17 Home Essentials That Reviewers With Arthritis Swear By

The Fullstar vegetable chopper, the six-foot Stretch Out Strap and the Logitech ergonomic vertical mouse from Amazon.

Arthritis affects millions of people, yet there’s a dearth of recommendations on exactly what products can help people manage the pain and discomfort it causes. This is especially important since arthritis can permeate into so many aspects of daily life, from sitting and typing to preparing food, reading and more.

That’s why we’ve rounded up home products that reviewers with arthritis vouch for to make life easier and more comfortable — and which may even improve your quality of life. Read on for their favorites; we hope they’ll will prove helpful.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

1
Amazon
A hidden-gem nylon strap tool for gentle stretching and an easier hold

In previous HuffPost coverage, a physical therapist suggested this six-foot stretch-out strap for gently stretching the legs and upper and lower body after self-massaging. What sets this apart from other stretching gizmos are its 10 built-in loops, which allow greater control and better grip for folks with arthritis or limited strength in their hands. You can also use the loops as comfy yet grippy holds for your feet and hands.

The tool comes with a stretching exercise booklet and access to its video stretching guide.

Promising review: “Love this strap. I have a terrible grip due to arthritis, so I can’t hold regular yoga straps. This strap has all the loops along it for holding it or hooking in a foot. Makes stretching so much easier.” — Ins0mniaxXx

2
Amazon
A highly-rated remote control page turner for Kindles and iPads

Reading on Kindles and iPads is great (did you ever think you’d be able to access hundreds of titles all in one little object?). Yet it can still get difficult to hold the tablet over a long period of time, or to tap, tap and swipe at the screen when it’s time to turn the page.

This remote control page-turner solves this issue so each page can be turned easily and conveniently. It may sound simple, but it’s actually quite impactful: Numerous reviewers with arthritis testify that this tiny gadget is a true game-changer, allowing them to sit or lie down comfortably while they read without having to reposition to tap at the screen.

You can also grab the remote in cute colors, too, like pink, blue and green.

Note: Clip the coupon for an added discount at checkout.

Promising review: “I’ve been praying for something likethis for years. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and my hands have really poor circulation so they are cold a lot. So now with my kindle I can keep my hands under my electric blanket and read and still turn the pages. It works so well.” — aflutterby88

3
The Everlasting Comfort desk chair seat cushion with over 90,000 5-star ratings

Made of high-density memory foam, this bestselling ergonomic seat cushion promises tohelp relieve pain in your tailbone, legs and hips while supporting your posture. Plus, the cushion is conveniently portable, so you can carry it to the car, couch or on the plane and use it wherever you go. The cover is machine-washable, and it’s available in five colors and a gel-infused version.

Promising review: “First let me say I’m not even in my 40s yet and I already have 2 bulging discs and arthritis and severe stenosis from 10 years of a desk job. I have tried everything! I was talking otc pain medicine every 4 hours, using a tens machine, going to chiro and ortho, spending money on pain creams and desk chairs and standing desks. I read all of the reviews and saw that most everyone talked about lower back pain but I have neck and mid back pain so I was worried this would be more wasted money but I was desperate. Let me just say that this cushion has changed my quality of work/life! I am only taking medicine twice a day now and I can finish my work and get off and still feel good enough to do my house work as well. It’s a life saver and who would’ve thought that a simple seat cushion would be the solution! Try it, you won’t be sorry!” — T.Rodgers

4
Amazon
A highly-rated hands-free reading light with 102,000+ 5-star ratings

This lightweight LED nightlight is designed to be worn around the neck so you can read or work with free hands — and it’s so lightweight that reviewers say it doesn’t aggravate their arthritis. Rechargeable, with bendy, adjustable arms and six brightness levels to choose from, the light also works nicely for knitting, crafting, home improvement projects and more. The device is available in eight colors and two sizes.

