Handymen Swear By These Genius, Easy Home Hacks That You Probably Don't Know About

Walter E. Bennett of Green Leaf Air, a Phoenix-based home improvement and repair company, calls this all-in-one hole repair kit a lifesaver for renters, explaining, “It hides nail holes and wall dings in minutes — no need to call the landlord or lose that security deposit.” Use the sanding pad on the lid to prepare the surface, then apply the shrink-resistant plaster directly onto the wall, and use the putty knife edge to create a smooth finish. With a 4.5-star rating after 28,000 reviews, it’s also a clear fan favorite on Amazon.

These thick rubber ladder caps can help prevent falls by providing an enhanced grip when placed over the top or bottom feet. And Michael DiMartino, of Project Services at Power Home Remodeling, notes that they’re also great for protecting flooring when working indoors. Grab the affordable pack that includes two durable caps.

“With this hack, you can hang all kinds of long, heavy yard tools in a neat, organized, easily-accessible way,” explains Steven Corcoran of Lawn Love, who recommends this tool wall organizer. “A lot of people have very unorganized garages and sheds because space is limited. My recommendation would be to try to maximize vertical storage, and a way to do that is with a wall hanging organizer, like this one [...].” It’s constructed from durable metal and features a variety of adjustable hooks.

This foam seal is an easy-to-install insulation solution for doors and windows. Megan Doser of Doctor Fix It, an HVAC, plumbing, and electrical company based in Denver, Colorado, shares, “What makes [it] special is that it’s installed in a compressed state and then slowly expands to fill gaps, creating a super airtight and moisture-resistant seal [...].” It can also help reduce your energy bills, and even outdoor noise.

“This is a game-changer for spotting drafty windows, checking HVAC vents, or finding hot spots in wiring,” shares Walter E. Bennett of Green Leaf Air. This digital thermometer features infrared technology for precise readings and an easy-to-read LED screen. Just point and hold the trigger for quick results.

If installing a new toilet isn't an option, Lance Sinclair of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing explains that these toilet tank inserts can lower your water usage and, in turn, your water bill. Simply fill them with water, close the leakproof seals, and secure them to the inside of the tank edge to hide them out of sight.

This digital moisture meter can detect humidity in a variety of surfaces, including wood, drywall, concrete, and brick. “It’s a small investment that prevents major repairs,” explains Erwin Gutenkust of Neolithic Materials, a California-based stonework company. Simply press the metal sensors against surfaces to get an accurate reading on the bright LCD screen.

“If you’ve ever tried using your finger to smooth out caulk and ended up with a lumpy, sticky mess, you need this. It gives you perfect, pro-level caulking lines without the headache,” raves Robert Lee of Lee Air Services, an HVAC company based in Southlake, Texas. This ultra-useful, three-in-one caulking tool is equipped with a stainless steel blade, silicone trowel, and smoothing pads, so it’s designed to help you from start to finish.

If you love the fresh-air feel of an open door but can't risk letting all the bugs in, you need this magnetic screen door, according to Owen Zohar of Guardian Shield Windows & Doors of Tampa, Florida. Zohar shares, "A magnetic screen door has a breathable mesh that allows fresh air to flow through while preventing unwanted insects, especially important in humid areas[...]." This highly rated door installs effortlessly with a hook-and-loop design and features heavy-duty mesh construction.

Shantell Moya of Roof Republic, based in Houston, Texas, emphasizes the importance of protecting foundations from pooling water in order to prevent costly damage and leaks. And using these downspouts can help. Just stake them into the ground below gutter spouts and let the angled extenders take it from there, guiding water away from your home. Choose from neutral colors to match lawns, concrete, and more.

For quicker plumbing repairs, try this pipe freeze spray that Megan Doser of Doctor Fix It explains works by “[creating] a temporary ice plug inside the pipe, [allowing for repairs to be completed] without shutting off the main water supply to the entire house.” It includes a nozzle extender for precision application.

“Applied to windows, heat-reflective film reduces solar heat gain during summer and retains heat in winter, reducing cooling and heating costs respectively,” explains Alex Johnson of Man and Van Star, a relocation company based in the U.K. This window film does just that, blocking out UV rays and helping maintain indoor temperatures, while allowing you to enjoy an unobstructed view. Choose from a range of sizes and tints to suit your space.

