All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Better Report may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.
Don’t let the name fool you — junk drawers actually serve a useful purpose. When carefully curated, these catch-all storage spaces are great places to keep handy items accessible, especially when they don’t have a dedicated shelf. Of course, junk drawers can quickly veer too close to their descriptor over time, so make sure you regularly clear them out and move or toss anything that isn’t useful. If you want to utilize your junk drawer to its fullest potential, consider including these helpful items.
Prices are accurate as of October 1, 2024. Subject to change.
Battery Tester
Stop wondering if there’s still life in loose batteries and confirm it with a battery tester. These small, handheld devices determine how much juice is left in a battery without recharging.
Eyeglass Repair Kit
There’s nothing more frustrating than smudged glasses and loose frame screws. Stop these problems before they start by keeping an eyeglass repair kit on hand. These tiny tools are the perfect size for performing quick at-home cleaning and repairs.
Furniture Sliders
Furniture sliders make it easy to move heavy furniture to a new location without damaging the floor — or hurting your back. They are the perfect addition to a junk drawer because you never know when the mood will strike to rearrange your house.
Goo Gone
Goo Gone can quickly solve any sticky situation, from gum on your shoe to crayon marks on the wall. This product also removes sticky residue from price tags and stickers.
Mounting Putty
Want to hang a picture without damaging the wall? You need mounting putty. These long-lasting sticky strips won’t damage hard surfaces, and — best of all — they can be reused.
Multi-Head Screwdriver
You can’t fix every problem, but you should have the right tools around to help give quick home repairs a try. Multi-head tools are a fantastic alternative to buying a complete toolset, regardless of your level of DIY experience. Add a six-way screwdriver to your junk drawer for easy access to a wide variety of screw heads that are ready to tackle any project.
Painter’s Tape
Painter’s tape is not just for creating crisp lines while painting a room. It is an incredibly versatile tool to label boxes, organize cords, and cover up potentially dangerous electrical outlets. However, its best feature is that it doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue.
Pet Hair Remover Tool
If you have a furry friend, keeping a pet hair removal tool on hand is worth it. These handheld devices fit compactly in any small drawer and are great for removing loose hair from clothing, furniture, and other household surfaces.
Stain Removing Pen
If you’re walking out the door and notice a stain on your shirt, you don’t have to perform a quick change. Keep stain remover pens, like Tide to Go, on hand to treat most stains in the blink of an eye.
Staple-Free Stapler
Staple-free staplers use minor force to hold as many as five sheets together without damaging the paper. The result? A less wasteful, more economical, and reusable solution for when you suddenly realize you need a stapler.
Featured Image Credit: eclipse_images/ iStock
More From Our Network
Better Report is part of Optimism, which publishes content that uplifts, informs, and inspires.