Handymen & Women Say These Clever, Cheap Things Are So Genius, Every Home Should Have Them

Travis Wilson, handyman and home improvement expert at Space Maker Pro, says, “This magical putty hardens into a waterproof rubber that's saved countless plumbing emergencies — I've used it to temporarily fix pipe leaks, create custom handles, and repair broken shower fixtures when replacement parts weren't immediately available.” The moldable glue doesn’t leave a mess behind, is waterproof, and is resistant to both heat and cold. You can even use it to fix shoe soles or create storage hooks.

Moving furniture doesn’t have to be a huge chore — or something that might damage your floors — thanks to these effortless furniture sliders that gently glide. Available in five sizes to suit your furniture base or legs, they have two sides: a smooth one for carpet and a fuzzy one for hard-surface floors. Plus, as Wilson points out, “These sliders make moving heavy furniture effortless without asking neighbors for help.”

Ceiling fans notoriously accumulate dust pretty quickly, but are also a pain to clean, which is why Wilson recommends this specialized duster, explaining that “it captures dust rather than spreading it around, and the unique sleeve design cleans both sides of fan blades in one pass without ladder climbing.” The microfiber chenille pad literally attracts dust like a magnet, while being easy to wash in the machine, too. The duster extends all the way to 62.5 inches, making it easy to reach even the highest ceiling fans.

For those other hard-to-reach places, this extendable flat duster is a must-have. Its flat design reaches into tight spaces, like under and behind furniture and appliances, where dust and dirt tend to build up. The 18-inch bendable head can tackle larger areas and the extendable handle can reach up to 55 inches.

Keeping cords and cables tidy and untangled is essential in any home, and these stick-on cable clips help you do just that. “These dual-purpose cable organizers can either stick to surfaces or be screwed in for permanent installation, making them perfect for managing cords in any situation without drilling holes or using zip ties,” says Wilson. The holders themselves are adjustable, so they easily and securely accommodate both skinny cords and thick cables alike.

“These simple plastic pyramids revolutionized how I paint doors and cabinets by elevating work pieces off the ground so I can paint all sides at once,” says Wilson, adding that “they prevent the sticking and smudging that happens with makeshift solutions like cups or cans.” Perfect for DIYers, these sturdy pyramids can handle up to 250 pounds and are stackable for storage. Plus, they’ve earned an impressive 4.7-star overall rating from reviewers.

Chase Miller of Make Home Space, a home renovation advice company, highly recommends melamine sponges, saying, “These magic erasers remove caulk residue from tile, clean paint overspray, and restore yellowed plastic switches — I keep them separated from brand-name versions because they're identical but a fraction of the cost.” They’re also perfect for scrubbing stoves, scuffed shoes, or markings on your wall — among other things. Just add a bit of water and you can literally erase away most imperfections.

Furniture dings and scratches can be a drag, but there’s no need to splurge on replacing your pieces. Use these markers instead. Miller says, “These markers are far more versatile than people realize — beyond furniture scratches, I use them to color match caulk for wood trim, touch up door hinges, and even camouflage small drywall repairs that would otherwise need full repainting.” The set includes markers for surface damage and crayons for deeper dings, all in common wood shades like cherry and maple.

You can further restore and protect your wood surfaces with this wood cleaner and polish bundle. The 16-ounce cleaner and premium microfiber cloth make it easy to wipe away grease, grime, and dust — no sticky residue left behind. Safe for everything from cabinets to antiques, this versatile formula also revives and conditions dull, dry wood, bringing back its natural beauty with every use.

Lara Woodham, owner of Rowlen Boiler Services, says this weather sealant is “perfect for sealing those pesky cracks around windows and doors. It's an inexpensive solution to maintain a controlled indoor climate and reduce heating or cooling costs.” It’s super easy to install (just peel and stick, really) and can be easily cut for a custom fit, too. It comes in multiple widths to fit gaps of all sizes.

• Available widths: 4

If you struggle a bit with a green thumb, then this soil moisture meter is for you. Woodham explains that it “keeps your indoor plants healthy by monitoring moisture levels,” which makes it easy to know when it’s time to water — and when it’s time not to. She continues, “They are particularly helpful for ensuring your green space thrives even if you're busy.” Choose from four colors and enjoy on-demand, easy-to interpret readings in real time.

• Available colors: 4

To further keep your plants thriving, whether you’re away or just forgetful, add these handblown glass watering globes to your cart. At 12 inches tall, they provide up to two weeks of hydration, taking that plant-care task off your plate. Just fill them up with water, flip them over, and insert into the soil. Each orb is a unique work of art that adds a bit of decor to your plants, too.

