Weird, genius things for your home that handymen say you'll use all the time

Andriy Boyko, handyman and owner of A.O. Handy, Inc. in Wisconsin, is an advocate for this magnetic wristband when it comes to simple storage. “If you're constantly losing screws or nails while working, this wristband will change your life. You just strap it on and it holds everything in place — so no more crawling around looking for that tiny screw you dropped,” he says. A best-seller on Amazon, it’s earned a 4.7-star overall rating after 19,000 reviews. And thanks to its adjustable hook-and-loop closure, it’ll fit a range of wrist sizes as well.

Home improvement can be unpredictable. In fact, Boyko notes, “You’ll often find yourself working in dark corners, under cabinets, or in cramped spaces. This LED work light clips right onto whatever you're working on, shining a bright light exactly where you need it. It’s like having an extra pair of hands that hold a flashlight for you.” The USB-chargeable light offers up three lighting modes (high, low, and strobe), as well as a rotating base that lets you angle the illumination exactly where you need it.

For less frustration during repairs, opt for this magnetic pickup tool with an LED flashlight. According to Boyko, “We've all dropped a screw or nail in some impossible-to-reach spot. This telescoping magnet extends, letting you grab those small metal items that fall into tight spots. It’s small, cheap, and always useful — definitely something you’ll use more than you think.” The added flashlight feature makes it even easier to see those small lost items as well. And it’s not just loved by professionals — over 20,000 reviewers have weighed in to give it an excellent 4.7-star overall rating, too.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free route to sparkling floors and bathroom fixtures, look no further than this electric spin scrubber. “Scrubbing can be a pain, especially when you're trying to clean tile grout or bathroom surfaces. This scrubber takes all the elbow grease out of cleaning, so you don’t have to break your back. It’s fast and effective, especially for tough stains,” Boyko says. It has an adjustable length to reach a variety of surfaces and even comes with four different types of scrubbing heads to help tackle a range of jobs.

• Available colors: 2

No home repair kit is complete without a multi-tool with pliers like this one with high ratings. Boyko explains, “This tool combines pliers, screwdrivers, knives, and more — all in one. It's perfect for quick fixes when you don't want to lug around a full tool kit,” adding, “I always keep one in my pocket for those ‘just in case’ moments.” It’s made from durable stainless steel and has a clever self-locking feature for easier storage, too.

• Available colors: 2

Opt for smartly designed home essentials, like this doorstop and holder pack that creates storage for your stopper when not in use. “It might sound like a no-brainer, but this simple tool can prevent a lot of damage. Whether it’s stopping doors from slamming or protecting your walls from dents, this rubber door stopper does a great job at keeping things in place without much fuss,” Boyko says. And thanks to its grippy, nonstick base, you can be sure it won’t budge.

• Available colors: 3

If you don’t already have one, now’s the time to invest in this caulk scraper tool. According to Boyko, “If you’ve ever had to remove old, stubborn caulk, you know it can be a pain. This silicone scraper is a game changer, helping you remove old caulk easily without damaging the surrounding surface.” Thanks to the double-sided design, you can both remove and repair caulking with it, making it a versatile addition to your tool kit. “It’s a small tool, but it saves a ton of time and frustration,” Boyko adds.

As it turns out, this set of adjustable silicone funnels isn’t just for cooking and baking — although it’s great for that, too. “This one’s great for pouring oils, liquids, or any mess-prone substances into small containers,” Boyko says, adding, “[They’re] super flexible, easy to clean, and adjust to fit just about any size bottle or jar — way more convenient than using a regular funnel, which can be a bit too rigid and clunky.” And since they compress to a nearly flat shape, they’re super easy to store when not in use.

“For quick fixes or creative projects, this mini glue gun is fantastic,” Boyko says. “It's cordless, so you’re not stuck near an outlet, and it heats up fast. Whether you’re fixing a loose chair leg or tackling a craft project, it's just so convenient to have around,” he adds. And since it comes with a handy stand with a built-in pad for any glue drips, it’ll help keep your space tidier as well.

Robert Lee, handyman and HVAC technician in Southlake, Texas, is a fan of this outlet cover. “Messy cords make even the nicest room look like a disaster zone. This hides those ugly wires behind your TV, desk, or nightstand, so everything looks clean and intentional,” he explains. It plugs directly into your outlet, concealing it with a smooth, flat panel. Attached to the panel is an extension cord with three outlets that you can easily tuck behind furniture for a streamlined look.

Tiny details, like these cabinet door bumpers, can make a big difference. “If your kitchen sounds like a construction site every time you close a cabinet, these little bumpers will change your life. Just stick them inside your doors, and boom — no more slamming,” Lee says. They’re made from shock-absorbing silicone and come with preapplied adhesive for quick and simple setup.

This flexible drill bit extension bends over backwards so you don’t have to. “Ever needed to drill into a super awkward spot where your drill just doesn’t fit? This extension bends like a noodle, so you can get screws into tight spaces without losing your mind,” Lee explains. And thanks to its 12-inch length, it enhances your overall reach, as well as giving you angle options.

