Must-Have Tools for Every Renter

August 26, 2025

While living comfortably is easy at one of Hornig Companies' properties, there are some items you’ll want to keep on hand. Don’t worry – you don’t have to shell out a ton of money for an expensive toolkit – instead, leave that to our talented maintenance team.


Take a look at what we suggest every renter have at the ready, for all that life throws your way.


1. A Plunger

Every renter should own a good-quality plunger - it’s the first line of defense for a clogged toilet or sink. Often, a minor blockage can be resolved in seconds with a plunger, saving you the time of submitting a work order and the stress of waiting. Remember, never use chemical drain cleaners.


Not only are they usually ineffective, but they can also burn skin, damage pipes, and make the issue worse. If plunging doesn’t work, submit a maintenance request and let the pros take it from there.


2. Flashlight(s) and Batteries



Don’t get caught in the dark. Whether it’s a storm-related outage or a late-night trip to the laundry room, a flashlight is a must-have for safe, stress-free navigation. Bonus points if you choose a rechargeable model or keep a fresh stash of backup batteries nearby.


Nothing ruins a good night’s sleep like the piercing chirp of a dying smoke alarm battery. Most units require a 9-volt battery, and it’s much easier to swap it yourself than to wait for maintenance. Keeping extra AA or AAA batteries around will also come in handy for remote controls, flashlights, clocks, and other small essentials.


3. A Cooler

While you may think of a cooler as something you bring camping or to a sports game, it can come in handy at home! Having one around is a lifesaver during summer heat waves, power outages, or appliance failures. A cooler can keep your food safe from spoilage if your fridge or freezer unexpectedly goes out, or if the power is down for a few hours.


4. A Trash Can With a Lid

You might be surprised by how many issues trash can bring to your apartment. Many people don’t think about getting one with a lid, but it makes all the difference. Keeping your garbage in a container with a lid (especially in the kitchen) keeps odors down and pests away. Regularly emptying it, especially in warm months, will help keep your space clean, safe, and smelling fresh. You can also put a few drops of your favorite essential oil on a cotton round in the base of your trash can to provide the space with a delightful scent.


5. A Vacuum

Whether you have plush carpet or beautiful hardwood floors in one of our Brownstone buildings, regular sweeping or vacuuming makes a big difference in your home’s cleanliness - and your overall comfort.

Pet owners and allergy sufferers will especially benefit from regular floor cleaning. If you’re tight on space or budget, a handheld or stick vacuum can get the job done without taking up your whole closet.


We Have Your Back

At Hornig Companies, we pride ourselves on taking care of the big stuff. Our skilled maintenance teams are on-site daily, performing repairs, preventative maintenance, and 24/7 emergency response. All we ask is that you help take care of your home with the simple supplies listed above. It’ll make your apartment more comfortable - and help you get the most out of your time here.

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