning: This will get old for you before it gets old for them. Be prepared for the "batteries to go out" or the light to "break."
Get dinner started
I'm not quite as sold on this idea as the last one, but it's worth a try. Use your smart plug to start your money-saving crockpot or sous vide steak before you get home. Doing so will take much of the idle time out of cooking, potentially paving the way for recipes and cooking methods you wouldn't otherwise be able to enjoy.
My concern here is food safety. How long are you leaving that food out before the cooking begins? Be mindful of foodborne illnesses when using your smart plug to delay the cooking process.
Command your outdoor lights
Use outdoor smart plugs to automatically turn your lights on or off and save money on your electricity bill.
Daniel Van Boom/CNET
Outdoor lighting can be about more than deterring unwanted visitors. Something as simple as a good set of outdoor string lights can really spruce up your outdoor living space. But plugging and unplugging them? Not so much. And next month's power bill? Even less so.
Employ outdoor smart plugs to automatically turn on your outdoor lights, fan or any other outdoor plug-in accessory in the evening and then turn it off at sunrise. Do the same with an indoor plug for the lights on your Christmas tree during the holidays.
Secure your garage door
I came across this tip at Smart Geek Home and it's too good not to share. Plug your garage door opener into a smart plug. It won't enable you to open or close your garage door in place of the button, remote or control panel (like a smart garage door opener) but it will prevent others from opening the door.
Car break-ins are common. What's worse, many of us leave our garage door remotes somewhere in our vehicles. If a thief grabs that, they could also have access to your home.
By plugging your garage door opener into a smart plug, you can cut the power to it when you're away or in for the night. That way, even if someone has the remote to your garage door opener, they won't be able to raise the door.
Get those hard-to-reach places
Outlets are generally located in convenient locations until you put a big piece of furniture in front of them. But some outlets, perhaps in the garage or attic, can be downright difficult to access.
While a smart plug won't make it easier to plug something into the outlet, it'll give you control over the devices once you've managed to plug them in, such as a mounted fan in the attic or a fluorescent light in your garage.
Remotely restart your router
Even the best Wi-Fi routers can give you some trouble when you need to access them. The top of a bookshelf is a good spot for your router, unless you need to reach it. Your router could also be tucked away in a closet, depending on where your internet connection enters the home. Or your router may be easily accessible but on another floor when you need to restart it.
Use your smart plug to cut power to your router for 30 seconds or so, then turn it back on, effectively restarting it. Note that if your router has a battery backup, this won't work but if that's the case neither would unplugging it -- you'd still have to take the batteries out.
While a smart plug is convenient for restarting your router, I don't recommend using it to turn your internet connection on or off. If you want to limit internet access, most, if not all, routers have an app that lets you control internet access by device. Try this before cutting the internet connection out entirely, as doing so could interfere with other connected devices.
End your day the right way
Wouldn't it be nice if your bed was cozy and warm before you got in it? Preheat your bed by plugging that comfy, cozy electric blanket into a smart plug and letting it heat up a few minutes before bedtime. Don't worry about drifting away to dreamland before turning the blanket off. Just set your smart plug to turn it off for you.
I don't know how often I've fallen asleep reading a book and left my bedside lamp on. Not only does that waste energy but it's also annoying to anyone else trying to get some sleep. A smart plug can either turn the light off automatically at a certain time or give the person on the other side of the bed the means to turn out the light without getting up.
The same could be said for the TV if you like to wind down with a show. While most TVs feature a sleep timer, the setting may not be easy to find. Also, you may be using the remote to a streaming device, which doesn't have the button to access sleep timer settings. Either way, using a smart plug is a great way to keep your TV from staying on all night.
That's our list of creative uses for your smart plug but there are countless others. Like any smart home device, a smart plug's full potential is only limited by your imagination and the other devices in your home.
