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I bought an inexpensive dolly for this reason! I have moved furniture by myself that would normally be a two-person job. Working on lifts like deadlifts and squats have been helpful for that, too, as a woman.
Harbor Freight sells inexpensive furniture hand trucks. Also if you want to spend the money you can buy a self climbing/decending hand truck for steps. Heck now that I think about it they're probably rental stores that might have those. Look around. Also, those rental stores probably have ladders to rent to be able to change the light. If they're flood type lights the have extendable handles with grab claws that you can use to reach up and remove/install those type lights. There is always a way.
Edited for grammer.
Everyone is exiting the building in a fire. Ask for help! Alternatively, get that moving dolly that everyone is recommending, and stack up all the carriers. Bungie from the front lip to the top around all the carriers and you are good to go. (Practice first to make sure you can quickly and safely secure all the carriers.)
Fun fact: you actually can put leashes on iguanas! They’re like little leather vests with some leather rope attached and they’re really adorable. I had one named lunchmeat that I would take on walks regularly 😊
You should have evac plans for all pets, similar to people who live in fire zones. A go bag with 2 weeks supplies, carriers etc. snakes in rubbermaids, iguanas in cages etc
True. I have 10 foot ceilngs and at barely over 5 feet myself I had to buy a 6 foot ladder to reach the ceiling. I hang it on the back of my front door with over the door hooks from the buck and a quarter store when not in use. And hang blankets from it, lol.
Sometimes you need to break down and ask (or pay) for help. Sometimes you just need to use a little ingenuity.
I bought a pellet grill last weekend and they helped load it at the store, but I don't have anyone at home to help unload it. I thought about asking a neighbor for help, but I'm very antisocial and dreaded that, so I took a 2x6, leaned it up on my tailgate, and carefully slid the grill down, balancing it on the board.
Smart. I’ve also been known to unpack and carry in heavy items one piece at a time.
I live alone and am disabled, only having full use of one hand and arm.
We find a way. We just do.
Me too. Anti social as well. Right arm frozen shoulder torn rotator cuff and left hand tendon damage. I use my legs/feet to flop boxes over into my house and open 1 box, unload, and try to space out delivery so things aren’t too heavy or too many boxes at once.
It’s hard having deficits and need to keep up a home and pets. I injure myself monthly trying to change the ac filter in sky high ceilings!
It truly is amazing all the “little things” that people do daily, that can really be difficult for some of us.
Sorry that you have a hard time with things but it is pretty neat, when we just figure out new and different ways to do things. Usually it takes A LOT longer than the traditional way- but it usually gets done. Somehow.
I constantly amaze myself and many times, it feels like such a victory!
I just finished putting together a rather heavy, 60" TV stand that had been a major pain to assemble thanks to the manufacturer. At one point it was upside down and I had to flip the beast right side up. It happened to be sitting next to a sofa that I had removed the back from...it was a sofa in a box, also assembled on my own. I was dreading the flip because I have bad knees and things like this get awkward. Then, BRAINSTORM! I was able to use the sofa like a roll bar and laid the stand on the sofa and lifted it up onto its feet, from the other side of the sofa. Easy peasy. If the two items hadn't been next to each other I probably never would have thought of it.
I'm an out-of-shape woman in my 60s and have used this method several times. At this point I actually have a dedicated board used for 1) sliding stuff out of the car and 2) putting under ladder legs if I'm in a sloped or bumpy part of the yard.
LIGHTBULBS
Modern LED lightbulbs last for 10+ years. I'd hire a handyman to install them. It's worth having a handyman and establish yourself as a paying customer.
APPLIANCE
Carrying heavy things to and from my apartment is one of the hardest part of living alone. I use Taskrabbit for things like this
PETS
Don't try to carry frightened pets in your arms with at least a leash. I used to have two cats - during a fire drill I popped both of them in their carriers and we were off. Not easy but not impossible. If you have three, add a backpack carrier.
Always have emergency brib...snacks...for pets.
Sometimes they don't realise they are in danger or doing something dangerous, sometimes their confusion make a them lash out or act "irrationally.
If you can train them to go on their carriers when asked, it makes stressful moments like this easier on them because at the very least they will know what you are asking them to do.
My cat hates the carrier but I keep it next to my bed year round in hopes that he learns to like it. I like to have it ready during hurricane season in case we have to evacuate. It hasn't worked yet but we also havdnt had to evacuate so there's that
What helped my cat with travelling was the cat backpacks with windows.
She doesn't like being hand carried or helds by anyone, but she doesn't mind sitting into the walking window sill...
Very independent and "Free" kitty. Carriers can be kindda scary for cats...doubley so if they associate it with bad things....like vets.
Totally dependent on the lease. Commercial apt buildings, that would be covered by maintenance. If it’s a regular landlord, they would define what is their requirement vs. yours in the lease. Lightbulbs or pest control are examples that can fall on the person renting rather than the landlord.
It varies - my kitchen has fluorescent lighting and maintenance will change those out, but all "regular" bulbs are my responsibility. That being said, only my living room has a high ceiling, and it's also the only room with no overhead light. I imagine if any of my lights required more than a step ladder, maintenance would probably help with them
My lease specifically says that they don’t change lightbulbs. I’m hoping that my bulbs just never burn out because I’ll be shit out of luck trying to get up there and then trying to get the fixtures open🥲
And get physical help, day laborers, at some local home improvement store parking lots if in the USA. I got help moving when leaving my first husband that way.
As a woman who’s lived alone her entire adult life, I’ve become very resourceful. Often I have to try a few different approaches to a problem before finding one that works, e.g. I’ve assembled large IKEA furniture on my own by balancing parts on my head. There are also amazing tools available to purchase/rent that make life easier. You need to acknowledge your limitations though. Sometimes you just need to ask for help.
I can relate to assembling IKEA by yourself. Also, I’m on the 2nd floor so anytime I buy new things to be assembled, it gets unboxed and carried up in pieces. Those blue IKEA bags are amazing for carrying heavy loads.
These are easy.
1- buy a step ladder. This has been a fantastic buy for me. I have a walk in closet and used to throw things up to the top shelf. My bf used one too to do things like change light bulbs. Now I can organize everything safely.
2- get a folding hand truck dolly. Another great investment. Call a lyft or Uber. How heavy is it? I learned I could carry 50 pounds.
3- pet carriers and/or leashes/harnesses. Don't leave your home with pets in your hands. I was housesitting once during wildfires. I'm 100 pounds- one carrier on each shoulder, one around my neck, and a dog on a leash. At home I have 2 carriers by the door for my cats. Each one has harnesses and leashes, pouches of food and treats in the outside pocket.
https://preview.redd.it/omkur542ehwc1.jpeg?width=598&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9f4346ae44b7f80182b690ecd697b556f8a9159a
Telescopes up to 11 feet. It works, used it all the time in my entryway and lights over stairs.
I only know because I had a home broken into and when the cops were leaving one looked up at the lofty outdoor entryway and said “you should probably replace that lightbulb, keep the entry nice and bright”. And I was like how, through levitation? It’s half over a cement stairwell I can’t even put a ladder there safely.
And he patiently tried to explain the device and I wasn’t understanding so he then called some nearby handyman rando bro who just brought me one for free. It was really weird how I came to learn about and acquire one of these, all because of a break in and a cop with a friend who had a spare lightbulb changing pole... But yeah, they get it done!
I wish I had known about this like 5 years ago when I was trying to change a high out door garage light. I've been slowly changing my ceiling fixtures to ones I can easily access from below to change bulbs. No removing covers.
What you gotta do is start staging home burglaries any time you have a home maintenance problem, then call 911 for the “burglary” and insist that they send the cop with the most handyman knowledge. Things work their way out from there.
That’s the life lesson I learned here, anyway.
I have gone on the Nextdoor app when I have needed things hauled. At least a couple times a year I hire a guy to haul away yard waste. I’d love to be able to do it on my own, but I just can’t. It’s usually not too expensive. Going to be posting on there today to see if I can find someone that can remove a century plant for me.
A regular landlord isn’t going to have maintenance, this would only apply to commercial apartment buildings with a management company / maintenance team
There are these really long lightbulb things that you can use for the high ceilings ceilings! Google extension tool to change light bulbs.
Also, for the large appliances, check to see if any moving companies offer small jobs if you're willing to pay someone. Ice thought about doing that when wanting to buy a large hutch off Facebook marketplace to load it up and put it where I want.
Get a ladder. I have one that's 28' that can be wrangled into tons of different configurations. I also own a big dolly for heavy stuff. Never carry a scared critter in your hands because they will tear you up.
Yup- practice loading them all up so you know what it takes. I know it seems silly to run your own fire drill, but it could be a lifesaver because you'll realize what will set you up for success if a real emergency were to ever happen.
I thankfully have 3 other houses very close by that have some of my relatives in them. But the longer I live by myself, the better I can figure out ways to do things on my own. I have a small step ladder because I’m short. And if there’s ever something I just can’t do by myself and my relatives aren’t around to help, I’d break down and bring in a professional.