Promising reviews: “Very comfortable, sitting up, reclining or laying down. The lights stay in place where I need them, and they are great if you need to walk around in the dark hands free. Another perk is the light adds zero weight to your books, which can get heavy and cumbersome for people with arthritis” — Suzi

“Words cannot describe how much I LOVE this product!!! The 3 brightness levels are awesome & I also love the 3 different light colors, depending on what you are using it for. I purchased mine for reading but I have found that it comes in handy in a variety of ways, especially being a night owl and the only one up at night. I was worried about having anything hanging around my neck because I have arthritis and pinched nerves, but this light truly is lightweight like described. I forget sometimes that I even have it on! Definitely one of the best purchases I’ve ever made!” — Amy Brackins

5
Compression gloves for arthritis with 31,000 5-star ratings

These gentle compression gloves are designed to help with pain from arthritis. (Los Angeles-based orthopedic surgeon Dr. Carlos Guanche previously told HuffPost that a similar style may offer some relief from symptoms.) Their contoured, snug fit promises to improve blood flow and comfort, while the breathable, moisture-wicking fabric helps keep your hands cool throughout the day. Fingerless and flexible, the gloves ensure your range of motion won’t be compromised, either. Reviewers truly sing their praises; one reports that the gloves have practically changed their life. They’re available in four sizes.

Promising review: “Great find! At 70 years old, I still want to work and arthritis has taken up residence in my hands. These gloves have allowed me to continue on the keyboard with much less discomfort. They provide comfortable support without being too restrictive. I’ve tried other gloves, some quickly fall apart or have rough edges that are irritating on the skin. These are the best I’ve found. Plus, I love being able to buy quality products from a female-owned business!” — MSE

6
Amazon
A bestselling electric can opener with over 71,000 5-star ratings

This Kitchen Mama can opener was created specifically to help a family member experiencing difficulty in the kitchen due to arthritis in her hands. It’s designed to automatically open cans with two taps of a button — completely hands-free — leaving can edges smooth and free of sharp edges. Reviewers with arthritis and difficulties gripping call the tool a “gem.” Available in four colors, it requires four AA batteries.

Promising review: This can opener is great because it really does work. Hands free. I can no longer use a hand crank one because of arthritis. Electric ones are too hard to clean. This Kitchen Mama can opener works by placing it on top of the can and pressing the button. It turns itself off when it is finished. I’ve given this as a gift…it was perfect.” — ali

7
Amazon
A bestselling vegetable chopper

This reviewer-favorite food chopper slices and dices fruits and veggies with a simple opening and closing of its lid, making it easier, more comfortable and less time-consuming to prepare food for folks with arthritis. The design lets you cut food directly into the tool’s storage container, too. Besides chopping components, the piece includes spiralizer blades, a julienne cutter and a ribbon cutter. Adding to its convenience, the gizmo is also dishwasher-safe.

The chopper has earned over 84,000 5-star ratings and comes in several sizes and colors.

Promising review: “This is my second time to purchase this same product! This little gadget has become an absolute staple in my kitchen. I suffer with arthritis and carpal tunnel in my hands so chopping was extremely painful for me. Now that I have my handy chopper I don’t worry about chopping veggies anymore! Cleaning is super easy as well, another plus!” — Samanthak1306

8
Amazon
A handy under-cabinet jar opener with over 21,000 5-star ratings

This practical one-handed jar opener is designed to open tight jars that can be difficult to access for anyone, but in particular for folks with arthritis. A bestseller, the tool’s non-slip grip accommodates lids of any size and its durable material ensures it has the strength to handle even factory-sealed lids.

Promising review: “Purchased the jar opener because with arthritis, tendinitis, it is very hard to hold onto a jar and try to open it when you have no strength anymore. Very easy to install under cabinet. Clear instructions help with placement. I like that it not only has adhesive stick but also comes with little screws to secure it to under the cabinet. Yes there are sharp teeth to watch out for, but that adds to how easy it is to open a jar. The teeth grip onto the jar lid, so all you do is hold the middle of the jar and twist. So much easier to have both hands on the jar. When installed under the cabinet, you barely see it. It sits flush with the cabinet. I give it 5 STARS.” — Kathy Bartholomew

9
Amazon
A gooseneck phone holder you can clip to your bedside or desk for hands-free phone use

Clip this bestselling hands-free phone holder to a table, headboard or chair, and thanks to its bendy yet sturdy gooseneck, you’ll be able to text, video call, watch movies and read at eye level, sans hand fatigue and pain.

