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Best Kitchen Sinks

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Best Tool Boxes To Store All Your DIY Essentials

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Best Allen Keys For DIY and Flat Pack Assembly

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Best Putty Knife

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Best Masking Tapes for Painting With Precision

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Best Electric Screwdrivers

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Best Tape Measures

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Best Sanders To Smooth All Your Surfaces

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Best Spirit Levels To Guarantee A Flat Surface

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Best Scraper

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Best Screwdrivers

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Best Pliers

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Best Hammers For All Nail-Related DIY Jobs

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Best Telescopic Ladders To Maximise Space In Your DIY Den

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Best Step Ladders To Take You To New Heights

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Best Duct Tape for Your Toolbox

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Most of us have fond memories of our parents rummaging through the family tool box whenever anything in the home needed fixing. It could be compared to Mary Poppins' magical bag with how much was stored away in there. That's what makes a tool box so necessary.

Whether you're big into home improvement or just like to fix things yourself, they're always stocked up with the tools you need to get the job done. Plus, carrying around the plethora of spanners, screwdrivers, sockets, and hammers you own is much easier.

## The Best Tool Boxes At A Glance: {#h-the-best-tool-boxes-at-a-glance}

**Best for overall value:** Stanley STST1-75515 Low Essential Tool Box - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stanley-STST1-75515-Essential-Yellow-12-5-Inch/dp/B013ERL6KS/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for beginners:** Hi-Spec Red Home & Office Tool Kit Set - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hi-Spec-Hand-Tool-Set/dp/B08HSYMQ2M/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for professional use:** STANLEY Mobile Work Centre Toolbox - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stanley-193968-Mobile-Work-Center/dp/B001IBFEZQ/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for organisation:** MAXPOWER 16-inch Plastic Toolbox - :a[View offer on eBay]{href='https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/266191528975?chn=ps&amp;mkevt=1&amp;mkcid=28' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

However, here at What's The Best DIY we know that deciding on the right tool box for the job can be quite the minefield. It totally depends on what's fit for purpose for you. You have a lot of factors to take into consideration - for example, whether you want a toolbox that rolls or what exactly you need to store in your tool box.

Looking for a handy tool box to take the weight of your DIY dilemmas? Take a look at our list of the best down below.

## What is the best brand of tool box? {#h-what-is-the-best-brand-of-tool-box}

The best brand of tool box is extremely subjective - and ultimately it is up to you to decide what is fit for purpose. If you are an accomplished DIYer then your requirements for your tool box will differ to a beginner. But, regardless of you level of knowledge and experience there will be a tool box on the market to suit you and your DIY needs.

## How long should a tool box last? {#h-how-long-should-a-tool-box-last}

A tool box is an investment purchase and should last you a lifetime. If you buy the right tool box then you will find that you don't have to replace it. This is why it is really important to take time to contemplate the key features of a tool box and this will ensure that you make the correct decision.

## What size tool box is best? {#h-what-size-tool-box-is-best}

If you are just starting out then it's recommended that you start with a standard 40" box of your choosing. You have to bear in mind that your tool box will be moved a lot from work, home etc so a 40 x 18 box is probably the biggest you'd want to go for moving from place to place.

## What should you have in your DIY tool box? {#h-what-should-you-have-in-your-diy-tool-box}

If you're not sure you have everything or new to DIY, here are just a few tools every toolbox needs in it...

## What is the most useful tool in a tool box? {#h-what-is-the-most-useful-tool-in-a-tool-box}

Surprisingly, a utility knife or a bolt cutter will be the most used item in your tool box - this is mainly due to the fact that utility knives are used without a second thought. We recommend keeping one in your tool box and keep a second one in your kitchen drawer or somewhere that is easily accessible.

**Caitlin Evans** _is a Content Optimisation Executive with a passion for finding the best products on the market. She specialises in identifying features that make a product stand out from the rest that will help people make informed buying decisions._

Here's the thing, hexagonal screws are utilised in an array of products, these include but are not limited to tables, toilet paper holders and bikes - but one thing you need to keep handy is an Allen key. Also known as 'hex keys', these nifty little pieces of metal should be an integral part of your toolkit, whether you're a DIY expert or are just starting out.

