10 Tools Every Homeowner Should Have On Hand

When you own a home, it’s like signing up to be the go-to fixer for everything from leaky faucets to assembling the endless parade of playsets and furniture. No matter if your place is brand new or has some miles on it, sooner or later, you’re going to need to roll up your sleeves.

Having the right tools can make the difference between a weekend win and a DIY disaster. Here’s the rundown on the top 10 tools every homeowner should keep handy.

Trust me, you’ll be glad to have these in your arsenal for all those fix-it moments and family project days.

Step Ladder

I’ve learned the hard way that standing on chairs or counters is a shortcut to a slip and fall. That’s why I swear by a good step ladder. It’s not just safer, it actually makes any task that involves height a breeze.

Whether I’m swapping out a smoke detector battery or trying to reach the top shelf in the garage, my trusty step ladder keeps things stable and speedy.

Ratcheting Wrench and Socket Set

In my house, I’m the go-to for fixing and building, and I’ve found that not everything sticks with simple screws. Lots of things come together with nuts and bolts, and for those, a ratcheting wrench and socket set is a game changer. It lets me tighten or loosen just about anything without repeatedly lifting the tool, which is a godsend when you’re in awkward spaces or just trying to finish a project quickly.

Flashlights

Don’t just rely on your phone’s flashlight. Keep a dedicated LED flashlight around for those critical moments. Whether it’s an unexpected power outage or a curious noise in the middle of the night, a real flashlight provides the powerful, reliable light you need without draining your phone’s battery.

Choose models with rechargeable batteries—they might cost a bit more upfront, but their long run time and ease of charging make them worth it. Plus, it’s smart to have a couple of different sizes stashed in each room so that you’re always prepared, no matter the emergency.

Utility Knife

A high-quality utility knife is a must-have tool that goes beyond simple cutting tasks. Whether you’re slicing open a stubborn package, trimming carpet, or scraping off residue that’s gumming up a window, this tool does it all.

Its versatility makes it invaluable, and having one with a comfortable grip and replaceable blades can make maintenance and more demanding jobs feel effortless. Keep one in your tool belt or kitchen drawer.

Wrenches

In my house, a good set of wrenches is as essential as the coffee maker. I keep a variety of adjustable wrenches around because they’re perfect for tightening everything from bike seats to leaky faucets. For those tougher jobs where a bit more finesse is needed, I lean on my combination wrenches. They’re great for getting into those awkward spaces under the sink or behind the toilet.

And trust me, once you get comfortable with these, add a ratchet and socket set to your toolkit—it makes quick work of any bolt. Oh, and don’t forget a set of Allen wrenches; you’ll need them for everything from assembling furniture to tightening door handles.

Level

Whether I’m putting up shelves or making sure the new photo frame is straight, my trusty old level is my go-to tool. It’s one of those simple, no-fuss tools that you don’t think much about, but it makes a huge difference. I stick with a basic analog level with the floating bubble. It’s easy, reliable, and doesn’t cost much.

Plus, there’s something satisfying about getting that bubble perfectly centered. It’s a small win, but a win nonetheless, and it keeps everything looking sharp at home.

Screwdrivers

Every home fixer-upper needs a dependable set of screwdrivers. You’ll find yourself reaching for flat head and Phillips head screwdrivers the most. I recommend getting a variety with magnetic tips—they’re a game-changer for keeping those pesky screws in place, especially when you’re working in tight spots.

Even though I use my cordless drill for speed on big projects, I always keep a few manual screwdrivers handy. They’re perfect for the quick fixes around the house, like tightening a loose drawer handle or assembling kids’ toys.

And if you really want to make things easier, add an electric screwdriver to your toolkit.

Pliers

Pliers might just be your best friend for those tasks that are too fiddly for your fingers. A good set should include long-nose pliers, combination pliers, and locking pliers. Whether it’s reaching into the back of a cramped cabinet, adjusting a leaky pipe under the sink, or holding a nut steady while you tighten a bolt, the right pliers make all the difference.

I’ve found locking pliers particularly useful when I need an extra hand, keeping everything securely in place while I work. Make sure you get a set that feels good in your grip

Measuring Tape

Got a project in mind? Grab a measuring tape first. A sturdy, 3/4-inch-wide tape measure is a game-changer for almost any home project, big or small. It’s reliable for those straight, long measurements and won’t buckle under the solo pressure of a room makeover.

And here’s a tip for your next shopping trip: slip a smaller, pocket-size tape measure into your bag. It’s perfect for those “will it fit?” moments, saving you the headache of guessing at the store.

Hammers

Everyone needs a hammer that feels like an extension of their own hand. Choose one with a grip that doesn’t shake you up, even during a bit of demolition fun. A hammer with a straight claw is the way to go. And yes, the head needs to be smooth. Why? Because nothing ruins the day like a scuffed wall or a slipped nail.