The scope of the job of a 21stcentury plumber extends far beyond just unclogging drains or fixing faucets. The role of a plumber nowadays is quite dynamic and diverse. Different types of jobs, whether it’s an installation or a repairing task, require a handful of specialized tools due to the complexity of modern fittings and fixtures. Moreover, a lack of a particular job location makes the plumbing job more challenging. Sometimes, the work environment of the job site can be quite adverse and challenging. Without proper protection or tool bag, the Plumbers equipment may get damaged.
Since each plumbing task is different from the others, a trade person has to be fully prepared with all the tools in an organized form and easy access to them. It will be quite annoying if you need rummaging to find the right tools inside your tool carrier during your work. When the task is completed, the tools have to be stashed in an organized way again to avoid losing one of those accidentally. Most of these mechanical tools are pretty heavy and have sharp edges.
Hence, the situation demands a tool bag that is robust in nature and capable of protecting the plumbers tools from rough weather without getting damaged. Also, an ergonomically designed tool bag will save lots of effort and physical labor carrying it when loaded with equipment. There are a number of plumbers tool bag having different designs and construction material that exists in the market. Each of them offers different functionality and advantages. Also, they have different price tags. To assist you in the research for a perfect tool bag if you are searching for one, a list of the reviews of the top plumber’s tool bags in the market is presented here.
Types of Tool Bag for Plumbers
As mentioned earlier, the plumbers tool bag nowadays has diverse construction and designs to address different issues efficiently. They employ a range of different materials too. So, it’s quite hard to select just a single tool bag as the best one. Based on the basic construction and design, the major categories of tool bags are:
The tool backpack is rather convenient for a tradesperson who has to carry the tool bag using public transportation. Tool backpack distributes the pressure evenly over the shoulder and thus avoids putting excessive pressure on a single spot. Most of the tool backpacks have a reinforced bottom, unlike an ordinary backpack. Otherwise, a tool backpack has quite similar appearances to a common backpack. This backpack may have single or multiple large compartments with lots of pockets and organizers. There are strong zippers over those compartments and two straps to carry the tool backpack on the back comfortably.
Caddy is a large rectangular shaped tool carrier with no top cover. It has a single handle in the middle to move it around. Tool caddies may have one or two main compartments and it can accommodate different sizes of tools easily. The lidless design helps to access tools rather quickly and conveniently. The large and rectangular bottom helps to stabilize the toolbox in a standing position and prevents stumbling.
The tool tote looks very similar to the tool caddy. It has the same coverless design and middle handle. The choice of material for tool tote is rugged but flexible in nature like nylon or canvas where for tool caddy, it’s more rigid like wood or plastic. Inside the tool tote, there may be single or multiple chambers and lots of small pouches lining the outside of the bag. Tool tote offers lots of flexibility and convenience and you don’t have to rummage inside the bag for a small tool since they will already be lined outside the bag. If you have your own vehicle tool tote is an ideal choice for you.
Apart from these basic types, utility belts, tool pouch, rollup bags or tool sleeves, etc. are also available which offer different functionalities. Utility belts help to carry tools when you have to work on an elevated surface using ladders, scaffoldings, or in a hanging position. Roll up bags are ideal for storing a handful of tools like a set of wrenches. They look similar to a mat with lots of pockets if you completely open up the roll-up bags and there is usually a bit of twine sewn at the edge of the bag. The tools are kept inside those deep pockets and it is rolled up. Based on the construction materials, three major candidates are
Canvas tool bags are extremely durable but also quite flexible. Modern canvas is made of cotton or linen utilizing plain weaving. Canvas alone is not waterproof. Canvas tool bags can support the massive load without tearing.
Nylon tool bags are usually more expensive than canvas counterparts. Nylon is a synthetic material manufactured by the polymerization process. Without a waterproofing coating, nylon can’t repel water. It can withstand tough and harsh conditions.
Leather has a long history of utilizing as the construction material of tool bags. It’s a quite flexible material and top grain leather is very strong and durable because of finer and more densely packed fibers. Although leather is commonly sourced from animal hides, artificial leather is also available nowadays. But for a plumbers tool bag, top grain leather is more favorable.
Benefits of Plumbers Using a Tool Bag
A properly designed plumbers tool bag will save a lot of time and labor for the user. If all the tools are stored in a disorganized manner, it may need a considerable amount of time to find specific equipment from the mess. There is a chance you can hurt yourself while rummaging for tools. It can be quite annoying when you are engaged in serious work. In a professional-grade tool bag, there are multiple organizers of different sizes that will save you from such a predicament.