What exactly does an Allen key do? Well, it allows you to loosen or tighten screws - and these keys or wrenches will come in a set of different sizes and will also have other subtle differences. These differences could be arm lengths, or they could be end types - and you may even find that storage cases are different too.

## The Best Allen Keys At A Glance: {#h-the-best-allen-keys-at-a-glance}

**Best for a budget:** Amazon Basics Hex Key/Allen Wrench Set - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/AmazonBasics-Hex-Allen-Wrench-Ball/dp/B0776C2D6H/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for being colour-coded:** Sealey Long Ball End Hex Key Set - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sealey-AK7190-Ball-End-Colour-Coded-Metric/dp/B01M9IKMPI/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for ease of layout:** Rolson Hex Key Set - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rolson-40345-Hex-Key-Pieces/dp/B000QF94VK/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for compactness:** Stanley Folding Hex Key Set - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stanley-269264-Folding-Hex-Pieces/dp/B002SHLR3W/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

Like any DIY supply, it can be hard to know what is going to serve you the best or be best suited to your needs. Ultimately, it all depends on what exactly you will be needing to adjust. So, as well as our guide, you will need to be confident in the DIY task at hand so you don't buy the wrong type of Allen key.

Check out some of our favourite sets below.

### **What type of material should an Allen key be made out of?** {#h-what-type-of-material-should-an-allen-key-be-made-out-of}

Ideally, the Allen keys in your :a[tool box]{href='https://www.whatsthebest-diy.co.uk/tools-equipment/hand-tools/best-tool-box/' } should be constructed from a metal such as steel, which is durable and holds its shape. If made out of plastic or soft metal, they may become worn down and eroded on the sides, thus making it harder to fit precisely into the screws and bolts.

### **Is there a difference between a hex key and an Allen key?** {#h-is-there-a-difference-between-a-hex-key-and-an-allen-key}

There is no difference - because they are the same thing! Hex keys and Allen keys are two different names for the same tool.

### **Are there different types of Allen keys?** {#h-are-there-different-types-of-allen-keys}

Allen keys really have a range of styles that can suit your DIY needs, but the most common are the L-shaped key, the T-handle key and also the ball-end key.

### **What is the most common Allen key?** {#h-what-is-the-most-common-allen-key}

The most common Allen key that many of us DIYers rely on is the L-shaped Allen key - you will find that these can be easily sourced.

### **Why does IKEA use Allen keys?** {#h-why-does-ikea-use-allen-keys}

The truth is that the Allen key and the flat packs make it possible for the furniture supplier to keep prices down without compromising on form, function or quality. Also, flat packs take up much less space than fully assembled, so this means that they can be transported cheaper from the factory to the store and then on to your home.

**Caitlin Evans** _is a Content Optimisation Executive with a passion for finding the best products on the market. She specialises in identifying features that make a product stand out from the rest that will help people make informed buying decisions._

If you are doing up your home, a putty knife can prove to be invaluable. You could be fixing a crack, or filling a hole - or you may even be building a wall. For any of these tasks you will find one tool in particular to be extremely handy. This tool in question is the putty knife.

This is a surprisingly crowded market - and there is an extensive variety of putty knives that you can purchase. However, you need to fully establish what it is that you need your putty knife for.

## The best putty knives at a glance: {#h-the-best-putty-knives-at-a-glance}

**Best for a budget:** URTOYPIA Plastic Putty Knife Set - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/URTOYPIA-Plastic-Flexible-Spackling-Wallpaper/dp/B07PPKVD3S/?tag=wtbdiy-21' }

**Best for comfort:** Stanley Dynagrip Putty Knife - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stanley-Dynagrip-Putty-Knife-654/dp/B0001IW67G/?tag=wtbdiy-21' }

**Best for removing:** Window Bead Deglazing Putty Knife - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Window-Deglazing-Chisel-Knife-Putty/dp/B0108J68IU/?tag=wtbdiy-21' }

**Best for precision:** Faithfull professional Putty Knife - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Faithfull-professional-Putty-Knife-115MM/dp/B0001IWDM4/?tag=wtbdiy-21' }

You will find that different putty knives will serve different purposes, and you need to make sure you select the right one for you. We have compiled a little list of some of the best, most versatile options for you to peruse.

