Thinking of joining the homesteading community? Before you start cultivating your own land and growing your own food, there are some fundamental tools that every homestead needs. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top picks for essential homesteading tools that have become an integral part of my daily routine. From small-scale to large-scale operations, these versatile tools can be adapted to suit any homesteader’s needs.
So, let’s dive in and explore the must-haves every homestead should consider.
Kitchen Homesteading Tools
Bread Machine
I confess, I often rely on my trusty bread maker to save the day. While I do have moments where I can dedicate time to kneading dough by hand, many days are spent juggling priorities and sacrificing precious minutes for more pressing tasks. Thankfully, this clever appliance has become an indispensable ally in my kitchen, freeing me from the need to rely on store-bought loaves and empowering me to tackle a wide range of baking projects.
But what truly sets it apart is its ability to excel beyond just bread-making, effortlessly producing scrumptious cinnamon roll dough, delectable jam and jelly concoctions, crispy pizza crusts, and addictive pretzels. If you’re considering taking the leap into the world of bread making, I wholeheartedly encourage you to do so – the benefits are well worth the investment.
A Blender
While I’m no health enthusiast living off smoothies, my blender is an indispensable tool in my kitchen. It’s perfect for whipping up homemade tomato soup using fresh canned tomatoes. But that’s not all it’s good for – one of its most impressive uses is making homemade laundry detergent, a surprisingly easy recipe that the blender helps to mix and blend with ease.
Its capabilities don’t stop there; it’s also a master of chopping, mixing, and blending, which I’ve taken full advantage of by even treating myself to a red model because, let’s face it, every kitchen needs a pop of color. And if you thought that was all, think again – my blender is also a milkshake-making machine, churning out creamy and delicious treats at a moment’s notice.
Handheld Mixer
I’m absolutely smitten with my trusty handheld mixer! Its practicality is one of the main reasons I adore it. As we’re still in the process of renovating our home – which has been a work-in-progress for almost five years now – storage space remains at a premium. Luckily, this nifty device slips seamlessly into a drawer, freeing up valuable real estate in my kitchen. Another reason I’m hooked is the variety of attachments that came with it.
As someone who’s more comfortable mixing with a wooden spoon, I needed to be thoroughly impressed by a hand mixer. And this one exceeded my expectations! It includes a bread hook, whisk, and standard beaters – making it an invaluable tool for any baker. In fact, I use it specifically when baking because what kid doesn’t cherish the memory of licking the beaters after mom’s done whipping up a batter? As a mom myself, I want to create those same warm, fuzzy feelings with my own little ones.
Having this mixer in my kitchen brings me joy and adds a pop of color to an otherwise dated space – making it more than just a useful tool.
Mason Jars
I’m utterly enamored with Mason jars. If there were a support group for enthusiasts like me, I’d be an avid attendee. These versatile containers have won my heart – and my kitchen. I’ve taken the plunge and replaced my outdoor light fixtures with Mason jars, and some of my indoor ones too. I’ve even transformed them into salt and pepper shakers and store my spices within their airtight confines. This is merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to my extensive use of Mason jars in my kitchen.
Canning is another passion of mine; I relish preserving fresh produce, ensuring I’m aware of every ingredient that goes into each jar. My kitchen has become a veritable treasure trove of Mason jars, and their adaptability knows no bounds. If you’re on the lookout for more affordable options, scouring online yard sale sites can yield a bounty of Mason jars at discounted prices.
Canisters
In a kitchen with limited storage space, having a designated area to store essential ingredients is crucial. As someone who abhors clutter and unwanted pests, canisters are my go-to solution for maintaining a tidy and organized space.
I utilize my canisters to store an array of dry goods, including various flours, cornmeal, and sugar – the latter being in ample supply due to our bee-keeping endeavors.
Glass canisters are my preference, as they not only simplify cleaning but also allow me to visually monitor contents.
The beauty of canisters lies in their versatility; you can either craft your own or purchase them from a store. The ones I use have withstood the test of time, serving me well for years and enabling me to whip up countless delectable treats.