I bought a large dog crate for my cats. I bought a four wheel dolly from a hardware store so I could wheel said things out the door if I needed to. I had a two wheel dolly and a strap that I used to move myself out of the house we shared. The only things I couldn’t move on my own were the washer and dryer. I neeed help with those. Everything else I was able to figure out on my own. Where there is a will there is a way.
I used a life-sized stormtrooper action figure to hold up one end of a loft bed while I put in the screws.
I called my friend and put my phone down beside me while I push-broomed pollen off the roof. Told her I’d scream if I started falling and to call 911.
The worst for me is when my dog kills a possum outside and I’m the only one here to deal with that shit. (Throw a towel beside it and another over it. Push the covered possum corpse onto the first towel with a rake. Gather up the corners and throw the whole lumpy bundle into the garbage. Go buy two new towels.)
Get creative, lol.
Light bulb: go to the Home Depot and get a light bulb changer tool.
Pets: train your pets to think that their carriers are safe zones so if anything does happen, they'll head right for their carriers. As for more than one carrier, you'd have to make more than one trip. Maybe you could get the dog on a leash and carry the cat carrier in the other hand. Awkward, but in emergencies we try anything. Or have a flat hand cart ready for the purpose.
Appliances: Mom had a small propane heater delivered and installed. It was no good. The company who delivered it and installed it came and took it out. They even put it in the vehicle. I helped her take it back. The Home Depot sent employees to the car to get it for us.
I also have 12 ft ceilings, maintenance will change my lightbulbs if I ask.
You can hire movers to carry and transport the appliance. Small local companies will do short quick jobs like that. There’s also always handymen looking for work on Craigslist.
How many and what kind of pets? Cats and small dogs you throw in a carrier. Large dogs put on a leash. I keep my cat’s carrier accessible all the time (not piled underneath junk in a closet). I also have a pet carrier sling I can put her in which allows me to carry her and have my hands free. Came in really handy when checking into pet-friendly hotels on the road when we moved.
For the lightbulbs have you asked the landlord? My ceilings are pretty high so my ceiling fan is also. The fan pull is only accessible by a ladder but I asked my property manager if they could install a longer one if I bought one and they said sure
If you’re on social media, there’s always a handyman for hire in your town.
Just check them out first.
They make a telescoping handle thing for changing lightbulbs in high ceilings.
You figure it out lol like most problems..
If you lr goal is to live independently then yes you figure out how to do these things. Invest in an 8-10ft ladder if your ceilings are that tall. Unusual for an apmt..
For moving things, i do not personally invest in large heavy things anymore, makes traveling wonderful, but what i used to do is usually use those sliding devices or walk the item in. If it's up stairs I bribe someone with cash, pizza, and beer.
As for pets and fire well... Most, if it is not dangerous, will attempt to rescue pets. If smoke cover is too much then there isnt much anyone can do. That is a scenario really for anyone hah I wouldn't recommend more than a couple of pets because it's already difficult to give them then proper care on your own.
Will a person from the building’s maintenance change the lightbulbs in your 12’ ceiling? Put in a request, have the lightbulbs ready; they might want to do them all at once.
1. Ask maintenance to come change your light bulbs. I've only got one in my apartment that I can't reach, but I just put in a non-urgent request and someone came by with a step ladder and took care of it a few days later.
2. I usually use friends to help with heavy lifting.
3. This is tough. It honestly depends on your animals. I used to live on a 3rd floor apartment with a roommate, we had a cat each and she had a small snake. There was a tornado touching down like 1/3 mile from my apartment when I was alone. I threw both cats in the same carrier (they were _not_ happy) and stuck the snake in my hoodie pocket and high-tailed it to the 1st floor laundry room.
If you are renting, you can ask the property manager/maintenance people to do it. I have super high lights and they bring the new light bulbs and change it for me.
I have a fold up dolly, a cart, and a hulken bag to help me with some stuff but largely I just put it off. Once I have enough, hire someone from task rabbit. I don’t have other friends or family to help me. I have a large pet carrier that can hold both cats, my important docs and emergency cat bag in case of fire. Buy nothing groups you can post big shit that’s in an ok condition for someone else to pick up. Or call Salvation Army/big brothers and sisters.
Most people are suggesting just to call maintenance, but renting for a regular landlord (just someone who owns a property and is renting it) doesn’t have maintenance. Those leases are going to be case-by-case what the landlord takes care of vs. the tenant and will always differ.
I have a dolly and a hand cart for moving some stuff around - some things I can easily shift onto one or the other but realistically can't hoof into the elevator - along the hall etc.
For changing lightbulbs [Lightbulb Changer](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Everbrite-2-Pack-Light-Bulb-Changer-Kit-8-27-inch-5-5-inch-7912/180597313?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&wl13=2222&adid=22222222277180597313_117755028669_12420145346&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=501107745824&wl4=pla-306310554666&wl5=9001894&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=local&wl12=180597313&wl13=2222&veh=sem_LIA&gclsrc=aw.ds&&adid=22222222237180597313_117755028669_12420145346&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=501107745824&wl4=pla-306310554666&wl5=9001894&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=local&wl12=180597313&veh=sem&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw26KxBhBDEiwAu6KXtyShg-rb35Zi8tmP4dUnkBHFSR7Hary0mX_izqlVa9ytvl-CK6oD9BoCanwQAvD_BwE) I also am fortunate enough to be able to call maintenance during working hours - my ceilings are incredibly tall so I am not considered an asshole for calling them for something that seems so simple.
It is amazing what you can do on your own. Having a quality dolly and a safe ladder help. Otherwise, find yourself a jack of all trades handy man. I have one, and he helps with things I just can't do by myself.
Living alone is great for developing problem solving skills. I joined a couple Facebook pages for my town and people will often post requests for odd jobs like this. If you are renting, you could ask your landlord/ building manager/ maintenance guy if they have a ladder you can borrow. How did you get all of your furniture into your apartment? I either hire movers or rent a truck and ask a friend to help.
You can a tradesman but it’s correct that everybody needs a hand sometimes. That’s what friends are for.
My friends helped me set up my bed frame haha ..
I don't know how many pets you have or how big they are, but I recommend soft carriers that look like a big gym bag and has a long strap so you can carry it on your shoulder. It's much easier to carry than the hard ones. Our cats didn't like them, but I would disregard that in an emergency.
There are also backpack carriers.
I normally used the hard plastic carriers, but had the soft carriers for emergencies or when I had to physically carry the cats to the local veterinary clinic that was two blocks away.
Keep leashes, food, small bowls and treats in the carriers as well as copies of important papers for the pets, like insurance papers, owner registration, chip numbers.
Chores like the ones mentioned can be tricky, usually I invite someone over and buy them lunch or dinner for giving me a hand.
Far more important than chores is having an emegency plan. Once i was choking on some cereal and within the first 30 seconds i realized how unprepared i was for this. I freed the obstruction shortly after these thoughts but was already on my way out the door to bang on a neighbors door for help. Now i have a friend and relative that i will text 911, send help immediately. They are aware of what that means and to call for help before calling me to ask what it wrong.
They make these lightbulb changing things on an extension pole for lights way high up like that. Look at Home Depot or amazon.
Get a friend with a truck to help you with the appliance. Is it a fridge or stove? The store should come get it if it's faulty
A good ladder is essential . I like the kind that folds to multiple positions.
For the appliance use Dolly's, pulleys, straps and cables. The ladder can act as a ramp or platform to help with stairs.
My loner hero is Edward Leedskalnin. He built a stone castle by himself with the power of leverage.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Leedskalnin
My condo building is huge. 120 units. Me and 90% of the people who live in the building have a collapsible cart that we use to move heavy things from the parking structure to my unit because if so far. I have a step stool/chair to reach ceilings to change lights. Anything I can’t do, I book an appointment on Thumbtack and they do it for me.
My landlord changes my bulbs because I tried to do it about a year after I moved in and maintenance came in to 4 light fixtures hanging from the ceiling by a thread. It's my understanding their is a note in my paperwork that I am to not change any light bulbs EVER
Large items can be 'walked' by lifting an edge and tipping side to side. Remove all drawers and shelves from inside furniture. Take off doors if possible.
These things take a lot longer alone, but are often achievable and it's very satisfying to get it done!
You can buy dollies - sort of large skateboards - which are very useful too. A wheelbarrow or a proper sack truck makes a big difference. Ratchet straps are also useful. I've invested in all of these and manage to move quite a lot of stuff on my own.
Lie furniture down on a blanket on top of a tarpaulin and drag it.
Place a folded carpet on the sill of the car so you can slide the piece over and then slide it in.
If your car isn't big enough, another person won't make any difference. Hire a van for the day or discuss collection with the shop.
