In the days when watching television meant choosing a program on one of four different stations, getting up to change the channel wasn't such a big deal. Now that there are hundreds of options available, channel surfing has become somewhat of an art form. However, that can be hard to do when you or someone else in the home is constantly losing the remote. Fortunately, there are many practical solutions to this problem. By implementing one or all of them, you can ensure the remote is actually there the next time you reach for it.
Use a Small Box or Caddy for Storage
A small wicker basket or a box makes a perfect storage container for the TV remote and any other remotes you don't want to lose. Place the caddy in the same location and let everyone in the house know that is where the remotes are stored when they're not in use. Having a specific location to place the remote makes it easier to stay organized. You will have the best success by choosing a location in the living room that typically remains uncluttered.
Attach the Remote to a Table
You have probably gone to a bank or store and noticed that pens are tied to the counter with a string or cord. That is because people have a way of wandering off with them. The same is true of your remote at home. You can permanently affix it to a table using tape or tie it with a variety of items you already have, such as a shoelace.
Consider Buying a Backup
You may still end up losing a remote, especially if you share your home with small children. Universal remotes are inexpensive and usually easy to find at a department or electronics store. Be sure to keep it in a separate location from your main remote so you can easily access it if necessary.
There is an App for That
In the world of the internet of things most of today's electronics have an app, including your TV devices. Optimum, Time Warner, Verizon Fios, Apple TV and TIVO have apps that allow you to search content, control the cable channels and watch TV on your mobile device.
The Clapper Goes High Tech
If you have a TIVO Roamio box you can press the remote button on the front of the unit to beep the remote control.
Don't have a TIVO? Fear not. Attach a Tile to the back of your remote control and never lose it...or anything else you attach to a Tile to, again.