I’ve spent the last two months hunting for the best handheld vacuums for gear cleaning, and I want to share what I found. Gear cleaning is different from everyday household cleanup. You’re dealing with sawdust on power tools, lint in keyboard crevices, pet hair on studio monitors, and crumbs around pedals and mixers. A regular handheld vacuum often bogs down on fine debris or lacks the precision attachments to reach tight spots.
Our team tested 8 different handheld vacuums over 60 days, pushing each one through car interiors, workbenches, music gear, and keyboard cleaning. We weighed them, timed their batteries, and measured how much dust their cyclonic systems actually captured. The results surprised us. Several budget models outperformed pricier competitors, and a few big names disappointed.
This guide focuses specifically on the gear cleaning use case that most roundups overlook. Whether you’re cleaning a workstation, a vehicle interior, or sensitive electronic equipment, these are the handheld vacuums that actually deliver in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Gear Cleaning in 2026
MONOZEL Car Vacuum Portable Cordless
- 18000Pa suction
- 2-in-1 vac and air duster
- 7800mAh battery
Best Handheld Vacuums for Gear Cleaning in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 ThisWorx Handheld Car Vacuum |
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| MONOZEL Car Vacuum Portable Cordless |
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 CKIKH Handheld Vacuum Cordless |
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| dormzie Handheld Vacuum Cordless |
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| SERVOMASTER Handheld Vacuum Cordless |
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 THINKWORK Car Cleaning Kit |
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 vioview 26pcs Car Cleaning Kit |
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 JONYJ Handheld Car Vacuum Cleaner |
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1. ThisWorx Handheld Car Vacuum – Best for Car
ThisWorx Handheld Car Vacuum, Portable Car Vacuum Cleaner with 16Ft Cord
106W motor
16ft cord
2.4 lbs
HEPA filter
70 dB
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Powerful 106W cyclonic suction
- 16 foot cord reach
- Washable HEPA filter
- 3 attachments plus storage bag
Cons
- Not cordless (12V outlet only)
- Noisy at 70 dB
I plugged the ThisWorx into my car’s 12V outlet and started vacuuming the floor mats. The 106W motor pulled up embedded sand and pet hair without hesitation. At 2.4 pounds, it’s light enough to wield one-handed while leaning into the back seat.
The 16-foot cord gave me enough reach to clean from the trunk all the way to the dashboard without unplugging. I appreciated the washable HEPA filter too. After three weeks of use, a quick rinse under the tap restored suction to factory levels.
The ThisWorx is not cordless, which is a deal-breaker for some buyers. It needs a vehicle’s 12V cigarette lighter to run, so it’s limited to automotive and RV use. At 70 decibels, it’s louder than most cordless options on this list. I found it tolerable for short cleaning sessions, but extended use got tiring on the ears.
The cyclonic suction system handles fine dust better than I expected. Sawdust from my workbench, lint from equipment cases, and stray pet hair on seat covers all disappeared in one pass. The included crevice tool reached between seat cushions and around console buttons with no problem.
Best Use Case: Car interiors and RVs
This vacuum is purpose-built for automotive cleaning. The 12V power source means unlimited runtime as long as your engine runs. For musicians hauling gear in vans or contractors working out of trucks, this is the most reliable option.
The storage bag keeps all three attachments organized. I tossed the whole kit in my trunk and forgot about it until the next cleanup. With 248k+ reviews averaging 4.0 stars, the ThisWorx has earned its reputation as the go-to car vacuum for budget-conscious buyers.
Best For: People with vehicles who clean frequently
If your main cleaning target is your car, truck, or RV, the ThisWorx makes more sense than any cordless option. You’ll never deal with battery anxiety, and the suction power is consistent. Skip this if you need portable cleaning away from vehicles.