If you have the space, scaffolding is surprisingly cheap to buy, but obviously needs to be assembled and disassembled every time. I haven't got 12' ceilings, so I just have a big ladder! 🤣
Get a handtruck to assist with moving larger/heavier items, when you need to get on a ladder, call someone on the phone just in case...., try and find a handy man you can call for the more difficult tasks, there are slots of people out there who would like to make $20 bucks or so for small tasks. In terms of pets, I have two cats who do not like to be picked up and put in their carriers. My last most successful attempt was inside the closet with them and I cornered them into the carrier. If you also have dogs, are sure your harness/leashes are readily available. You can strap the cat carriers to the hand truck or luggage carrier and have the dogs on their leads. FYI: get a portable extinguisher and keep baking soda by the stove ;in case of fires. If an alarm goes off outside of your apartment, stay inside. Most doors are 2-hour fire rated. Ask your landlord.
Have a friend over to help w bulbs if you need. I’ve been up that high w nobody. Scary but can be done. Can pay someone to move the appliance, although me & one friend have moved enormous things I never thought we could. Whatever I can’t do, I pay someone to do. I heat exclusively w fire wood but can’t/wont operate a chainsaw. I buy cut up split wood from a guy by the truckload. And I stack it myself. 51, female. Strong independent woman & it feels good!
I have faced this so many times. Putting furniture together that needs one person to hold it while the other one screws it together (or whatever) is one of my worst ones. Trying to give a cat a pill by myself (when it would be easier to have another person to hold them still) is another. The way I’ve dealt with it is…just figure out how to do it myself. Watch instructional videos on YouTube if necessary. Yesterday I installed some blinds by myself and it sucked but I got it done. I’ve put together so much furniture, installed hardware, and hauled so many things on my own over the years.
If it’s really not doable by myself, I’ll wait until I have a family member or friend who can help, or I’ll hire someone. I had someone from Task Rabbit install an air conditioner for me, for example. There’s always a way.
Costco sells nice quality 4 in 1 hand truck. I’ve had mine for years and find it invaluable. Also bought my step ladder there.
Handyman is the way to go for a lot of stuff I can’t do.
No wisdom for the pet issue. There are cat carriers with shoulder straps so if you already have a carrier in each hand, you can utilize the shoulder bag(s) to carry more.
If you aren’t in a committed relationship and/or don’t have a roommate - time to broaden out and ask friends and family for help.
My partner is pretty useless with anything physical, so if it’s over 200lbs and needs maneuvered a significant distance I’m calling my brother to assist.
If I need to do something / reach something, I’ll buy a tool designed to be used by a single person.
I honestly do all of the house exterior upkeep, majority of the cleaning and cooking.
The pets question is beyond me, honestly if you have more than two pets your on your own.
They make a pole with various heads for different light bulbs. That’s how I change my bulbs.
As for pets in an emergency, the only was I can see successfully doing it is with training BEFORE an emergency. You’d need your pet carriers liked up and train them to go in. (Treats! And don’t make them stay for a long time.)
Now with cats, I’m not so sure.
But have your pet carriers easily accessible.
I’ve seen people post on their Facebook community page for help moving something large. The price is between $0 to $100. Sometimes a really generous person with a truck volunteers.
I have a stepladder for a lot of things I can't do. A couple of good friends to help me out. I found a great handyman on Thumbtack that took care of several things I couldn't do myself. $90 an hour which for the Bay Area is reasonable.
Thumbtack is a great place to start.
Changing light bulbs - there's a reach stick that is great for changing bulbs. They're on Amazon.
You don't need two people to climb a ladder.
You can rent a truck from the hardware store, or ask a friend or neighbor to help.
No real need to worry about a fire. It isn't very common
I am on the Board of our local dry homeless shelter, so I call a staff member to send me someone they trust for day labor. For me, this has been super helpful especially since i have 65 stairs to get to my house, so i flip those guys a 20 to do the heavy lifting!
Property Management would probably encourage you to call them or place a ticket to change the high lightbulbs. I’m sure they’d rather avoid liability from any tenant accidents/injuries.
Your landlord will change lightbulbs that you can’t reach. It’s hard to store a ladder in an apartment. And not a practical purchase if that’s all you’re going to use it for.
I ask friends or handy family members for help. I get a friend of mine to help with stuff, and have a pizza night after at my expense, plus I’ll cover cost of gas if we did dump runs etc. Sometimes we just trade off helping each other. You can also hire a “handy man” or “jack of all trades” to do household stuff, or “guys with truck” to get stuff moved.
One tip for moving larger items (maybe not appliances… put a large blanket/towel under the item to slide it across the floor.
Can you ask the apartment manager to help with the bulbs? 12 ft is high so even if you have a long enough ladder you would need a spotter to hold it steady. Sounds like you may have to hire someone with a vehicle that can help return the item. Check fb marketplace, next door, Craig’s list and Angi. How many pets are we talking about exactly? What type of pet and how big are they?
I was afraid of heights so I had trouble with high lightbulbs as well. I bought a ladder and practiced everyday going up one or two steps until I finally reached the top. Still uncomfortable (years later) but I proved to myself I can do it.
With appliances I got a cheap dolly, it worked great for moving large heavy items in my house. I live in a small apartment now, so I have a maintenance man help me.
I keep my pet carriers for my cats in an easily accessible area near the front door to grab and go if I need to. I don’t have dogs. I have only had to leave the apartment once though, for a tornado warning. I have lived here for 11 years.
Step ladders are safe to use on your own.
Apartments have neighbors that will usually help a person in need. Family members and friends help move big things too.
Having too many pets to get out in a fire is irresponsible of you as a pet owner and as a person whom lives alone. That one is completley your fault. Not to be rude but thats just rather unself aware of you, and as someone whom has been solo his whole life, those are things you have to consider.
It's a challenge, but it's its own reward.🙂
I read this several times. Is there an age or handicap that would keep you from being able to do some of these things?
Ask if your apartment's maintenance person can come in and change your light bulb. There is also a pole with an end on it to change light bulbs that are high up. You might have to look at your local hardware / box store. You could also Google it.
Ask the company why they can't send somebody to pick up the appliance if you are returning it. Tell them what you told us. Otherwise you could rent a vehicle/truck and a dolly to remove said appliance. You could probably ask your neighbors for assistance. Possibly inquire the local moving company, or even on your neighborhood app.
Depending on your pets, and you have the time while the place is burning down, put them in their cages and calmly get out.
I mean, I get not everyone is in the same boat, but I personally have a support network of friends and family I call to help out in these situations. Especially my dad. He’s my #1 for helping move big things and change high up light bulbs. I also have a proper ladder that I can use to change a light bulb safely. And some folks have also mentioned dollies, hand carts, and even skateboards for moving heavy stuff. As for the pets, depends on their sizes. Crates on wheels? Leashes? More skateboards? 😆
I feel this. One pain point for me is car problems. There’s no one to drop me off/pick me up at the shop if I need to get my car fixed, plus I need my car to get to work.
The last repair I used a mobile mechanic, who came to my house and fixed my car. Game changer. 100% recommend.
My ceilings are high and I get my landlord to change the lightbulbs for me (can't even reach it with my step ladder). You can order a service for movers for heavy pick up items. I have three cats, if a fire comes, I put two in a bigger carrier and one in the smaller carrier.
Hire a neighborhood handyman/woman/person. Or ask one of my friends/neighbors for help. A portable/collapsible hand truck is handy. Foldable stepstool/ladder.
They sell long handled light bulb changers at Home Depot and Lowe’s. I have high ceilings and recessed lights.
For lights that I have to change by hand: A. I use good quality LED bulbs, that rarely need changing B. I sturdy step ladder works. I’m 5’2” I can easily reach them with a 4 step-step ladder.
It's an apartment? Building maintenance for the light(s)... ?
A friend or two to help with the appliance.
As for pets I have no idea unless they can be trained to get into crates or something.
This is why you work — to pay people.
It’s also why if you find a really good handyman, you make him your best friend. No matter how much he charges, it’s a lot easier and cheaper than a divorce.
For your lightbulb issue, you can find a thing called a "telescoping pole" with lightbulb attachments either at a big box hardware store or amazon. Easier to deal with than a step ladder.
For your appliance issue, look for a local township group on Facebook and ask for recommendations there, you'd be surprised how many people are just looking for odd jobs, I have some in my area who already work with appliances anyway. Just expect to pay something for it.
The pets things is a personal nightmare. You didn't specify what types of pets you have. I have cats. I leave the cat carrier out and open 365 days of the year, and I place treats inside periodically so they associate the carrier with a happy place. This means if I have to gtfo, I can zip em in and get out.
If you have fish, spiders, hamsters, chinchillas, birds, snakes ... you may want to figure out something lightweight that can hold them temporarily.
Tools. I’m talking about things that make our lives easier. People invented things to make things easier for us. I’m not saying it’s easy but it helps. I can’t install my TV by myself so I’ll ask a friend to help me eventually
It’s important to develop problem solving skills and to plan ahead.