For more tips and tricks, like where to put your thermostat, how to get stains out of your clothes and ways to protect your home Wi-Fi network, check out the CNET Home Tips page.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gizmodo
an hour ago
- Gizmodo
This Roborock Vacuum and Mop with Docking Station is Now 50% Off, But It's Worth at Least 3 Times This Price
Roborock has established itself as a premium brand within the robot vacuum space with most of its newer models now being offered at more than $1,000 and even some of its best-selling models being above $2,000. Despite this move towards luxury pricing, there are still fantastic deals to be found on units that are feature-rich and incredibly competent—products that were new two years ago and that are still leading the pack in home automation. Roborock Qrevo S is a great case in point, and it offers performance and ease of use equal to far more expensive options. Now, Amazon is offering the Qrevo S for an all-time low of only $459 which is a whopping 43% off its standard $799 list price. It's a bargain that's hard to resist if you're seeking premium cleaning power on a budget. See at Amazon 7,000Pa Suction Power The multi-functional docking station excels with a very hands-off experience for users: the dock automatically washes and dries the mop pads with hot air but it also cleans the robot's dustbin without assistance and refills its water tank as well with the capability to constantly mop areas measuring up to 4,305 square feet. That's seven weeks of hassle-free cleaning with the only upkeep required being the occasional draining of the dock's larger water and dust reservoirs. Its heavy-duty 7,000 Pa suction power is one of the strongest available on the market, and it is capable of pulling hair, dirt and dust out from deeply embedded carpets and hardwood and tile crevices. Its multi-directional floating brush minimizes hair tangling for continuous cleaning effectiveness even in pet- or long-haired-resident households. The vacuum comes with a cutting-edge 10mm auto mop raise mechanism which allows it to seamlessly transition between vacuuming carpets and mopping hard floors without leaving wet marks or dirty streaks. The performance in terms of mopping is equally impressive courtesy of dynamic dual spinning mops that work at a rate of 200 RPM. Combined with 30 adjustable levels of water flow, these mops allow you to customize cleaning intensity for different floor types remotely from the app. You enjoy spotless and streak-free floors that gleam like a pro after every pass. The Qrevo S comes equipped with advanced obstacle avoidance technology powered by PreciSense LiDAR navigation and 3D mapping. At its all-time low price on Amazon, the Qrevo S offers an incredible value proposition. See at Amazon
Gizmodo
an hour ago
- Gizmodo
Amazon Is Done with the Beats Solo 4, It's the Fifth Time the Price Has Hit This Record Low
For the fifth time this year, Amazon is selling off its inventory of the Beats Solo 4 wireless headphones for a jaw-dropping 50% off. Priced now at just $99, down from the original $199, these 'phones are a top value bargain, especially if you consider their long-standing reputation for quality and comfort. In the last month alone, over 10,000 pairs have sold out of stores, which shows their popularity and the unbeatable value at this price point. For anyone with $100 or less to spend, the Beats Solo 4 provide a degree of luxury and performance that is difficult to beat. See at Amazon Why Consider These Headphones? Beats Solo 4 is among the most compatible and convenient wireless headphones in its class: It is designed to function with both Apple and Android devices, and they guarantee uninterrupted connectivity and flawless listening regardless of your smartphone or tablet. You will be impressed by the Beats Solo 4 battery life: A massive 50 hours of continuous playback on one full charge means these headphones leave most of the competition in the same price range far behind. Such a long battery life is the ultimate blessing for all travelers or anyone who wishes to listen to their music, podcasts, or calls for the whole week without having to worry again and again about recharging. Sound quality is another area in which the Beats Solo 4 excels: The headphones yield a rich, well-balanced sound profile with deep low-end bass and crisp highs. No matter if you're playing your playlist, watching a movie, or taking an incoming call, the audio is clean and immersive. The on-ear format also provides excellent noise isolation, so you can focus on your tunes without getting too cut off from reality. What's also important is that the headband and ear cups are also adjustable to fit snug and comfortably. The sleek and light build makes it possible to wear them for hours without the feeling of tiredness, ideal for long flights or binge workdays. The headphones also feature seamless controls on the ear cup so you can have complete control over volume, skip songs, and manage calls. For convenience users, Beats Solo 4 features easy pairing via Bluetooth and reliable wireless performance: The headphones remain connected continuously with a wide range, so you can move around freely without any worry about dropouts or interference. Integrated microphones ensure your voice remains clear during calls, and the multi-function button allows for seamless use of your device's voice assistant. At this new all-time low cost, the Beats Solo 4 offers a great chance to have a high-end audio product without spending a fortune. The combination of industry-leading battery life, superior sound quality, and unbeatable comfort makes these cans a favorite among casual listeners and audiophiles alike. With thousands of great reviews and a reputable history of reliability, the Beats Solo 4 is a smart decision for anyone seeking top wireless headphones at a price that will not be beaten. Whether you are upgrading from an earlier version or buying your first premium headphones, this limited-time deal is one you would not like to miss. Overall, the Beats Solo 4 is a winner in what otherwise is a crowded wireless headphone category – especially at this price point. Make sure you don't miss this deal. See at Amazon
Android Authority
an hour ago
- Android Authority
This is my favorite video editing app, and for good reason