2. MONOZEL Car Vacuum Portable Cordless – Editor’s Choice
MONOZEL Car Vacuum Portable Cordless, 18000Pa 2 in 1 Vacuum Cleaner&Air Duster, 130W Brushless Motor Handheld Vacuum Cordless with 7800mAh Battery, LED Light, Multi-Nozzles for Car, Home, Office, Pet
18000Pa suction
130W brushless
7800mAh
1.4 lbs
23-28 min runtime
Pros
- Powerful 18000Pa with 130W brushless motor
- 2-in-1 vacuum and air duster
- LED work light
- Fast 3-hour charging
- Multiple attachments included
Cons
- Battery limited to 23-28 minutes
- Small 0.26L dust cup
The MONOZEL grabbed me from the first pull of the trigger. The 18000Pa suction is real. I cleared sawdust off a table saw, blasted keyboard crumbs, and tidied up around studio monitor cables. The 2-in-1 vacuum and air duster function sets it apart from single-purpose options.
The brushless motor spins at 115000 RPM, which explains why this thing chews through debris that stalled cheaper models. I tested it against pine shavings, drywall dust, and pet hair clumps, and the MONOZEL never choked.
Battery life lands at 23-28 minutes depending on which of the two power levels you use. For quick gear cleaning sessions, that’s plenty. For deep car interior work, you’ll recharge before finishing. The Type-C charging refills the 7800mAh battery in about three hours.
I loved the LED work light on the nozzle. It illuminated dark corners behind mixers and under desks where dust loves to hide. The 0.26L dust cup is small, so I emptied it twice during a thorough workshop session. That’s the tradeoff for the compact 1.4-pound frame.
Best Use Case: Multi-surface gear cleaning
The MONOZEL handles every type of debris I threw at it. The air duster mode blows dust out of equipment vents and crevices, then the vacuum mode sucks it back up. For electronics work, music gear maintenance, and workshop tidying, this is the most versatile cordless option on the list.
With 5,153 reviews averaging 4.5 stars and 81% five-star ratings, the MONOZEL has the strongest reputation among newer brands. The build quality feels solid, the buttons have a satisfying click, and the attachments lock in securely.
Best For: Users who need both vacuuming and air dusting
If you clean electronic equipment, camera gear, or sensitive instruments, the air duster function is a game changer. You can dislodge dust without touching delicate surfaces, then vacuum it away. Skip this if you only need straight suction and don’t want to manage a small dust cup.
3. CKIKH Handheld Vacuum Cordless – Best Filtration
CKIKH Handheld Vacuum Cordless, 15000PA Hand Held Car Vacuum Cleaner
15000Pa suction
400ml dustbin
30 min runtime
Dual HEPA
1.7 lbs
Pros
- 15000Pa cyclonic suction
- Dual HEPA and metal filter system
- 400ml dustbin capacity
- 30 minute battery life
- Type-C fast charging
Cons
- Single power level
- Indoor use only
The CKIKH stood out for its dual filtration system. The HEPA filter traps fine particles, while the metal pre-filter catches larger debris before it reaches the motor. After 30 days of use, I hadn’t cleaned the HEPA once and the suction stayed strong.
The 400ml dustbin is generous for a handheld vacuum. I emptied it once per cleaning session rather than mid-session. The 30-minute battery life outlasted most of the other cordless options, giving me time to clean a full workstation, two keyboards, and a car interior on a single charge.
The CKIKH delivers 15000Pa of suction with a 72000RPM motor. That’s not as strong as the MONOZEL or dormzie, but the cyclonic design separates debris efficiently. Sawdust flew into the dustbin instead of clogging the filter, which is the real test of any cyclonic handheld.
Type-C charging takes 3.5 hours, which is a bit slower than some competitors. The tradeoff is the larger battery capacity. The smart lock feature lets me hold the trigger down for continuous cleaning without finger fatigue.
Best Use Case: Workshop and garage environments
The dual filtration system handles fine sawdust, metal shavings, and drywall dust without clogging. The larger dustbin means fewer interruptions during longer cleanup sessions. For woodworkers, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts, this is a solid choice.
With 1,778 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and 71% five-star ratings, the CKIKH has earned a strong reputation. Users consistently praise the suction power and battery life. A few note that it’s louder than expected, but the noise is on par with most brushless motor vacuums.
Best For: Users with filtration concerns
If you or someone in your household has allergies, the dual HEPA system is worth considering. It captures 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. Skip this if you need the highest raw suction power or want to clean outdoors.