Besides, the lifespan of the tools can be increased if they are stored properly and protected from corrosive environments. The sharp tools won’t lose their edge if they are stowed in a protective casing. Moisture will accelerate the oxidation and corrosion process of iron made tools. Electrical tools such as drill machines can get damaged if drenched in water. The waterproof tool bag keeps moisture away and tools in a functional state.
When you are leaving your tool shed for the job, there is a chance of forgetting small tools if they are packed disorderly. The same thing is true after the job is done and you are about to stash them again. Some delicate tools may get damaged if they are stored with heavy tools. You can avoid such situations very easily by using an appropriate tool bag. Also, an ergonomically designed tool bag will reduce the amount of physical effort to carry it and prevent back pain.
Top 10 Best Tool Bag For Plumbers With Multiple Compartments & Pockets
01. CLC 1539 Large Multi-Compartment Tool Carrier
CLC 1539 tool carrier is a versatile tool bag and it’s a great choice for tradesmen and installers in the carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, satellite/cable television, telecom/networking, and general maintenance fields. This tool bag has rugged and durable construction featuring a heavy-duty poly fabric body and poly ballistic trim and binding along with all the convenience of a high-quality tool carrier. For storing the tools securely, the top closure employs heavy duty double zippers.
To carry the tool bag comfortably, CLC 1539 tool carrier is equipped with a textured, padded, adjustable shoulder strap, as well as padded handles for a comfortable and secure grip. The bag provides one large main compartment, two outer compartments, one large carabiner, and a measuring tape clip on the outside for organizing a vast selection of tools and parts. Each outer compartment includes 18 vertical pockets for easily accessing tools. Apart from them, there are 7 exterior pouches for quick access to critical tools without opening the bag. The bag measures L 18 x W 14 x H 7 inches.
- Excellent organizing facilities as the bag includes 50 pockets in total.
- Spacious main compartment for large hand tools as well as power tools.
- Tough construction.
- Durable and high-quality material.
- Comfortable shoulder strap and handgrip.
- The shoulder strap gets in the way.
- The elastic loops inside the front compartment flaps have little use.
02. Veto Pro Pac OT-XL Tool Bag
The OT- XL tool bag is a multipurpose open top tool bag that includes 44 pockets of different sizes to accommodate over 80 handheld tools and assorted gears. The waterproof body of the bag is composed of high quality 1800 PVC impregnated denier nylon with reinforced and industrial strength leather edging. The base of the bag is waterproof and made of 3mm injection-molded polypropylene. Veto Pro Pac OT-XL is a solid and highly durable tool bag with maximum tool storage capacity.
The tool bag has 40 heavy-duty nylon tool pockets and 4 flat zippered pockets. Also, there are 2 large and 4 small D-rings made of powder-coated steel and a stainless steel tape clip. The bottom of the bag is attached to the body using marine grade rivets and the zipper employs double stitching. The heavy-duty plastic coil zippers have oversized zipper tabs to use easily. The OT-XL tool bag features a patented central panel design and a comfortable over-molded rubber grip. The heavy-duty shoulder strap has non-slip padding. The dimensions of the tool bag are L 16.5 x W 9.5 x H 17 inches and it weighs 9.2 pounds.
- Extremely durable.
- Open top design for quick and hassle-free access to the tools.
- A large number of pockets and organizers.
- Waterproof tool bag with a durable and waterproof bottom.
- Heavy Duty zippers with oversized tabs.
- Marine-grade rivets.
- For some trade people, the interior space is not enough.
- Extravagant.
03. CLC Custom LeatherCraft 1529 Center Tray Tool Bag
CLC 1529 tool bag is a top coverless tool bag with a plastic central tool tray for miniature parts. This plastic tray is 13½” x 9″ and has multiple compartments to organize small components like electronic parts, nails, screws, etc. and this tray resides inside a slot in the middle of the bag. It’s very easy to clean all the clutter and easily access the tools. The plastic box has 4 rows which are divided into 6 compartments by removable dividers and is kept in position by a velcro strap.
CLC Custom Leathercraft 1529 has a total of 17 tool pockets which are divided into 9 outside pockets and 8 inside pockets. The main pocket has web loops for holding large tools. There are a metal tape clip and an electrical tape holder on the exterior of the bag. On the back of the bag, there is a zippered compartment for valuable items.
