10 tools I bought once that save me money every year

10 tools I bought once that save me money every year

When you think about saving money, tools might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But a few smart buys can pay for themselves over and over again. Instead of hiring someone for small jobs or buying disposable versions, investing in the right tools means you handle things yourself-and the savings add up year after year.

These are the tools worth keeping on hand if you're serious about cutting long-term costs.

Cordless Drill

A cordless drill is one of those tools that pays for itself the first time you use it instead of calling someone else. From hanging shelves to building furniture, it saves you from service charges and lets you tackle jobs on your own.

The batteries last for years if you care for them, and once you have a drill, you'll find a hundred uses for it. It's a one-time buy that keeps you from paying for small handyman visits.

Wet/Dry Shop Vac

A shop vac might not seem like a money-saver at first, but it saves you from renting carpet cleaners, hiring professionals for small floods, or constantly replacing household vacuums.

You can use it for sawdust in the garage, water leaks, and even deep-cleaning cars. That versatility means you won't have to spend on other specialty cleaning tools.

Pressure Washer

Hiring someone to power wash your siding, driveway, or deck can cost a few hundred dollars a year. Owning your own pressure washer means you can do it anytime for the cost of water and electricity.

It also helps you maintain your property better, which prevents costly repairs down the road. Once you own one, you'll realize how often it comes in handy.

Ladder

It's easy to underestimate how much a ladder saves you until you have one. Whether you're cleaning gutters, painting, or changing light fixtures, a sturdy ladder keeps you from paying someone else for easy-to-reach jobs.

Instead of scheduling help, you can do it yourself in minutes. It's a tool you only need to buy once, and if you buy a good one, it'll last decades.

Basic Plumbing Kit

A plumbing kit with a pipe wrench, plumber's tape, and a plunger can save you from hundreds in service calls. Many household plumbing fixes are simple once you have the right tools.

Stopping leaks early and handling small clogs keeps you from facing bigger, more expensive problems. The upfront cost is low, but the savings add up quickly.

Socket Set

Car repairs and furniture assembly are two places where a socket set saves money fast. Instead of paying someone to handle small maintenance, you'll have what you need to do it yourself.

A decent set lasts forever, and you'll find yourself reaching for it more often than you expect. It's one of those purchases you won't regret.

Lawn Mower

If you've been paying for lawn services, owning your own mower changes the game. Even a budget-friendly push mower pays for itself in a season or two compared to hiring help.

Taking care of your own yard gives you control over timing and upkeep, and the savings roll in year after year.

Sewing Kit or Machine

Small clothing repairs don't need a tailor if you have a good sewing kit or machine. Fixing a torn seam, replacing buttons, or hemming pants saves you from buying new clothes or paying for alterations.

It's a low-cost investment with a big payoff, especially if you've got kids who wear through clothes quickly.

Tool Set with Hammer and Screwdrivers

A basic tool set may seem obvious, but it's shocking how many people don't own one. Hiring someone for minor fixes like loose hinges or picture hanging adds up.

Having a set on hand lets you tackle those jobs yourself for free. Once you own one, you'll wonder how you lived without it.

Chainsaw or Pole Saw

Tree trimming and limb removal services are expensive, often running a few hundred dollars per visit. A chainsaw or pole saw means you can handle small tree work safely on your own.

It not only saves money but also helps you stay ahead of potential damage from overhanging branches. Buy it once, and it keeps paying you back every year.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.