Fixing a fussy door is so much simpler than you might think, thanks to this door latch restorer strike plate. Lee notes, “You don’t need a whole new door just because the latch doesn’t quite click into place anymore. This little kit fixes that annoying problem in minutes — no handyman required.” It’s made from durable polished steel and comes with the screws you’ll need to secure it in place, too.

• Available colors: 4

This set of adjustable furniture levelers is here to save you from the scourge of uneven furniture legs. “You know that wobbly chair that drives you crazy? These screw into the legs so you can level it perfectly. No more stuffing coasters or napkins under your furniture like a college dorm setup,” Lee says. Each leveler comes equipped with a felt pad on the bottom to protect your floors and make it easier to move furniture around as well.

Lee is a big fan of this magnetic stud finder that simplifies hanging picture frames, TVs, and other wall-mounted items. “Those battery-powered stud finders beep like crazy but never seem to work when you actually need them. This one? No batteries — just run it along the wall, and it sticks right to the stud when it finds a nail,” he explains, adding that it’s “simple, easy, and foolproof.” It’ll instantly secure to the screws and nails in your studs for easy identification without ever running out of batteries.

Double-sided mounting strips are the simple installation accessory you’ve been waiting for. “Hate putting holes in your walls but still want to hang stuff? These sticky gel pads hold up picture frames, remotes, and even small shelves,” Lee says, adding that they can easily be rinsed off whenever they get a bit dusty. These dots and strips have an unobtrusive, clear design and are safe to use on glass, tile, wood, and more.

Tackle both sides of a painting project in one go with these painter’s pyramid stands. Lee appreciates their clever design in particular. “Ever tried painting something like a door, cabinet, or even a shelf and had to awkwardly balance it on something to dry? These little pyramids let you paint both sides at once without smudging your work. Once you use them, you’ll never go back,” he explains. The tiny pyramids prop up your item and provides the smallest point of contact possible that won’t leave noticeable marks in your paint. Thanks to the locking tab system, you can connect several pyramids together for larger projects as well.

According to Francis Kaspar, handyman and technician with The Chill Brothers in Texas, this outlet guide light is a worthwhile addition to your space. “[It] snaps right over your existing outlet — no wires, no batteries, and suddenly your hallway has a soft glow,” he explains. It has a built-in sensor that activates when its surroundings are dark and turns off again in bright environments.

• Available colors: 4

While Kaspar notes it’s “not the flashiest item,” he believes this silicone drain protector deserves your attention. “[It] keeps hair from going down the drain and turning into a gross science experiment,” he explains. It sits directly on top of your drain, allowing water to run through its perforations, all while catching hairs before they become a messy clog inside your pipe.

According to Kaspar, this cordless electric screwdriver is “perfect for furniture assembly, tightening cabinet handles, or anything where a drill feels like overkill.” It features a built-in flashlight for enhanced visibility plus a rotating handle that can accommodate three different angles for a more comfortable grip. It comes with two bonus screwdriver bits as well.

Kaspar recommends this set of magnetic key holders for more streamlined storage. The tiny magnets have screws on the back, allowing you to remove your switch plate’s existing screws and replace them with ease. This creates instant magnetic storage without taking up any extra space. “Every guest asks where I got it. I never lose my keys anymore — and it looks cool, too,” Kaspar notes.

This low-profile outlet surge protector is the power solution you’ve been waiting for. “This sleek strip hugs the wall and fits where others won’t. Bonus points for built-in USB charging. It tucks behind my couch perfectly. You get power without the eyesore or bulky plugs,” Kaspar explains. Better yet, it offers up an impressive six AC outlets in one compact package.

Get a deeper clean with this comprehensive set of universal vacuum attachments. It features brushes, stick attachments, flexible hoses, and more in varying sizes. Plus, it works with a range of vacuum models. “Using this is oddly satisfying. Great for cleaning all the little nooks most folks just ignore,” Kaspar adds.

Josh Riutta, owner of Mikku and Sons Roofing in Arizona, recommends these water leak sensors to protect your home. “Placing these small alarms near water sources like pipes, washing machines, or water heaters will alert you at the first sign of a leak, preventing costly repairs,” he explains. The sensor lets out a loud alarm when it detects water, and the battery can last for up to an impressive two years.

• Available colors: 2

Riutta suggests keeping this self-fusing silicone repair tape on hand. “This tape is exceptionally useful for quickly repairing pipes, hoses, and even electrical connections, making it an essential item for any homeowner, particularly for temporary roof repairs during emergencies,” he explains. It sticks to itself when you wrap it around and is both waterproof as well as heat resistant up to temperatures of 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

For sturdier stairs, this anti-slip grip tape can’t be beat. “By marking steps, edges, and potential hazards, this tape helps prevent trips and falls, providing added safety in areas like attics, crawl spaces, or dark hallways,” Riutta explains. It comes with a glow-in-the-dark strip for enhanced visibility along with a textured border for better stability.

Never be stymied by a screw again thanks to this damaged screw extractor set. According to Riutta, “This set saves you from frustrating repair jobs and prevents potential damage to surfaces by providing a reliable solution for extracting problematic screws.” It works by boring a hole into screws with broken heads, allowing you to gently remove them. The bits come in multiple different sizes, all made from durable stainless steel.