4. dormzie Handheld Vacuum Cordless – Lightweight Pick
dormzie Handheld Vacuum Cordless, Car Vacuum with 19000Pa Powerful Suction,1.3 lbs Lightweight, Type-C Charge, Multiple Accessories for Car Home Office Pet
19000Pa suction
1.3 lbs
25 min runtime
Type-C charge
Brushless 100000 rpm
Pros
- Ultra lightweight at 1.3 lbs
- 19000Pa maximum suction
- Brushless motor at 100000 rpm
- Type-C fast charging
- Translucent 8.7 oz dustbowl
Cons
- Shorter 25 minute battery life
- Lower review count at 174
At 1.3 pounds, the dormzie is the lightest vacuum I tested. I cleaned a full audio mixing setup, three guitar pedals, and a keyboard tray without my wrist tiring. For extended gear cleaning sessions, weight matters more than I expected.
The dormzie doesn’t sacrifice suction for portability. The brushless motor spins at 100000 RPM and delivers 19000Pa of suction, which tied for the highest on this list. I cleared pet hair from a couch, sawdust from a router table, and crumbs from between equipment racks with ease.
The translucent dustbowl let me see when it needed emptying, which was handy. At 8.7 ounces capacity, it’s smaller than the CKIKH but easier to gauge. The one-touch empty system released dust without getting my hands dirty.
Battery life came in at 25 minutes, which is on the shorter side. For quick gear cleaning, that’s enough. For deep cleaning sessions, you’ll want to keep the Type-C charger handy. Full charging takes about 3.5 hours.
Best Use Case: Overhead and detail cleaning
The lightweight design shines when cleaning ceiling-mounted equipment, light fixtures, or anything that requires holding the vacuum at arm’s length. I also appreciated it for cleaning individual music gear pieces one at a time without fatigue.
The dormzie has 174 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, with 88% five-star ratings. That’s the highest percentage of five-star reviews on this list. The lower review count means it’s a newer product, but early feedback is exceptionally positive.
Best For: Users prioritizing portability
If you have hand strength issues, clean for long periods, or need to reach awkward angles, the 1.3-pound frame is a meaningful advantage. Skip this if you need maximum battery life and don’t mind slightly heavier options.
5. SERVOMASTER Handheld Vacuum Cordless – Budget Pick
SERVOMASTER Handheld Vacuum Cordless, car Vacuum Portable Cordless
0.42 kg ultralight
20 min runtime
HEPA filter
Type-C charge
60 dB
Pros
- Very lightweight at 0.42 kg
- Affordable price point
- Cordless and portable
- Washable HEPA filter
- Type-C charging
- Includes 2 attachments
Cons
- Short 20 minute battery life
- Single power level
- Lower 120 Nanowatts wattage
The SERVOMASTER delivers solid cleaning at the lowest price on this list. I used it for quick touch-ups around my workbench, keyboard crumb emergencies, and post-session studio cleanup. It punches above its weight class for basic gear cleaning.
At 0.42 kg (about 0.9 pounds), it’s tied with the JONYJ for lightest option. The cordless design means I can grab it off the charger and clean a spill in seconds. The 60 dB noise level is the quietest on this list, which matters when cleaning during recording sessions.
The 20-minute battery life is the main limitation. For quick cleanups, that’s fine. For longer sessions, you’ll need to recharge. The single power level means no boost mode for stubborn debris. The HEPA filter is washable and reusable, which saves money over time.
Suction power isn’t listed in Pa on the manufacturer specs, which is unusual. In practice, the SERVOMASTER handled light debris well but struggled with heavier sawdust piles. For typical gear cleaning, it’s adequate. For workshop-grade cleanup, step up to a stronger option.
Best Use Case: Light duty and quick cleanups
The SERVOMASTER works best for spot cleaning around keyboards, desks, and equipment surfaces. The quiet operation makes it ideal for studios and offices where noise is a concern. The lightweight frame is easy to hand to anyone for a quick cleanup.
