Reader Amy sent in this question:
I have a living room that all my friends come over to hang out and study in. It just so happens that they always bring over their laptops. Is there a way to manage all these power adapters and wires so I won't one day trip and kill myself? Thanks!
We definitely would like to keep you in good health and away from the emergency room! Here's our attempt to help you control those out of control jungle of wires in your living space.
We found the best way to control those cords is to simply throw a rug over the wires to avoid tripping over them. A big rug is best so that it doesn't slip around.
However, if you're in a spending mood, the Power Squid Surge Protector is a good alternative for turning a mess of wires into a single entity. Basically plug one end into a corner of the room, extend it into a center coffee table or talking area, and unleash the "Squid" for everyone to enjoy. It's available for about $24 from QVC.
Photo courtesy of Miss Gleinser.
Copyright © 2008 Apartment Therapy
We have powerstrips under our sofa's - this keeps them out of the way, and someone with a laptop can plug in when they need it without causing a tripping hazard the rest of the time - the cord is basically going under their seat.
view Ru's profile
There is also a genius product that is an electrical chair rail. It's installed at whatever height you want, and looks like chair rail with deeper channels carved in. The whole strip is an electrical outlet! So you can plug in anywhere in the room.
I can't find an image or link, but I've seen it in HomeDepot and Rona so it must be fairly easy to find.
view Erin in Ottawa's profile
I second the power strips under your seating tip. That's been my method in the past for plugging in all of my gadgets.
It is cheep and keeps the apartment aesthetically more appealing as well as a lot safer!
view Benji's profile