Chris Anderson, licensed master plumber who owns Honey Bear Plumbing in Knoxville, Tennessee, is an advocate for the Zip-It hair clog remover. “I’ve used the Zip-It on countless jobs, it’s a lifesaver for pulling out hair clogs fast and beats chemicals every time,” he says. Just use the handle to lower the spiky tail into your drain. The clog will snag on the spikes, allowing you to lift it away with minimal effort. And since it’s 25 inches long, you’ll have plenty of length to reach even deep clogs.

According to Anderson, this little sink and drain plunger packs a punch. “It’s my go-to when a sink’s backed up and I need to get the water flowing again quickly,” he adds. Its compact size makes it much easier to wrangle than traditional plungers, so it’s a perfect choice for sink, shower, and bathtub drains. All you have to do is place the plunger over the drain and pump it a few times to release the clog.

If you’ve never heard of a garbage disposal wrench, listen up: “Every homeowner with a garbage disposal needs this wrench. It’s simple to use and can save you from having to call a plumber when something gets stuck,” Anderson explains. This aluminum wrench works with many disposals — just insert it into the hex socket hole on bottom of the unit and move it back and forth until it feels loose, at which point you’ll be able to remove the blockage.

Walter Bennett, handyman and air conditiong technician at Green Leaf Air in Texas, suggests adding this lubricant pen to your cart. “A squeaky door hinge can drive you insane. A tiny drop of this oil silences it instantly, and the precision tip keeps things mess free,” he says. Its compact size makes it easy to toss into your toolbox, and it boasts a convenient waterproof formula as well. Just use the sponge-tip applicator to apply it.

For a bit of furniture rearranging, these heavy-duty suction cup lifters can’t be beat. “Ever try lifting a big mirror or moving a glass tabletop? These make it easy — just press, pump, and lift like a pro. No more cracked corners or broken glass,” Bennet says. These lifters have wide, easy-to-grip handles and can support up to 200 pounds at once. Just lift the levers to release the suction when you’re done.

• Available colors: 2

“If your key sticks in the lock, don’t reach for WD-40. Graphite powder keeps locks smooth without attracting dirt or gunk,” Bennet explains. This dry lubricant in powder form comes with a precise application tip and is great for use in locks, hinges, and more. It can stand up to both hot and cold temperatures as well, making it a versatile addition to your tool kit.

This air-pressure clog plunger is the bathroom accessory of the future. “Plungers are gross,” Bennet says, adding, “This tool shoots a burst of compressed air down the drain, instantly clearing clogs without making a mess.” Just activate the pressure-building gauge, wait for it to reach maximum capacity, then pull the trigger to release the compressed air. This set also comes with several accessories, including protective gloves, a carrying case, and more.

Save your cash and your sanity with this weather-stripping tape. “A tiny gap under your door can make your heating bill skyrocket. This tape seals out drafts, keeps bugs away, and makes your home more energy-efficient in minutes,” Bennet explains. It comes with preapplied 3M adhesive, so all you have to do is measure, cut, and stick it in place. Each roll comes with an impressive 33 feet of tape, too.

According to Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician at Air Conditioner Lab, this magnetic level can really come in handy. “Most people don’t think they need a small level until they realize their thermostat or outlet cover looks crooked. A magnetic one sticks to ductwork or metal boxes, making small installations look much neater,” he notes. This level uses the traditional bubble method, with three differently angled tubes to help you achieve a flat surface in a range of orientations.

If you hadn’t considered that these silicone stretch lids might play a role outside your kitchen, then listen up. “This might seem like an odd one from an HVAC guy, but I use these to seal small paint cans, leftover adhesives, or anything I don’t want drying out. It’s a weird crossover from kitchen use, but they also work great in the garage,” Bennet explains. This set comes with stretchy lids in seven different sizes, ensuring you can cover up a range of containers with an airtight seal.

Brendan Anderson, Founder of Brix Systems Roofing in Montana, is an advocate for this universal socket tool that works with so many different fasteners. “Imagine the ease of using a single socket that effortlessly grips nearly any nut or bolt, saving you the time and hassle of rummaging through your toolbox for the correct size,” he explains. It’s made from durable stainless steel with a set of interior pins that conform to the size and shape of your fastener for a simple and convenient socket wrench you’ll get so much use out of.

“Instead of dealing with bulky traditional electrical tape, this instant liquid electrical tape provides a clean, waterproof seal for exposed wires, offering a superior and more durable solution,” Anderson says. This sealant boasts a slim, precise tip for smooth application without any mess. It sticks to a range of surfaces as well, including rubber, metal, plastic, and more.

• Available colors: 5

“Gain the ability to see around corners and into hidden areas for inspections and retrieval of lost items with a telescoping viewer tool that includes an LED light, turning previously inaccessible spots into visible ones,” Bennet advises. This tool uses a two bulbs and a mirror to create a wide field of vision, even in tight spaces. And because it rotates 360 degrees, it’s easy to maneuver as well.