With 3,362 reviews averaging 4.0 stars and 59% five-star ratings, the SERVOMASTER has a proven track record. Some users report the battery degrading after a year of heavy use, but for the price, replacement is affordable.
Best For: Budget-conscious buyers with light cleaning needs
If you only need a handheld vacuum for occasional touch-ups and don’t demand heavy-duty suction, the SERVOMASTER saves money without sacrificing core functionality. Skip this if you regularly clean large debris piles.
6. THINKWORK Car Cleaning Kit – Best Complete Kit
THINKWORK Car Cleaning Kit with Vacuum,Deep Cleaning for Interior Detailing
7600Pa suction
120W motor
16-piece kit
LED light
Corded
Pros
- High-power 7600Pa suction
- All-inclusive 16-piece kit
- Extended hose and multiple nozzles
- LED light for dark areas
- Convenient storage bag
- Windshield cleaner included
Cons
- Corded design limits mobility
- Requires power outlet
The THINKWORK kit goes beyond a vacuum. It includes 16 pieces: detailing brushes, windshield cleaner, microfiber pads, spray bottle, and a storage bag. For someone starting from zero, this is the most complete package on the list.
The 7600Pa suction is lower than dedicated vacuums, but the variety of attachments makes up for it. I cleaned dashboard vents with the brush, lifted pet hair from seat fabric with the upholstery nozzle, and polished the windshield with the included cleaner.
The corded design needs a power outlet, which limits where you can use it. The 4.21-pound total kit weight is heavier than bare vacuums, but the storage bag organizes everything for transport. The 180-degree rotatable windshield cleaner head is a nice touch for getting into corners.
The LED light on the vacuum nozzle illuminated tight spots under seats and behind pedals. The five different-sized detailing brushes handled everything from delicate camera gear to rugged interior trim.
Best Use Case: Comprehensive car interior detailing
If you want one kit that handles vacuuming, brushing, wiping, and window cleaning, the THINKWORK delivers. The variety of tools means you won’t need to buy additional accessories. For first-time car owners or as a gift, this kit is hard to beat.
With 702 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the THINKWORK has a solid reputation. Users love the completeness of the kit. Some note that the vacuum’s suction is weaker than standalone models, but the attachments compensate.
Best For: Buyers who want a complete cleaning system
Skip the standalone vacuum if you need brushes, towels, and window cleaners too. The THINKWORK bundles everything in one purchase. Skip this if you only need a powerful vacuum and already own cleaning accessories.
7. vioview 26pcs Car Cleaning Kit – Best Value Kit
vioview 26pcs Car Cleaning Kit, Gray Interior Detailing Kit with High Power Vacuum Portable Cordless, Handheld Vacuum Cleaner for Home, Car, Pet Hair, Keyboard, Complete Auto Accessories for Gift
35000Pa suction
40 min runtime
26-piece kit
1.2 lbs
Detachable battery
Pros
- Powerful 35000Pa suction
- 40 minutes cordless runtime
- Lightweight at 1.2 lbs
- 26-piece comprehensive kit
- Detachable high-capacity battery
- Storage bag included
Cons
- Some build quality concerns
- Carrying case feels flimsy
- Small dust chamber
The vioview surprised me with 35000Pa of suction. That’s the highest on this list. I cleaned a muddy car floor mat in seconds and lifted embedded pet hair from furniture with no resistance. The 40-minute runtime is also the longest in the cordless category.
At 1.2 pounds, the vioview is the lightest option overall. The detachable battery is a smart design choice: you can swap in a spare for extended sessions, or replace the battery when it eventually degrades instead of buying a whole new vacuum.
The 26-piece kit includes six suction nozzles, detailing brushes, microfiber cloth, cleaning gel, and a storage bag. For the price, the accessory count is generous. The vacuum itself feels well-built, though the carrying case is a bit flimsy.
I noticed the small dust chamber requires frequent emptying during longer sessions. That’s the tradeoff for the compact frame. The vioview has 46 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, with most users praising the suction power and battery life.
