Contractors say you're seriously missing out if you don't have these genius things at home

“As an air-conditioning contractor in South Florida, the one must-have item we recommend is a water leak sensor. These can alert you the moment your AC drain line backs up, helping you prevent water damage to the property,” says Vanessa Ferrara of Ferrara’s Air, Inc. This battery-powered sensor sounds an audible alarm when moisture is detected, notifying you before a leak gets out of control. Besides being useful for your air conditioner, you can set them under sink pipes, near your washing machine, and in other water-prone areas. “This is a small investment that can save thousands in repairs,” Ferrara adds.

Referencing these rechargeable LED lights, John S. Gelfusa of HomeWorks says, “When the power goes out, these lights turn on automatically, making them easy to find. But the best part is you just unplug it, and you have a fully charged flashlight in your hand ready to go.” They’re popular on Amazon where they have a 4.7-star overall rating after 15,000 reviews. Just keep these lights plugged in at all times and you’ll be ready for whenever an emergency might strike.

“If you own or rent and want an affordable home-security upgrade, this sensor is a great option. It’s discreet, easy to install, and connects to your phone for alerts,” says Lauren Viohl of A.W. Viohl Contracting. These alarms will alert you any time a door or window opens — just subscribe to the Ring app and use the included batteries. They're great for peace of mind, whether you're at home or away.

Quickly fix up unsightly marks on painted surfaces with this two-pack of refillable paint brush pens. Joy Aumann of Luxury SoCal Realty says, “These refillable paint pens let you easily touch up scuffs, chips, and imperfections on walls, trim, or furniture. They’re precise and practical, helping homes look fresh and well-maintained...” Just use the syringe to fill up each pen, then use the fine-tip brush to mask imperfections in the most precise way.

“Forget about digging through endless bottles of half-full cleaning products,” says Tyson Parker of Craft Homes. “Organize the area under your sink with a low-cost organizing rack, and get access to your cleaning supplies when you need them.” This under-sink organizer is a great option for just that, and even has a handy pull-out drawer so you can easily access your items in the back. Made of clear acrylic for a sleek, non-clunky vibe, it also has four moveable dividers so you can customize its setup to your needs.

Clogged drains are no one's idea of a good time, but don't call the plumber just yet. Michael Tellone of Best Roofing Westchester advises giving this drain cleaning tool a shot first. “It works amazingly for unclogging your bathroom sink and shower if it has hair buildup, without needing to call a plumber and spend hundreds.” With five in a pack, each tool rotates a full 360 degrees and can reach down as far as 18 inches below the drain to tackle those hard-to-reach clogs. Just put the wand in, spin it around, and remove.

“A door draft stopper is a simple, effective tool that is helpful in homes that are old,” says Jake Fry of Smallworks. He adds, “This tool will allow the user to save their heating costs, while at the same time providing increased comfort for their home.” These gap stoppers have additional benefits, too, like blocking dust, bugs, and noise. You can apply these right to the bottom of your door and cut them for a custom fit — the flexible material won’t damage the floor.

• Available options: 7

When it comes to home essentials, Shawn Grant of Clear Facility Services says, “Top of the list would be an all-in-one tool set that will give someone the majority of the tools they'll need for simple day-to-day handyman work such as hammering, screw-driving, leveling for hanging pictures or shelves, measuring, or tightening and loosening bolts with a wrench,” he says. The set includes 126 pieces for pretty much any task that might pop up — expected or otherwise. Home repair amateurs stand behind this set, having given it a stellar 4.7-star overall rating on Amazon.

Alexander Havkin of Ecoline Windows calls this digital thermometer and humidity gauge a “lifesaver” saying, “If your place is too damp, this thing will tell you immediately. Why is that huge? Because it helps you prevent mold and makes sure your windows last as long as they should!” It’s a smart idea to have at least one of these on every floor so you can keep tabs on things and prevent problems before they start.

“I’ve plunged more toilets than I care to admit,” says John S. Gelfusa of HomeWorks, “and the one thing I know is removing a clog takes a substantial amount of effort. Well, that’s all changed with one of these plungers. What makes these so effective is they fit tight below the water line and deliver a huge blast of air very quickly.” The game-changing electric toilet plunger starts low to protect your pipes and then increases in suction as necessary. Rechargeable via USB-C, it forms a right seal and has an anti-splash design — just pull back the handle to blast.

