Handymen Say These Clever, Cheap Things For Your Home Are Life-Changing

Iurii Kozak, a home renovations contractor and founder of Kozak Renovations, calls this self-closing door hinge “one of the most underrated but actually life-changing home improvement items.” Kozak says it’s “very easy to install; you just remove your existing hinges and replace them with this spring-loaded mechanism that quietly and efficiently shuts the door.” This helps with “home security, energy efficiency, and overall convenience.” You can buy them in satin nickel, matte black, or oil-rubbed bronze.

According to Kozak, “This self-adhesive, waterproof caulk tape [...] is a truly mess-free caulking option. It is particularly good for sealing gaps around bathtubs, sinks, and countertops, effectively keeping water from causing damage and from growing mildew.” It’s quicker and more convenient to install than traditional caulk, and adheres to any angle. Simply peel it off and stick it on.

“For fixing scuffs and scratches on wooden surfaces,” Kozak recommends these furniture and floor repair makers. “Rather than sanding down and refinishing,” he says, “these markers quickly hide the blemishes [...] Just a few swipes, and the wooden surface looks good as new; a brilliant little addition that extends the life of very expensive furniture and flooring.” They come in six different natural wood colors.

Kozak says this drain protector is “a must-have for homeowners wishing to prevent expensive plumbing disasters. “[It] sits inside the drain and traps hair before it clogs pipes. Unlike other traditional drain covers, which often allow smaller strands to drop through into the drain with no obstruction, [its] unique design prevents hair from accumulating.” Its stainless steel material is built to last, and Kozak isn’t the only fan — it has over 47,000 others on Amazon who’ve given it a five-star review.

According to Kozak, this weatherstrip seal “represents low price but high power in the arena of improving insulation for homes,” noting that it “seals gaps around window and door edges so as to eliminate drafts and reduce energy costs. Especially in older homes, this tape has proven its usefulness to seal air escapes which add to inefficient heating and cooling.” Even in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit, it won’t crack or freeze.

“These brush attachments convert any drill into a powerful cleaning tool,” says James Collins, founder of Pure Home Garden. “They have saved hours of scrubbing bathrooms, grout lines, and outdoor furniture. What would take 30 minutes of arm-straining labor now takes five minutes with minimal effort. This makes deep cleaning easier for homeowners.” Choose between six colors — each nylon brush color has a different bristle strength to tackle all types of jobs.

“No matter how strong someone is, these [furniture sliders] make it possible to effortlessly move furniture around heavy carpet and hard floors without scratching the surface or straining,” says Collins. “The need for several people and professional movers has been eliminated for rearranging spaces.” Not only will these felt sliders give your upper body a break, but your floors will stay free of scuffs. You can buy them in a variety of sizes and quantities.

“This tool with an LED light and a powerful magnet saves countless hours recovering dropped screws in tight spaces, behind appliances, or in HVAC vents,” says Collins. “This tool turns potential renovation disasters into quick fixes and prevents costly professional calls just to retrieve a misplaced item.” Five bright LED bulbs help you see what you’re doing. Plus, it easily holds up to 5 pounds at a time.

This security reinforcement lock “dramatically [increases] security without replacing the door or installing a security system,” says Collins. “It can withstand up to 800 pounds of force, turning a standard door into a fortress-level barrier against forced entry. The peace of mind it provides is life-changing.” Its satin nickel finish looks high-quality and chic. Plus, it comes with three screws for installation.

According to Collins, these outdoor smart plugs “have revolutionized irrigation systems and landscape lighting with programmable scheduling and smartphone control. Now, expensive landscape lighting systems are no longer needed because these plugs provide the same functionality.” They’re compatible with Alexa and Google Home. You can also set a schedule or timer to turn them off and on.

Collins has a passion for sustainable gardening, so he recommends this soil moisture meter. He says it saves “countless plants from both over- and under-watering. It measures soil moisture at the root level which is accurate, meaning the guesswork is gone and lowering water waste is possible.” Using a “science-based watering approach,” says Collins, you can help your garden thrive. Available in two sizes, it only requires less than five minutes in your soil.

