Good tips here. I switched to stainless loops last year after a couple plastic ties snapped in the cold—lesson learned.
"consider engraving both sides of the tag"
Wish I'd thought of that sooner... would've saved me some serious neck cramps under the bathroom vanity.
Totally agree about engraving both sides—wish I'd realized that earlier too. Another thing I've found helpful is snapping quick pics on my phone and labeling them clearly in a folder. Beats squinting under sinks or behind water heaters at awkward angles...my back isn't getting any younger! Plus, photos come in handy when you're at the hardware store trying to explain exactly which fitting you need. Saves a ton of guesswork.
Photos are definitely a lifesaver, but do you ever worry about losing or accidentally deleting them? I've started jotting down key measurements and part numbers in a small notebook I keep in my toolbox—old-school, I know, but it's saved me a few headaches when my phone battery died mid-store trip. Curious if anyone else still uses pen-and-paper backups, or am I just overly cautious? Either way, anything beats crawling back under the sink twice...
I get the notebook thing, but have you thought about just texting yourself measurements or part numbers? I usually do that—battery's rarely dead and it's searchable if I lose track. Or is that still too risky...?
"battery's rarely dead and it's searchable if I lose track"
Fair point, but texting myself never really worked for me. Couple reasons:
- First, my phone's always cluttered with random texts and reminders—measurements and part numbers just get buried in the chaos.
- Second, I find it tricky to type accurately when I'm juggling tools or have dirty hands. Ever tried typing "3/8 compression fitting" with plumber's putty on your fingers? Not fun...
- Lastly, from an eco-friendly angle, I try to minimize screen time and digital clutter. Call me old-school, but a small waterproof notebook tucked in my toolbox has been way more reliable and less distracting.
I get the convenience factor you're talking about, but sometimes simpler is better for me.