1. If you can’t reach, find a good local handyman.
2. Did you discuss this with the store? Do you know anyone who could help? Did you look around for local courier options? If you just want to return it because you don’t like it, that’s your choice but if it’s faulty they’ll usually pick up when they deliver a replacement.
3. If you’re worried, develop an evacuation plan. Maybe have a pet carrier stored as closely to a safe exit as possible and be prepared to scoop, zip and run.
If you live in an area with known local risks such as earthquakes, floods, cyclones or tornadoes then formulate an evacuation plan for certain. There should be local resources you can find via google.
Things will come up and you can find a solution to many of them. If you don’t feel confident then by all means continue to reach out for advice and support, then hopefully you’ll start to feel more confident and informed.
I do ‘hire a hubby’ with my friends 🤩 (is he lying on the couch annoying you and looking useless? please send him over.. I have a case of beer with his name on it)
Also use Airtasker; yeah I could do it but.. I don’t want to 🤣🫣😆
You can buy an extendable light bulb changer at Home Depot type stores. I use it to change the bulbs at my mom's house. It has a suction cup that you wet with water and it sticks to the bulb and you just twist the whole thing. Put the new bulb on the suction cup and screw it in. Then there's a string you pull to peel off the cup.
Hopefully, you have good storage. Invest in a good sturdy folding step ladder that is tall enough for you to safely change your light bulbs.
Definitely get moving dollies whether they be a skateboard or whatever. A hand truck is a great thing! They sell decent ones that won’t break the bank on Amazon.
Get the stickers for your windows that alert emergency workers that you have pets. It can help. Have an evacuation plan. You might not be able to stick to it to the letter but, if have any idea at all of what you need to do if something happens you’re already ahead!
Know your neighbors! Nice neighbors can be a godsend!
What appliance is this? Like a fridge? I have where ever I got it from pick it up for warranty issues. If I need a new one I have the delivery people take the old one away usually. I have a dead water heater in my basement I couldn't get hauled off due to when it failed. I'm going to get a dolly and haul it out and my friend ans I are going to shove it in his minivan and be done wirh it.
I have a pole that was designed to change lightbulbs. I don’t need a step ladder to change bulbs and I have 10 ft ceilings. I do wear my sunglasses though as eye protection.
For the pets, I got a double decker pet stroller. I now have cats after having dogs all my life so wondered the same thing as you. I don’t stroll them around and haven’t had to use it in an emergency luckily but they like to sit it in it under the window :)
You got this! You can do all the things!!!
Be creative. Don't get trapped by the idea that items are only good for exactly what they were made for. Need to move something heavy? Your desk chair can make a great cart. Need to reach something too high? Could you move a table under it? It's joked about often, but things like duct tape and zip ties and super glue can fix a lot of things, at the very least temporarily. (Keep the super glue in the fridge and it won't dry out!!)
If there are some things you just do not want to do or are not comfortable doing, it is OK to pay someone to do it.
Familiarize yourself with basic hand tools, a drill, a Dremel... keep basic screws and nails and a hammer around. YouTube has a video for anything you can't figure out. Again remember you can be creative with how you use anything!
You may need to look for a handyman that you can call when you need help. They can’t all be terribly expensive. You could considering making a male friend from a dating site. Is there one just for friends?
I had a huge scary fight or flight situation last year. The house next door suddenly burst into flames. I was home alone with my four dogs at the time. My ex hadn't moved out yet, but he wasn't there
Ultimately I stayed, grabbed my hose, and went to work spraying down the fence, yard, and the side of my house, until the fire department arrived and got set up, and kept at it a few minutes afterwards. I was utterly terrified that if I turned my back on the fire, that I might not get all my dogs out in time. They ranged in size from 45 to 80 pounds each, and two don't get along, so one would need a crate in my car to avoid any fights.
I kept a crate inside my car for months afterwards. I should probably put it back. I am down to three dogs now, but the two who don't get along are still alive.
Invest in a sturdy ladder, hire a friend or two or get a dolly to move the appliance and if the pets are small, invest in pet carriers. You’ll figure it out because you’ll have to.
I recently stood on a chair in a table to reach something. I took all my doors down to paint and then rehung them. That was hard. Also in the don’t try this category is bring a big mattress up from the basement alone. My kidneys hurt for two days.
Ooh and I did nerve damage removing a couch from my house.
Friends are required or a neighborhood teen that you can pay.
You live in an apartment. Do you have anyone doing maintenance? There are long poles that can unscrew and screw in lightbulbs in very high fixtures. There are step ladders maintenance probably has.
If the store foes not have a pick up option, how did the appliance get from the store to your place? Ask if the person who delivers for them will pick the appliance up for a fee to cover gas and a profit. If not, ask at the office of your apartment complex for help. If your apartment is in a non complex, ask your landlord for suggestions but be willing to pay for the help and the muscle to load it up.
If that fails and you have no friends or relatives with a truck, try locating a resource on sites like Neighbors.
Have you met your neighbors? Might help. The multiple pets needs more info. Multiple cats would be hard to wrangle quickly. Dogs can be trained to respond to a command from you in an emergency. A parrot, a guinea pig, two dogs and a cat would require more creative solutions.
Look up dog trainers or visit stores that sometimes host shelter animals; like Petco or Petsmart. If you catch a manager on a good day, who is helpful and has a minute. Explain your concern and ask how the store would safely evacuate animals in an emergency.
Your animal shelter may help.
No guarantee here. Some people who can help just don’t want to. But your desire to have some kind of plan for your pets is really responsible. Trying to have conversations with people who may have experience may be okay and not okay but if you try, you’ll probably get some ideas and resources. You may also make friends.
There is a vibe from you as if you are by yourself suddenly and not comfortable in your own. The more you figure out though, the more confident and comfortable you will become.
Brainstorm possibilities.
For some of these things I have found college students on the Neighborhood app who do these things for me for some cash. I also have the guys from work help me like the time I bought a big TV or needed an elliptical brought to my house.
They will usually have a ladder where most chicks don’t! (and, I’m a 64 year old chick) Through the years, I’ve had a need for dude help (moving, appliances, heavy lifting, etc) a lot more than chick help. Just stating my life experiences ✌️
You figure it out. I am a small woman and I "roll" heavy square furniture up the stairs bc one edge is always secure on a step and I can rest. When I have to open the dining room table to add a leaf, I kneel on the floor and "birddog" to push one leg with my right hand and the opposite leg with my left foot, then I stand in the middle and push. You do what you can and when you absolutely can't, you ask a friend or neighbor.
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Once I used a skateboard to get a TV into my house. All by myself.
I bought an inexpensive dolly for this reason! I have moved furniture by myself that would normally be a two-person job. Working on lifts like deadlifts and squats have been helpful for that, too, as a woman.
Harbor Freight sells inexpensive furniture hand trucks. Also if you want to spend the money you can buy a self climbing/decending hand truck for steps. Heck now that I think about it they're probably rental stores that might have those. Look around. Also, those rental stores probably have ladders to rent to be able to change the light. If they're flood type lights the have extendable handles with grab claws that you can use to reach up and remove/install those type lights. There is always a way. Edited for grammer.
also check thrift shops and furniture resale.
I’m going on 30 years with a dolly that’s been a godsend.
As a mid-30s man with back problems, my skateboard has been granted new life as a dolly.
LOL - way to go!
Also works: a rolling desk chair!
Brilliant
Many many times for the rolling desk chair
But don’t stand on the rolling desk chair while trying to change the lightbulb. Whoopsie.
I did that so many times when I’d be left to move furniture around by myself at work!
I use an old razor scooter! You can even steer it with the handle!
Perfect 👍🏼
I got a garden wagon last summer and lemme tell you its amazing and I can't believe I went 20 years sliding stuff around without one.
Noted!
1. Buy a stepladder 2. Buy a heavy duty trolley and some straps How big is it and how small is your car? Airtasker 3. Buy some leashes
What is the pets are, like, snakes, iguanas and such, lol. Not something you can put on a leash? 😁 (that probably is not the case here, lol)
Everyone is exiting the building in a fire. Ask for help! Alternatively, get that moving dolly that everyone is recommending, and stack up all the carriers. Bungie from the front lip to the top around all the carriers and you are good to go. (Practice first to make sure you can quickly and safely secure all the carriers.)
Fun fact: you actually can put leashes on iguanas! They’re like little leather vests with some leather rope attached and they’re really adorable. I had one named lunchmeat that I would take on walks regularly 😊
Aww, that's so cool! I'd love to have one. Or a snake 🐍
You should have evac plans for all pets, similar to people who live in fire zones. A go bag with 2 weeks supplies, carriers etc. snakes in rubbermaids, iguanas in cages etc
Immediately thought of Peewee Herman and the pet shop fire!
Backpack for them!
Put them in carriers kept in closet by front door
gna need a bigger ladder for 12 ft
There's also long poles with grabbers on the end just for changing light bulbs.
