Where are there acres of mops, closet organizers, coffee makers and cookware? At the annual International Home + Housewares Show, which opens March 6 in Chicago.

A few years ago, I attended this ginormous product marketplace for buyers and sellers. I was among the overwhelmed media who checked out thousands of the latest and greatest household gadgets.

At times, it felt like a Bed, Bath and Beyond store that went on for eternity. In fact, that's where most of the merchandise will eventually end up — as well as at your neighborhood Targets, Wal-Marts, Home Goods and online shops.

Manufacturers are banking that we'll shell out money to try their new products — or the old ones with new enhancements.

But do we really need a kitchen timer that sings? Or a hand unit that uses CO2 chargers to add carbonation to beverages? Here's an odd combo — a kitchen scale equipped with an iPod docking station. And does a sonic motion floor mop clean better than my manual model? Who needs a tea kettle when CBTL's one-touch high-tech coffee system can do it all -- brew coffee, tea and even espresso.

l think I'll stick with my no-frills Mr. Coffee. It feels like an old friend that helps jump start my day.

Jeff Saxman, Star Tribune

What's your favorite household gadget? Are you excited to check out the new stuff that's supposed to make daily living easier? Or are you happy with what you have?