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Quick Answers
Keeping your TV remote safe from theft can be challenging, especially in shared living spaces. Here are some quick tips:
– Keep the remote out of plain sight when not in use. Store it in a drawer, cabinet, or even Velcro it to the back of the TV.
– Get a remote finder. These devices connect to the remote via Bluetooth so you can page it when it goes missing.
– Use a remote control holder that attaches to furniture or walls. This keeps the remote visible but secure.
– Put a distinctive mark on your remote or get a custom design. This makes your remote easy to identify.
– Call out roommates when they “borrow” the remote without asking. Set ground rules for sharing.
– Switch to a universal remote if communal remote struggles persist. This allows everyone to have their own.
Why Do TV Remotes Go Missing So Often?
TV remotes have a tendency to mysteriously vanish from time to time. This can be extremely frustrating when you want to watch TV but can’t find the controller. Here are some key reasons TV remotes disappear so frequently:
They Are Small and Portable
One of the main reasons TV remotes go missing so often is their compact size. Remote controls are designed to be slim, lightweight and easily portable. This means they get picked up, moved around, and misplaced frequently. With their small footprint, remotes can slip down between couch cushions or underneath furniture unnoticed. Their lack of heft also allows them to be carried off absentmindedly around the house.
Lack of Designated Storage Space
Most living rooms are not designed with a dedicated space to store the TV remote. Without a proper “home”, remotes end up strewn about on side tables, ottomans and armrests. They can then easily be knocked onto the floor or fall behind furniture. Having a consistent storage spot, like a drawer or caddy, cuts down on misplacement.
Multiple Users
In shared living spaces with roommates or family members, the TV remote is passed around frequently between multiple users. It only takes one person forgetting to put it back in the common area for the remote to become temporarily lost. The more hands a remote changes between, the higher chance it has of being misplaced.
Messy Living Spaces
A cluttered, disorganized living room also contributes to the disappearance of TV remotes. When surfaces are covered with other items and belongings, it’s much easier for the remote to get buried and blend into the mess. Keeping the coffee table and side tables clear of clutter reduces sources of “visual camouflage”.
Forgetfulness
It’s very easy to absentmindedly set down the TV remote without thinking when distracted or in a rush. Multitasking and human forgetfulness also lead to remotes being left in atypical spots. We misplace our remotes so frequently because we don’t treat putting the remote back in a designated spot as an intentional task.
Kids and Pets Moving Them
Kids and pets who are playing in the living room will often pickup, move around, and hide the TV remote. Kids may stash the remote in toy boxes or under couch cushions if they don’t want the TV turned off. Pets, too, may bat remotes under furnishings when playfully pouncing around the room.
What Are the Best Places to Store a TV Remote Control?
TV remotes are infamous for disappearing when you need them most. To keep your remote control secure, accessible and prevent it from getting misplaced, consider storing it in the following spots:
Remote Control Holders
Remote control holders are purpose-built for keeping your clicker visible and contained. These come in a few styles:
– Removable floating holders – Sit near or stick to the TV and hold the remote vertically in clear sight.
– Mounted wall holders – Screw into the wall and hold the remote off your furniture. Great for decluttering.
– Stationary docking trays – Rest on tables and have carved out slots to insert the remote.
Drawers and Shelves
Keeping your remote control in an enclosed storage space like a drawer or cabinet prevents it from shifting around. Try storing in:
– A side table drawer – Keeps it hidden but accessible.
– A media console cabinet – Consolidates entertainment accessories.
– A wall-mounted box shelf – Frees up table space.
Baskets and Trays
Baskets give flexibility for portable, organized storage:
– A basket on the coffee table – Corrals loose remotes while keeping them in sight.
– Hanging wall basket – Gets the remote off tables for a cleaner look.
– A decorative tray – Looks nice and contains the control.
Bookshelves and Caddies
Bookshelves and caddies adapt easily to remote control storage:
– An empty bookshelf cubby – Adds a home for the remote.
– A desk caddy – Organizes home office remotes and supplies.
– A wall-mounted mail sorter – Provides individual slots.
Velcro
For a convenient DIY option, secure a strip of Velcro with adhesive backing to the back of your remote. Stick the other side to your TV, side table, or wall so you can “park” the remote vertically when not in use.
Creative Ways to Prevent Losing the TV Remote
If you’re frustrated with your TV remote constantly vanishing, it may be time to get creative with solutions:
Painter’s Tape Indicator
Use painter’s tape to mark a permanent home for the remote on a tabletop. The visual indicator can train roommates and guests to put the clicker back in place.
Command Strip Mount
Secure a Command adhesive strip to the wall and remote to give it a mounted docking station. This works well above light switches for easy access.
Carabiner Clip Attachment
Use a carabiner clip keychain to attach the TV remote to the coffee table. This keeps it nearby and off the floor.
Cord Organizers
Run the TV remote’s cord through a desktop cord organizer or metal hose clamp. This keeps the control contained near the TV or media console.
Remote Locator Device
High-tech remote finders use wireless signals to help locate misplaced controls. Press a button and follow the receiver’s beeping or app map to uncover hidden remotes.
Neon Paint or Tape
Add bright neon paint or tape to personalize and distinguish your remote. This makes it easily visible if it gets mixed with other clickers.
Setting Rules to Keep the Remote Accessible for Everyone
To avoid remote control conflicts in shared living spaces:
– Discuss expectations upfront and compromise.
– Limit hiding or “borrowing” remotes without asking first.
– Keep the remote docked in a common area when not in use.
– Take turns choosing programs to avoid fights over the TV.
– Get duplicate universal remotes so each person has their own.
– Split entertainment costs for premium channels and streaming services.
– Outline consequences for damaged or lost shared remotes.
– Designate times the TV can be used for privacy.
– Switch off who keeps remotes in their room weekly.
– Leave notes when moving the remote to unusual places.
– Text housemates politely if you can’t find the shared remote.
Conclusion
A missing TV remote means frustration and wasted time searching when you want to relax and watch television. By dedicating a permanent storage spot like a drawer, tray or mounted holder, you can cut down on misplaced clickers. For multi-user households, establishing remote rules helps maintain harmony. With some clever solutions and organization, you can stop remote control thefts and “disappearances” once and for all.