If you only keep one, let it be a good-quality plunger – ideally one designed for toilets, not just flat sinks. So many common emergencies involve clogs: toilets not flushing properly, sinks backing up, bathroom drains gurgling. A plunger can often clear a minor blockage in minutes, saving you from panic and unpleasant mess.
Make sure you know how to use it properly. Create a good seal around the drain opening, push down gently first to expel air, then pump with firm, steady motions. After several strokes, pull up sharply and see if water starts moving. It’s not glamorous, but it’s effective.Alongside the plunger, it’s helpful to have a small adjustable wrench and some Teflon tape, but those are “nice extras.” The humble plunger is the real first-aid kit for plumbing. Store it somewhere easy to grab, not buried in a distant storeroom, because when you need it, you usually need it right now.