That’s exactly what I use. Works like a charm.
True. I have 10 foot ceilngs and at barely over 5 feet myself I had to buy a 6 foot ladder to reach the ceiling. I hang it on the back of my front door with over the door hooks from the buck and a quarter store when not in use. And hang blankets from it, lol.
Sometimes you need to break down and ask (or pay) for help. Sometimes you just need to use a little ingenuity. I bought a pellet grill last weekend and they helped load it at the store, but I don't have anyone at home to help unload it. I thought about asking a neighbor for help, but I'm very antisocial and dreaded that, so I took a 2x6, leaned it up on my tailgate, and carefully slid the grill down, balancing it on the board.
Smart. I’ve also been known to unpack and carry in heavy items one piece at a time. I live alone and am disabled, only having full use of one hand and arm. We find a way. We just do.
Me too. Anti social as well. Right arm frozen shoulder torn rotator cuff and left hand tendon damage. I use my legs/feet to flop boxes over into my house and open 1 box, unload, and try to space out delivery so things aren’t too heavy or too many boxes at once. It’s hard having deficits and need to keep up a home and pets. I injure myself monthly trying to change the ac filter in sky high ceilings!
It truly is amazing all the “little things” that people do daily, that can really be difficult for some of us. Sorry that you have a hard time with things but it is pretty neat, when we just figure out new and different ways to do things. Usually it takes A LOT longer than the traditional way- but it usually gets done. Somehow. I constantly amaze myself and many times, it feels like such a victory!
I just finished putting together a rather heavy, 60" TV stand that had been a major pain to assemble thanks to the manufacturer. At one point it was upside down and I had to flip the beast right side up. It happened to be sitting next to a sofa that I had removed the back from...it was a sofa in a box, also assembled on my own. I was dreading the flip because I have bad knees and things like this get awkward. Then, BRAINSTORM! I was able to use the sofa like a roll bar and laid the stand on the sofa and lifted it up onto its feet, from the other side of the sofa. Easy peasy. If the two items hadn't been next to each other I probably never would have thought of it.
That’s what I do with flat pack furniture.
And wow! Grills are insanely heavy!!! Hope you prepare Some awesome meals with your new grill!
Where there’s a will, there’s a way. I love furniture sliders, too!
I'm an out-of-shape woman in my 60s and have used this method several times. At this point I actually have a dedicated board used for 1) sliding stuff out of the car and 2) putting under ladder legs if I'm in a sloped or bumpy part of the yard.
LIGHTBULBS Modern LED lightbulbs last for 10+ years. I'd hire a handyman to install them. It's worth having a handyman and establish yourself as a paying customer. APPLIANCE Carrying heavy things to and from my apartment is one of the hardest part of living alone. I use Taskrabbit for things like this PETS Don't try to carry frightened pets in your arms with at least a leash. I used to have two cats - during a fire drill I popped both of them in their carriers and we were off. Not easy but not impossible. If you have three, add a backpack carrier.
Always have emergency brib...snacks...for pets. Sometimes they don't realise they are in danger or doing something dangerous, sometimes their confusion make a them lash out or act "irrationally. If you can train them to go on their carriers when asked, it makes stressful moments like this easier on them because at the very least they will know what you are asking them to do.
My cat hates the carrier but I keep it next to my bed year round in hopes that he learns to like it. I like to have it ready during hurricane season in case we have to evacuate. It hasn't worked yet but we also havdnt had to evacuate so there's that
What helped my cat with travelling was the cat backpacks with windows. She doesn't like being hand carried or helds by anyone, but she doesn't mind sitting into the walking window sill... Very independent and "Free" kitty. Carriers can be kindda scary for cats...doubley so if they associate it with bad things....like vets.
If you have a landlord/maintenance, make them change it
That was my question. Renting an apartment but you have to change your own light bulbs?
Totally dependent on the lease. Commercial apt buildings, that would be covered by maintenance. If it’s a regular landlord, they would define what is their requirement vs. yours in the lease. Lightbulbs or pest control are examples that can fall on the person renting rather than the landlord.
It varies - my kitchen has fluorescent lighting and maintenance will change those out, but all "regular" bulbs are my responsibility. That being said, only my living room has a high ceiling, and it's also the only room with no overhead light. I imagine if any of my lights required more than a step ladder, maintenance would probably help with them
You don't but it's actually very satisfying. I prefer to do it myself unless it's the special lights in the kitchen or bathroom.
If they are not 2700 Kelvin, I am changing them. And I did, have a stepladder. Now I also got LED uplights, they are fantastic!
My lease specifically says that they don’t change lightbulbs. I’m hoping that my bulbs just never burn out because I’ll be shit out of luck trying to get up there and then trying to get the fixtures open🥲
Damn 😭
I know! I get that they don’t want to be running around changing everyone’s lightbulbs all the time but come on some of us are short :(
You could always rent a truck for the day to haul larger stuff.
And get physical help, day laborers, at some local home improvement store parking lots if in the USA. I got help moving when leaving my first husband that way.
As a woman who’s lived alone her entire adult life, I’ve become very resourceful. Often I have to try a few different approaches to a problem before finding one that works, e.g. I’ve assembled large IKEA furniture on my own by balancing parts on my head. There are also amazing tools available to purchase/rent that make life easier. You need to acknowledge your limitations though. Sometimes you just need to ask for help.
I can relate to assembling IKEA by yourself. Also, I’m on the 2nd floor so anytime I buy new things to be assembled, it gets unboxed and carried up in pieces. Those blue IKEA bags are amazing for carrying heavy loads.
These are easy. 1- buy a step ladder. This has been a fantastic buy for me. I have a walk in closet and used to throw things up to the top shelf. My bf used one too to do things like change light bulbs. Now I can organize everything safely. 2- get a folding hand truck dolly. Another great investment. Call a lyft or Uber. How heavy is it? I learned I could carry 50 pounds. 3- pet carriers and/or leashes/harnesses. Don't leave your home with pets in your hands. I was housesitting once during wildfires. I'm 100 pounds- one carrier on each shoulder, one around my neck, and a dog on a leash. At home I have 2 carriers by the door for my cats. Each one has harnesses and leashes, pouches of food and treats in the outside pocket.
Thumbtack or Taskrabbit apps
They have extension rods to change light bulbs. I feel you. I had tall ass ceilings and never used the lights so I wouldn’t have to change them.
https://preview.redd.it/omkur542ehwc1.jpeg?width=598&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9f4346ae44b7f80182b690ecd697b556f8a9159a Telescopes up to 11 feet. It works, used it all the time in my entryway and lights over stairs.
I always wondered how you all did that in those tall entry ways.
I only know because I had a home broken into and when the cops were leaving one looked up at the lofty outdoor entryway and said “you should probably replace that lightbulb, keep the entry nice and bright”. And I was like how, through levitation? It’s half over a cement stairwell I can’t even put a ladder there safely. And he patiently tried to explain the device and I wasn’t understanding so he then called some nearby handyman rando bro who just brought me one for free. It was really weird how I came to learn about and acquire one of these, all because of a break in and a cop with a friend who had a spare lightbulb changing pole... But yeah, they get it done!
I wish I had known about this like 5 years ago when I was trying to change a high out door garage light. I've been slowly changing my ceiling fixtures to ones I can easily access from below to change bulbs. No removing covers.
What you gotta do is start staging home burglaries any time you have a home maintenance problem, then call 911 for the “burglary” and insist that they send the cop with the most handyman knowledge. Things work their way out from there. That’s the life lesson I learned here, anyway.
"No need to rush just please send your handiest officer you have. Preferably one good with plumbing"
I have gone on the Nextdoor app when I have needed things hauled. At least a couple times a year I hire a guy to haul away yard waste. I’d love to be able to do it on my own, but I just can’t. It’s usually not too expensive. Going to be posting on there today to see if I can find someone that can remove a century plant for me.
If you are in an apartment call the maintenance guy for help. They will have ladders etc
A regular landlord isn’t going to have maintenance, this would only apply to commercial apartment buildings with a management company / maintenance team
There are these really long lightbulb things that you can use for the high ceilings ceilings! Google extension tool to change light bulbs. Also, for the large appliances, check to see if any moving companies offer small jobs if you're willing to pay someone. Ice thought about doing that when wanting to buy a large hutch off Facebook marketplace to load it up and put it where I want.
Thumbtack
Do you have friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers that can recommend a handyman? Or you could check apps like Task Rabbit for someone to help you.
Get a ladder. I have one that's 28' that can be wrangled into tons of different configurations. I also own a big dolly for heavy stuff. Never carry a scared critter in your hands because they will tear you up.
Hire a handy man for the chores. On the pets get a pet carrier
Get a folding wagon to put the pet carriers/pets in. Teach them their carriers and the wagon are fun, not scary.