### How to clean a putty knife {#h-how-to-clean-a-putty-knife}

Any tool that spreads liquids is bound to get a bit messy, which is why they may need cleaning off every now and again to allow you to create a perfect finish every time. Putty knives, in particular, can be wiped down with a wet cloth and a bit of soap to remove excess dirt. If it's pretty caked, you may want to leave it to soak for a little while or apply a special steel cleaner to get it sparkling again.

### Are plastic or stainless steel putty knives better? {#h-are-plastic-or-stainless-steel-putty-knives-better}

Plastic blades are often disposable and do not stand up well to continued use. A better-constructed blade is made from ground and polished carbon steel. However, although the carbon steel is more durable, it may rust if not properly maintained. The premium version of a putty knife blade is made of stainless steel.

### How do I choose a putty knife? {#h-how-do-i-choose-a-putty-knife}

3-Inch putty knives are perfect for use in tight areas and awkward angles. 4, 5 & 6-Inch putty knives are universal knives that are specifically ideal for picking angles, hand taping angles & covering screws and wall patches.

### Should a putty knife be flexible? {#h-should-a-putty-knife-be-flexible}

Putty knives are generally smaller, stiffer, and better suited to heavy scraping while drywall taping knives are generally wider, more flexible and better suited to spreading and feathering and to more delicate scraping work.

****Caitlin Evans**** _is a Content Optimisation Executive with a passion for finding the best products on the market. She specialises in identifying features that make a product stand out from the rest that will help people make informed buying decisions._

You can save yourself tonnes of time by simply covering any areas you want to keep free of paint with masking tape, then applying the desired colour over the top. Then, peel away the tape, and the area underneath will be good as new.

This means you spend far less time fretting over the details of the painting, and you can get a lot more done in a shorter time span. Masking tape will make sure that you keep mess at bay, and that you have a squeaky clean paint job.

## The best masking tapes for painting at a glance: {#h-the-best-masking-tapes-for-painting-at-a-glance}

**Best overall:** Frog Tape Green Multi Surface Painters Masking Tape - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/FrogTape-Painters-Masking-Multisurface-41-1m/dp/B007AS07UI/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for precision:** ScotchBlue Multi-Surface Premium Masking Tape - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/ScotchBlue-Multi-Surface-Premium-Masking-Tape/dp/B084B8351C/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for protection:** Scotch Delicate Surface Advanced Masking Tape - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Scotch-Blue-Painters-Masking-Tape/dp/B07QXLH9PL/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for bulk buy:** Northern Brothers Masking Tape for Painting - :a[View offer]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Masking-Tapes-Painting-Painters-Decorators/dp/B0895MSGVD/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}:a[]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Masking-Tapes-Painting-Painters-Decorators/dp/B0895MSGVD/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}:a[on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Masking-Tapes-Painting-Painters-Decorators/dp/B0895MSGVD/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}

Regardless of how experienced you are at painting, masking tape is an absolute necessity for most painting jobs. Masking tape gives you that really clear definition between colour transitions and keeps paint of unwanted surfaces. So if you're ready to invest in some painting masking tape, read on below for our recommendations!

### Why not just use sticky tape? {#h-why-not-just-use-sticky-tape}

Whilst it's not impossible to use sticky tape to cover spots during painting, it's not advisable. Sticky tape or duct tape can leave residues and might cause damage to the paintwork beneath them when removed, whereas masking tape is specifically designed to reduce damage. That's why using this specialist tool is much better than messing with alternatives!

### How do you keep masking tape from pulling paint off? {#h-how-do-you-keep-masking-tape-from-pulling-paint-off}

Use a putty knife or razor blade to score along the edge of the tape. This prevents paint from being pulled up with the tape and from cracking along the paint line. Taking your time, lift up the painter's tape and pull it back on itself, removing at a 45 degree angle.

### Is it best to remove masking tape when paint is wet or dry? {#h-is-it-best-to-remove-masking-tape-when-paint-is-wet-or-dry}

Tape should be removed when it feels dry to the touch, which is ideally about an hour after painting. If it still feels gummy, leave the tape on overnight and remove it within 24 hours, when it finally feels hard and dry.

### Can you tape the day before painting? {#h-can-you-tape-the-day-before-painting}

NO! The glue on painter's tape is intentionally less sticky than regular masking tape, so it will start to release a little on its own from tiny imperfections in the surface, which could allow paint to bleed under it.