Multiple Redditors are obsessed with this cross-line laser level — one explained that it majorly speeds up the process of hanging lots of pictures or a TV. It casts laser lines vertically, horizontally, or in a cross-hatch pattern, making it easy to see exactly where you want to mount things. It even has a magnetic bracket if you want to secure it to a metal item for foolproof use.

“[This] door stopper alarm acts as both a doorstop and an alarm system,” says Qian. “It’s a great way to enhance security in your home, especially when traveling or staying in unfamiliar places.” If an intruder tries to come in, it’ll ring at a volume of 120 decibels, which is the same level as a jet plane taking off. There’s nothing you need to set up or install — just place it behind your door.

“Spray bottles for cleaning solutions are versatile for various surfaces,” says Qian. “They can help you mix and use homemade or store-bought cleaning solutions efficiently.” These bottles have leakproof lids to prevent drips and spills from accumulating under your sink or in your cabinets. With their adjustable nozzles, you can customize them for any cleaning job.

“Cut-resistant gloves provide safety when working with sharp materials or performing rigorous tasks around the house,” says Qian. Their super strong material is made of polyethylene, spandex, and fiberglass. This makes them four times stronger than leather, according to the brand, keeping fingers and hands protected while you chop. Plus, they’re ambidextrous, so righties and lefties can use them.

“A self-leveling crack filler is easy to apply and creates a waterproof seal that keeps moisture out,” says Aaron Lipman, owner of Two Brothers Foundation Repair. He warns that “Cracks in driveways, patios, or garage floors may seem minor, but they allow water to seep in, leading to erosion and foundation issues.” Luckily, “homeowners who use this early on can avoid expensive concrete repairs down the road.” After being set, it only takes between 30 and 45 minutes to be foot-traffic-ready.

“Gutter guards keep leaves and debris from accumulating, ensuring proper drainage year-round,” says Lipman. “Clogged gutters cause water to overflow and pool around a home’s foundation, which can weaken the soil and lead to structural movement,” he says, so “installing [these] prevents foundation erosion.” Each guard is 20 feet long, and you can easily cut them down for a custom fit.

According to Lipman, these “foam backer rods help fill [gaps] before applying caulk, creating a stronger and more flexible seal. This simple fix keeps moisture out and extends the life of concrete surfaces.” Use them indoors or outdoors for a smoother application every time. By filling joints, it can help better prevent drafts and dust accumulation.

“Expandable spray foam quickly fills [gaps], creating an airtight and waterproof seal,” Lipman advises. “It helps improve energy efficiency while preventing water damage in hard-to-reach areas.” This is especially beneficial because “small cracks and openings around windows, doors, and pipes allow moisture and air leaks, which can lead to mold and energy loss.” One bottle covers up to 20 boards.

Andriy Boyko, founder of AO Handy, recommends this multipurpose glue for a wide variety of repair jobs. It “can be molded into any shape and hardens into a durable, rubber-like material,” he says, calling it “perfect for fixing broken handles, sealing cracks, and even creating custom grips. Truly a game-changer!” It dries within 48 hours, so your stuff will be fully fixed in no time.

Boyko calls this floor adhesive “an easy way to fix loose or hollow tiles without the hassle of removing them. Just inject it under the tile, and it bonds permanently. [This] saves homeowners from costly tile replacement.” Its extra strength formula works on most materials, including marble, wood, and stone. Two arrive per purchase.

“These [nonslip furniture pads] prevent sliding and protect floors from scratches,” says Boyko. “A simple but highly effective solution for keeping furniture securely in place.” Heavy couches and chairs will stay put. Each pad has three layers for serious strength and grip. Use them on hardwood, linoleum, concrete, and more to prevent scuffs.

Boyko calls this plastic scraper “one of those simple but genius tools,” adding that it’s “perfect for getting rid of gunk, sticker residue, and grime without scratching surfaces. It’s like a supercharged fingernail — small but mighty.” Its narrow design fits in hard-to-reach spots. Plus, it’s just 6 inches long, so you can keep this clever two-sided device in your bag or car for repairs on the go.