Reviewers absolutely love this little tool, calling it a “third hand” and “hands down one of the BEST gadgets that I have ever bought.”

Promising reviews: “I use it when watching movies on my phone. I have arthritis in my hands and they tend to go numb when I hold things for more than 15 minutes. Very strong and very stable, perfect size for my cell phone.” — Sherry423

“This little gem is perfect for people who have arthritis in their hands. I read on my phone and this holder is absolutely perfect and it cuts down on the stress to my hands.” — Amazon Customer

10
Logitech’s vertical ergonomic mouse

This ergonomicversion of a standard mouse canprovide a more natural posture for your hand (57 degrees high, to be exact), which elevates your wrist and aligns your forearm for a more comfortable desk experience that won’t aggravate arthritis and wrist pain. Quiet and wireless, it’s available in three colors and in right- or left-handed styles.

Promising review:
“I really needed this. I have arthritis in my hand and hours of working on the computer and the mouse were causing me issues. I did a lot of research on ergonomic mice, and this one look like it fit all my check boxes. I was a little concerned that it would be weird to use a mouse like this after 40 years of a regular flat mouse on the mouse pad, but surprisingly it was easier than I thought and I had no problems transitioning to this vertical ergonomic mouse. It feels totally natural. I highly recommend this.” — D. Bowien

11
Amazon
The Waterpik Aquarius flosser, with a whopping 111,000+ 5-star ratings

This reviewer-favorite dental flosser uses water to clean between all the crooks and crevices in your teeth while stimulating your gums. The gadget is particularly helpful for folks with arthritis who may have trouble maneuvering regular dental floss. Plus, the tool reportedly works better than dental floss: According to Waterpik, the water flosser is 50% more effective than floss and removes a staggering up to 99.9% of plaque.

Available in three colors, the Waterpik is also super easy to use. Just fill the back reservoir with water and you can begin flossing.

Promising review: “My first Water Pik. It’s a pleasure to use especially if you’re a first timer like me. You can start off with gentle water force and slowly over time increase the level when you gums get accustomed to it. It’s a good size for use at home since it can sit next to a compact sink area. It’s great when traveling since it takes up little space. Water piks clean out the food particles between teeth that a toothbrush misses. It much more fun to use than regular flossing. And when you have arthritis like I have, regular flossing is cumbersome and not really possible. Consequently I didn’t floss. Now I water floss!” — Amazon Customer

12
Amazon
A popular, convenient electric lighter

Another bestseller, this handy rechargeable electric lighter is ideal for anyone having trouble sparking regular or disposable lighters. The lighter is flameless, intuitive to use and easy to charge. Plus, the tool is wind- and splash-proof so it can keep up with indoor or outdoor activities. The gizmo comes in multiple colors so you can match it to your personality.

Promising review: “I was definitely buying this with the expectation that it would not work, but after struggling with regular lighters because of years of arthritis, I had to give it a shot. This definitely lights candles, albeit slowly, charges quickly via usbc, and holds the charge pretty well. The current does have a slightly obnoxious high-pitch noise I didn’t consider when purchasing but it’s a small price to pay. There’s a safety switch that has to be flipped to turn it on, and it times out to prevent overheating. It also came with a slip for a 1 year warranty. If this lasts even 6 months it is well worth the cost, and I will be buying again.” — Tay

13
An anti-fatigue mat for standing desks and beyond, with 19,000 5-star ratings

This thick ergonomic floor mat can help relieve pressure on the spine, knees and joints thanks to its cushy foam core. For those who spend long days on their feet, the comfort mat promises to help reduce pain from arthritis and fatigue. It’s available in various sizes and colors, plus in packs of two.