The oven may be the heart of the kitchen, but you can't forget about the sink, which sees more than its fair share of use. This especially true in a busy kitchen. So, it’s important to spend time doing your research to get to see what types of kitchen sinks are available, and which will be the absolute best for your needs.

The kitchen sink you choose will depend on a number of factors – your budget, décor style, how often you use your kitchen, whether you have a big or small kitchen, and so on. Whether you’ve always had your heart set on a ceramic sink, or you’re not particularly fussed (as long as it’s scratch resistant) we’ll help you in your search for a sink.

## The Best Kitchen Sinks At A Glance: {#h-the-best-kitchen-sinks-at-a-glance}

**Best for a modern look:** respekta Alineo100 Kitchen Sink - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Respekta-Mineralite-Kitchen-Boston-20-Black/dp/B01MSJCZ70/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for smartness:** Reginox Ceramic Kitchen Sink & Waste Kit - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Reginox-RL301CW-Ceramic-Reversible-Kitchen/dp/B0050NPCJG/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for space:** Mizzo Single Bowl Rectangular Kitchen Sink - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kitchen-Sink-Mizzo-Design-installation/dp/B00EUAVP8M/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for family homes:** JASSFERRY Kitchen Sink - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kitchen-Stainless-Welding-Reversible-Strainer/dp/B06ZXW19S4/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

It can be hard to decide what type to go for with so many styles available, but thankfully, we have compiled this list to help you. Plus, if you see one you like, it gives you an excuse to do up the whole kitchen if you’re not already!

### What does a 'reversible sink' mean? {#h-what-does-a-reversible-sink-mean}

When a sink is reversible, it means that holes can be made on either side for the taps so that the customer can choose which side they want the draining board to be on.

### What type of kitchen sink is most durable? {#h-what-type-of-kitchen-sink-is-most-durable}

Stainless steel and enamelled cast iron are two of the most durable types of sink out there.

### What is the best kitchen sink that doesn't scratch? {#h-what-is-the-best-kitchen-sink-that-doesn-t-scratch}

The most stain-resistant sink is a stainless steel sink. A stainless steel sink is the most durable and low-maintenance kitchen sink as they are resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.

### What is the easiest kitchen sink to clean and maintain? {#h-what-is-the-easiest-kitchen-sink-to-clean-and-maintain}

Porcelain, ceramic and fireclay kitchen sinks are the easiest sinks to clean and maintain. This is due to their non-porous and high gloss finish makes the sinks stain-resistant and fairly easy to keep clean using normal everyday household cleaning products.

### Why does my stainless steel sink scratch so easily? {#h-why-does-my-stainless-steel-sink-scratch-so-easily}

When the material is new, it is more sensitive to scratches because of the protective coating applied by our manufacturer. So although you may see scratches in your new stainless steel sink, they will also disappear over time as the material gets more used and takes on a more matte nuance.

If you're in need of something more powerful than the :a[traditional screwdriver]{href='https://www.whatsthebest-diy.co.uk/tools-equipment/hand-tools/best-screwdrivers/' }, it might be time to invest in an electric screwdriver. A DIY must-have, whether you're a seasoned tradesman or enjoy a home improvement project, the electric screwdriver can make most DIY jobs an easy and stress-free affair compared to it's more manual, old-school companion.

The electric screwdriver can be classed as an essential companion for any avid DIYers, just because of its versatility as a tool. You can use your electric screwdriver to drive in or to remove screws of any size - and with different shaped heads on them. The only thing that makes the conventional screwdriver look inferior is the electric screwdriver, because it takes a whole lot of the hard work out of your DIY projects.

## The best electric screwdrivers at a glance: {#h-the-best-electric-screwdrivers-at-a-glance}

**Best for quick charging:** Bosch Cordless Screwdriver - :a[View on Screwfix]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bosch-Cordless-Screwdriver-Integrated-Lithium-Ion/dp/B00XI610R0/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for darker spaces:** HANMATEK Electric Screwdriver - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Electric-Screwdriver-HANMATEK-Cordless-Rechargeable/dp/B0837F9CZW/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for long battery life:** NoCry Cordless Electric Screwdriver - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/NoCry-Cordless-Electric-Screwdriver-Built/dp/B0795471QZ/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for versatility:** Kiprim Electric Cordless Screwdriver - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Screwdriver-Kiprim-Rechargeable-Adjustable-Flashlights/dp/B08PYQZWHG/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

If you're on the hunt for the best electric screwdriver for you and your next project then our handy list down below will be incredibly helpful so, why not have a little look?

