Great Gifts Under $25 for the Mechanics

Every mechanic has basic items that are needed to perform his or her position properly. Basic items are welcomed gifts since they are always needed. They give added convenience to your mechanically inclined recipient. Here are just some items that make for great gifts:

Coveralls
Every mechanic needs coveralls. In addition to protecting their own clothes, coveralls are noted for being very convenient. Usually, there are multiple pockets. Plus, coveralls are meant to get dirty. And, we know how dirty mechanics can get on the job.

Dickies has been manufacturing coveralls for years. They are noted for their durability and reliability. Made of poplin, they are made in both short sleeve and long sleeve variety These coveralls retail at around $20-30. The coveralls are sold in any automotive shop, department store with an auto sections, and a variety of other retail outlets. Look around and you may find some coveralls in great condition at garage sales, flea markets, and thrift shops.

Bag of Rags (work cloths)
That's right, you can buy a bag of rags. Mechanics can always use something to wipe the oil and grime off their hands. Known as work cloths, the material is usually absorbent cotton. A bag of these can last the mechanic awhile. Plus, they are reusable.

They are available at department stores and automotive stores. Look around and ye shall find. They come in various colors, but does it matter? The bags of rags (work cloths) retail at $20.

Flashlight and batteries
In order to see clearly in the darkened areas, a mechanic needs additional light. This additional light can be supplied by a flashlight of varying sizes. A small one can fit in the mouth (I know people who do this.) The hand held variety usually holds 2 D batteries and is the standard size. For larger sizes, there are flashlights available with their own stand. This makes for an easy way to light up a larger work area, such as under the hood surface. The largest sizes are usually retailing at higher than $25, though.

Small flashlights sell for about $10. Handheld varieties range from $5-20. Larger sized flashlights go for around $20+. Stock up on batteries to power the flashlight you buy your mechanic. They are cheaper at places like Walmart as compared to higher end department stores and auto stores, of course. Again, flashlights are sold at any hardware store, automotive store, and department stores.

Lava Soap and lotion
This laborer's soap has been around for years. It provides an extra grittiness to help remove the grime from hands. Instead of buying just one bar of soap, why not buy a dozen?This way, your mechanic will be supplied for a while. Cleaning supplies are another item that mechanics cannot get enough of. Lava soap can even be bought in grocery stores, in addition to all the above-mentioned outlets. A bar of Lava soap retails at around $2.

Log Book
Buy your mechanic a logbook so he or she can keep track of the repair details. Buy a spiral bound one for ease and convenience. It does not have to be anything fancy. Mead is a manufacturer that comes to mind. They make many school supplies, and their notebooks are best sellers. Buy a notebook/log that is the personal size. This averages around 6"x9" in diameter. They average $1 at retail outlets.

It would help, also, if you would purchase a durable pen and pencil to go along with the logbook. These can be bought for $10 total. Or, save some money and buy a single pen for $1 and a mechanical pencil for $2.

There you have it. Give the mechanic on your gift list any of the above items and watch them smile!