Promising reviews: “I have had many anti fatigue mats as I have arthritis, but I can say that the Sky Solutions mats are the best ones I have ever had. So comfortable, lightweight, and blend very well with my home colors.” — Interested researcher

“As I have arthritis in my feet and knees, I have been looking for a mat for relief in front of my stove and cooking area. I wanted a 3/4 in mat and finally chose this one. I’m SO happy. I can really tell a difference! So soft and spongy, but supportive. Love the length! Now I need a smaller one for in front of my sink. Would love to try a one inch!” — Denise Bowen

14
Amazon
A helping hand Roomba vacuum that’s just “the right amount of robot”

If you’re looking for an affordable robot vacuum that’ll get the job done so you don’t have to bend down and aggravate your pain, the Roomba Q0120 model is a great choice. The gadget has versatile brushes that pick up everything from dirt and dust to pet hair (including on carpet). It can detect which areas in your home are particularly dirty (like a high-traffic entryway) to clean more thoroughly.

Plus, the device can connect to your Alexa or Google Assistant device. When its 90-minute runtime is up, the vacuum automatically docks itself to recharge. Easy.

Promising review: I don’t know how I lived without this Roomba! I have arthritis and scoliosis and it is so difficult to vacuum and it always made me hurt so I put off vacuuming! I have two dogs who shed so it is imperative that my house gets vacuumed often! Now I just push the button and let it go! I do a room or two per day. It is easy to dump the debris and clean the filter! It does an excellent job and I was skeptical at first because it seemed so random but that doesn’t matter, it gets the job done!” — Bonnie

15
Amazon
An under-desk foot rest with 20,000 5-star ratings to help ease fatigue and align your spine

Made with cooling memory foam, this soft yet sturdy ergonomic footrest is designed to support your lower back, knees and legs as you sit, relieving pressure from inflamed joints or arthritis. Available in two colors, the footstool can also help your posture — and you can even use it as a foot rocker by turning it over.

Promising review: “I have psoriatic arthritis and struggle with hip/lumbar pain & occasional plantar fasciitis. This foot rest is SO comfortable and feels like a luxury mattress for my feet. The memory foam is firm enough to keep you supported & aligned, but cushioned enough for all day comfort. Don’t spend more money on something overpriced from Sharper Image- this product is legit.” — AG

16
Amazon
A reviewer-favorite lower back brace with 40,000 5-star ratings

For folks whose arthritis affects their spine, this bestselling belted back brace is worth your time. Reviewers rave about it, saying it provided “instant relief” for their back pain and calling it a “true blessing.”

The brace balances firm support with breathable, flexible mesh to stabilize your back while still feeling comfy and allowing for natural movement. You can also use the tool’s removable lumbar pad for days when you need additional support.

As another bonus, the brace is subtle enough to wear under clothes if you prefer, lacking the bulkiness of many braces.

The piece is available in three colors and in sizes XS-XXL.

Note: Clip the coupon for an additional discount at checkout.

Promising review: “This belt works !! I suffer from chronic lower back pain– Mild scoliosis, arthritis of spine, spinal bone spurs, and a few compressed discs thrown in for good measure. I have been using this belt for approx 3 weeks for all my outdoor work in my yard–planting, digging , loading into truck–anything which might put stress on my back. It is amazing how much more work I can get done without pain that lays me up for a day or 2 after the work. I have tried it on the golf driving range, and again it is terrific. It is easy to adjust, and after a couple of times wearing it I got to feel what the right amount of compression was. I have had a couple of other belts, but they just didn’t provide the support this Sparthos does. I wish I had found it long ago. I’m 75 years old. If you want to stay active, and have a cranky back, try this one.” — JFG

17
Amazon
A bestselling, back-saving Arm & Hammer dog poop scooper

If picking up after your dog is aggravating your back, this swiveling rake scooper offers a simple yet impactful solution.

You can capture waste without any bending over by relying on the bin-rake combo, which does all the dirty work for you at ground level. The bin snaps upward once you’re done, too, so the mess won’t fall out.

This bestseller has over 67,000 5-star ratings, so it’s safe to say reviewers swear by it. In addition to the rake and bin (which extends up to 32 inches), this comes with two heavy-duty waste bags.

Promising reviews: “I have arthritis and back issues this is the very best pooper scooper ever! Love it!!!” — Deborah J Ash

“I bought the class clamp one last year and it doesn’t scoop everything all the time and if you have arthritis, or carpel tunnel it’s painful to constantly squeeze for pick up.

This scoop rake and bucket, soooo much better on clean up, on my hands and storage. It clamps together and has a hang point for both. Love it.” — Pepper Storer

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