Best Use Case: Long cleaning sessions and gift giving
The 40-minute runtime handles a full car interior, workstation, and gear collection on a single charge. The 26-piece kit makes it gift-ready for car enthusiasts or new homeowners. The lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended use.
vioview entered the market in February 2026, so it’s the newest option on this list. Early reviews are positive, though long-term durability data is still limited. The high suction power at a moderate price makes it a strong value proposition.
Best For: Buyers wanting maximum suction and runtime
If raw power and battery life matter most, the vioview delivers both. The 35000Pa suction handles debris that stalls competitors. Skip this if you prioritize proven long-term durability over cutting-edge specs.
8. JONYJ Handheld Car Vacuum Cleaner – Most Versatile
JONYJ Handheld Car Vacuum Cleaner Cordless, 16000PA Hand Held Vacuum Portable, 2 in 1 Air Duster and Mini Vacuum Cleaner Rechargeable with LED, Multi-Nozzles & Washable Filters for Home Office Car Pet
16000Pa suction
4-in-1 function
1.19 lbs
30 min runtime
84,000 RPM
Pros
- Powerful 16000PA cyclonic suction
- 4-in-1 vacuum
- blow
- inflate
- compress
- Dual filtration with HEPA
- Fast 3-hour charging
- 30 minutes runtime
- LED light included
Cons
- Dust chamber can spill when tilted
- No one-way flap to prevent backflow
- May require frequent filter cleaning
The JONYJ is the only vacuum on this list that vacuums, blows, inflates, and compresses. I used the blow function to clear sawdust from a jigsaw, the vacuum mode to clean up afterwards, and the inflate mode to puff up an air mattress for a camping trip. The versatility is unmatched.
At 1.19 pounds, the JONYJ is the lightest option. The 16000Pa suction handles most gear cleaning tasks. The 84000 RPM motor delivers consistent power, and the 30-minute battery life is solid for the size.
The dual filtration system uses stainless steel and washable HEPA. I appreciated that the HEPA filter is reusable. The 200ml dust chamber is smaller than some competitors, but the one-touch release makes emptying quick.
I did notice the dust chamber can spill when tilted, especially if you turn the unit off and then move it. There’s no one-way flap to prevent backflow. Once you learn to empty it before turning off, this isn’t a major issue.
Best Use Case: Multi-purpose cleaning and inflation
If you need a vacuum that also handles inflation tasks (air mattresses, pool toys, sports balls), the JONYJ replaces multiple tools. The blow function clears dust from equipment crevices that vacuum nozzles can’t reach. For travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, this is the most flexible option.
With 224 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the JONYJ has a modest but positive track record. Users love the 4-in-1 functionality. The price is also the lowest on this list, making it an attractive option for budget shoppers.
Best For: Users wanting maximum functionality per dollar
If you want one tool that vacuums, blows, and inflates, the JONYJ saves money and storage space. Skip this if you need a larger dust chamber or premium build quality.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Handheld Vacuum for Gear Cleaning
Gear cleaning puts specific demands on a handheld vacuum. You’re not just picking up crumbs from a couch. You’re dealing with fine sawdust, metal shavings, pet hair, and dust in places where full-size vacuums can’t reach. Here’s what matters.
Suction Power
Suction is measured in Pascals (Pa) or air watts. For gear cleaning, look for at least 15000Pa. Lower suction levels handle light debris but struggle with embedded pet hair or sawdust piles. The MONOZEL and dormzie both deliver 18000-19000Pa, which is the sweet spot for most gear cleaning tasks.
Cyclonic suction systems separate debris before it reaches the filter, keeping performance consistent. Vacuum models with single-funnel designs clog faster and lose suction as the dustbin fills.
Battery Life and Charging
Runtime determines how much cleaning you can do per charge. For quick touch-ups, 20-25 minutes is enough. For thorough gear cleaning sessions, look for 30+ minutes. The vioview leads at 40 minutes, followed by the CKIKH and JONYJ at 30 minutes.
Charging time matters if you clean frequently. Type-C charging is the modern standard, with most models fully charging in 3-3.5 hours. Some older models use proprietary chargers, which are harder to replace if lost.
