While you won't be doing any major renovation on your apartment (at least I hope not), things like putting up curtains, hanging artwork, or fixing a loose drawer pull are all tasks that will come up pretty often while living just about anywhere. None of these things are especially difficult to do, but they're near impossible without the right tools on hand. That's why you should start stocking a toolbox, if you don't already have one, with some useful tools that will make it easy for you to do simple jobs around the house. Here are a few of the must-haves for any apartment dweller.
- Hammer: I'm sure there is a way to get by without a hammer, but it certainly would be a pain in the butt. Every apartment dweller needs a hammer, for hanging up pictures, putting together Ikea furniture, or just for knocking various things in or out of place. A must have, no question about it.
- Level: If you plan to hang anything on the walls of your apartment, you need a level. Unless you don't care if things are askew (personally, that would drive me nuts). If you don't want the real deal taking up space, at least download an app on your phone.
- Screwdrivers: You will never run out of times in your life when you need a good screwdriver. Stock your toolbox with the Phillips and flathead varieties in a couple of different sizes so you will always have one on hand when you need it. And you will need it.
- Allen wrenches: If you've ever put together pretty much any kind of furniture (though Ikea is the biggest culprit) you know that Allen wrenches are pretty darn useful to have around the house. While many pieces come with their own tools, it can be smart to purchase your own set of all the sizes to have on hand, just in case.
- Measuring tape: Want to know if a new couch will fit in your space? Trying to space out pictures on the wall? Figure out what size blinds you need? You're going to need a measuring tape. This tool will undoubtedly be one of the most used in your toolbox.
- Stud finder: If you're the sort who wants to hang heavy things on the wall, then you absolutely have to have a stud finder. This will ensure that you can get screws into the most supportive part of the wall, and save you from having to do a lot of spackling and repair to the drywall.
- Electric drill: Can you get by in an apartment without a drill? For sure. But having one will make so many tasks around the house infinitely easier (and less time consuming) that it's well worth the initial investment.
- Pliers: Pliers may not seem like something that you need all the time, but you might find that you use them quite a bit for random tasks. They're great for pulling out stubborn nails or even just holding things in place while you tighten them. They can be helpful when trying to fix broken jewelry, too.
- Utility knife. Whether you're moving, working on a project, or just cutting some stuff, few tools are better for the job than a utility knife. It rocks for opening boxes and trimming just about any kind of household product.