We say it all the time around here: Cleaning is the first step in home maintenance. We want to show you how to take care of all aspects of your home and empower you to do so. Whether you own or rent, your home is usually your largest expense. We don’t believe in “blue” or “pink” jobs around here. Just like cleaning, taking care of your home is everyone’s job. 

Everyone should have basic tools. This doesn’t mean you need to run out and buy them all today, but you should acquire them at some point. If you know someone moving out on their own or who is a first-time homeowner, a basic tool kit makes a great housewarming gift.

Beginner Tool Kit:

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1. Tape Measure (USA) (Canada). Measure twice, cut or buy once. Will your new couch fit? Don’t fall in love with something that the delivery guys can’t get in your front door or elevator. Measure your space and shop savvy so you buy something that will fit. If you want to get really fancy there are laser measuring tapes (USA) (Canada) to make the job even easier.
2. Level (USA) (Canada). Often used in conjunction with your tape measure. No one wants a crooked shelf. Trust us, you will notice, and so will others. Laser levels (USA) (Canada) are available if you want to up your levelling game.
3. Drill (USA) (Canada). A drill is needed for hanging blinds, curtains, photos and shelves. Don’t forget to include a drill and driver bit set (USA) (Canada) so you are prepared for any size hole you need to drill or any type of screw you need to install. 
4. Stud Finder (USA) (Canada). Know what you are drilling into before you hang that shelf. Newer stud finders (USA) (Canada) can not only detect wood studs but also PVC piping and wiring. Before you plan that gallery wall, make sure there isn’t anything you could damage behind the drywall.
5. Multifunction screwdriver (USA) (Canada). An all-in-one screwdriver (swap out the heads for what you need) is perfect for light jobs. Drills are great, but you can’t use them on everything. They are just too powerful or unnecessary for lighter-duty or delicate items. You should be using a screwdriver for jobs like light fixtures, light switch plates, coffee tables, etc.
6. A small folding sturdy step ladder (USA) (Canada). Perfect for hanging curtains, changing light bulbs, and reaching the hard spots to clean.
7. Plier Set (USA) (Canada). Be sure yours includes channel lock pliers, which open really wide. Have a leaky pipe? These will help you tighten leaking plumbing fittings (Remember lefty-loosey-righty-tighty) until you can consult an expert. The other pliers can be used for tasks like pulling nails or drywall anchors, appliance maintenance, etc. 
8. Hammer (USA) (Canada). The perfect tool for hanging pictures, removing nails, or assembling furniture. 

Honorable Mentions

Are these tools? Not necessarily, but they are still important to have in a home. All we know is when you need them, you don’t want to be running to the store in an emergency.

• Toilet Plunger (USA) (Canada). No explanation is needed! When things are backing up or flooding, they need to be dealt with IMMEDIATELY.
• Extension Cords (USA) (Canada) come in handy for so many things. You’d be surprised how far your vacuum or lawn mower cords may not reach. Have one on hand.
• Flashlight (USA) (Canada). When you find yourself without power, whether it’s because of the weather, rolling blackouts, or you blew a breaker, it’s good to have.
• Painter’s tape (USA) (Canada) leaves no residue and is easy to remove. Look up the hack to use painter’s tape to mark drill holes for hanging art or shelves.
• Squeeze tube caulk (USA) (Canada). For small caulking repairs around the house, you don’t need a fancy caulking gun. 
• Picture hanging kit (USA) (Canada).
• Drywall repair kit (USA) (Canada).
• Batteries (USA) (Canada).
• Utility knife (USA) (Canada). 
• Nails, screws and drywall anchors (USA) (Canada).

With this tool kit are you ready to DIY a new deck? No. But are you prepared and able to take care of small household issues and decorating? YES! This is your home, and you can take care of it. You can do this; you might even enjoy it. 

Check out our Home Renovation Guide (in digital or hard copy) if you are planning renos, building a home, or even house shopping. Our cleaning expertise will help you choose materials and fixtures that are easy to clean and will stand the test of time. 

Lana @GoCleanCo