Pie Plate
As a self-proclaimed ‘pie lady,’ I’m thrilled to share my enthusiasm for these sweet treats with you. Once I mastered the art of crafting the perfect pie crust, I was hooked. The key to creating a stunning pie, however, lies not just in the crust itself, but also in the right pie plate. A circular, glass dish is all it takes to elevate your pie game.
I used to struggle with pie plates featuring handles that made it challenging to shape my pies, but since switching to this sleek, handle-less design, life has been a whole lot easier. Not only does it simplify the process of trimming excess crust from the edges, but it also allows me to focus on perfecting my pie-making skills.
From classic cherry and apple pies to more adventurous creations like coconut cream and vinegar pies, I’m convinced that with the right tools, anyone can become a pie aficionado. And who knows? Maybe this post will inspire you to dive into the world of pie-making yourself.
Measuring Cups And Apron For Baking
I’ve recently been on a baking frenzy, but that’s not unusual for me as my kids are sweet-tooths at heart and it’s a budget-friendly way to indulge them. When I’m in the midst of a baking spree, be prepared for flour to fly everywhere! Believe it or not, I only discovered the art of baking as an adult. Growing up, I thought baking was simply about mixing together a boxed cake mix.
However, after having my own kids and diving into homesteading, I began teaching myself how to cook and bake through online resources. One crucial lesson I’ve learned is that having the right equipment makes all the difference. And let’s not forget the importance of protecting your clothes – you don’t want to emerge from the kitchen looking like a giant powdered doughnut!
When it comes to measuring cups, I’m a fan of metal ones, which hold up well and may cost more upfront but rarely need replacing. As for aprons, comfort and coverage are my top priorities. Over the past five years, I’ve experimented with various types and have developed some favorite go-to’s, as well as trusty measuring cups that have stood the test of time.
Pressure Canner
As a self-proclaimed canning enthusiast, my passion for preserving food has only grown stronger over the years. It all began when my mother-in-law started teaching me the art of canning about 5-6 years ago. Since then, it’s become an integral part of my summer routine, gathering family and friends in the kitchen to transform seasonal goodies into long-lasting treasures.
While it’s undoubtedly a labor-intensive process that requires patience and elbow grease, there’s something deeply satisfying about watching jars fill up with perfectly preserved fruits and vegetables. The best part? Knowing that our winter meals will be warm, nourishing, and always within arm’s reach. To further fuel my enthusiasm, I’ve converted my laundry room into a dedicated canning kitchen, complete with an additional stove and ample storage space for my collection of canners.
This setup has also allowed me to construct a spacious pantry, which is essential for housing the bounty that comes with being a prolific canner. My trusty pressure canner is always at the ready, capable of handling both pressure canning and water bath methods. I’ve found this versatility particularly convenient, as it eliminates the need for multiple canners.
And while some might prefer the more traditional approach of monitoring gages, I’m a fan of my jiggler-topped canners – there’s something reassuring about listening to the gentle hum of pressure building within each jar.
Dehydrator
I’m grateful to live close to my mother-in-law because her kitchen has become an extension of mine. With limited storage space and counter room in my own kitchen, I’ve grown accustomed to ‘borrowing’ some of her gadgets when needed. Her dehydrator is one such item that’s proved incredibly useful for our family’s food preservation journey. Initially, I didn’t think a dehydrator would be something we’d use regularly, but it has become a staple in our household.
The reason is simple: my kids adore homemade jerky, and the dehydrator allows us to make it in bulk with minimal storage space required. Plus, dehydrated fruits and vegetables offer endless recipe possibilities. It’s no secret that I’ve ‘borrowed’ my mother-in-law’s dehydrator more times than I care to admit. If you’re considering purchasing one for yourself, be sure to check out our list of the top food dehydrators.
Meat Grinder
This Christmas, we were fortunate to receive a thoughtful gift from a family member – an electric meat grinder. It’s truly been a game-changer for us, especially during deer season when we’re constantly processing venison. My husband’s cousin is an avid hunter, but unfortunately, no one in his household enjoys the fruits of his labor. As a result, we’ve become the grateful beneficiaries of his hunting passion.