• Available sizes: 3

Woodham is a fan of drawer dividers, saying, “These are fantastic for keeping the clutter at bay, whether in your toolbox or kitchen drawers, making your daily tasks more efficient.” You can transform cluttered drawers in a jiff with this four-piece bamboo divider set, complete with nine mini inserts and 30 label for customization. Each divider is expandable from 17 inches to 22 inches and has a spring-loaded design with nonslip rubber ends for secure placement. Choose from four finishes to suit your style.

• Available finishes: 4

These organizing bins are another great tool for tidying up drawers. Boasting a 4.7-star overall rating, the clear plastic bins have nonslip dots to keep them in place when you open and close drawers. Use them to organize toiletries, desk supplies, crafting tools, and more.

Brendan Anderson, founder of Brix Systems Roofing in Montana, says, “You will quickly find the convenience of this magnetic wristband. It eliminates the frustrating experience of dropping screws into hard-to-reach places, ultimately saving your knees from unnecessary strain.” It has an adjustable fit with a Velcro closure and almost feels like you have an extra hand (or two). Reviewers love it too, having awarded it a 4.7-star overall rating.

In keeping with the convenience of magnetic accessories, Anderson says, “This flexible magnetic pickup tool equipped with an LED light becomes an invaluable asset when retrieving lost bolts from the depths of your engine compartment or beneath appliances, proving its usefulness in numerous unexpected situations.” This model is super versatile, too, since it has a 22-inch extendable neck that’s flexible for reaching into tight spaces.

Looking to mount a piece of art or even a TV? Anderson advises, “Ensure both safety and accuracy when hanging heavy items by using a stud finder with AC wire detection, preventing accidental damage to your walls and minimizing the risk of electrical hazards.” This stud finder is easy enough for anyone to use, even in low light, thanks to its backlit LCD display. It has a sensitive micro-sensor chip to quickly and easily find the perfect spot for hanging items on any wall.

• Available colors: 8

This silicone caulking kit also has Anderson’s seal (see what I did there?) of approval. He says, “Achieve perfectly smooth and professional-looking caulk lines every time with a silicone caulking tool kit, eliminating the mess and unevenness often associated with this task.” The kit includes a caulk remover, putty knives, and versatile scraper to tackle any caulking task with ease.

“For those tight spaces and delicate repairs, a mini ratcheting screwdriver set offers a comfortable grip and efficient functionality, making it ideal for electronics and other small-scale projects,” Anderson says. This 12-in-one mini screwdriver has a comfortable, slip-resistant handle and six double-ended steel bits stored neatly inside. It also allows for forward, reverse, and locked positions for effortless use.

• Available colors: 2

Corey Lance, CEO of CSL Construction, recommends keeping a fire extinguisher on hand at all times, explaining, “In my personal experience as a restoration contractor, a small household fire extinguisher that is easy to use is the best item a homeowner can have in their home. [...] This small and simple item can stop kitchen or electrical fires from spreading, minimizing fire and smoke damage that could cost tens of thousands of dollars.” This two-pack of fire extinguishers boasts a compact profile and easy-to-use design — just press down on the top button like you would an aerosol spray.

Chris Stevenson, professional roofer with 730 South Exteriors in Denver, Colorado, recommends these furniture anchors for extra safety, saying, “These fasten heavy objects such as bookcases and television sets to the wall so that they won’t tip over, a significant concern for families with children or pets.” Simply install the anchors to the wall and back of your furniture, then secure the heavy-duty cable to connect them. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, they’re super helpful, too.

Allison Harrison, co-owner of Goodbee Plumbing and Drains in Louisiana, believes all homeowners should have a water pressure gauge like this one. She says, “Without a water pressure gauge, you could be left guessing whether your home’s water pressure is within safe or ideal limits. Maintaining proper water pressure puts less stress on your plumbing system, allowing it to work better for longer.” This one is sealed and waterproof, with a thread mount that’s easy to install.

Kyle Vocaturo, Owner of One Way Air in Florida, says, “In my experiences as an HVAC expert, I think every homeowner should pick up a hygrometer. [...] Why is this a must-have? Well, it keeps track of your indoor humidity levels, which need to stay between 30% and 50%. Keeping humidity in this zone is important for a couple of reasons: It increases your comfort, prevents mold from growing, and will make sure your HVAC system runs smoothly. All this means your system lasts longer and might even reduce your energy bills!”

