Tangled Extension Cords Aren't A Problem Anymore With One Smart Upgrade

If you've ever used an extension cord before, you know the frustration of facing a tangled mess of cords every time you need to plug in something. Traditional extension cords are long and difficult to store in an organized fashion, which makes them exceedingly prone to getting tangled, even after you've mastered the best way to roll up an extension cord. Fortunately, if you've found yourself inwardly fuming at an extension cord mess before, those days could be behind you with the advent of retractable, mounted extension cords.

Wall-hung, retractable extension cords work how you might expect them to: After finding a secure spot on your garage or shed wall, you securely mount them (in close proximity to an electrical outlet), and then slide the cord reel into its anchor. When you're ready to use the extension cord, simply pull it out as far as you need (a ratchet mechanism holds it in place at your desired length), then return the cord back to the reel when you're finished with the extended electrical reach. If you're curious as to how practical or useful a solution like this really is, TikTok creator @carolinegoode_ demonstrates how easy it is to use, showing the product in action. The comments enthusiastically echo the creator's positivity about the product, saying, "We use these at my work and they are fantastic," and "Retractable is the way to go!" If it takes more to sell you on a product than just a good idea and a TikTok video, however, here's what you need to know. 

While Amazon sells similar models, the Vevor version shown in the video has the best price and reviews, and the retracting reel can easily be slid on and off the wall mount. Vevor offers three different options, ranging from 45-65 feet in length and their cords have an 89% five-star approval rating from customers. One writes, "Surprised by the quality. Good price and quality usually don't go together but here they do. Nice cord and retractor." While the cord has overwhelmingly positive feedback, some complaints do exist that are worth noting. Firstly, since the cord is designed to retract, some users mention that it takes a little effort and practice to get the cord to lock into place when it's reached its desired length. Secondly, as with many retractable corded products, the cord can get overly bunched up at one side if you reel it back too quickly, so remember to take your time and distribute the cord evenly back into the reel's housing.

Beyond using this retractable extension cord for power tools (or mounting one in your utility room), it can also come in handy during the holiday season if you like to decorate with lights or yard blow-ups. Besides picking up one of these retractable extension cords for your own use, they're one of the best holiday gifts for the handyman (or handywoman) in your life. To also tame those regular cords and get everything perfectly neat, try this clever bucket hack for storing your current cord collection, or declutter and organize those old extension cords in the garage with a bungee cord storage solution.