“As a flooring contractor, one item I always recommend to renters and homeowners is felt furniture pads,” says Daniel Torres of Dustless Hardwood Floors. He adds, “They prevent scratches, noise, and wear on hardwood floors better than almost anything else.” These clear chair leg covers are super easy to both apply and remove, keeping your furniture in pristine condition and your floors protected too. They help furniture glide across surfaces and come in a variety of colors and sizes for a seamless fit.

• Available sizes: X-Small — Large
• Available colors: 16

“Our team is big on a cordless electric scrubber,” says Iryna Balaban of Elite Maids NY, adding, “It’s night and day for bathroom tile and grout, cutting that scrubbing time in half, giving your wrists a break.” This cordless electric scrubber comes with six oscillating brush heads that tackle buildup, dirt, and soap scum like it’s nothing. It has two adjustable spinning speeds for normal and deeper cleaning and even has a battery level display, so it won’t quit on you in the middle of a job.

• Available colors: 3

Uri Pearl of Nealon Insulation says that having a laser measure like this one “makes hanging shelves, planning furniture layouts, or even checking ceiling heights way easier and faster than a tape measure.” This measurer is also like having a math whiz on hand since it can calculate volume, area, and angle as well as convert units. “Also added bonus: It's fun to use and you can use it to tire out your dogs (or cats!)” Pearl says.

Ryan Whitcher of Harmony Home Buyers says, “Motion lights are inexpensive and completely change the feel of a space. They are easy to install, add instant elegance, and are functional in kitchens, closets, or bathrooms. I install these in my renovation projects because they give a polished, high-end feel for minimal cost.” This two-pack of under-cabinet lights automatically turns on when human motion is detected within 10 feet. Rechargeable and wireless, they don’t require any professional wiring. They come in warm and cool white options and give off “I spent a lot” vibes when in reality, you didn’t.

“With the growing number of devices we need to charge, a surge protector that includes USB ports is a game changer,” says Tommy Mello of Home Service Expert. He adds, “It keeps your gadgets charged and protected from power surges, all in one convenient place.” This five-outlet extender and surge protector offers five AC outlets and four USB charging ports, all in an angled design to accommodate bulky adapters. It’s a fan favorite on Amazon, with a 4.7-star overall rating after 100,000 reviews and counting.

John S. Gelfusa of HomeWorks says, “Sometimes you need to patch a little drywall hole. [...] This is drywall mud in a glue stick applicator. It couldn’t be simpler, just pull the cap and rub it on the little repair. Ten minutes later, just wipe the area clean, and the mud will stay in the hole. Done!” Way easier to use than your typical drywall putty, there’s no spatula or putty knife required. Just swipe, wipe, and voilà. Keep it on hand for holes caused by picture hangings, damage from doorknobs slamming into the wall, and more.

Frustrated with cord clutter? “Tame the tangle of cords behind your TV or desk with adhesive cable clips. They keep wires organized and out of sight for a neater appearance,” says Jon Christensen of Bidmii. Each clip can hold most standard-size cables and even has a rotating shaft that makes grabbing the cord you need easy and accessible. The six-pack of cable clips are tiny enough to be discreet and durable enough to be used on the daily.

“As a licensed builder in Michigan, we do plenty of bathroom remodels and one weird thing that I love is this,” says Talal Will Badra of Community Construction. “The Sink Genie has a see-through, easy-to-remove cup that catches jewelry or other dropped objects, making cleaning out a clogged drain simple — no mess or chemicals!” The handy device offers easy installation and peace of mind if your wedding ring or other objects make their way down the drain. It also helps eliminate the use of harsh drain clog dissolvers, making it an all-around handy plumbing upgrade.

A multi-tool comes highly recommended by Jake Fry of Smallworks. He says, “This allows you to make small repairs, such as tightening screws, making small repairs to furniture, etc., without having to have all your tools with you for a minor job.” Perfect for when you don’t want to haul out your whole toolbox, the handy gadget is tricked out with a hammer, pliers, wire cutter, prying claw, bottle opener, flat and Phillips screwdrivers, and more. And while it's lightweight and compact, it's made from hardened stainless steel to stand up to wear and tear.

If you're squeezed for bathroom space, Ralph Severson of FM Pro Remodel has a recommendation; he says, “Everyone who uses a small bathroom needs more space to hold products, and these easy-to-install shelves are perfect for homeowners looking to freshen up their tiny bathroom on a budget...” This two-pack of floating shelves comes in eight different styles, each with a built-in towel bar and easy-to-install mounts. Use them for extra toiletries or even to display small plants and decor objects.

