It’s a smart idea to put together a toolkit (or buy a premade one) for spontaneous projects and unpredictable fixes. If you’re having trouble identifying the essentials, we’ve got you covered. Here are our 8 must-have tools to keep handy around the house.

Tape Measure

No matter the project, you need to make sure your measurements are accurate every single time. Precise measurements are always essential if you want the sleek finish of a professional job. The standard length for tape measures is 25 feet, which is plenty for a wide range of home projects and repairs. For optimal convenience, do yourself a favor and get one that locks.

Pliers

Pliers are one of those tools that can be used for virtually anything, from turning stubborn nuts and bolts to bending wires. When shopping, look for something with an adjustable width and grooved jaws. Always choose steel construction over aluminum, and ensure the grips are soft and comfortable in your hand. If you really want to step it up, you can opt for a pair of locking pliers. Locking pliers have amazing versatility, fitting the bill for both heavy-duty jobs and detailed precision work. Not sure which kind of pliers to get? Use this handy guide from Dynamic Tools to help you out!

Multi-Bit Screwdriver

Screwdrivers are almost as versatile as pliers, helping us with countless tasks from attaching television hardware to installing a new light switch. Even opening a can of paint is easier with a screwdriver. But with the wide variety of screw shapes and sizes being used today, you’ll need more than one or two screwdrivers on hand if you want to be prepared. A complete set of individual screwdrivers is great, but it can be costly and take up more space than you’d like. A multi-bit tool, on the other hand, will be sufficient for virtually any task. Whenever you need a different sized bit, simply swap it out and get on with the job.

Claw Hammer

The standard, 16-ounce claw hammer is a classic for good reason. You’ll never know when you might need one, whether it’s the smooth face for driving down nails or the angled claw better for pulling them out. Whenever you’re breaking something down or building something new, you’ll be grateful for your claw hammer.

Utility Knife

Utility knives are one of those tools that you don’t really think that you’ll need… until you do. You never know when you’ll need a sharp blade for precise cuts, so it’s a good idea to keep one on hand. There are many kinds of utility knives to choose from, the most popular being those with retractable blades. For a little added safety, it might be a good idea to invest in a good pair of work gloves, as well.

Cordless Drill

Another go-to tool you’ll often reach for is a cordless drill. Cordless drills double as power screwdrivers, and most come with an assortment of driving bits best suited for different jobs. What used to be a heavy-duty tool has become more accessible over the years, with smaller, lighter, and more affordable drills on the market than ever before. Thanks to the various attachments and drill bits available for cordless drills, this is a versatile and essential addition to any growing toolkit that you’ll find yourself using for nearly every job.

If choosing a drill feels overwhelming, check out this buying guide from This Old House.

Step Ladder

Please don’t risk injury by standing on chairs or countertops! Instead, simply invest in a high-quality step stool to keep around the house. While a small stool is helpful, it’s better to go with a heavy-duty 3-step ladder like this one on Amazon. A larger step ladder is perfect for reaching virtually any space in the home, allowing you to dust high places, reach any shelf, and decorate easily near the ceiling.

Tapes (duct, electrical, masking, etc)

You only need one type of tape in your toolbox, but it never hurts to have a few. Some of the most useful work tapes are duct tape, electrical tape, masking tape (also known as painter’s tape), and gaffer tape. Each is useful in its own way, and all of them are versatile enough to work when you need a quick fix. To learn more about the different varieties of tape and which one is right for you, check out this helpful article from The Home Depot.

MUST-HAVE HOME TOOLS

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MUST-HAVE HOME TOOLS

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