### Why use an electric screwdriver? {#h-why-use-an-electric-screwdriver}

Electric screwdrivers can offer the power of a drill and precision of a manual screwdriver, all in one convenient tool. Many have interchangeable heads, making them universal and cost-effective, plus they take away a lot of the time and effort from using a screwdriver. If you're big into flat-pack furniture, we'd highly recommend getting one.

### Is it worth getting an electric screwdriver? {#h-is-it-worth-getting-an-electric-screwdriver}

One word - absolutely. here's the thing, an electric screwdriver is the best companion to a drill - this is because you don't have to spend lots of unnecessary time changing drill bits. It allows you to go from drill to screwdriver when you want to drill holes and subsequently drive in screws.

### Projects that are perfect for electric screwdrivers:

### What is the difference between a drill driver and an electric screwdriver? {#h-what-is-the-difference-between-a-drill-driver-and-an-electric-screwdriver}

So, drill drivers are known for being much more powerful and for having a longer battery life in comparison to electric screwdrivers. However, drill drivers are much heavier in tighter spaces compared to the electric screwdriver. Electric screwdrivers are much lighter and have much more manoeuvrability - but their battery life is not as long-lasting as a drill driver. So, when making a purchase you have to -literally - weigh up what is going to be fit for purpose for you.

They're a staple of DIY kits; they're durable enough to last for years and often come in both inches and metres, so they can even be used as a conversion tool. Whether you're measuring space for a new desk or even chopping the wood to build your own, a tape measure is a necessary piece of kit to have handy at home.

A tape measure will have imperial readings, metric readings or both. They are a common measuring tool used in both professional trades and simply around the home.

## Best Tape Measures at a Glance: {#h-best-tape-measures-at-a-glance}

**Best for convenience:** Amazon Brand – Umi Tape Measure - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Retractable-Professional-Measuring-Imperial-Measurements/dp/B0868MYR13/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for durability:** Lufkin Shockforce Dual Sided Tape Measure - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Crescent-Lufkin%C2%AE-Shockforce-Dual-Sided-Metric/dp/B092TQHKF4/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for professionals:** STANLEY FATMAX Classic Tape Measure - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/STANLEY-FATMAX-Classic-Blade-Armor/dp/B0001GRV9Q/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for metalworkers:** Milwaukee Magnetic Tape Measure - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Milwaukee-4932464599-Magnetic-Tape-Measure/dp/B083KJ2B5T/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

But which tape measure should you buy? We've got plenty of recommendations, with tons of different options for you depending on what exactly you care about most when it comes to tape measure specs. Read on below to find out which tape measures we recommend!

### What is a tape measure and what is it used for? {#h-what-is-a-tape-measure-and-what-is-it-used-for}

A tape measure, or measuring tape is a type of hand tool typically used to measure distance or size. It is like a much longer flexible ruler consisting of a case, thumb lock, blade/tape, hook, and sometimes a belt clip. A tape measure will have imperial readings, metric readings or both.

### Are all these tape measures retractable? {#h-are-all-these-tape-measures-retractable}

Yes! We've chosen all retractable tape measures for this list, so you don't have to worry about rolling the tape back up laboriously. Retractable tape measures like these are generally better for DIY, whereas traditional fabric tape measures are better for tailoring and sewing.

### Is a tape measure in cm or mm? {#h-is-a-tape-measure-in-cm-or-mm}

If you have a metric tape measure, the numbers should be read like this: The large, numbered markings are centimetres. There is a smaller marking exactly halfway between the centimetres for ease of reading. The smallest markings are millimetres, or one tenth of a centimetre.

### Is tape measure and ruler same size? {#h-is-tape-measure-and-ruler-same-size}

A normal school ruler is 12 inches while a typical tape measure is 300 ft. So, if your street is about a mile, you have to use the full length of tape measure about 18 times.

### How accurate is a tape measure? {#h-how-accurate-is-a-tape-measure}

To be used for buying and selling goods, a 1.82-meter (6-foot) tape should be accurate to within 0.79 millimeters (1/32 inch).