We often find ourselves processing deer meat for weeks on end, and having this appliance has made all the difference. It’s simplified the process of making homemade deer burgers and sausages, which is a real treat. If you’re an avid hunter or enjoy preparing game meats, I highly recommend investing in an electric meat grinder – it will undoubtedly make your life easier.
A Meat Slicer
As a self-proclaimed hot sandwich enthusiast, I’ve come to realize the importance of having a reliable Meat Slicer in my kitchen arsenal. With family members who share my passion for meat-based meals, it’s become essential to acquire one that can keep up with our demand. When I’m not working outdoors, I crave a quick and satisfying dinner – hot sandwiches are always my go-to. The possibilities are endless: juicy ham and cheese, savory roast beef and cheese, or the classic Reuben.
But without a Meat Slicer, recreating these deli-style masterpieces at home can be a challenge. Borrowing one for deer season to process jerky has only intensified my desire for a personal slicer. Not only will it revolutionize my sandwich game, but it’ll also help me stay frugal – a whole ham on Manager’s Special is always a tempting proposition. Recently, I took advantage of such an opportunity and snagged a 12-pound ham at a steal.
However, the introduction of new laws in our state has rendered store-sliced meats obsolete, as they’re now precooked. This development has solidified my need for a Meat Slicer to satisfy my sandwich cravings while keeping costs low.
Outdoor Homesteading Tools
Buckets
Buckets are one of those humble homesteading essentials that you might not realize how much they’re used around the house until you start using them yourself! We’ve found all sorts of uses for them, from providing a simple yet effective way to water our flock of chickens – who surprisingly prefer gulping down water instead of sipping through fancy nozzles.
In fact, we discovered that our girls were absolutely delighted with the bucket solution, and it’s been outshining their high-tech waterer ever since! But buckets aren’t just for watering; they’re also incredibly handy for carrying dirt, freshly harvested crops, feed, or even weeds from the garden to use as nutritious food for our animals. And the best part?
You can reuse them over and over again – we’ve found plenty of discarded buckets along the roadside or through swapping with fellow homesteaders, like our friendly neighborhood painter who generously donates his old buckets to us. After a good cleaning, they’re good as new and ready to serve once more. We highly recommend having a stash of reliable buckets on hand at all times – you never know when you might need one!
A Hoe
A garden hoe is an indispensable tool on any homestead, offering a multitude of benefits that make it an essential part of your daily routine. While some may view the humble hoe as an unassuming implement, its versatility and effectiveness make it an invaluable asset for tackling various tasks around the property.
For instance, it’s perfect for eliminating weeds without straining your back, and can even be used to dispatch unwanted snakes from a safe distance – a feature that’s particularly useful if you’re not fond of getting up close and personal with reptiles. While some species of snakes are beneficial, others can be downright problematic, and the hoe provides a reliable means of dealing with those unwelcome visitors.
Beyond snake control, the hoe is also a valuable tool for cleaning out nesting boxes, rabbit hutches, and goat enclosures, allowing you to reach into tight spaces and remove debris with ease. Its long handle and sharp blade make it an excellent choice for tasks that require a bit more reach or leverage, such as retrieving food bowls from hard-to-reach areas – like the homemade rabbit hutch where a stubborn buck insists on storing his grub.
Chicken Feeder
While it’s easy to get carried away with the romanticized portrayal of chickens in movies and shows, I’m more practical-minded when it comes to feeding my flock. I don’t believe in throwing food around like confetti, as it not only wastes resources but also doesn’t provide a sustainable solution. Instead, I opt for using chicken feeders that keep food organized and minimize waste. You can choose from a variety of high-quality commercial options or take the DIY route to build your own feeder.
This approach has multiple benefits, including reducing food waste and promoting a more efficient feeding system. As someone who values sustainability and the well-being of their animals, I appreciate the peace of mind that comes with knowing my chickens are getting the nutrients they need without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, it’s all about finding a balance that works for you and your feathered friends – and in my case, that means combining homegrown feed with commercial grains to ensure my girls remain happy, healthy, and productive.
