15 Must Have Tools For The Home Owner’s Toolbox

Home ownership is a point of pride for many, and you’ll want to take care of your investment as best as you can. Having a well-stocked toolbox will allow you to not only save money by fixing small issues before they become large ones, it will give you even more pride in a job well done.

1. Basic Safety Equipment – Safety first! Especially if you’re going to be working with some of the more heavy hitters, you’re going to want to invest in some good quality equipment to keep you safe. You’ll want a nice pair of heavy duty thick work gloves, preferably leather. Also a pair of rubber gloves, in case you have to get down and dirty, or forget to shut off the electricity before trying to switch out a new appliance. You’ll also want a pair of safety goggles, to protect your eyes from flying debris. A good quality respirator is also a bonus, but even a pack of disposable safety masks can be had cheaply and will protect your lungs from the hazards of aerosolized paint or dust particles.
2. First Aid Kit – Along with the basic safety equipment, you’ll want to have a good first aid kit for when the inevitable happens. A good first aid kit will include things like plenty of bandages of varying sizes, gauze, medical tape, an antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes, sanitizer, burn cream, an elastic bandage, tweezers, and tylenol and ibuprofen. Keep a large one within your home, and a smaller one in your car.
3. Hammer – The number one must-have tool for your toolbox. This is one tool you’ll want to go for the best quality. Find a hammer with a good, sturdy handle, and a claw end for removing nails. You’ll want to make sure that it has a good weight to it, much like a baseball bat, but not so heavy it’ll be cumbersome. Also find one that has a good steady balance to it. Try out a few at the store and find one that feels right in your hand.
4. WD-40 – The quintessential home repair tool. In actuality, WD-40 is a water repellent lubricant. It is excellent for removing sticky buildup or grease, lubricating joints, and loosening items that have been rusted shut. It even protects your tools from developing rust!
5. Duct Tape – If it doesn’t move and should, use WD-40. If it does move and shouldn’t, use duct tape. That’s the old adage, and it’s true that duct tape can be used to fix a wide variety of household repairs, not just duct work but anything that needs a good, solid grip that’s water resistant and flexible.
6. Multi-Tool – You’ll want something of high quality, compact, that fits easily in your pocket and has a variety of tools for your convenience. A classic Leatherman Multi-Tool is known for having the best quality for the best price, and will serve you well for years to come.
7. Pocket Knife – Having a utility knife in your toolbox is one thing, but you can’t go wrong with a good quality pocket knife. This is another area where you get where you pay for, and a sturdy, well made knife will last you for years and will serve so many uses you’ll wonder how you ever got along without one. Aim for one that’s got a sturdy blade, easy to open and close, a sturdy locking mechanism, and a good quality handle. This is another tool where you’ll want to test out a variety to see which feels the best in your hand as far as weight and size goes.
8. Tape Measure – No toolbox would be complete without one. A good quality tape measure can be had for cheap, and won’t rust or catch easily.
9. Flashlight – Never underestimate the necessity of being able to see your work! You’ll want to keep a flashlight in your toolbox so you’ll always have it handy when you need it. LED flashlights are brighter, more efficient, last longer, and tend to be cheaper than traditional lights. A classic Maglite flashlight will last you for years without ever needing to be replaced.
10. Level – Don’t underestimate the importance of a good level! Make sure your projects are even the first time. There are a variety of levels available, including the classic “bubble” levels, laser levels, and even level apps can be found on most smartphones. Find one that allows you to find not only the horizontal, but vertical and 45° angled level as well.
11. Screwdriver – You’ll want at least a few sizes of both flathead and phillips head screwdrivers added to your collection. There are so many applications where you’ll be glad you have them available, and flathead screwdrivers can also be used to pry up stubborn items. If you’re feeling really ambitious (or building some Ikea furniture) you can add a hex key screwdriver set as well.
12. Drill – Definitely go for the cordless. A 12v drill should give you all the power you need, without weighing a ton. Look for one that’s multi-speed and has a reverse function, so you can easily remove your drill bits if you go too far! Another item where you’ll get what you pay for, and it’s worth the investment to pay more for better quality.
13. Wrenches – At the very least, you’ll want a good solid crescent wrench and a socket wrench set. Go for quality, as you don’t want these to break off in the middle of a project, or spend all your energy trying to remove a stubborn bolt when a better tool will make the job easier.
14. Pliers – You’ll want a pair of needlenose pliers for retrieving items from small spaces or gripping and bending wires. Some even come with a wire snip built in. You’ll also want a good quality pair of locking vice grip pliers, which can be used for everything from clamping an item in place to removing a stubborn bolt that just won’t come loose.
15. Saw – When your pocketknife just isn’t enough, look for a saw to get the job done. Find a handsaw with sharp, sturdy metal teeth, and a heavy duty handle. Or go for a powerful chainsaw if you really want to get the job done quick!

When building up your toolbox, quality is of the utmost importance. You don’t want to struggle with trying to cut through a tree limb with a flimsy saw, or have your wrench break off in your hand while securing a bolt. And spending a little more for better quality also ensures you won’t be spending more down the road because your tools have rusted or worn down. You don’t have to build up your toolbox all at once, invest in one tool at a time and you’ll have an excellent set any homeowner would be proud of in no time.