Give this digital hygrometer a try. It has a compact display with easy-to-view temperature and humidity readings (there’s even a helpful smiley face when your moisture levels are in a safe zone). It can be used on a tabletop or mounted to the wall.

• Available colors: 2

If you find that humidity levels are getting out of control, you can use this high-efficiency mini dehumidifier to help control them. Featuring a 25-ounce tank, it removes up to 16 ounces of moisture daily to help keep your space dry. It automatically shuts off to help ensure safety when it’s full, and its ultra-quiet operation won’t keep you awake or disturb you.

Another simple way to keep dampness in check is with this six-pack of moisture absorbers. Each tub uses spherical calcium chloride for faster, more efficient dehumidification. They’re designed with secure water-collecting layers to prevent leaks and the compact design makes them perfect for closets, bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Simply unseal the lids and let each one get to work.

• Available options: 6

“You should also think about signing up for an air filter delivery service,” Vocaturo says. “It's a super useful way to make sure you're changing your HVAC filters regularly. Why is that important? Because it keeps the air clean, extends the life of your system, and helps you save on energy costs.” Since Amazon has thought of pretty much everything, you can set these air filters to Subscribe & Save, so you always have a replacement when you need one. They’re a best-seller with a 4.7-star overall rating after 148,000 reviews. And since they come in a ton of different sizes, you’re guaranteed to find a perfect match.

• Available sizes: 123

Kevin McLaughlin, Owner of Heritage Exteriors, LLC, in Upton, Massachusetts, says “For tackling minor air leaks in your home, Great Stuff Spray Foam is a must-have. It’s perfect for sealing gaps around windows, doors, and plumbing fixtures, improving your home’s insulation. A can typically costs less than $10 and can quickly pay for itself in energy savings.” Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, the foam seals gaps up to 1 inch wide and dries in less than 15 minutes. Use it on wood, metal, masonry, glass, and most plastics.

Help make your home a safer space once the sun sets with this three-pack of wireless LED stair lights with a motion-activated setting. McLaughlin says, “These lights are great for safety and energy efficiency. Installing them in frequently used areas like hallways or bathrooms ensures lights are only on when needed.” They’re powered by AA batteries and are easy to install with the adhesive backing and screws.

For safety outdoors as well as in, add these solar-powered security lights to your cart. Featuring three motion-activated modes, high-efficiency solar panels, and 120 ultra-bright LEDs, each one provides wide coverage for yards, driveways, and pathways. Plus, they’re built with tough waterproof and heat-resistant materials, so they’re durable in any weather.

• Available options: 9

McLaughlin also says, “In terms of improving both functionality and cost-efficiency, switching to LED bulbs is an easy win. A pack of LED bulbs can be found for around $20 and offers better illumination while using less energy and lasting longer than traditional bulbs.” This two-pack of LED light bulbs takes things a step further by offering tailored lighting, thanks to three-step dimming. Choose from bright white and warm white options.

McLaughlin says, “Another essential product is a home surge protector [...] to safeguard your electronics from unexpected voltage spikes. Working in Massachusetts' varying climate, I’ve seen these products play crucial roles in maintaining both safety and efficiency in homes.” This outlet extender and surge protector instantly adds that protection and more power at the same time. It features five widely spaced AC outlets, along with four smart USB ports for optimized charging. The secure, flush-mount design stays put, even with frequent use, while built-in surge protection helps ensure safety for all your devices.

• Available colors: 3

Ben Connell, owner of Connell Roofing, Inc. in Massachusetts, calls this patch and seal tape is a “lifesaver.” He says, “Flex Tape or similar high-quality roof sealant tapes can be used to temporarily fix leaks and seal cracks, providing an immediate barrier against water damage until professional repairs can be made. These tapes typically cost under $30 and are essential for emergency roof repairs.” The 5-foot roll of tape can be used indoors, outdoors, and even under water for a permanent bond. Besides your roof, you can use it to temporarily patch everything from broken suitcases to awning and even pool tiles.

Keep your gutters free from debris and clogs with this gutter guard made of durable, easy-to-install plastic mesh. “Keeping gutters clean prevents water backup and ice dams during colder months, which can be crucial in areas with heavy snowfall,” says Connell. “Affordable options like the Frost King or Amerimax gutter guards [...] help reduce the maintenance effort while extending the lifespan of your roof and gutters.” No tools or fasteners are needed for installation, making this one cheap and easy home maintenance upgrade.