### Do you measure from 1 or 0? {#h-do-you-measure-from-1-or-0}

You start at 0 inches or 0 cm. If you start at 1, you'll always be off in your measurement by 1.

Especially on wood (although many options can be used on other materials too). Using sandpaper alone takes time, but you'll be flying with an electric or battery-powered option.

## The best sanders at a glance: {#h-the-best-sanders-at-a-glance}

**Best for easy usage**: Makita Li-Ion LXT Sander - :a[view offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Makita-DBO180Z-Cordless-Li-ion-Random/dp/B00H7ET42M?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for removing material:** Bosch Random Orbit Sander - :a[view offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bosch-PEX-Random-Orbit-Sander/dp/B0002KHIN0?crid=199GRMC204XHG&amp;keywords=B0002KHIN0?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for a budget:** Tilswall Mouse Detail Sander - :a[view offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Detail-Tilswall-Sanding-Collection-Decoration/dp/B07XB4GKKX?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for multi-surfaces:** Jellas Orbital Sander - :a[view offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Orbital-Sander-13000RPM-Variable-Collection/dp/B07RMD7XRF?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

Adding the best orbital sanders to your home improvement toolbox is a must for any avid DIYer. It’s a smart, versatile piece of kit that takes the hard work out of any project that needs some serious sanding.

An orbital sander can create a smoother, more even finish that other types of sanders will struggle to match. They are great for sanding large flat surfaces, and painted surfaces such as doors, windows and skirting boards. We have put together this helpful guide to help you choose the right sander for your needs.

## Which type of sander is best? {#h-which-type-of-sander-is-best}

The best sander is the orbital sander, also referred to as a finishing sander. This is your best option for achieving that ultra smooth finish on those larger, flatter areas. The sander can also be used for smoothing down plaster, or paint or even for smoothing down varnish in between coats.

## What are the different types of sanders? {#h-what-are-the-different-types-of-sanders}

## What is the best type of sander for beginners? {#h-what-is-the-best-type-of-sander-for-beginners}

We recommend you purchase a random-orbit sander as your first power sander. Random-orbit sanders can handle nearly any DIY task. Sure, they won't smooth gnarly wood as quickly as a belt sander or sand details like an oscillating multitool, but they can do just about anything when paired with the right sandpaper grit.

## Is it better to sand by hand or with a sander? {#h-is-it-better-to-sand-by-hand-or-with-a-sander}

Here's the thing, sanders are a brilliant piece of kit - but it can't be ignored that that final hand sand will give a much better finish than just ending with a power sander.

Whether hanging a frame or building a surface, sometimes it's crucial to know that something is level and flat. It's an easy tool to miss when initially purchasing your stuff, but it really is a lifesaver when it's needed.

Spirit levels are made from a variety of materials, including aluminium, plastic, wood, cast iron and composite materials. Users of spirit levels are categorised as professional contractors and tradesman, such as carpenters, and there are also the do-it-yourselfers, such as a homeowner.

## The best spirit levels at a glance: {#h-the-best-spirit-levels-at-a-glance}

**Best for durability:** Stanley Shock Proof Torpedo Level - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stanley-Shock-Proof-Torpedo-0-43-511/dp/B0001IW6XU?crid=VB57DVG0JJ9W&amp;keywords=B0001IW6XU/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for accuracy:** Bosch PLL 1 P Laser Spirit Level - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/BOSCH-Laser-Spirit-Level-mount/dp/B00B1QZ9IK/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for ease of use:** Firecore Small Magnet Torpedo Spirit Level - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Firecore-Magnetic-Torpedo-Plastic-Shockproof/dp/B08MT776BH/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**Best for big projects:** Spear & Jackson SL600 Spirit Level - :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Spear-Jackson-SL600-Spirit-Level/dp/B07D8YB6WX/?tag=wtbdiy-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

If you've neglected the use of a spirit level so far or your old tool is getting a little worn down, you'll want to invest in the best of the best. We've scoured the web for the best spirit levels available online from various reputable brands. Read on below to find out which ones we recommend!

## What is a spirit level used for? {#h-what-is-a-spirit-level-used-for}

A Spirit Level is a tool used to indicate how parallel (level) or perpendicular (plumb) a surface is relative to the earth. A spirit level gets its name from the mineral spirit solution inside the levels.

## Why are they called spirit levels? {#h-why-are-they-called-spirit-levels}

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