It’s probably happened so many times – you find the perfect curtains or decorative picture to accent your home’s décor, and you completely forget that you don’t have the proper tools to hang them. After searching through junk drawers, the garage and every other place you can think of, you still can’t find a single tool for such a small task. In order to avoid this frustration in the future, take a look at the list below and hit up your local hardware store to stock up on these few essential tools that all home plans should have stored somewhere.

household tools

• Tape measure – A 25 foot tape measure that is ¾ inch wide is great for projects around the home. It is ideal for small or large tasks without being cumbersome.
• Level – Laser levels are fancy and seem extra useful is our technology-crazed world. However, levels are only useful if they are accurate. Invest in one that works, be it laser or the basic bubble that has served so many homes for many years.
• Screwdrivers (and screws) – At the bare minimum, every toolbox needs a flathead and a Phillips screwdriver. Quality screwdrivers are available in sets of all sizes, so a small set of five different sizes could come in handy.
• Hammer (and nails) – A medium weight hammer is best for a variety of tasks around the home. A rubber handle will be good for all grips. Consider investing in a rubber mallet if your hammering needs may be above the average.
• Pliers – Needle-nosed pliers are all that most homes will ever need.
• Wrenches – There is some debate over the need for wrenches and which ones. However, like screwdrivers, quality wrenches often come in simple sets that should serve most any need that would arise.
• Utility knife – Utility knives often come in handy around the home and should be the only cutting tool needed. If interested, a handsaw could also be a wise investment. Few homes truly have the need for circular saws or other pricey machinery, so avoid being sucked into the hype.

The above tools should all be kept in a toolbox or other storage container that has a designated spot within the home. There are no rules about tools- they do not have to be stored in the garage or the basement. Simply find a place that keeps them accessible but inconspicuous when not in use. Also, consider a few other items that may come in handy around the home. Painter’s and duct tape, various glues, pencils and straightedges, and step ladders are all accessories that could make any handy task a little easier.

common household painting supplies

After browsing this list, you probably found more than a few tools you needed at one time or another. These are only a small number of tools that may be a necessity in your house plan. However, these are the basic tools you will need to complete most projects and home fixes quickly and with little frustration.