15 Essential Painting Tools You Should Have (and 7 You Can Skip), as Recommended by a Paint Expert

When it comes to selecting painting tools, remember: if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Quality tools, thorough preparation, and a careful approach are irreplaceable. Lou Manfredini, Ace Hardware's home expert, advises, "The biggest mistake I see homeowners make is purchasing cheap tools that don’t provide good results, or opting for low-quality paint—which leads to unsatisfactory outcomes."

Here are some of Manfredini's top-pick must-have painting products for achieving a perfect finish, along with a few unnecessary painter accessories you can skip. However, keep in mind that if your walls are already in good condition and don’t need much repair, some of these items might not be necessary. Just make sure to choose some highly-rated paint, as a quality tool won't work miracles on subpar paint.

Essential Items

Wall Cleaner Solution

To ensure a smooth painting experience, a clean surface is crucial. A dirty wall can hinder the paint's adhesion or lead to bubbling. Manfredini shares, "I prefer using Spic and Span with a touch of water and a sponge to remove any surface grime from the walls before I begin painting."

Painter's Tape

Investing in top-quality painter's tape such as 3M or Frogtape is important, but application is key. Once the tape is applied, use a damp cloth along the edge to form a tight seal. Be mindful of the tape's removal timeframe, as it can range from 15 to 30 days depending on the brand.

Paint Brushes

A 2 1/2-inch angled brush is perfect for trimming and precise lines. Look for trusted brands like Wooster, Purdy, and Benjamin Moore.

Paint Rollers

A classic 9-inch roller with a synthetic core and a 3/8-inch nap is a reliable choice. Manfredini advises, "Test the core by pressing down on both sides of the roller's end with your thumb and index finger. You shouldn't be able to close the gap." He also recommends Ace and Shur-Line for quality roller covers. Mini rollers are ideal for tight or smaller spaces.

Canvas Drop Cloths

"Sure, canvas may cost a bit more upfront, but if you're taking on a painting project, these will last you a lifetime," says Manfredini. "Opt for a 4-foot-wide runner to protect areas near the walls."

Paint Brush Cleaner

This product is essential for ensuring that painting novices can thoroughly clean their quality brushes for continued use on future projects.

Plastic Bucket

Using a plastic bucket makes pouring paint much easier than trying to work directly from a quart or gallon container.

Plastic Roller Tray

Opt for a heavy-duty plastic tray over metal. They're durable, and when it's time to clean up, the latex paint peels right off without sticking.

Roller Extension Pole

A two-foot extendable roller pole should suffice for most areas, but be sure to consider your ceiling height when selecting your tools.

Sturdy Ladder

A six-foot ladder made from aluminum or fiberglass that suits your weight requirements (don't forget to account for the weight of any items you'll be carrying) is a solid investment.

Touch Up Tool

For fast paint touch-ups around your home, consider the Shur-Line Touch Up Painter, available at hardware stores. Manfredini notes, "If your walls experience a lot of wear, this small tool holds extra paint for quick repairs."

Pre-Mixed Spackling

This product is great for handling most patching tasks and nail holes. Opt for DAP Fast n' Final or Drydex, as both dry quickly and are easy for beginners. Drydex is especially useful because it starts out pink and turns white when dry, so there's no guessing. You'll also want caulk to seal gaps between the walls and trim.

Putty Knife

Forget the 7-in-1 tool. Instead, opt for a two-inch putty knife and a six-inch-wide taping knife with flexible blades. These tools are perfect for patching cracks and applying joint compound.

Fiber Mesh Tape

This repair tool is great for covering larger holes. Look for brands like Hyde, Purdy, or Shur-Line for reliable options.

Sanding Sponges

A medium to fine grit sponge is sufficient for most tasks. Manfredini suggests, "If you want to avoid creating dust while sanding, skip the sandpaper and use a damp sponge with warm water to smooth out your spackle. It’ll get the job done without any dust."

Skip It

Paint Key

You don’t need a specialized tool to open your paint cans. A simple flat-head screwdriver works perfectly fine.

Plastic Tube for Paint Roller

If you’re done painting for the day but plan to continue tomorrow, wrap the roller in plastic, then place it in a sealed plastic bag to keep it fresh.

Paint Tray Liners

These aren’t essential if you have a high-quality hard plastic paint tray. Plus, not using disposable liners is more eco-friendly and reduces waste.

Paint Pads

Skip these unless you're using them to reach difficult areas like behind a toilet tank or radiator.

Fillable Paint Products

"Any tool that sucks paint into its handle is a hassle to use and clean. By the time you refill it, you'd already be painting," says Manfredini. The one exception to this is the touch-up tool Manfredini specifically recommended.

Paint Edgers

Don’t be misled by these tools—they don’t guarantee sharp, clean lines. You’re better off taping the trim and walls properly and using an angled brush for the best results.

Paint Mixer Gadgets

You might come across drill attachments for mixing paint, but honestly, save your money—a simple paint stick (which often comes free with your paint purchase!) will work perfectly fine, even if it takes a minute or two longer.