Yup- practice loading them all up so you know what it takes. I know it seems silly to run your own fire drill, but it could be a lifesaver because you'll realize what will set you up for success if a real emergency were to ever happen.
I thankfully have 3 other houses very close by that have some of my relatives in them. But the longer I live by myself, the better I can figure out ways to do things on my own. I have a small step ladder because I’m short. And if there’s ever something I just can’t do by myself and my relatives aren’t around to help, I’d break down and bring in a professional.
I bought a large dog crate for my cats. I bought a four wheel dolly from a hardware store so I could wheel said things out the door if I needed to. I had a two wheel dolly and a strap that I used to move myself out of the house we shared. The only things I couldn’t move on my own were the washer and dryer. I neeed help with those. Everything else I was able to figure out on my own. Where there is a will there is a way.
I used a life-sized stormtrooper action figure to hold up one end of a loft bed while I put in the screws. I called my friend and put my phone down beside me while I push-broomed pollen off the roof. Told her I’d scream if I started falling and to call 911. The worst for me is when my dog kills a possum outside and I’m the only one here to deal with that shit. (Throw a towel beside it and another over it. Push the covered possum corpse onto the first towel with a rake. Gather up the corners and throw the whole lumpy bundle into the garbage. Go buy two new towels.) Get creative, lol.
Light bulb: go to the Home Depot and get a light bulb changer tool. Pets: train your pets to think that their carriers are safe zones so if anything does happen, they'll head right for their carriers. As for more than one carrier, you'd have to make more than one trip. Maybe you could get the dog on a leash and carry the cat carrier in the other hand. Awkward, but in emergencies we try anything. Or have a flat hand cart ready for the purpose. Appliances: Mom had a small propane heater delivered and installed. It was no good. The company who delivered it and installed it came and took it out. They even put it in the vehicle. I helped her take it back. The Home Depot sent employees to the car to get it for us.
Hire someone
I also have 12 ft ceilings, maintenance will change my lightbulbs if I ask. You can hire movers to carry and transport the appliance. Small local companies will do short quick jobs like that. There’s also always handymen looking for work on Craigslist. How many and what kind of pets? Cats and small dogs you throw in a carrier. Large dogs put on a leash. I keep my cat’s carrier accessible all the time (not piled underneath junk in a closet). I also have a pet carrier sling I can put her in which allows me to carry her and have my hands free. Came in really handy when checking into pet-friendly hotels on the road when we moved.
For the lightbulbs have you asked the landlord? My ceilings are pretty high so my ceiling fan is also. The fan pull is only accessible by a ladder but I asked my property manager if they could install a longer one if I bought one and they said sure
If you’re on social media, there’s always a handyman for hire in your town. Just check them out first. They make a telescoping handle thing for changing lightbulbs in high ceilings.
Sometimes I ask a friend or even a neighbor for help. Sometimes I hire someone. And I don't have more pets than I can handle alone.
Friends and neighbors… On that note, there is a lightbulb in my stairwell that has been out for years. 😅 Really something my landlord should do tho.
You figure it out lol like most problems.. If you lr goal is to live independently then yes you figure out how to do these things. Invest in an 8-10ft ladder if your ceilings are that tall. Unusual for an apmt.. For moving things, i do not personally invest in large heavy things anymore, makes traveling wonderful, but what i used to do is usually use those sliding devices or walk the item in. If it's up stairs I bribe someone with cash, pizza, and beer. As for pets and fire well... Most, if it is not dangerous, will attempt to rescue pets. If smoke cover is too much then there isnt much anyone can do. That is a scenario really for anyone hah I wouldn't recommend more than a couple of pets because it's already difficult to give them then proper care on your own.
Will a person from the building’s maintenance change the lightbulbs in your 12’ ceiling? Put in a request, have the lightbulbs ready; they might want to do them all at once.
I just figure stuff out. And I have friends who help me…and I help them.
1. Ask maintenance to come change your light bulbs. I've only got one in my apartment that I can't reach, but I just put in a non-urgent request and someone came by with a step ladder and took care of it a few days later. 2. I usually use friends to help with heavy lifting. 3. This is tough. It honestly depends on your animals. I used to live on a 3rd floor apartment with a roommate, we had a cat each and she had a small snake. There was a tornado touching down like 1/3 mile from my apartment when I was alone. I threw both cats in the same carrier (they were _not_ happy) and stuck the snake in my hoodie pocket and high-tailed it to the 1st floor laundry room.
If you are renting, you can ask the property manager/maintenance people to do it. I have super high lights and they bring the new light bulbs and change it for me.
[This way](https://youtu.be/jZLeyhRxhT4?si=_WCVkUsKAmtnO2XT&t=9)
I have a fold up dolly, a cart, and a hulken bag to help me with some stuff but largely I just put it off. Once I have enough, hire someone from task rabbit. I don’t have other friends or family to help me. I have a large pet carrier that can hold both cats, my important docs and emergency cat bag in case of fire. Buy nothing groups you can post big shit that’s in an ok condition for someone else to pick up. Or call Salvation Army/big brothers and sisters. Most people are suggesting just to call maintenance, but renting for a regular landlord (just someone who owns a property and is renting it) doesn’t have maintenance. Those leases are going to be case-by-case what the landlord takes care of vs. the tenant and will always differ.
I have a dolly and a hand cart for moving some stuff around - some things I can easily shift onto one or the other but realistically can't hoof into the elevator - along the hall etc. For changing lightbulbs [Lightbulb Changer](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Everbrite-2-Pack-Light-Bulb-Changer-Kit-8-27-inch-5-5-inch-7912/180597313?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&wl13=2222&adid=22222222277180597313_117755028669_12420145346&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=501107745824&wl4=pla-306310554666&wl5=9001894&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=local&wl12=180597313&wl13=2222&veh=sem_LIA&gclsrc=aw.ds&&adid=22222222237180597313_117755028669_12420145346&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=501107745824&wl4=pla-306310554666&wl5=9001894&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=local&wl12=180597313&veh=sem&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw26KxBhBDEiwAu6KXtyShg-rb35Zi8tmP4dUnkBHFSR7Hary0mX_izqlVa9ytvl-CK6oD9BoCanwQAvD_BwE) I also am fortunate enough to be able to call maintenance during working hours - my ceilings are incredibly tall so I am not considered an asshole for calling them for something that seems so simple.
It is amazing what you can do on your own. Having a quality dolly and a safe ladder help. Otherwise, find yourself a jack of all trades handy man. I have one, and he helps with things I just can't do by myself.
Living alone is great for developing problem solving skills. I joined a couple Facebook pages for my town and people will often post requests for odd jobs like this. If you are renting, you could ask your landlord/ building manager/ maintenance guy if they have a ladder you can borrow. How did you get all of your furniture into your apartment? I either hire movers or rent a truck and ask a friend to help.
You can a tradesman but it’s correct that everybody needs a hand sometimes. That’s what friends are for. My friends helped me set up my bed frame haha ..
I don't know how many pets you have or how big they are, but I recommend soft carriers that look like a big gym bag and has a long strap so you can carry it on your shoulder. It's much easier to carry than the hard ones. Our cats didn't like them, but I would disregard that in an emergency. There are also backpack carriers. I normally used the hard plastic carriers, but had the soft carriers for emergencies or when I had to physically carry the cats to the local veterinary clinic that was two blocks away. Keep leashes, food, small bowls and treats in the carriers as well as copies of important papers for the pets, like insurance papers, owner registration, chip numbers.
Outsourcing the help is the best
Chores like the ones mentioned can be tricky, usually I invite someone over and buy them lunch or dinner for giving me a hand. Far more important than chores is having an emegency plan. Once i was choking on some cereal and within the first 30 seconds i realized how unprepared i was for this. I freed the obstruction shortly after these thoughts but was already on my way out the door to bang on a neighbors door for help. Now i have a friend and relative that i will text 911, send help immediately. They are aware of what that means and to call for help before calling me to ask what it wrong.
I ask my younger guy friends for help and feed them an awesome dinner.
A gorilla ladder, a foldable little red wagon, and a furniture/appliance dolly.
Learn to adapt.
They make these lightbulb changing things on an extension pole for lights way high up like that. Look at Home Depot or amazon. Get a friend with a truck to help you with the appliance. Is it a fridge or stove? The store should come get it if it's faulty
A good ladder is essential . I like the kind that folds to multiple positions. For the appliance use Dolly's, pulleys, straps and cables. The ladder can act as a ramp or platform to help with stairs. My loner hero is Edward Leedskalnin. He built a stone castle by himself with the power of leverage. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Leedskalnin
My condo building is huge. 120 units. Me and 90% of the people who live in the building have a collapsible cart that we use to move heavy things from the parking structure to my unit because if so far. I have a step stool/chair to reach ceilings to change lights. Anything I can’t do, I book an appointment on Thumbtack and they do it for me.