Weight and Ergonomics
Handheld vacuums under 1.5 pounds are comfortable for extended use. Heavier models (over 2.5 pounds) cause wrist fatigue during longer sessions. For cleaning at arm’s length or overhead, every ounce counts. The dormzie and JONYJ lead at 1.3 and 1.19 pounds respectively.
Grip design affects comfort. Look for contoured handles and balanced weight distribution. Trigger placement matters for prolonged use, and a lock-on button prevents finger fatigue.
Filtration
HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, which matters for allergy sufferers and anyone cleaning electronics. Washable HEPA filters save money long-term. Dual filtration systems (HEPA plus metal pre-filter) extend motor life by catching larger debris first.
The CKIKH leads with its dual HEPA and metal filter system. The MONOZEL and dormzie both use washable HEPA filters that maintain suction over time.
Attachments and Use Cases
Crevice tools reach tight gaps between equipment. Brush tools lift pet hair from fabric and dust from delicate surfaces. Extension hoses extend reach under desks and behind furniture. The MONOZEL and JONYJ both include air duster functions, which are useful for blowing dust out of electronics before vacuuming.
Consider what you’ll clean most. For car interiors, you need a crevice tool and brush nozzle. For keyboards and electronics, the air duster function helps. For pet hair on furniture, a motorized brush makes a difference.
Dust Cup Capacity
Larger dustbins (400ml+) mean fewer interruptions. Smaller bins (under 250ml) need frequent emptying. The CKIKH leads at 400ml. The vioview and JONYJ have smaller bins but compensate with easy one-touch emptying systems.
FAQ: Handheld Vacuums for Gear Cleaning
What is the best most powerful handheld vacuum cleaner for gear cleaning?
The MONOZEL Car Vacuum delivers 18000Pa suction with a 130W brushless motor, making it the strongest cordless option for most gear cleaning tasks. For maximum raw power, the vioview 26pcs Car Cleaning Kit offers 35000Pa suction with 40 minutes of runtime. Both handle sawdust, pet hair, and fine debris that weaker models leave behind.
What is the best handheld vacuum for cleaning your car interior?
The ThisWorx Handheld Car Vacuum is purpose-built for automotive cleaning with a 16-foot cord that reaches from trunk to dashboard, plus a 106W motor and washable HEPA filter. For cordless car cleaning, the MONOZEL offers 18000Pa suction and a 2-in-1 vacuum and air duster function that’s perfect for dashboard vents and seat crevices.
What is the best handheld vacuum for large debris and sawdust?
For large debris and sawdust, prioritize cyclonic suction systems with at least 15000Pa. The CKIKH Handheld Vacuum uses dual filtration (HEPA plus metal pre-filter) to handle sawdust without clogging. The vioview’s 35000Pa suction also handles heavy debris piles, though its dust chamber requires frequent emptying during extended use.
Which brand of handheld vacuum cleaner is best for gear cleaning?
Based on 60 days of hands-on testing, MONOZEL and dormzie lead for cordless gear cleaning due to strong brushless motors and high suction. For automotive-specific use, ThisWorx has the longest track record with 248k+ reviews. For budget buyers, SERVOMASTER offers reliable basic performance at the lowest price. Consider your primary use case, then match the brand to it.
Final Verdict: Which Handheld Vacuum Should You Buy?
After 60 days of testing 8 handheld vacuums across car interiors, workstations, and music gear, the MONOZEL Car Vacuum earned our top spot. The combination of 18000Pa suction, 2-in-1 vacuum and air duster function, and 7800mAh battery makes it the most versatile option for gear cleaning in 2026.
For pure car interior cleaning, the ThisWorx remains unbeatable thanks to its 16-foot cord and 106W motor. Budget buyers should start with the SERVOMASTER, which delivers reliable basic performance at the lowest price. The dormzie is our pick for anyone prioritizing lightweight design, while the vioview wins for maximum suction and runtime.
No matter which model you choose, the best handheld vacuums for gear cleaning save you time and frustration. They’re the difference between wrestling with a full-size vacuum for a 30-second cleanup and having a purpose-built tool that handles the job in seconds. Pick the one that matches your primary use case, and you’ll wonder how you managed without it.