Should your gutters happen to gather unwanted visitors like leaves, branches, and other debris before you have a chance to install a guard, this scoop can help you clean it out. It has a high handle to help keep your hands clear of sharp edges, while the extended tongue reaches under gutter supports with ease. The scoop makes removal of debris super smooth — even when there’s buildup.

Jon Christensen, renovator and the founder of contractor matching service Bidmii, recommends microfiber cloths as a must-have home maintenance item. “These versatile cloths are great for dusting, cleaning windows, or polishing surfaces without leaving lint or streaks. They're reusable and work with just water, making them eco-friendly too.” This pack includes 12 cloths measuring a foot square for lots of cleaning power. They’re a fan favorite with a 4.7-star overall rating after more than 80,000 reviews.

Christensen also recommends keeping a cordless LED work light in your tool kit at all times. He says, “Good lighting is crucial for any project, and a rechargeable LED work light provides bright, portable illumination without the hassle of cords.” This work light clamps onto a variety of surfaces and has a rotating head, so you can angle the illumination where you need it most. You can choose from three lighting modes: high, low, and strobe.

Painting doesn’t have to be as huge of an undertaking as it may seem — especially thanks to this 11-piece paint set. Christensen says, “For small touch-ups or full room makeovers, a quality brush and roller kit is a must. Look for one with multiple brush sizes and a sturdy, reusable roller frame.” From rollers to paint stirrers and brushes, this set has everything you need to tackle your walls, furniture, or any other painting project.

For even smaller jobs, you can touch up paint flaws like a pro with these easy-to-use refillable paint pens. Fill them with your own paint for perfect color matching, and enjoy mess-free, precise application with twist-control technology. Its sealed design keeps paint fresh between uses, making it ideal for homeowners, renters, and DIYers looking to remedy scuffs on walls or trim.

Homeowners know it’s always better to be safe than sorry, which is why this Wi-Fi leak detector set is a must-have. Yan Margulis, home renovation and painting expert at Capable Group, says, “Our company suggests investing in smart water monitors which promptly detect leaks, helping prevent costly damage and wasting water.” This three-pack of water leak detectors is just what Margulis is talking about. Place them near areas prone to potential leaks (under sinks, near washing machines) and you’ll get a phone alert if they sense moisture. Then, you can remedy the situation before it gets out of hand.

Margulis also says, “I highly recommend a cordless electric screwdriver, like the BLACK+DECKER 4V MAX cordless screwdriver.” He explains, “This is a drill but not as typical; compact, lightweight, and suiting everyday tasks like the assembly of furniture or driving screws into drywall.” The screwdriver has a comfort-grip handle that can be arranged in three different positions and even a built-in LED flashlight to brighten up darker areas. And thanks to the 4.6-star overall rating, it’s clear reviewers love it, too.

“A telescoping ladder saves space and is amazing at versatility,” says Margulis. He says you can “use it for painting, the installation of lighting fixtures, and reaching the heights of a few other chores without hassle and storing it as a standard ladder.” This model can hold up to 330 pounds and is built for safety with angled feet and nonslip caps on the bottom. It extends up to 8.5 feet, then collapses to a compact 28.3 inches.

• Available options: 16

Andriy Boyko, owner of of A.O. Handy Inc. in New Berlin, Wisconsin, recommends using this four-pack of plumber’s tape because it “fixes leaky pipes around the sink, toilet, or showerhead.” Oh, and a tip straight from a pro ? Boyko recommends wrapping it clockwise for a watertight seal. Just keep it on hand for any quick repair jobs.

This under-door draft stopper is a great way to “block drafts under doors and windows to keep warm air in during winter and cool air in during summer, saving on energy costs,” says Boyko. Simply slide it under any door to offer year-round insulation and even noise reduction, too. It can be trimmed to a perfect fit.

Boyko says, “A good 8-inch adjustable wrench tackles various nuts, bolts, and fittings around the house,” making it a must-add to your home tool kit. This adjustable wrench is made from sturdy, heat-treated chrome vanadium steel for superior strength and durability and has a laser-printed scale for precise adjustments. Use it for for everything from car repairs to basic home maintenance.

• Available sizes: 6

Tackle any home project with this 10-piece socket set with interchangeable pieces measuring from 4 millimeters to 13 millimeters — each clearly labeled and stored on an individual holder. Boyko says a set like this “tackles furniture assembly, light fixture changes, and other tightening tasks.” Built from durable chrome vanadium steel, the set includes a professional ratcheting handle and an extension bar for hard-to-reach spots. A sleek storage rack keeps everything organized, too.

• Available sizes: 13