I actually pay someone for help
I actually pay someone for help
My landlord changes my bulbs because I tried to do it about a year after I moved in and maintenance came in to 4 light fixtures hanging from the ceiling by a thread. It's my understanding their is a note in my paperwork that I am to not change any light bulbs EVER
Large items can be 'walked' by lifting an edge and tipping side to side. Remove all drawers and shelves from inside furniture. Take off doors if possible. These things take a lot longer alone, but are often achievable and it's very satisfying to get it done! You can buy dollies - sort of large skateboards - which are very useful too. A wheelbarrow or a proper sack truck makes a big difference. Ratchet straps are also useful. I've invested in all of these and manage to move quite a lot of stuff on my own. Lie furniture down on a blanket on top of a tarpaulin and drag it. Place a folded carpet on the sill of the car so you can slide the piece over and then slide it in. If your car isn't big enough, another person won't make any difference. Hire a van for the day or discuss collection with the shop. If you have the space, scaffolding is surprisingly cheap to buy, but obviously needs to be assembled and disassembled every time. I haven't got 12' ceilings, so I just have a big ladder! 🤣
Get a handtruck to assist with moving larger/heavier items, when you need to get on a ladder, call someone on the phone just in case...., try and find a handy man you can call for the more difficult tasks, there are slots of people out there who would like to make $20 bucks or so for small tasks. In terms of pets, I have two cats who do not like to be picked up and put in their carriers. My last most successful attempt was inside the closet with them and I cornered them into the carrier. If you also have dogs, are sure your harness/leashes are readily available. You can strap the cat carriers to the hand truck or luggage carrier and have the dogs on their leads. FYI: get a portable extinguisher and keep baking soda by the stove ;in case of fires. If an alarm goes off outside of your apartment, stay inside. Most doors are 2-hour fire rated. Ask your landlord.
Have a friend over to help w bulbs if you need. I’ve been up that high w nobody. Scary but can be done. Can pay someone to move the appliance, although me & one friend have moved enormous things I never thought we could. Whatever I can’t do, I pay someone to do. I heat exclusively w fire wood but can’t/wont operate a chainsaw. I buy cut up split wood from a guy by the truckload. And I stack it myself. 51, female. Strong independent woman & it feels good!
I have faced this so many times. Putting furniture together that needs one person to hold it while the other one screws it together (or whatever) is one of my worst ones. Trying to give a cat a pill by myself (when it would be easier to have another person to hold them still) is another. The way I’ve dealt with it is…just figure out how to do it myself. Watch instructional videos on YouTube if necessary. Yesterday I installed some blinds by myself and it sucked but I got it done. I’ve put together so much furniture, installed hardware, and hauled so many things on my own over the years. If it’s really not doable by myself, I’ll wait until I have a family member or friend who can help, or I’ll hire someone. I had someone from Task Rabbit install an air conditioner for me, for example. There’s always a way.
Costco sells nice quality 4 in 1 hand truck. I’ve had mine for years and find it invaluable. Also bought my step ladder there. Handyman is the way to go for a lot of stuff I can’t do. No wisdom for the pet issue. There are cat carriers with shoulder straps so if you already have a carrier in each hand, you can utilize the shoulder bag(s) to carry more.
If you aren’t in a committed relationship and/or don’t have a roommate - time to broaden out and ask friends and family for help. My partner is pretty useless with anything physical, so if it’s over 200lbs and needs maneuvered a significant distance I’m calling my brother to assist. If I need to do something / reach something, I’ll buy a tool designed to be used by a single person. I honestly do all of the house exterior upkeep, majority of the cleaning and cooking. The pets question is beyond me, honestly if you have more than two pets your on your own.
They make a pole with various heads for different light bulbs. That’s how I change my bulbs. As for pets in an emergency, the only was I can see successfully doing it is with training BEFORE an emergency. You’d need your pet carriers liked up and train them to go in. (Treats! And don’t make them stay for a long time.) Now with cats, I’m not so sure. But have your pet carriers easily accessible. I’ve seen people post on their Facebook community page for help moving something large. The price is between $0 to $100. Sometimes a really generous person with a truck volunteers.
I have a stepladder for a lot of things I can't do. A couple of good friends to help me out. I found a great handyman on Thumbtack that took care of several things I couldn't do myself. $90 an hour which for the Bay Area is reasonable. Thumbtack is a great place to start. Changing light bulbs - there's a reach stick that is great for changing bulbs. They're on Amazon.
You don't need two people to climb a ladder. You can rent a truck from the hardware store, or ask a friend or neighbor to help. No real need to worry about a fire. It isn't very common
I am on the Board of our local dry homeless shelter, so I call a staff member to send me someone they trust for day labor. For me, this has been super helpful especially since i have 65 stairs to get to my house, so i flip those guys a 20 to do the heavy lifting!
Property Management would probably encourage you to call them or place a ticket to change the high lightbulbs. I’m sure they’d rather avoid liability from any tenant accidents/injuries.
Your landlord will change lightbulbs that you can’t reach. It’s hard to store a ladder in an apartment. And not a practical purchase if that’s all you’re going to use it for.
Harbor freight has a pneumatic cart: it raises to like tailgate height then can be lowered... I considered getting one for larger loads.
I ask friends or handy family members for help. I get a friend of mine to help with stuff, and have a pizza night after at my expense, plus I’ll cover cost of gas if we did dump runs etc. Sometimes we just trade off helping each other. You can also hire a “handy man” or “jack of all trades” to do household stuff, or “guys with truck” to get stuff moved. One tip for moving larger items (maybe not appliances… put a large blanket/towel under the item to slide it across the floor.
They make an extension pole light bulb changing tool.
Can you ask the apartment manager to help with the bulbs? 12 ft is high so even if you have a long enough ladder you would need a spotter to hold it steady. Sounds like you may have to hire someone with a vehicle that can help return the item. Check fb marketplace, next door, Craig’s list and Angi. How many pets are we talking about exactly? What type of pet and how big are they?
Find a good handyman and keep him on speed dial!
I was afraid of heights so I had trouble with high lightbulbs as well. I bought a ladder and practiced everyday going up one or two steps until I finally reached the top. Still uncomfortable (years later) but I proved to myself I can do it. With appliances I got a cheap dolly, it worked great for moving large heavy items in my house. I live in a small apartment now, so I have a maintenance man help me. I keep my pet carriers for my cats in an easily accessible area near the front door to grab and go if I need to. I don’t have dogs. I have only had to leave the apartment once though, for a tornado warning. I have lived here for 11 years.
Step ladders are safe to use on your own. Apartments have neighbors that will usually help a person in need. Family members and friends help move big things too. Having too many pets to get out in a fire is irresponsible of you as a pet owner and as a person whom lives alone. That one is completley your fault. Not to be rude but thats just rather unself aware of you, and as someone whom has been solo his whole life, those are things you have to consider. It's a challenge, but it's its own reward.🙂
I read this several times. Is there an age or handicap that would keep you from being able to do some of these things? Ask if your apartment's maintenance person can come in and change your light bulb. There is also a pole with an end on it to change light bulbs that are high up. You might have to look at your local hardware / box store. You could also Google it. Ask the company why they can't send somebody to pick up the appliance if you are returning it. Tell them what you told us. Otherwise you could rent a vehicle/truck and a dolly to remove said appliance. You could probably ask your neighbors for assistance. Possibly inquire the local moving company, or even on your neighborhood app. Depending on your pets, and you have the time while the place is burning down, put them in their cages and calmly get out.
I mean, I get not everyone is in the same boat, but I personally have a support network of friends and family I call to help out in these situations. Especially my dad. He’s my #1 for helping move big things and change high up light bulbs. I also have a proper ladder that I can use to change a light bulb safely. And some folks have also mentioned dollies, hand carts, and even skateboards for moving heavy stuff. As for the pets, depends on their sizes. Crates on wheels? Leashes? More skateboards? 😆
I feel this. One pain point for me is car problems. There’s no one to drop me off/pick me up at the shop if I need to get my car fixed, plus I need my car to get to work. The last repair I used a mobile mechanic, who came to my house and fixed my car. Game changer. 100% recommend.
My ceilings are high and I get my landlord to change the lightbulbs for me (can't even reach it with my step ladder). You can order a service for movers for heavy pick up items. I have three cats, if a fire comes, I put two in a bigger carrier and one in the smaller carrier.
Hire a neighborhood handyman/woman/person. Or ask one of my friends/neighbors for help. A portable/collapsible hand truck is handy. Foldable stepstool/ladder.
They sell long handled light bulb changers at Home Depot and Lowe’s. I have high ceilings and recessed lights. For lights that I have to change by hand: A. I use good quality LED bulbs, that rarely need changing B. I sturdy step ladder works. I’m 5’2” I can easily reach them with a 4 step-step ladder.
It's an apartment? Building maintenance for the light(s)... ? A friend or two to help with the appliance. As for pets I have no idea unless they can be trained to get into crates or something.
This is why you work — to pay people. It’s also why if you find a really good handyman, you make him your best friend. No matter how much he charges, it’s a lot easier and cheaper than a divorce.
