A household is a business. And like a business, there are tools to help you keep everything — from repairs to grocery shopping — running smoothly.
Chore Pad
Forget the chore wheel; this might be the most comprehensive chore-management tool out there. Make detailed task lists for each member of the family. Completing them earns trophies and stars, which can be redeemed for rewards that you create. Passwords keep parent and child modes separate.
WIRED Automatic syncing with Dropbox. Separate user modes.
TIRED Syncing between phones and tablet requires buying the app twice. Can't share progress or chore lists.
$4.99 ioses(ipads) | $2.99 ioses (iphoness) | Chore Pad
HomeSavvy
Start by answering a series of questions about your home—if there's a pool, flooring types, et cetera—and HomeSavvy will generate a list of tasks, such as "swimming pool-backwash" or "shampoo carpets." Schedule reminders and read tips on how to handle tasks yourself, or look up pros who can do them for you.
WIRED Listings of professionals include reviews. Reminders for infrequent but important maintenance tasks can be lifesavers.
TIRED Reminder dates are arbitrary. Can't create custom alerts on androids.
Free ioses | Free androids | HomeSavvy
Cozi Family Organizer
What Cozi lacks in looks, it makes up for in functionality. Manage a calendar for everyone in the family, create shopping and to-do lists, and write notes and photos in journal entries. One account means everything is automatically synced between family members. The $4.99-per-month Pro version gets rid of the ads and gives you more functionality.
WIRED Syncs between devices so multiple family members can use at once.
TIRED The Pro version is pricey for relatively few new features.
Free ioses | Free androids | Cozi Family Organizer
Grocery IQ
Safeguard that most important (and misplaceable) scrap of paper—the grocery list—by putting it on your mobiles device. Search for an item to get a range of results, both generic and brand-name, then file it in the appropriate supermarket aisle (Deli Counter, Snack Foods, etc.).
WIRED Scan barcodes of empty boxes to add them to next week's list. Sync with family members via a Grocery iQ account.
TIRED Can't search favorites on androids.
Free ioses | Free androids | Grocery IQ
About My Home
Log everything about your home—makes and models of appliances, room dimensions, paint types and colors, and the like. You'll then have everything you need to know for repairs, replacement, and maintenance. A chore list reminds you when you should do things like clean your air ducts or change the air filters.
WIRED PDF export function is handy for things like insurance claims. Make your own customized categories and entries.
TIRED PDF can be shared only via email. Can't add photos.
$1.99 ioses | About My Home