Rabbit Waterer Nozzles
I’m grateful for the nozzles that have revolutionized my rabbits’ water supply. With a large brood of bunnies to care for, they require a substantial amount of water to stay hydrated. In fact, I’ve witnessed them go through an impressive quantity in a short span. If not for these innovative attachments, I’d be stuck refilling their waterers multiple times a day. Fortunately, someone came up with the clever idea of converting 2-liter bottles into DIY waterers.
We collected empty plastic containers and secured them to my rabbits’ hutches using zip ties. Although it may appear rudimentary, this homemade solution has proven effective. The result is reduced workload for me and happy, well-hydrated bunnies. It’s a win-win situation.
Diatomaceous Earth
One of the most remarkable aspects of Diatomaceous Earth is its incredible versatility, making it an invaluable asset for any homesteader or animal lover. For instance, I utilize it to rid my goats of worms by sprinkling it on their grains or hay – they happily consume it without batting an eye. This natural remedy effectively eliminates any unwanted parasites. Similarly, I also employ Diatomaceous Earth to keep my chickens worm-free.
Simply sprinkle it in their feeder, and they’ll eagerly devour it along with their regular grains. What’s more, this remarkable substance can be used to repel pests within your chicken coop and nesting boxes by sprinkling it inside. This natural deterrent ensures a safe and pest-free environment for your feathered friends.
Bee Suit
As a beekeeper, I’m thrilled to share our passion with fellow enthusiasts. My husband and I joined the ranks of beekeeping a couple of years ago and haven’t looked back since. We’re hooked on the benefits bees bring to our property. For those new to the world of apiculture, it’s worth exploring the many qualities and purposes of these incredible insects.
As regular contributors to our beehives, we’ve developed a deep appreciation for well-bred bees (luckily, ours seem to have inherited this trait). However, a bee suit is an essential investment when working with them. Even though most bees are generally docile, it’s crucial to anticipate and prepare for those unexpected moments when a normally calm insect decides to get defensive.
In these situations, you’ll need protection against unwanted stings.
Bee suits provide the necessary safeguard against those unfortunate encounters that we all try to avoid as beekeepers.
A Smoker
While a smoker may not be used for curing meat, it’s an essential tool for beekeepers. This device serves as a deterrent for bees, allowing you to work in proximity without risking excessive stings. When a bee does sting, it releases a pheromone that alerts other bees to potential danger. A nearby smoker can counteract this signal by masking the scent and discouraging further aggression from the affected hive.
Additionally, smoking an area where you’ve been stung helps neutralize the chemical trail, preventing other bees from swarming in response. Beyond its defensive benefits, a functioning smoker creates a calming atmosphere within the hive, making it easier to navigate frames containing brood and honey without provoking unnecessary agitation. As you consider beekeeping – which I highly recommend exploring – be sure to include this crucial equipment among your essential tools.
Hopper Popper
As rabbit breeders, we’ve grown attached to our furry friends. When they’re born, their adorable faces and playful nature make it hard not to form a bond. And when the time comes to harvest them for food, it can be an emotionally challenging experience. I know some people might recommend more brutal methods, but we opted for a humane approach. After researching and trying out different techniques, we stumbled upon the Hopper Popper.
This innovative tool allows us to cull our rabbits quickly and humanely, without causing undue stress or suffering. It’s discreetly attached to our woodshed, making it easy to use. While some might view me as a ‘softie’ for being emotional about animal welfare, I believe that showing compassion doesn’t make me weak – it makes me more aware of the importance of treating all living beings with respect and kindness.
If you’re like-minded and want to provide for your family while also prioritizing animal welfare, the Hopper Popper might be a great tool for you to consider.
Soaker Hoses
I’m passionate about soaker hoses! They’re a game-changer when it comes to watering our garden. We used to rely on sprinklers, but they had their downsides – we had to hook them up to our well and deal with the dirt and debris that would splash onto our plants. This was particularly problematic for our tomato plants, which are prone to disease if dirt gets on their stems. Soaker hoses have been a lifesaver for us in this regard.