• Available styles: 8

Alexander Havkin of Ecoline Windows says, “A Wi-Fi outlet with a timer is a great, inexpensive addition. It lets you control lights, heaters, or humidifiers directly from your smartphone.” This two-pack of mini smart plugs lets you control appliances from the app, so you can be sure the house is all lit up when you arrive home at night or double check that the coffee maker is turned off. They also work with voice-control programs like Google Home and Alexa. “I often recommend placing these near windows to manage lighting or heating when the house is empty,” he adds.

“A portable work light is another necessity for the home,” says Jake Fry of Smallworks. These lights are useful for arts and crafts, for lighting dark spaces to work in, or to create extra light for additional purposes,” adding that it’s particularly useful for late-night projects and poorly lit rooms. This rechargeable work light offers adjustable brightness and even includes a built-in magnet, so you can stick it somewhere secure. It also doubles as a charger for your mobile devices in a pinch.

Want a home that sparkles, even in the toughest-to-reach spots? Ryan Whitcher of Harmony Home Buyers advises keeping a detail-cleaning brush on hand. He says, “This little cleaning tool is one of the most underappreciated household items. It easily reaches window tracks, faucet bases, and tile edges-spots that usually collect grime.” This set of gap-cleaning brushes ensures you can make even the tightest spots sparkle. They have narrow rows of bristles and curved handles that keep your hands out of the way. The opposite end acts as a scraper for dislodging tough dirt.

Jon Christensen of Bidmii says, “Caulking is one of those small tasks that can make a huge difference in the appearance and functionality of a home. Investing in a durable, smooth-operating caulking gun will make the job easier and less messy.” This caulking gun provides clean, precise results thanks to its consistent flow rate. It handles most materials with ease, including acrylic and asphalt, while offering a comfortable grip, too.

• Available colors: 13

Thanks to this stand-up weed puller, you can “forget getting down on your hands and knees trying desperately to pull out a weed and the roots,” says Shawn Grant of Clear Facility Services. “All you have to do is place the claw directly over the weed, push down like a shovel, [and] it automatically clamps on the weed and root for you, and all you do is pull back and watch it do its magic to remove the entire weed.” This Amazon bestseller boasts a 4.5-star overall rating, making it a popular pick with home gardeners. The 45-inch handle means you can help save your back while knocking out your yard work.

“There’s no negotiating when it comes to your kitchen sink strainer,” says Iryna Balaban of Elite Maids NY, adding, “A good silicone one easily keeps clogs at bay and is a cinch to clean.” This four-pack of silicone sink strainers is exactly what she’s talking. Each one is made of soft, flexible silicone that won’t scratch your sink’s surface, but will prevent food bits from going down (and eventually clogging) your drain. Just flip them inside out to empty the debris into the trash. They’re dishwasher safe, too.

Jon Christensen of Bidmii says, “These simple discs make it easy to move heavy furniture without scratching your floors or straining your back. They're great for rearranging a room or cleaning underneath appliances.” These thickened pads have a nonslip top surface to grip furniture legs, with smooth felt on the reverse that glides across floors seamlessly.

Jon Christensen of Bidmii is a huge fan of these cleaning pads, saying, “These versatile sponges can tackle scuffs, stains, and grime on a variety of surfaces, from walls to sneakers. They're a must-have for quick cleanups.” Just wet, squeeze and scrub these extra-thick sponges as they easily erase stuck-on grime, accidental marks, and burnt-on grease.

Aaron Jakel of Bubblegum Roofing says that a non-contact voltage tester is “literally a lifesaver for detecting live wires before you touch them,” explaining that “So many electrical injuries are caused by people who think the power is off. [...] For under $20 you get a simple, safe, and practical tool that will give you peace of mind.” Highly rated, it safely helps you detect AC voltage within things like switches, fans, lighting fixtures and more. Its bright LED screen lights up green to let you know it’s working, then flashes red to let you know when it detects live voltage.

One of the most frustrating aspects of home repairs and renovations is hardware that drops to the floor — but there’s an easy fix for that. “This handy strap keeps screws, nails, and drill bits within easy reach while you work, saving time and preventing dropped fasteners,” says Jon Christensen of Bidmii. Each wristband is made with 10 magnets for an extra-secure hold and the one-size-fits-most design has an adjustable strap for a personalized fit.

Instead of risking a shower clog, fend it off in the first place. Lee Johnson of Cheshire Home Upgrades says, “We've had a few callouts to unblock drains, and a TubShroom would've saved our clients a lot of money and hassle by protecting their pipes from all the hair that comes off in the shower. Can't complain for the price they are, and such a simple little tool.” Just drop it right inside the drain and hair will wrap around the cylinder so you can remove it later. The holes throughout help guarantee that water will still flow freely so you won't be standing in a puddle. It’s one of those pieces you’d rather have in your home than wish you had after the fact.