Megan Ellis / Android Authority For years, I would suggest CapCut as the go-to video editing app for Android. But with its strong push towards monetization, I decided a while ago that it's time for me to leave CapCut behind. That's when I set out to find a suitable replacement by trying out the best video editing apps. While many apps have the same issues I faced with CapCut, I was able to find my new favorite — along with a few other recommendations. What is your favorite video editing app? 0 votes CapCut NaN % Edits NaN % InShot NaN % Adobe Express NaN % VN NaN % Another app (let us know in the comments!) NaN % Edits: My new favorite video editing app Megan Ellis / Android Authority When I set out to find the best video editing app for me, I didn't really expect it to be Edits. After all, the last app Meta released to compete with another service — Threads — proved to be underwhelming and lacked a lot of the features that people wanted to see replicated from Twitter. But Edits is actually really impressive — standing on its own even while trying to reproduce CapCut's success. First of all, Edits is completely free, which is something that will attract a lot of users (and which caught my interest). But my hopes were conservative as I remember the early days of trying to use Instagram's video editing tools only to have the app constantly freeze or crash, even when dealing with just a few short clips. Edits is actually really impressive — standing on its own even while trying to replicate CapCut's success. Edits, however, did not disappoint. I was able to easily stitch together clips, add transitions, add audio, and record a voiceover without there being any issues. Another essential feature for me is the ability to generate captions from voiceovers — a feature that is often missing or locked behind a paywall in other free video editing apps. But Edits includes this feature and allows you to edit captions in a number of ways. While there aren't many generative AI features, I actually prefer this. I would rather have fewer high-quality filters and effects to choose from than a bunch of AI features I'll never use. I don't feel like I'm being bombarded with features and prompts when I edit a video in Edits. Rather, I can focus on the features that matter the most to me. Importantly, Edits does not apply a watermark or force you to pay to remove it. Nor does it only allow you to share your video to Instagram profile. This means it's a versatile tool that you can use for videos for a range of social media sites. Other notable features include the ability to add a green screen effect, overlays, custom text, and stickers. When it comes to adding music, Edits provides many licensed tracks that you can use (though which won't save if you download your video rather than sharing it to Instagram. Edits holds its own as a CapCut alternative Megan Ellis / Android Authority So is Edits simply a CapCut clone? I'd argue that it goes further than the app that inspired it. This is thanks to some really impressive features, like the transitions. For example, the Dissolve transition blends two clips together in an almost surreal way — as if it's merging clips rather than just a simple transition. Dissolve is my favorite transition, but there are plenty of slick options to choose from. Another area where Edits stands out is its export quality. Free apps usually cap the export resolution at around 1080p, sometimes even 720p. But Edits allows you to export at a 4K resolution up to 60fps. I was also impressed by the cutout feature, which can detect an object in your video and add it as an overlay to your clip. This feature includes object tracking, meaning that even if your object is moving, the cutout can adapt to it. This allowed me to create some fun mashups of videos of my cats. What drawbacks does Edits have? Edits avoids the pitfalls of many free video editing apps, but this doesn't mean that it's without its flaws. First off, it requires an Instagram account to use. I already use Instagram, so it wasn't much of a tradeoff for me. Another drawback is that exporting videos, even when using a flagship Android device and only using a resolution of 1080p, is slower than I would like. But it's not so slow that I feel like it's a dealbreaker. Unlike Instagram, Edits doesn't include templates either. For me, the biggest drawback is that it's a Meta app. For me, the biggest drawback is that it's a Meta app. This means that there's no guarantee that it won't eventually become monetized. Being the product of a major company means that Edits has many resources at its disposal, but Meta also has a track record of turning free products into ones that have ads. I hope that Edits will remain among the best new apps for Android without adding in any major caveats. Are there other video editing apps worth trying? Megan Ellis / Android Authority Despite Edits being a great app for me, it might not be the right fit for you. In that case, you might want to consider one of these alternatives: InShot: If you're looking for more AI features and more similarity with CapCut, then it's worth trying out InShot. While certain features are paywalled, the premium plan is more affordable than most others and there's also the option to buy the app as a once-off purchase. You can also get temporary access to premium features by watching an ad. For example, I watched a 30 second ad to remove the watermark from my video. If you're looking for more AI features and more similarity with CapCut, then it's worth trying out InShot. While certain features are paywalled, the premium plan is more affordable than most others and there's also the option to buy the app as a once-off purchase. You can also get temporary access to premium features by watching an ad. For example, I watched a 30 second ad to remove the watermark from my video. Adobe Express: Adobe Express has a great balance of free features, while also including the ability to edit photos and create designs. The UI can be a bit clunky though and the workflow for adding captions isn't very intuitive, but the app doesn't include intrusive ads or watermarks. Adobe Express has a great balance of free features, while also including the ability to edit photos and create designs. The UI can be a bit clunky though and the workflow for adding captions isn't very intuitive, but the app doesn't include intrusive ads or watermarks. VN: VN has plenty of free features and gives you the ability to buy credits for AI features, which is more affordable than a recurring subscription. While you can use credits to generate captions in the cloud, switching to the option to process the captions locally allows you to use the feature for free. A major bonus is that it doesn't add a watermark. VN has plenty of free features and gives you the ability to buy credits for AI features, which is more affordable than a recurring subscription. While you can use credits to generate captions in the cloud, switching to the option to process the captions locally allows you to use the feature for free. A major bonus is that it doesn't add a watermark. YouCut: YouCut is from the same company as InShot, but allows you to export without a watermark. You can also watch ads for premium features. YouCut is from the same company as InShot, but allows you to export without a watermark. You can also watch ads for premium features. LightCut: If you want a mostly automated experience for editing videos, LightCut is a good free option. It can automatically trim clips and apply filters to your video, but it lacks other features such as automatic captions. Among these apps, you'll likely find a good option that suits your needs. For me, Edits remains my favorite, since templates and AI features aren't central to my workflow.