But beyond just being a solution to these problems, soaker hoses also offer the added benefit of allowing us to easily integrate them into our water catchment system. We run ours downhill as much as possible and let gravity do the work for us – it’s incredibly efficient and effective.
If you’re interested in trying out this approach, there are a few options available. You can purchase a pre-made soaker hose system or take the DIY route and make your own.
Garden Hose
A reliable garden hose is an essential tool for any gardener. Without a water catchment system or with plants scattered throughout your outdoor space, a good quality hose is a must-have. It allows you to efficiently water all of your carefully cultivated plants, which are heavily dependent on consistent moisture levels for survival. When selecting a hose, look for one that can stretch to reach all areas of your garden, ensuring thorough watering without the need for manual labor.
While my own hose doesn’t quite have the range I need, it’s sufficient for most areas. The importance of this lies in avoiding the tedium of hand-watering large sections of plants. That being said, having a few trusty buckets on hand can still be useful for those hard-to-reach spots or smaller areas that require more targeted watering. A quality water hose is readily available for purchase.
A Weeder
I’m thrilled to finally have invested in a weeder, despite it not being an expensive homesteading tool. In the past, I’ve struggled with pulling weeds, often finding myself worrying about encountering snakes in the process. My garden hoe has been a lifesaver for me, but even it can’t eliminate the fear of snake encounters altogether.
That’s why my new weeder has been a game-changer – not only do I no longer have to worry about snakes, but I also don’t have to strain my back as much while working in the garden. As someone who’s passionate about homesteading, I believe it’s essential to prioritize our physical well-being and make smart investments that reduce the risk of injury or long-term damage. If you’re interested in making a similar investment for yourself, I highly recommend considering a weeder.
A Tiller
While I don’t rely on tillers myself, I understand their importance in no-dig gardening practices. Without them, turning over the soil of your garden would be a laborious task, especially if you’re not a large-scale homesteader with a tractor and attachments at your disposal. For those who cultivate smaller plots or are urban homesteaders, tillers can be a game-changer in terms of reducing back strain and making gardening more manageable.
If you find yourself in need of one, you can opt for a brand new purchase or explore second-hand options on platforms like Craig’s List to find the perfect tool for your needs.
Composter
I’ve previously shared my approach to letting our chickens create compost for us, but I’d like to address the scenario where this isn’t feasible. Perhaps you don’t have a large enough flock or your birds are free-ranging, making it difficult to collect and manage their output effectively.
In these cases, a dedicated composter becomes a more viable option.
This tool allows all of your food scraps to be converted into a nutrient-rich compost that can be used to fertilize your garden, as well as brewed into a beneficial compost tea.
Composting is not only an eco-friendly way to manage waste but also encourages reuse and recycling. By choosing this approach, you’re actively working towards minimizing your environmental footprint.
Hay Feeder
Having larger farm animals requires thoughtful consideration of their feeding needs. My husband’s innovative solution was to build a custom hay feeder for our goats using an old easel and a racecar windshield – a brilliant example of upcycling. The goats adore it and utilize it daily. One notable feature he added was a lid, which allows the hay to remain exposed to any weather conditions without compromising quality or inviting mold growth.
This thoughtful design also minimizes waste, as animals are prone to wasting food just like humans. Implementing feeders that discourage wastefulness can significantly reduce expenses in the long run. If you’re interested in acquiring a hay feeder for your farm animals, it’s readily available for purchase.
Galvanized Buckets
Galvanized buckets have proven to be an incredibly versatile tool on the homestead. When I temporarily replaced my washing machine with a galvanized bucket, it doubled as a rinse bucket for laundry day. Similarly, when harvest season rolls around, these sturdy containers are perfect for collecting fresh produce from the garden. In fact, one large galvanized tub is currently serving as a makeshift water trough for my goats.
The possibilities don’t stop there – they can also be used to plant flowers and add a touch of country charm to your home’s decor. With so many uses, it’s no wonder that galvanized buckets have become an essential staple in our homesteading routine. Whether you choose to purchase them new or hunt for second-hand options locally, I’m confident that you’ll find a multitude of purposes for these trusty tubs and be thrilled with the value they bring.