Joy Aumann of Luxury SoCal Realty says, “Fixing squeaky doors with this lubricant is a small but meaningful upgrade. It’s a quick fix that leaves a lasting impression, as smooth, quiet doors contribute to the overall feeling of a well-maintained home.” Besides eliminating squeaks, this lubricant can help unstick locks and help sliding doors move more freely. It has a super tiny needle that lets you get into those tough, tiny spaces, too.

Uri Pearl of Nealon Insulation says, “A can of spray foam can seal small air leaks around windows, doors, or plumbing penetrations,” adding that doing this is “a quick but super important fix that makes homes more efficient, comfortable, and will save you money on your energy bills!” This spray foam sealant offers both flexibility and strong adhesion to effortlessly fill in gaps, cracks and holes. It’s filled with durable polymer foam that comes out of an easy-to-use trigger spout for precise application, too. The formula works on just about any building material, including wood, concrete, brick, stone, and metal.

“Hands-free light changes everything when you are fixing leaks under sinks or checking attic insulation,” says Aaron Jakel of Bubblegum Roofing. This all-occasion headlamp offers an adjustable spotlight, five lighting modes, and is even waterproof, allowing you to work even in the elements. Jakel adds, “Believe it or not, I use mine more than any other tool on-site. It lets you see clearly in tight spaces, and for renters in older apartments with poor lighting, it is a game changer for DIY fixes or inspections.”

Emily Demirdonder of Proximity Plumbing says, “Something I always tell renters and homeowners to keep at home is a good quality sink plunger. [...] It helps clear blockages quickly and saves you from using strong chemicals that damage pipes over time. Many plumbing callouts we attend are simple clogs that people are able to fix themselves with a few pushes using a good plunger.” This sink and drain plunger can disperse up to 4 cups of water, doubling the plunging capacity of a standard rubber one. Use it on your kitchen or bathroom sink, or showers and tub drains.

Aaron Jakel of Bubblegum Roofing recommends utilizing your wall space for storage and decor — without damaging it — thanks to these large Command hooks. He says, “They hold strong, come off cleanly, and can be used by renters who don’t want to drill holes in their walls. I use them for hanging all my tools, as well as organizing extension cords.” This pack of hooks includes seven large styles that can hold up to 5 pounds each — just peel and stick — it’s that easy. “It is funny how one of the smallest tools can instantly make your space look so much more organized,” he adds.

You never know when something that's designed to keep water out might break — that’s why Aaron Jakel of Bubblegum Roofing recommends keeping this waterproof patch and seal tape on hand. He says, “It seals leaks in a hurry (gutters, pipes, even small roof cracks) and holds fast in rain or snow. Think of it as a Band-Aid for your house. It buys you time when something breaks, and sometimes that’s the difference between a simple fix and a costly repair.” The tape can withstand pretty much any weather condition, including extreme heat, cold, and moisture while the rubberized backing allows it to stretch for an even tighter seal. You can also use it on leaky window frames, torn pool covers, and tarps.

It’s easier and cheaper than you might think to have the exact right tool on hand at all times. Eric Kotlyar of True Form Construction says, “I consider a multi-bit screwdriver set as one of those essential tools that should be in every house. The tool set provides a wide range of bit sizes and types, so you can do anything from changing light switch plates to fixing cabinet hinges and assembling disassembled furniture.” This 77-piece set comes with 37 standard bits, 25 precision bits, and 10 sockets for pretty much any screwdriver-requiring task. The socket has a 90-degree rotating head, ratcheting function, and magnetic tip for ease of use, too.

Getting some extra storage options in your closet doesn't have to require a remodel or any permanent changes — you just need these three-shelf closet organizers. Tyson Parker of Craft Homes says they’re “excellent for storing shoes or T-shirts” and that if you’re a renter, “you won’t sacrifice your security deposit when you leave!” Available in 11 colorways, each hanging shelf comes with hooks to hang right on your closet rod and they can be folded down flat when not in use.

Nothing can get in the way of a nice-looking outdoor space more than having a garden hose snaking around. Tyson Parker of Craft Homes recommends a hose reel cart to fix that eyesore fast, noting that it’s “a great way to keep your garden hose organized and your entire garage space tidy.” Made of a sturdy metal and plastic combo, it has a handle that lets you easily wrap your hose, so it won’t get kinked or tangled, while also helping to reduce the risk of trips and falls. It can handle up to 175 feet of hose length and — even more impressively — can be wheeled around the yard with ease.