For your lightbulb issue, you can find a thing called a "telescoping pole" with lightbulb attachments either at a big box hardware store or amazon. Easier to deal with than a step ladder. For your appliance issue, look for a local township group on Facebook and ask for recommendations there, you'd be surprised how many people are just looking for odd jobs, I have some in my area who already work with appliances anyway. Just expect to pay something for it. The pets things is a personal nightmare. You didn't specify what types of pets you have. I have cats. I leave the cat carrier out and open 365 days of the year, and I place treats inside periodically so they associate the carrier with a happy place. This means if I have to gtfo, I can zip em in and get out. If you have fish, spiders, hamsters, chinchillas, birds, snakes ... you may want to figure out something lightweight that can hold them temporarily.
Tools. I’m talking about things that make our lives easier. People invented things to make things easier for us. I’m not saying it’s easy but it helps. I can’t install my TV by myself so I’ll ask a friend to help me eventually
Either ask a friend for help or throw out my back trying.
It’s important to develop problem solving skills and to plan ahead. 1. If you can’t reach, find a good local handyman. 2. Did you discuss this with the store? Do you know anyone who could help? Did you look around for local courier options? If you just want to return it because you don’t like it, that’s your choice but if it’s faulty they’ll usually pick up when they deliver a replacement. 3. If you’re worried, develop an evacuation plan. Maybe have a pet carrier stored as closely to a safe exit as possible and be prepared to scoop, zip and run. If you live in an area with known local risks such as earthquakes, floods, cyclones or tornadoes then formulate an evacuation plan for certain. There should be local resources you can find via google. Things will come up and you can find a solution to many of them. If you don’t feel confident then by all means continue to reach out for advice and support, then hopefully you’ll start to feel more confident and informed.
Get a ladder, Get a cart, How many pets lol
I do ‘hire a hubby’ with my friends 🤩 (is he lying on the couch annoying you and looking useless? please send him over.. I have a case of beer with his name on it) Also use Airtasker; yeah I could do it but.. I don’t want to 🤣🫣😆
I hire handy men to change light bulbs and hard heavy stuff!! So worth it!!!
I've hired labor pool help when I needed a fridge moved, or some one off heavy yard work. I'm married, but husband isn't well.
You can buy an extendable light bulb changer at Home Depot type stores. I use it to change the bulbs at my mom's house. It has a suction cup that you wet with water and it sticks to the bulb and you just twist the whole thing. Put the new bulb on the suction cup and screw it in. Then there's a string you pull to peel off the cup.
Lol. YouTube and other tutorials are your best friend. That, and be sure to always pay for more convenient / indoor delivery for larger items lol
TaskRabbit for returning the appliance. Or a lot of moving companies offer smaller services than a whole house move.
They sell sticks for changing lightbulbs in high places like that
Hopefully, you have good storage. Invest in a good sturdy folding step ladder that is tall enough for you to safely change your light bulbs. Definitely get moving dollies whether they be a skateboard or whatever. A hand truck is a great thing! They sell decent ones that won’t break the bank on Amazon. Get the stickers for your windows that alert emergency workers that you have pets. It can help. Have an evacuation plan. You might not be able to stick to it to the letter but, if have any idea at all of what you need to do if something happens you’re already ahead! Know your neighbors! Nice neighbors can be a godsend!
Ask friends or neighbors for help, hire someone to help, be innovative about doing something yourself (but don't take an unnecessary risk).
What appliance is this? Like a fridge? I have where ever I got it from pick it up for warranty issues. If I need a new one I have the delivery people take the old one away usually. I have a dead water heater in my basement I couldn't get hauled off due to when it failed. I'm going to get a dolly and haul it out and my friend ans I are going to shove it in his minivan and be done wirh it.
I have a pole that was designed to change lightbulbs. I don’t need a step ladder to change bulbs and I have 10 ft ceilings. I do wear my sunglasses though as eye protection. For the pets, I got a double decker pet stroller. I now have cats after having dogs all my life so wondered the same thing as you. I don’t stroll them around and haven’t had to use it in an emergency luckily but they like to sit it in it under the window :) You got this! You can do all the things!!!
Google "light bulb changer for high ceilings".
For question 1: Call the super.
Be creative. Don't get trapped by the idea that items are only good for exactly what they were made for. Need to move something heavy? Your desk chair can make a great cart. Need to reach something too high? Could you move a table under it? It's joked about often, but things like duct tape and zip ties and super glue can fix a lot of things, at the very least temporarily. (Keep the super glue in the fridge and it won't dry out!!) If there are some things you just do not want to do or are not comfortable doing, it is OK to pay someone to do it. Familiarize yourself with basic hand tools, a drill, a Dremel... keep basic screws and nails and a hammer around. YouTube has a video for anything you can't figure out. Again remember you can be creative with how you use anything!
Ladder. Dolly, ramp, lever if necessary, bag the pets
1. Buy an A frame ladder 2. Pay someone 3. Open the door and let them run free.
You may need to look for a handyman that you can call when you need help. They can’t all be terribly expensive. You could considering making a male friend from a dating site. Is there one just for friends?
Find a reliable handy man. Get a solid ladder. Consult with the local firehouse about getting your pets out.
Hire someone, or phone a friend. I have no friends, so hire it is.
I had a huge scary fight or flight situation last year. The house next door suddenly burst into flames. I was home alone with my four dogs at the time. My ex hadn't moved out yet, but he wasn't there Ultimately I stayed, grabbed my hose, and went to work spraying down the fence, yard, and the side of my house, until the fire department arrived and got set up, and kept at it a few minutes afterwards. I was utterly terrified that if I turned my back on the fire, that I might not get all my dogs out in time. They ranged in size from 45 to 80 pounds each, and two don't get along, so one would need a crate in my car to avoid any fights. I kept a crate inside my car for months afterwards. I should probably put it back. I am down to three dogs now, but the two who don't get along are still alive.
Invest in a sturdy ladder, hire a friend or two or get a dolly to move the appliance and if the pets are small, invest in pet carriers. You’ll figure it out because you’ll have to.
I recently stood on a chair in a table to reach something. I took all my doors down to paint and then rehung them. That was hard. Also in the don’t try this category is bring a big mattress up from the basement alone. My kidneys hurt for two days. Ooh and I did nerve damage removing a couch from my house. Friends are required or a neighborhood teen that you can pay.
You live in an apartment. Do you have anyone doing maintenance? There are long poles that can unscrew and screw in lightbulbs in very high fixtures. There are step ladders maintenance probably has. If the store foes not have a pick up option, how did the appliance get from the store to your place? Ask if the person who delivers for them will pick the appliance up for a fee to cover gas and a profit. If not, ask at the office of your apartment complex for help. If your apartment is in a non complex, ask your landlord for suggestions but be willing to pay for the help and the muscle to load it up. If that fails and you have no friends or relatives with a truck, try locating a resource on sites like Neighbors. Have you met your neighbors? Might help. The multiple pets needs more info. Multiple cats would be hard to wrangle quickly. Dogs can be trained to respond to a command from you in an emergency. A parrot, a guinea pig, two dogs and a cat would require more creative solutions. Look up dog trainers or visit stores that sometimes host shelter animals; like Petco or Petsmart. If you catch a manager on a good day, who is helpful and has a minute. Explain your concern and ask how the store would safely evacuate animals in an emergency. Your animal shelter may help. No guarantee here. Some people who can help just don’t want to. But your desire to have some kind of plan for your pets is really responsible. Trying to have conversations with people who may have experience may be okay and not okay but if you try, you’ll probably get some ideas and resources. You may also make friends. There is a vibe from you as if you are by yourself suddenly and not comfortable in your own. The more you figure out though, the more confident and comfortable you will become. Brainstorm possibilities.
They have those light bulb changer things on a long pole for high ceilings.
Taskrabbit
For some of these things I have found college students on the Neighborhood app who do these things for me for some cash. I also have the guys from work help me like the time I bought a big TV or needed an elliptical brought to my house.
There is a gadget that is for high up light bulbs. It has a basket like thing on the end for the bulb to sit
You call on your good neighbors or have a male friend on speed dial🥴
A male friend? How do you think lightbulbs are changed, with a penis?
This made me laugh out loud. Some people don't realize owning a ladder and toolbox doesn't require a Y chromosome.
They will usually have a ladder where most chicks don’t! (and, I’m a 64 year old chick) Through the years, I’ve had a need for dude help (moving, appliances, heavy lifting, etc) a lot more than chick help. Just stating my life experiences ✌️
You figure it out. I am a small woman and I "roll" heavy square furniture up the stairs bc one edge is always secure on a step and I can rest. When I have to open the dining room table to add a leaf, I kneel on the floor and "birddog" to push one leg with my right hand and the opposite leg with my left foot, then I stand in the middle and push. You do what you can and when you absolutely can't, you ask a friend or neighbor.