7 Cocktail Tools Every At-Home Bar Needs

I love to always be “host-ready,” which to me means having a stocked bar and the essential cocktail tools needed to whip up any classic cocktail at a moments notice. Having the right bar tools can make all the difference. Here are the 7 cocktail tools every at-home bar needs:

1. Cocktail Shaker

Let’s start with the most essential – the cocktail shaker! This is more than likely going to be your must-loved, most used cocktail tool. I even use my cocktail shaker in the morning sometimes for drinks like my Iced Maple Shaken Espresso.

You can use the classic “Boston shaker,” which you’ve probably seen at most bars, but at home, I prefer to use a typical cocktail shaker.

Most cocktail shakers already have a strainer and “jigger” built in. They also tend to be prettier than a Boston shaker, which I prefer since I leave my shaker sitting out.

This is my favorite glass cocktail shaker that I leave out because it is so pretty! I love this insulated cocktail shaker when I’m making martinis that I want to be really cold, like my Simple Lychee Martini.

2. Jigger

A jigger is used to measure out your cocktail ingredients. It makes mixing drinks much easier and more consistent. Some will have a 2 oz side and a 1 oz side, others will only have 1.5 oz and 1 oz, so keep that in mind when you are buying your jigger. This is my favorite jigger to use.

3. Bar Spoon

The bar spoon is used for stirring your cocktails. Some cocktails are meant to be shaken, and some are just meant to be stirred. I prefer a cocktail spoon with a twisty handle, which helps mix your drink more evenly.

4. Muddler

If you love a mojito like I do, a muddler is a must. This tool allows you crush fresh herbs, fruits, and spices to help release their full flavors. Just pop them in your glass, give them a good muddle, and you’ll be able to taste such a difference than if you just shook them into your cocktail.

Some bar spoons like this one will have a flat top on the opposite end of the spoon that is meant for muddling!

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5. Strainer

Strainers are important for getting a smooth sip and keeping out unwanted ice cubes, fruit chunks or stray herbs. There are 3 types of strainers: a fine mesh strainer, a Hawthorne strainer and a Julep strainer.

Most cocktail shakers come with a Hawthorne strainer. It fits inside your shaker and blocks the shaken ice from getting into your cocktail. A julep strainer fits into your glass, and is used for stirred cocktails. A fine mesh strainer is typically used when you want to do a double strain and get an extra smooth finish that has no remaining fruit or herbs floating in the finished cocktail.

6. Bottle Opener and Wine Opener

Everyone needs their trusty bottle opener. Whether you’re cracking open a cold beer, soda, or tonic water, a bottle opener is a no-brainer for the at-home bar.

You’ll also, of course, need a wine opener. I love the classic rabbit wine opener!

7. Citrus Juicer

Last but definitely not least, is a citrus juicer. Please throw away your bottled lemon and lime juice and switch to squeezing your own. Trust me; freshly squeezed juice makes all the difference in cocktails, especially citrus heavy cocktails like homemade margaritas.

Bonus: These are my absolute favorite glass cocktail straws!

There you have it – 7 cocktail tools every at-home bar needs. Once you’ve collected these tools, you’ll be ready to shake, stir, and muddle your way to delicious craft cocktails at home.

Shop all my favorite cocktail tools:

Cheers!