“This is more than just a can opener,” says Boyko — “it’s also a knife sharpener and bottle opener. If you’ve ever struggled with opening taller cans, this one has you covered. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference in the kitchen.” Its one-touch design opens any can with just the press of a button. A wide base keeps it stable on your countertop.

Denys Schwartz, civil engineer and founder of ConstructionFront.com, recommends this cord reel “for keeping your space organized and clutter-free,” noting that “Instead of tangled cords lying around, this reel automatically retracts the cord when not in use, keeping it neat and out of the way.” Schwartz mentions it’s great for plenty of rooms, from workshops to home offices. And it has four grounded power outlets and two ports for USB devices.

If you’ve “ever stubbed your toe in the dark,” says Schwartz, these “under-bed LED lights solve that problem.” They’re “energy-efficient, only turning on when movement is detected, and they create a warm, ambient look that adds a touch of luxury to your bedroom.” They sense motion up to 16 feet away and turn on by themselves. Great for beginner DIYers, they’re easy to install and set up.

“A magnetic screen door is one of those upgrades you don’t realize you need,” says Schwartz. “It allows fresh air to flow in while keeping bugs out, making it perfect for warm-weather months. The hands-free design means you can walk through easily, even when carrying groceries or a laundry basket, and it closes automatically behind you.” It’s also great for families and outdoor gatherings, since pets and kids can easily come inside.

“A wireless doorbell with a built-in video camera adds security, convenience, and peace of mind,” says Schwartz. “With real-time video and two-way audio, you can see and talk to visitors from your phone — whether you're home or not. This means you’ll never miss a delivery, and you can screen unexpected visitors before opening the door.” It comes with a screw mounting kit for a stress-free installation, and has also earned itself a noteworthy overall score of 4.8 stars on Amazon.

According to Schwartz, “Gap fillers are a simple but life-changing solution that keeps those hard-to-reach spaces clean and clutter-free. Made from heat-resistant silicone, they fit snugly into the gap, preventing food, dust, and liquids from accumulating. They’re easy to install, remove, and clean, making kitchen maintenance so much easier.” At 21 inches long, they’re designed to be cut down for a perfect fit. You can buy them in five color options.

Andy Beery, owner of foundation repair and home repair company Acculevel, recommends an electric scrubber since he believes a “clean basement or crawl space is crucial for preventing mold and mildew growth.” This spinner is great for cleaning plenty of surfaces, both on the interior and exterior of your home. “With multiple replaceable brush heads and adjustable settings, it effectively cleans various surfaces, including tiles and grout,” Beery says. “Its ergonomic design reduces strain, making it a valuable tool for homeowners.”

According to Beery, this hardware and craft cabinet “provides ample space for storing screws, nails, and other small items. Its clear drawers allow for easy identification of contents, streamlining repair tasks and reducing time spent searching for tools.” With 44 drawers, it keeps you more organized than ever. In your newly clutter-free space, it’ll be way easier to get stuff done.

“This wristband is embedded with magnets, perfect for screws, nails, drill bits, and small tools,” says Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and owner of airconditionerlab.com. “Before, I'd waste around 15-20 minutes every project picking things up or fishing hardware out of my pockets. Now, it's all right on my wrist, and I finish quicker and without frustration.” With 10 strong magnets, it keeps your home repair essentials within reach.

One Redditor calls this retractable saw blade “epic” — and you just might agree. It looks a lot like a utility knife but boasts a serrated edge that saws through wood, plastic, and other materials. Use it for DIY jobs around the house or even crafting projects.

“Drywall can be deceiving,” says Erwin Gutenkunst, president and founder of Neolithic Materials, so he recommends this stud finder. “Hitting a stud is the difference between a secure installation and something crashing down,” he says. “This little tool saves so much time and frustration compared to knocking on the wall and guessing.” It calibrates automatically, and its bright LED is easy to read.