This tool bag features polypropylene as a construction material. To carry the bag comfortably, extra padded carrying handles and adjustable padded shoulder straps are employed. It weighs 1.95 pounds and measures L 16 x W 9 x H 9 inches.
- Dedicated Organizer for small tools.
- Multiple tool pouch.
- Accommodates large tools.
- The main pocket has web loops to secure large tools.
- Durable.
- Affordable.
- The plastic container is not high quality and the lid doesn’t shut completely.
- Tends to lean on one side.
04. Internet’s Best Open Top Electricians Tool Bag
It’s a tool tote built in a semi-rigid frame and the open-top design allows quick access to your tools. Internet’s Best Open Top tool bag is manufactured using durable 600D fabric and features a heavy-duty metal handle with padded grip for extra comfort. The handle spans over the open top and doesn’t intervene when reaching for the tools inside. It also has a padded shoulder strap to carry over the shoulder when needed. This tool bag is foldable and it can be stored conveniently when not in use.
The Internet’s Best Open Top tool bag is fashioned with 16 pockets of different sizes to organize and store varieties of tools and accessories which includes electrical tape chain holder, drill bit pocket, Allen key pocket, and pencil pocket. The dimensions of the bag are L 17.6 x W 12.5 x H 3.6 inches and the weight is 4.3 pounds.
- Topnotch quality and durable fabric.
- Semi-rigid frame and foldable.
- Reasonably priced.
- Different purposed tool pockets.
- Open top design for easy access to tools inside.
- Stitching is not top quality.
05. DEWALT DG5597 Open Top Tool Carrier
It’s another great tool tote from DEWALT. The utilization of heavy-duty poly and ballistic poly fabric construction ensures the longevity and durability of the tool carrier. Also, the bottom of the DG5597 tool bag has reinforced plastic pads for protection against abrasive force and these pads elevate the bottom of the bag to prevent dirt and water from damaging your bag and tools.
DEWALT DG5597 Open Top Tool Carrier is fashioned with a padded metal carrying handle and adjustable padded shoulder strap so that the user can carry the loaded bag comfortably. The metal handle is collapsible which ensures excellent visibility and uninterrupted access to the contents inside. This tool tote is a quick-clinch level cradle that has 33 pockets including a utility knife pocket, electrical tape strap, and measuring tape clip. The bag measures L 15 x W 11.5 x H 17.8 inches and weighs 3.8 pounds.
- Reinforced bottom and plastic padding.
- Collapsible metal carrier handle with padding for quick and easy access to the tools.
- Adjustable padded shoulder strap to carry the tool bag hands-free.
- Durable and high-quality material.
- Open-top design.
- affordable.
- The clasps on the shoulder strap are not very sturdy.
06. DEWALT DG5511 Pro Contractor’s Gear Bag
The design of the DEWALT D5511 tool bag is somewhat similar to a duffle bag. It’s a huge 24-inch tool carrier including three flap covered exterior pockets plus one drawstring pocket to keep small parts from spilling out. The interior of the tool bag is rather spacious and there are four individual pockets and one zippered pocket for valuable items. There are also elastic straps to securely hold longer items and a hidden web sleeve inside.
When the main zipper is opened it works as an open tool tote and allows access to the interior very easily. DEWALT DG5511 features an adjustable, non-slip padded shoulder strap and large padded handles so that it can be carried painlessly. The tool bag utilizes nylon as construction material and ballistic poly fabric construction. The bottom of the tool bag is reinforced by base pads. The dimensions of the bag are L 15.75 x W 2.25 x H 12 inches and the weight is 2.4 pounds.
- Extra-large tool carrier.
- Once opened, the bag functions like open top tool tote.
- More protection than an ordinary tool tote.
- Durable and high-quality material and construction.
- Reinforced bottom.
- Since the tool bag is big, it is difficult to carry sometimes.
07. DEWALT (DWST17814) Tstak Tool Box
It’s not a tool bag, rather it’s a toolbox with rigid construction. This toolbox adopts a very practical design and useful features. Inside the toolbox, ample space is available for a large number of tools. The top organizer of DEWALT (DWST17814) Tstak Tool Box has fixed dividers for storing drills and bits. A slip-proof handle utilizes both metal and plastic material for lifting the box comfortably. Durable metal latches are tough and rustproof. The side latches can be used to be stacked to other Tstak modules.
