Essential Tools That Everyone Should Own

If you are anything like me, you are always on the lookout for new DIY projects to do around the house. There are always things you can tinker with, renovate, uplift… It’s a curse and a blessing, really. Nothing is ever perfect but, at least, I keep myself busy and improve my home while doing it. So, it’s not that bad (unless it all goes wrong and I burst a pipe by mistake… that might or might not have happened). 

Maybe you want to save money and start your own do-it-yourself journey – that’s great! Perhaps you simply want to have some essential tools at hand, so you can stop asking your family or neighbours for their tools whenever you need some. Today, I’ve partnered up with Speedy Fixings, UK fasteners and fixings specialists, to share some of the essential tools we think everyone should own. No matter if you want to change a lightbulb, replace a door hinge or repair a cupboard door, there are some must-have tools that I believe everyone should have in their home. 

Safety equipment.

Before you start any small home repair or large renovations, it’s important to think about safety. As this blog post by Tantrums to Smiles mentions, safety equipment might be one of the most (if not the most) important equipment to have in your home as it will make sure every task can be completed safely and carefully. “If you are working with power tools for instance, don’t forget to purchase safety goggles, gloves and perhaps some earplugs. If your equipment is going to be noisy don’t forget ear defenders too!” Having disposable gloves for cleaning can be handy, especially for projects that involve a lot of dust, paint, and chemicals.

Screwdriver set.

This article on Wise Living Magazine believes you need “two Phillips screwdrivers (big and small), two flat-head screwdrivers (big and small), a set of tiny screwdrivers (like you get in a Christmas cracker but more hard-wearing), and a set of Allen keys. You’ll always lose the free Ikea ones, and you never know when you’ll need them.” However, I think you can cut down on screwdrivers, save space and money by instead of getting single screwdrivers, get a screwdriver set or a multi-bit screwdriver set. 

Adjustable wrench.

The same goes for wrenches. “Instead of having a variety of wrenches for each job, get an adjustable wrench so you can tackle a variety of tasks with only one tool.” says Sims Life in a recent blog post. Adjustable wrenches can tackle a variety of tasks unlike, for example, the fixed jaw of a combination wrench. With an adjustable wrench, you will be able to fix small plumbing issues, tighten bolts and much more.

Claw hammer.

There are so many different types of hammers available in shops everywhere but do you really need one of each? Quick answer, no. No hammer is as important as your basic curved claw hammer. You can use it for your standard hammer needs, including hanging pictures on the wall and putting up flat pack furniture. Plus, the curved claw back also allows you to pull out old and twisted nails from walls, furniture and more – super handy!

Measuring equipment.

Accidental Hipster Mum recommends having measuring equipment at hand, not only at home but also in your purse or backpack. As Accidental Hipster Mum mentions, “I’d recommend keeping a tape measure on your bag or purse when you are going to the shops to buy certain materials for home renovation projects – that way you can always be certain that you get exactly what you need.”