Let’s start with the most obvious one. A good-quality plunger is your first line of defense against clogged toilets and slow-draining sinks. Make sure to have both types:

An adjustable wrench is great for tightening and loosening hex-shaped nuts and fittings, especially on supply lines or under sinks. Choose one with a firm grip and smooth adjustment to avoid slipping and damaging fixtures.

This heavy-duty tool is designed for gripping and turning metal pipes. While it’s probably overkill for everyday tasks, it’s incredibly helpful for larger jobs like replacing old galvanized pipes or tightening stubborn fittings.

Also known as thread seal tape, this handy roll of white tape is used to seal threaded pipe joints and prevent leaks. It’s cheap, easy to use, and essential for connecting showerheads, faucets, or any threaded plumbing parts.

If you’ve ever tried to tighten a faucet nut under a sink, you know how frustrating it can be. A basin wrench is designed specifically for this tight space, with a long handle and pivoting head that makes it much easier to reach those tricky spots.

When a plunger won’t do the trick, a manual plumbing snake can help break up more stubborn clogs in drains. It’s especially useful for bathroom sinks, showers, and tubs that tend to collect hair and soap buildup.

Plumbing gets messy—fast. Always have a bucket and some old towels nearby when working on any part of your system. Whether you’re emptying a P-trap or catching drips, these simple items can save you a lot of cleanup.

Many garbage disposals and faucets require Allen (hex) wrenches for maintenance or repairs. Keep a basic set in your toolbox—you never know when they’ll come in handy.

While it’s great to be prepared for small repairs, some plumbing issues are best left to professionals—especially those involving gas lines, water heaters, or major pipe repairs. Attempting these fixes without the right experience can lead to bigger problems or even hazards.