Even if you don't have a home office, there are several office tools and supplies you should have at home. These items can help you protect documents, get organized, and even help shield you from identity theft. Let's take a look at what they are....

1.)    A supply of self-sealing laminating pouches. At some point in your life, you may need to laminate something important. It could be a birth certificate, a memento, or even a special photograph. While you could purchase a laminator to protect you item, it's more cost-effective to use self-sealing laminating pouches. Just buy a package and keep them in your desk so you can laminate your documents in minutes. Some of the best ones are made by GBC, so be sure to look for them.

2.)    A good stapler. You should have a stapler at home because chances are good you'll need to use it at some point. (For example, you may need to staple documentation to your tax returns.) You don't need to purchase an exceptionally fancy one – a good, basic Swingline stapler will be just fine. A Swingline stapler will last for years so you'll always be able to use it when you need to.

3.)    A well-made paper shredder. If you're like most people, you're probably somewhat worried about fraud and identity theft. The best way to protect yourself is by shredding your private papers. There is a terrific selection of personal-sized machines and they're made by great manufacturers such as Fellowes. (Swingline is also now making shredders.) You can use the shredder to shred items like old tax returns, canceled checks, and anything else you want to safely dispose of. This will help keep your personal information secure.

4.)    A good pair of scissors. Like the stapler, you should have a good pair of scissors because you'll need them at some point for various activities (i.e. sewing, wrapping gifts, crafts, etc.). A lot of different companies make scissors but you really can't go wrong with a pair made by Dahle, a German manufacturer. They make a variety of scissors and they feature Solingen steel blades, so they're very durable. Their scissors also feature sturdy plastic handles and they're available in different lengths so there's definitely a pair that's right for you.

5.)    Three-ring binders and a durable hole-punch. Three-ring binders are terrific supplies that can help you stay organized. You can use them to store schoolwork, recipes, trading card collections, photographs, and more. It doesn't hurt to have a couple on-hand so you have them if you need them. Companies like Wilson Jones make particularly good binders. You should also have a three-hole punch so you can get your paper ready to go in the binders. Swingline makes some of the most durable punches, so you can be confident you're getting a great product.

These are all office tools and supplies you should have at home. They'll be helpful for a variety of different tasks and they can also help you keep things organized. A paper shredder will definitely help you protect yourself against fraud, as well. Get these tools and supplies today so you have them when you need them.