Kyle Shirley of Sol Vista Roofing in Colorado called Mor-Flexx textured caulk “a shockingly good product for repairing cracked or failing mortar.” He continued, “It's great for simple DIY repairs to cracked driveways or brick mortar. We use it often for repairing broken mortar on chimneys!” Offering a mortar-like texture, this caulk is stretchable for easy application. Plus, it’s weatherproof.

“I’m loving these sleek power bars because they lay flat against the outlet to keep visual bulk to a minimum,” says Andrew Bates, COO of Bates Electric. “With a low profile, you can hide it behind furniture without bending or damaging the cord and gain a few extra outlets — we all need far more of them than we used to.” You don't need any tools to install it; just plug it in like your other devices.

“Wireless remote outlets are relatively inexpensive and incredibly useful,” says Bates. “You don’t need to invest hundreds or thousands into building a smart home with every bell and whistle — these are simple remotes without complicated wiring or installation.” He especially recommends them for “controlling hard-to-reach lamps, fans, holiday lights, and small appliances.” If the power goes out, they’ll stay off to protect your devices. They also have a signal of up to 100 feet.

Walter E. Bennett, a handyman and HVAC technician at Green Leaf Air, recommends these motion sensor lights “under cabinets, in closets, or along stairways.” They’re cordless to avoid any hassle, and can help prevent accidents. “Plus, they’re rechargeable, so no fussing with batteries every other week,” Bennett adds. They detect motion from up to 10 feet away and turn on automatically.

According to Bennett, “these [heavy-duty tape strips] hold up to 10 pounds. I’ve used them for outdoor lights, tools in the shed, even a mailbox once. [They’re] great for renters who don’t want to lose their deposit over a few holes in the wall.” When you buy, you’ll receive 16 feet of tape. It sticks to most surfaces, including plastic, glass, and metal.

With this expandable garden hose, there’ll be “no more wrestling heavy rubber hoses,” says Bennett. “This lightweight sucker expands when in use and shrinks back down to store easily. Doesn’t kink, doesn’t twist, and it’s easy on the back. Makes watering plants or washing the car less of a workout.” It’s made of sturdy, durable latex. You can stretch it up to three times its original length.

“This silicone mat catches drips and drains right back into the sink,” says Bennett. “[It] stops water damage and mold from building up on your countertop. Super easy to clean, and you’ll wonder why they didn’t make these sooner.” Its sloped design lets water out quickly, so it’ll dry fast. You can also use it as a sponge holder and soap dish. It’s available in black or gray.

Kathryn Emery, a home improvement expert with Be The Best Home, raves about this twist-and-seal cord protector. Its weatherproof material protects against rain, snow, and animal attacks. “Homeowners sometimes forget about unpredictable weather when working on outdoor projects,” she says, “and can forget to protect their outdoor power cords for power equipment, lighting, even string lights in the backyard. [...] this easy gadget keeps the family safe.”

“These water-activated bags absorb and swell on contact with water to create a durable barrier against flooding and water damage,” says Emery. “No more scurrying to the store at the last minute when unpredictable weather comes around.” With these on hand, you’ll be ready for anything. They activate in under 10 minutes, and their tough outer casing won’t wear away over time.

“These [water leak detectors] alert you to leaks before they become major problems,” says Brendan Anderson, roofer and founder of Brix Systems. “Place them under sinks, near water heaters, and in basements. Early detection can save you thousands in repairs. They are cheap insurance against expensive water damage.” At up to 100 decibels, which is comparable to a jackhammer, their alarms can be heard from any room in the house.

One Redditor swears by this deep-clean brush set, calling it an “everyday carry” that they always keep in their bag. The set includes a larger brush for bigger cleanup jobs and a smaller detail brush complete with a wiper blade to dislodge dirt. Use them on grout, stovetops, sink fixtures, and more.