Shreyas Sudhakar of Vayu Industries Inc., a company with expertise in air conditioning and heat pumps in Menlo Park, California, explains that these magnetic stud finders are less finicky than electronic versions and make it easy to find the ideal location to drill and nail. Simply hover it over the wall, then use the green magnets to mark the spot. And it’s so compact, you can store it in a drawer for easy access.

Andrii Gurskyi of Mr. Glazier, a New York City-based glass repair company, raves about these appliance decals, noting that they provide an easy way “[to] change the look of the kitchen, add originality, and complement the overall interior.” They’re available in a range of stylish patterns — including nature and travel scenes — and are made from thick vinyl that’s durable and easy to stick on.

“[Using] washer descaling tablets on a regular basis can significantly prolong the lifespan of an appliance and save on expensive part replacements,” shares Megan Doser of Doctor Fix It. Place one of the washing machine cleaner tablets in this 24-pack directly into the drum, then run a hot water load to clean, deodorize, and protect your appliance.

Francis Kaspar of The Chill Brothers, an HVAC company based in Texas, raves, “These odd-looking plastic pyramids? Total game-changer. You can paint cabinet doors or shelves without sticking or flipping.” These painting stands are so strong that you can use them to balance and support items weighing up to 250 pounds, like slabs of wood and stone.

Water leaks almost always lead to costly fixes, notes Carr Lanphier of Improovy, a U.S.-based painting service. That’s exactly why this under-sink mat is a must for protecting your cabinetry and flooring. It’s made from thick silicone and has high sides that can be pushed down for quick draining. It’s also a genius cleaning hack since all you have to do is give it a rinse, instead of breaking your back scrubbing the inside of your cabinet. Choose from neutral colors to match your kitchen.

“You know that moment when you're up on a ladder and drop the one screw you need? Yeah, not fun. This wristband holds onto screws, nails, and drill bits so you don’t have to juggle them in your mouth or your pockets. Trust me, it’s a must-have,” boasts Robert Lee of Lee Air Services about this magnetic wristband. Plus, it has a strong Velcro closure and can be adjusted to fit different wrist sizes.

This smart power strip can be controlled through your cell phone or home assistant, offering optimized control over your electronics. And Alex Johnson of Man and Van Star notes that it’s essential for preventing “energy vampires” from running up your power bill. Switch it off, set timers, and more — all hands-free.

Krista Peterson of Footprint Floors in Portland, Oregon, recommends keeping hardwood floor humidity levels between 35 to 55% to “[maintain] best performance and to prevent excessive expansion or contraction, which can lead to damage like gaps, cracks, warping, cupping, or buckling.” And this digital thermometer makes that simple to do since it includes a highly accurate humidity meter.

Jonathan Palley of Clever Tiny Homes, based in San Diego, California, says, “There's nothing more demoralizing on a construction project than getting finished with it and realizing that an angle is off. This is the kind of thing that can drive you nuts for years to come, even if it doesn't reflect an underlying structural issue. This is why an angle gauge [...] is a must-have for any toolbox.” This highly rated electronic angle gauge can take multi-angle measurements with a bright, easy-to-read LED screen.

Michael Campbell, of San Antonio-based SAT Stained Concrete, explains that this eight-piece brush set helps make cleaning more efficient since they’re designed to reach tight spots. The set includes a variety of brush sizes and materials, including brass, steel, and nylon, so you can clean almost any surface.

“Having the right screwdriver on hand is essential, but instead of a drawer full of mismatched ones, opt for [this multi-bit screwdriver],” suggests Jon Christensen of Bidmii, a platform for home improvements. Christensen adds, “It saves space and ensures you always have the right size.” This genius tool has a comfortable, slip-resistant handle and six double-sided bits that are effortlessly interchangeable and built-in storage for each. Not surprisingly, it also comes backed by a 4.7-star rating.

This food-grade mineral oil doesn’t just protect wood cutting boards; according to Megan Doser of Doctor Fix It, it’s also great for maintaining sinks and pipes. “By rubbing mineral oil onto the surface, you create a thin protective layer that repels water, slows down mineral deposits that cause whitish stains, and prevents brown stains from tea and coffee.” Doser also notes that pouring a small amount down drains can prevent sewer odors from rising.