The trays inside are latched and interlocked together by a single latching system which is quite secure. The texture, durability, and the color of the body of the toolbox that consists of plastic are excellent. The toolbox measures L 17.25 x W 12.63 x H 13.25 inches and it weighs 7.54 pounds.
- Lots of interior space.
- Durable and nicely textured plastic material.
- Strong and secure latching system.
- Volume can be increased using other Tstak modules.
- Molded parts are deformed sometimes.
- The structure of the box is poorly designed, the lower shelf is arched when loaded and it can deform over time.
08. ToughBuilt – 26″ Massive Mouth Tool Bag
ToughBuilt 26 inch tool bag features a large opening to reach the content inside the tool bag. The patented massive mouth opening is wider than any tool bag available in the market. In total, 62 pockets and loops are included in this model which accommodates varieties of tools. These pockets include a covered notebook pocket, zippered mesh pocket for transparency, and external pockets with plastic lining.
ToughBuilt tool bag is made of rigid plastic along with a HardBody lining and the bottom part is reinforced with rubber feet to protect the tool bag from wear and tear. Since it’s a large bag and when loaded, the weight can be massive. So, the handles are steel reinforced and if needed, another person can participate in carrying the bag with the help of secondary side handles. There is also an option for side carrying with the padded shoulder strap.
- Ultra-wide opening.
- Steel reinforced handle.
- Rugged rubber footings.
- Large number of pockets and organizer.
- Pockets are shallow.
09. McGuire-Nicholas 22015 15-Inch Collapsible Tote
The 22015 model from McGuire-Nicholas is a versatile tool tote with lots of space. The tool tote utilizes tapered pockets to facilitate more tools than usual. The all-weather fabric makes this bag suitable for any kind of weather. Inside the tote, there are 14 webbed loops to secure tools of different sizes and 14 exterior pockets of different sizes as well. There is a padded tubular steel handle to carry the tool bag. The open-top tote ensures easy access to the tools. To store the tool tote easily, the bag is collapsible and has a removable bottom. The bottle measures L 14.96 x W 7.48 x H 9.84 inches and the weight would be 2.2 pounds.
- Affordable.
- Open top tool tote for easy access to your equipment.
- Tapered pocket for more space.
- Strong steel handle with padding.
- Lack of specialized option like tape holder.
10. CLC 1530 Electrical and Maintenance Tool Carrier
Custom leathercraft is well known for the top grade work-related products and each product is meticulously designed while keeping attention to every minute detail. CLC 1530 tool carrier features 43 pockets for a number of items like cell phones, drill bits, electrical tester, tape, and many more. For a better visibility, the tool carrier adopts an open-top tote design with two window pockets. One of these window pockets is stationary and another one is removable.
One multi-compartment plastic tray (7 in. x 5.5 in.) is provided for miniature parts and tools and it’s secured inside an exterior pocket by a velcro fastener. When the tool carrier is on the ground, the box-shaped structure makes the carrier pretty stable and prevents tipping. The overall dimension of the tool bag would be 23″ L x 12″ W x 15″ H and it weighs 3 pounds.
- Numerous different shaped pocket for different items.
- Coverless tool tote with a window pocket for better visibility and access to the tools.
- Removable plastic tray for small items.
- Stable box-shaped structure.
- It’s a 15-inch tool carrier which can be too small for some users.
Key Consideration Before Buying Tool Bag for Plumbers
A plumbers tool bag of topnotch quality will adhere to some key features and these aspects should be scrutinized before purchasing one. As mentioned earlier, tool bags adopt different designs and materials to cope with different situations efficiently. So, it might be difficult to declare just one tool bag to be the best. You have to judge them according to your requirements. However, some basic features to look for in a tool bag would be
Portability
The central point of a tool bag is to carry your tools around as comfortably as possible. Padded and wide straps help to carry the bag painlessly. You should be able to carry the bag without causing much disturbance. If you have to move a lot with your tool bag without your own transportation, the tool backpack will be a great choice.
Durability
Mechanical tools are not only heavy but also sharp and they can damage the tool bag very easily if it is not up to standard. Actually, it costs you more if you choose a flimsy and cheap product which will get damaged frequently. The thick fabric of the canvas makes it pretty durable and a very strong candidate for a tool bag. The inside pouches should be sturdy as well. Strong seams and tough inner lining are also essential because they prevent the bag from getting punctured or torn apart easily.