Longing for a sleek-looking home theater? Tyson Parker of Craft Homes recommends this electrical fishing tape that makes it possible for you to easily “hide your TV cable or speaker cables behind the drywall.” It has precise, laser-etched markings for accurate measuring while the spring-steel fish tapes are durable yet flexible for weaving through the wall and brackets, too.

When it comes to home security you can tackle yourself, Lauren Viohl of A.W. Viohl Contracting is a fan of these door alarms. You can secure them to any door or window, and they'll emit a chime to alert you of any opening or closing. They’re easy to stick pretty much anywhere, and even have three levels of volume control, too. Viohl says “We recommend this to renters especially: no wiring needed, battery powered, and gives you added security.”

Bob Coulston of Coulston Construction is a fan of using a digital tape measure, saying, “When measuring for furniture, blinds, or even thinking ahead for a remodel, you’ll want one you can trust. I always keep one in my belt. Without it you risk wrong‑sized cabinetry, mishung artworks, and wasted time.” After all, why risk the hassle of a standard tape measure when you can have accurate digital measurements in seconds? It’s also a pro at converting measurements from inches to millimeters, feet, and more. Skeptical? You can always look yourself at the standard markings to double check.

Bob Coulston of Coulston Construction says that having a quality utility knife on hand is “great for opening boxes (the most common household pain point), trimming drywall, or cutting carpet. Skip this and you’ll end up forcing inferior tools or doing sloppy cuts.” Stop trying to use your nails or any household objects to tackle opening those Amazon boxes and use this premium utility knife instead — it even comes with 10 replacement blades while being durable and lightweight, too. It’s super popular, with a 4.8-star overall rating on Amazon.

• Available colors: 3

John S. Gelfusa of HomeWorks says, “A few short years ago, if you thought you had a gas leak, you ran out of the house and called the gas company. Well, that still might not be a bad idea, but today we have very inexpensive natural gas detectors. My favorite type is this four-in-one style. These units stay plugged into any outlet and can detect combustion gas and natural gas.” Just plug in this combo unit and enjoy peace of mind knowing it will alert you instantly of the presence of natural gas and carbon monoxide. Not only that, but it’ll display room temperature and humidity, too.

Michael Tellone of Best Roofing Westchester recommends always having a stud finder on hand, saying, “They come in handy when you want to hang up a picture frame, artwork, or shelves. I love the little magnetic ones because they are so easy to use, compact, and get the job done perfectly.” This one, aptly named the StudBuddy, is simple to use and small in size. It works with all types of drywall to help locate studs via magnetic attraction — no batteries or charging needed.

Iryna Balaban of Elite Maids NY says, “Do not discount the power of a fabric shaver. It is the best, quickest, and easiest way to remove these pills from your sweaters, blankets, furniture, and upholstery without damaging the fabric.” This fabric shaver will give new life to furniture upholstery and linens that are worn and pilling. It spins gently yet quickly to refresh fabrics, and works on everything from wool and delicates to cotton and synthetics.

If you’re launching some DIY work at home, safety is key. “Protect your hands while working with sharp tools, chemicals, or hot surfaces by wearing safety gloves. Invest in a good pair that fits well and offers proper hand protection,” warns Zack Moorin of Zack Buys Houses. These cut-resistant gloves do the job, combining a firm grip and impressive cut resistance. They’re breathable and lightweight while being super protective and you can also wear them for any task that involves sharp tools, including cooking, gardening, or even electrical work.

• Available sizes: 3

Zack Moorin of Zack Buys Houses says, “A cordless drill is another essential item for homeowners and renters, as it allows for easy and efficient drilling without the need for a power outlet.” This 200-volt cordless drill offers two different speed options for better control over the task at hand. It has a rechargeable battery and the set includes the drill, battery, charger, wood bits, twist bits, screwdriver bits, and an anchor set.

Emily Demirdonder of Proximity Plumbing recommends stocking up on this Teflon plumber’s tape. She says, “It is used to seal pipe threads and stop small leaks at joints, like the ones behind toilets or under sinks. It takes only a few minutes to use, and anyone is able to handle it without any special skills. A few wraps of this tape at the right time are able to stop water leaks before they become serious problems.” This four-pack ensures you’ll always have enough on hand and the 4.6-star overall rating speaks to their quality.