Megan Doser of Doctor Fix It explains that this telescoping magnet pick-up tool “[...] lets you reach into tight or awkward spaces, and has a stronger pull rating of 10-20 [pounds], which can lift heavier items like drill bits, small wrenches, or bolts.” They’re great for even the tightest of spaces, and the pack includes three flexible tools, so you can keep one handy at all times.

“With the help of this [digital measuring tape], you can measure long distances, wall lengths, ceiling heights, and room dimensions in seconds — and it offers greater accuracy than a traditional tape measure, especially over longer spans,” shares Megan Doser of Doctor Fix It, who dubbed it an “essential tool” for DIY projects. And you’re sure to appreciate the easy-to-read digital display.

Andrii Gurskyi of Mr. Glazier explains that this multi-purpose mat is a must for protecting home surfaces, including countertops. It’s constructed from thick, heat-resistant silicone and features a grippy texture, making it ideal for placing under small appliances. Plus, the border helps keep crumbs contained.

“This gentle giant opens stuck jars in the kitchen, but more importantly, it lets me loosen rounded plumbing fixtures and other delicate components without [causing surface damage],” shares Travis Wilson of Space Maker Pro. The set includes two wrenches that feature adjustable, nonslip rubber straps and easy-grip handles.

This 50-pack of microfiber cloths is a must for tackling home maintenance jobs, like cleaning A/C vents and appliances. “Because of their fiber design, they trap way more dust and dirt than the average cloth, and at the same time, they don’t have the same risk for causing scratches,” notes Eli Zimmer of Luxaire HVAC Services. And they’re machine-washable, so you can use them over and over.

Erwin Gutenkust of Neolithic Materials calls these furniture pads “simple but indispensable,” explaining that they’re designed to protect your home’s flooring from damage. Made from thick felt, they help prevent scratching and provide a smooth glide. The peel-and-stick backings are made with a strong adhesive, offering quick and secure installation. Choose from a selection of neutral colors to match most furniture finishes.

“Outside, messy hose connections or exposed spigots look much better with a short hose bib cover or decorative hose holder, which also protects fittings from wear,” shares Patrick Sullivan of Ottawa-based plumbing company, John the Plumber. This two-pack of durable bib covers fits most faucets, providing insulation against the freezing temps — while looking sleek and keeping rust at bay.

“Trash bins are necessary but can be an eyesore if left in plain view. [This] lightweight lattice screen [...] can disguise these bins effectively,” explains Kristin Hintlian of Bonsai Builders, a home renovation company based in Massachusetts. The paneling is constructed from durable plastic that can withstand most weather conditions and is easy to install — just push the stakes firmly into the ground. It’s also great for hiding AC units and other exterior eyesores.

Brendan Anderson of Brix Systems notes that these door draft stoppers can “[...] significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.” That’s because these flexible, adhesive stoppers close the gap between doors and floors that would normally allow air to come in and out, as well as dirt, pests, and even noise. They’re available in neutral colors to match most interior paint schemes.

To refresh the look of old grout, Michael Feazel of Roof Maxx recommends this clever grout pen. The marker-like tip allows for precision application, while the water-based (and waterproof) formula offers long-lasting results. One pen is enough to complete a small to medium-sized bathroom.

According to Carr Lanphier of Improovy, slow draining is a key indicator of a clogged pipe. And unclogging it is simpler than you might imagine, especially when you use these innovative drain snakes. They’re crafted from heavy-duty plastic and feature jagged edges that effortlessly lift out hair. You get three flexible removers in a pack.

According to Michael Feazel of Roof Maxx, these LED light strips are both an “aesthetic and functional” lighting option for installing under cabinets and in closets. They’re equipped with dimmable bulbs and motion sensors for hands-free operation. Just peel and stick them to surfaces and keep them charged with the included USB cables.

“I’ve had clients replace entire sections of fencing just because the original installer didn’t properly treat the posts,” notes Jenny He of Ergeon, a home-improvement platform. He names this waterproofer stain the solution to preventing costly warping, discoloration, and rot. It’s easy to apply and fade- and UV-resistant, too.