The bottom part of the tool bag endures the harshest abuse and hence it is the first part to get damaged. So, it would be wise to invest in a tool bag with a sturdy rubberized footing or reinforced bottom to carry heavy tools without worrying about the seams ripping apart.
Ease of use
An easily accessible tool bag is always desirable and it will save a lot of time. Individual pouches inside the tool bag helps to organize the tools and retrieve them afterward. These pockets also prevent the tools to collide with each other while carrying. Also, the tool bag should be in a standing position once it’s on the ground and the front cover shouldn’t get collapsed when the zipper is opened. This feature will allow you to conveniently access your tools inside the bag when you are doing a job.
Some tool bags have pouches and belts on the outside of the tool bag so that you can access some basic and frequently used tools without even opening the bag. It can be pretty handy but the tools may smack into something while carrying.
Ergonomic Design
Ergonomically designed tool bags have a carefully positioned center of gravity to help with your posture when you are conveying the bag. Wide padded shoulder straps evenly distribute the pressure and don’t dig in deep to hurt your shoulder. The same is also true for ergonomic hand grips which are also padded and they won’t slip because of grooves.
Water repelling ability
Most of the time, plumbers have to work on wet surfaces. So, waterproof tool bag are essential for plumbers to protect the tools from corrosion and keep them functioning. They will also safeguard tools from rain and rough weather.
Size and weight limit
If you have to carry a lot of tools that exceed the maximum weight limit of the tool bag, the lifespan of the bag is drastically reduced. Besides, if you overfill your tool bag and put extra force to close the zippers, they will also get damaged pretty soon. So, you should select a tool bag of the proper size and a weight capacity that suits your requirements best.
Fasteners and zippers
The main zipper and the zippers of the inside pockets of the tool bags keep the tools in place when you are carrying the bag. So, these zippers have to be heavy, durable, and should have a long lifespan. There is no point in squandering money on cheap stuff because it will cause more trouble after some time.
Tool Bag Care and Maintenance
High-quality plumbers tool bag have quite low maintenance issues. All you have to do is to clean it at regular intervals. Consult the manufacturer’s literature before stuffing your dirty tool bag inside the washing machine to find whether it’s machine washable. The recommended way to clean a tool bag is by using a vacuum cleaner and handheld brush. After scrubbing the bag with the brush, use the vacuum cleaner to suck the loose dirt. After that use a damp cloth to wipe it clean.
If the zippers start to get stuck, lubricate them using wax. Rub the end of a candle along the zipper and then run it a couple of times to evenly dole out over the entire zipper. The zipper should smoothly glide and not catch on the track.
What Equipment Does a Plumber Use?
The list of the plumber’s tools is getting larger since the scope of the plumber’s job is also increasing. Besides, the modern fixtures and appliances have complex designs and it requires customized tools sometimes. The tool manufacturers are also trying to innovate new tools and improve the designs of the existing tools to increase functionality and utility which is supposed to make a plumber’s life easier. However, basic plumbing tools are quintessential for the job. Here is a concise list of them.
- Plunger: the cup plungers are very common and used to unclog showers, sinks, and bathtubs. The flanged plungers are utilized to clear unblock the toilet pipes.
- Pliers: it’s another common tool for a plumber and there are several varieties of pliers for different purposes. Channel-lock and slip-joint pliers are used frequently by plumbers and trade people.
- Drain snake and drain auger: these are motorized devices to unclog stubborn blockages of drain pipes.
- Wrench: like pliers, several types of wrenches are available. For example, adjustable pipe wrench, Allen wrench, basin wrench, faucet valve-seat wrench, etc. are applied commonly.
- Stubby screwdriver: is used for screws in tight spaces where normal-sized screwdrivers can’t reach.
- Hacksaw and hole saw: used to cut pipes and to cut holes on surfaces.
- Tube and plastic pipe cutter: used extensively to cut plastic pipes and copper tubes.
- Pipe bender: helps to bend pipes at the corners or replicate an existing pipeline.
- Metal file: after cutting pipes, it smooths down sharp edges.
- Thread sealing tape: also known as Teflon tape is wrapped around the threads on pipes and fittings before they are put together to prevent leakage.
- Safety equipment: safety glass, gloves, and heat shields are general safety gear for a plumber.
Final Recap
A Plumbers tool bag will save your time energy while you are on the job and you might not feel the same once you are accustomed to the conveniences and comforts of a well-crafted tool carrier. It would be a wise decision in the long run if you invest in a good professional grade tool carrier.