We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Home

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Basic Tools Should I Have in my Tool Box?

By Sherry Holetzky
Updated: Jan 22, 2024
Views: 17,646
Share

Do-it-yourself home improvement has become quite popular. Even if you’re not exactly a DIY kind of guy or gal, there are some basic tools you should have in your tool box. Making minor repairs or improvements can save you a lot of money and can also add value to your home. Doing so can also help you avoid incurring major repair expenses, by not allowing minor problems to grow into larger issues. Tools are also helpful in many home decorating projects.

Every homeowner needs to keep at least a few items handy. A hammer is a good place to start, although you may want more than one. A lightweight hammer is quite versatile for various projects and repairs from removing a bent nail to hanging a picture, but a heavier option may be necessary to tackle bigger jobs.

Screwdrivers are another essential. While you don’t necessarily need an elaborate set, it is important to have a good assortment. You will need both flat head and Phillips screwdrivers for various tasks. It’s also good to have different sizes from which to choose. You can find a basic screwdriver set at any hardware store.

A sturdy set of pliers should also be included when building up your toolbox. Pliers can be used for many different things both inside and outside the home, such as loosening, tightening, bending, and grasping different objects. Don’t forget a pair of needlenose pliers for more delicate jobs. Tin snips and wire cutters are also good ideas when filling up a new tool box.

Wrenches are another good option when it comes to loosening and tightening nuts as well as other fasteners or connectors. Include a decent crescent wrench as well for minor plumbing projects and repairs, such as minor leaks or clogs.

Something many people don’t consider is adding a tool belt to the basic tools you should have in your tool box. With a tool belt, you won’t have to carry the entire toolbox with you as work; you can simply grab the items you need and place them in the belt. This is especially helpful if you’re going to be climbing up and down a ladder.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By chicada — On Feb 03, 2011

One of the most important tools is the tool box itself. It should be large enough to hold all your tools, and it should have enough compartments to keep things out of reach. It should also have a lock if you have kids so that they cannot access dangerous items without your permission.

Quality should also be a concern when buying a tool box. Good tools are not cheap, so your box should be of good enough quality to protect them for as long as you own them. If money is an issue, buy a good used tool box over a mediocre new one.

By Babalaas — On Feb 01, 2011

@ Submariner- There are two other essential items that I always have in my tool box. I keep a hacksaw, and a simple hand saw. With these two saws, I can cut trim boards, siding, and pipe. It would be easier if I had a reciprocating saw, but I use my tools so infrequently that I can't justify the expense.

By submariner — On Jan 30, 2011

One of my most essential pieces in my toolbox is a cordless drill. I mostly use my tools for small around the house jobs, so I just have a small Porter Cable lithium ion cordless drill. I have a set of bits, screwdrivers, and an attachment that allows me to attach 1/4 and 3/8 inch sockets.

Besides this, I keep a universal screwdriver handle, a hammer, and a ratchet. With these tools, I can accomplish almost any job around the house. I can repair holes in the wall, hang pictures, repair towel racks, or install new fixtures. These tools are absolutely essential, and the drill allows me to get the job done quickly.

Share
https://www.wise-geek.com/what-basic-tools-should-i-have-in-my-tool-box.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.