“People assume all sealants work the same, but using the wrong one can make surfaces slippery or wear out fast,” explains Jenny He of Ergeon, who suggests using high-performance sealant. It features zinc nano-particles and UV-unblocking technology that help shield wood and concrete surfaces against weather damage.

“These adjustable pliers are like an extra set of hands. From tightening plumbing connections to assembling furniture, they grip like a champ and make quick fixes way easier,” boasts Walter E. Bennett of Green Leaf Air. The V-jaw design provides a secure grip, while the ergo handles and one-handed operation offer enhanced comfort and convenience.

Walter E. Bennett of Green Leaf Air raves about this working hands cream, noting, “[...] every contractor I know swears by it [because] it repairs dry, cracked skin fast.” The nongreasy formula absorbs quickly and seals in moisture, creating a long-lasting protective barrier for up to 48 hours. And the wide tub makes it easy to scoop out.

“I love this little gadget for adding ‘smart control’ to older homes. You can schedule lights, fans, or coffee makers straight from your phone,” explains Walter E. Bennett of Green Leaf Air, who called these smart plugs affordable, simple to use, and addictive. Simply plug them into outlets and sync them with your home assistant to enjoy the convenient features.

“Command strips are brilliant for people who rent or just don't want to damage their wall when they hang a painting, photo frame, or mirror,” explains Lee Johnson of U.K.-based Cheshire Home Upgrades. The strong adhesive clings to surfaces but is easy to remove by simply pulling the tabs downward. And when placed in each corner of a frame, they can support up to 15 pounds.

This gutter guard is easy to install and can help protect your home from damage, according to Shantell Moya of Roof Republic, who noted, “Gutters filled with leaves [can lead] to fascia rot, mold, and even leaks indoors.” The plastic material can be cut to size, but is durable enough to stand up to weather and won’t rust either. You get six guards in a pack.

Carr Lanphier of Improovy warns that obstructed dryer vents can potentially cause a fire risk. If you want to keep them clear without spending on a pro service, this dryer vent cleaner kit can help. It includes a narrow, flexible hose attachment that’s compatible with most vacuums, plus a heavy-duty brush. The lint cleaning set is a fan favorite on Amazon, too, boasting more than 34,000 perfect five-star ratings.

“[Gutters] compacted [with] debris like pine needles, dirt, and fallen leaves [...] can restrict the proper flow of water [...] and result in water damage to your roof, your foundation, and just to your home in general,” explains Carr Lanphier of Improovy. To clear them out, just use this gutter scooper — the flat, wide end and ergo handle make the job easy.

“Ever try to drive a screw inside a tight cabinet or behind a sink? This flexible [screwdriver] extension bends and twists to help you reach awkward spots,” shares Francis Kaspar of The Chill Brothers. It transmits the rotation from the drill to the end and includes 22 bits, so you’ll always have the right size.

“You’d be surprised how overlooked these are. Think, a hands-free light source wherever you look, at any time of the day, for whatever it is you’re working on,” shares Drew Mansur of TileCloud, an Australia-based renovation company. These adjustable headlamps are light and comfortable to wear and feature bright LED flashlights with six practical modes.

Michael DiMartino of Project Services at Power Home Remodeling explains that this torpedo leveler is an essential tool for mounting TVs, shelves, and more, especially since it’s equipped with strong magnets that he notes provide hands-free use. While it features a heavy-duty, shock-absorbing structure, DiMartino also warns that dropping it can reduce the accuracy of any leveler.

Kristin Hintlian of Bonsai Builders calls this window tape a “game-changer” that “makes a noticeable difference in maintaining indoor temperatures.” Simply press the ultra-sticky yet residue-free tape along window borders to create an airtight seal. And since it’s transparent, it won’t create an eyesore in your home.

“If one door is higher than the other, it throws off the entire space [but] most people do not realize the hinges are adjustable,” explains Caleb John of Exceed Plumbing and Air Con, based in Adelaide, Australia. John notes that these door hinge shims are a quick and affordable solution. Install them below the existing hinges for a leveled look. You get 10 shims in a pack.