Jim Marino, CEO of Pinnacle Home Improvements, is a huge fan of this window cleaning set. “Dirty windows reduce natural light and make your home look dull,” he says. “With this professional-grade cleaner, you [can] leave windows crystal clear and with very minimal effort, instantly making your home look shiny and appealing.” Each kit comes with an extendable pole and four different scrubbers.

“Stylish, affordable home address numbers are an easy way to elevate curb appeal and make your home stand out,” says Marino. These have a solar sensor that turns their lights on after dark. They come with four sets of numbers and one set of letters. They’re made of durable ABS plastic, and you can buy them in either daylight white or warm white.

Kyle Shirley, owner of Sol Vista Roofing, says, “If you think you might have a leak behind a wall in your home, this can help find if there is hidden moisture.” Shirley explains that this moisture meter can help detect water “hiding behind wood or drywall,” helping to locate any potential problems before they get out of hand. The battery-operated device even works with masonry, sensing moisture up to 0.75 inch deep.

Hardwood floors are an investment, so if you’re looking for a way to keep them in good condition, John Wilson, owner of Wilson Plumbing and Heating has a suggestion: “My best tip for preventing damage to hardwood floors is to use area rugs in high-traffic areas. They protect the floors from scuffs and scratches while adding a nice touch to the decor.” Not only is this area rug a protective aesthetic upgrade, but it’s practical, too, since you can wash it in your home machine. It comes in a variety of shades and sizes, so you can find a perfect fit for your space.

• Available sizes: 7
• Available colors: 13

“For walls, I recommend using removable adhesive hooks [...] so you can hang things easily and take them down without leaving marks,” Wilson advises. These hooks are a best-seller on Amazon with a 4.5-star overall rating after 45,000 reviews. The adhesive-backed hooks are made with stainless steel and plastic and can hold up to 13 pounds of weight each.

Stop right there before you nail or drill into your wall; Steve Thomson, founder of the Guild of Handymen, says, “A decent stud finder is worth its weight in gold. Lots of people feel they can do basic jobs around the house— like hanging pictures, putting up a shelf, and things like that — but when you’re putting anything into a wall, you’ve got to make sure you’re using the right fixings and, perhaps most importantly, not going to put a nail or a drill bit into an electrical cable.” This stud finder scans the wall to find both studs and wires, ensuring you can get a secure, stable fit for whatever you’re hanging — with less risk, too.

“You might not think a handyman would say this – but sticky hooks for hanging pictures are my favorite wall-saving hack,” says Thomson. “Give the wall a clean before they go on and they’ll stay up for years and years. If you do want to move or remove pictures, mirrors, or anything else, most have little tabs you can gently pull to release the adhesive — so no paint damage to worry about, and no nail holes to fill in and paint. Just make sure you use ones that are going to carry the weight you need.” These Command strips are a great option, boasting a 4.6-star overall rating after 28,000 reviews. They work on a variety of smooth surfaces including painted walls, metal, wood, tile, and concrete.

Deepak Shukla, CEO of PL Repairs, a home repair service in Ottawa, says, “Corner guards are something that every homeowner needs to keep from getting nicks, which add up eventually, especially with children or pets around. They protect walls and edges from dings that accumulate over the long run.” These corner guards are made from soft and flexible silicone, and backed with adhesive for a secure, no-budge fit. The clear design means they won’t even be noticeable.

Shukla calls a cordless drill his favorite time-saving trick. “It makes everything from the installation of shelving to hanging heavy fixtures quicker,” he explains. This BLACK+DECKER cordless drill is a fan favorite on Amazon where it’s earned a 4.6-star overall rating. It’s lightweight and compact to fit into tight spaces, and the built-in light makes visibility easy in low-light areas.

“And as for unusual gadgets,” Shukla says, “we prefer using magnetic screwdrivers that help out in tight spots, especially when working on outlets or cabinets. It's a relatively inexpensive investment that makes a lot of difference in preventing damage when doing repairs.” Indeed, the magnetic design helps enhance safety and convenience, gripping hardware with less risk of it falling away. The set includes a wide range of screwdirvers: Philips, slotted, precision, and more. Everything comes packaged in a convenient storage case.