12 Things Every Homeowner Needs

Buying your own home is quite a milestone, but there's a lot of work involved in maintaining it. Owning means you've got to become your own handyman—and fast. For big renovation jobs, it will probably make sense to rent equipment you don't plan on using again, but for the mundane problems that plague every house, there are several essentials you'd be a fool to do without. Read on for our list of must-haves for every homeowner.

Stretching and straining to reach the top shelf is almost asking for injury, so play it safe by keeping a stepladder close at hand. When you buy, pay attention to the ladder's load capacity; you'll want something that can support the weight of anyone who may use it. This option from Rubbermaid is a great choice for tight spaces. Not only does it give you a little extra height, but it easily folds up and out of the way. Available on Amazon; $36.45.

Related:  The Essential Toolbox—12 Tools You Can't DIY Without

A must for any toolbox, utility closet, or glove compartment, the tape measure proves itself indispensable again and again, whether you're doing some rough construction or rearranging furniture. Nowadays, even the cheaper tapes are quite accurate, and as ever, the quality models are likely to last a lifetime. Get a few, so you've always got one nearby that you can grab at a moment's notice. Available on Amazon; $32.48.

Related:  The 10 Commandments of Buying the Right Tools

Doormats do double-duty as both simple decorative elements and solutions that prevent visitors from tracking muddy shoes through your home. Look for doormats that stand up to moisture and dirt but still give your entryway a boost of welcoming style. Available at Plow & Hearth; $40.

Related:  17 Design Inspirations for Mudrooms and Entryways

Laundry day doesn't have to be a total chore. Save yourself serious time when it comes to washing clothes by sticking a double- or triple-bagged hamper in the closet. When clothes come off at the end of the day, you can immediately sort them rather than putting it off until you need to throw in a load. Available at The Container Store; $59.

Related:  8 Low-Cost Upgrades for a Hassle-Free Laundry Room

Don't be caught unprepared. A plunger will help you out of many an embarrassing moment—no plumber required. And despite what you may think, it's not just for the toilet, either. When other methods fail, a plunger can be used to help clear up a clogged drain or shower. A model like this, which comes complete with a stand, can be stored in the bathroom so anyone can discreetly clear up the problem without any drama. Available on Amazon; $8.98.

Related:  The Right Way to Plunge a Toilet

This humble hero of the toolbox may not have all the bells and whistles of a power tool, but it's sure to make nearly any home improvement project easier—from drywall repair and roofing to grouting and caulking. The sheer versatility of a utility knife makes it a must-have for any homeowner. Available at Amazon; $14.70.

For the handy home improver, few pleasures compare to the joy of a well-stocked workshop. Take a look at this roundup of some of the best and most essential tools for DIYers of every stripe, and see which items might be missing from your own home improvement headquarters.