The most versatile hand tool I've ever owned!

It’s tough, sharp, and balanced in a way that just feels right — like it was designed by someone who actually gardens. I use it for everything from digging and dividing to ripping out clover or roots that other tools can't touch. It’s not just useful — it’s dependable.

Spoiler: the dollar store hammer didn’t make the cut.

We asked the question and built the ultimate shortlist—just the gear you’ll reach for again and again. No fluff, no filler—just the tools that actually earn their place in your drawer. It’s a smart starting point for new homeowners who’d rather fix than fumble—and if you’ve got a housewarming party coming up, this guide makes gift planning a whole lot easier.

A weed killing flame thrower?

It sounds kind of over-the-top—but also kind of awesome. I mean, it’s definitely going to take care of weeds. And I can totally see it being useful in winter too, like for melting ice on steps or walkways.

But still... it’s a flame thrower. For your yard. That just feels a little wild - in the best way.

The reviews are 🔥. I haven’t pulled the trigger on it yet, but I’m super tempted.

Quiet mornings. Powerful cuts. No gas required.

I’ve had this Greenworks 80V mower for a while now, and it’s quietly one of my favorite tools—literally. I can mow early in the morning without waking the neighbors, toss in some earbuds, and actually enjoy my music. After a few rainy days, when the grass gets extra thick, this thing still powers through like a champ. The 80V battery packs a punch, and having two is a huge win, especially if you’ve got a big lawn or other Greenworks tools in your shed.

Total Game-Changer for My Plants.

I genuinely love Miracle-Gro. It’s one of those things I tried once and immediately wondered why I hadn’t been using it all along. Within a couple of weeks, everything in my garden looked fuller, greener, and just… healthier. I’m not doing anything fancy-just mixing it in with my usual watering-but the results speak for themselves. Even plants that were struggling bounced back like they had a second chance. It’s an easy win in the garden, and honestly, I wouldn’t go a season without it now.

Every mosquito's pain is my gain!

I love being outside on a beautiful summer evening-until the mosquitoes start biting. I've tried other bug zappers before, but they were all battery-operated and just didn’t cut it. The Endbug Bug Zapper is different. I think the extra power from being plug-in is what makes the real difference. The snap-crackle-pop as it zaps bugs is oddly satisfying!

🌾Back saving crack weeder

The crack weeder your chiropractor doesn't want you to know about.

A simple but effective weeder for cracks-perfect for spaces between stones on an interlock driveway or patio, or along the edge of your house or sidewalk. I’ve used a similar hand tool for years and got great results, but as I’ve gotten older, all that bending really takes a toll on my back. This tool does the same job, but without sending me to the chiropractor afterward.

📖 Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement

I got the first edition of this book as a housewarming gift almost 15 years ago—and I still reach for it, even in the YouTube era. It’s helped me handle everything from tricky faucets to mystery electrical quirks, with clear, photo-heavy instructions that make DIY way less scary. I just bought the updated version for a family member’s new place—because if it’s been this useful for me, it’s definitely worth passing on (no algorithm required).

🧯 Saved My BBQ (and My Dignity)

Because your brisket deserves better than foam.

I had a full-blown cedar-plank salmon inferno last weekend. This blanket smothered it in seconds - and dinner was still edible. It now hangs beside my grill like a superhero’s cape. Bonus: no chemical stink.

🛠️ Complete starter tool kit

Because no one puts ‘tools’ on the housewarming registry - but they should.

When I first moved in, I had about a thousand things on my to-buy list - and a fully stocked toolbox wasn’t exactly at the top. This DEKOPRO set might not be your forever tools, but it’s exactly what I needed to get started. The drill’s surprisingly solid, and the case keeps everything tidy and easy to grab. Whether it’s hanging pictures, fixing a drawer, or just tightening up loose ends - literally - it’s got the tools that you need. A really smart buy when you’re just starting out and still want to fix things right.

🪜 The Little Ladder That Could

For when the light’s out and the big ladder isn't.

This Soctone 4-step ladder has become my go-to for quick fixes around the house. It’s way more convenient than dragging out a full-sized ladder just to change a light bulb or patch something up. It feels as easy to grab and store as a pantry stool—but with the bonus of a built-in tool platform like the big guys. I can stash everything I need up top, which saves me climbing up and down. Super sturdy too—I never feel wobbly on it. Honestly, it’s one of those things I didn’t realize I’d use this often.

🕶️ My summer safety glasses

These safety glasses are now part of my summer uniform.

I’ve been using these DEWALT safety glasses for outdoor maintenance, and they’ve quickly become my go-to. The lenses cut the glare without turning the world into a dark cave, and they hold up like you’d expect from something with the DEWALT name on it - solid, no-nonsense, and built to last. They stay put when I’m sweating, squatting, or cursing at the weed trimmer. Bonus points for looking good enough that my son stole them to use for his driving glasses. I've ordered another pair.