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Posted by Noelle Pickering

Teacher Desk Supplies You Need to Survive

7 Sep

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Some of the links in this post are affiliate links that support the content on this site. Read our disclosure statement for more information.

Teachers spend 8-10 hours a day at school. We need to be prepared for anything and everything. We also want to keep students from having to make unnecessary trips to the office for things that we can easily store in our classroom.

Maybe you will use these items never or 100 times. It doesn’t hurt to be prepared! (Check out the comments for some more great suggestions.)

What teacher desk supplies do you need to get through the school day? It isn't always pens or post its, but hair ties and a phone charger. Keep reading to find out more. | maneuveringthemiddle.com

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Things that You (the Teacher) Will Need

  1. Extra set of clothes – If you haven’t spilled an entire cup of coffee on your shirt at school, are you even a teacher? If you don’t have the space to store them in your classroom, consider an extra set (and pair of shoes) in your car. You will thank me later! Also, deodorant is never a bad idea. And go ahead and have some extra hair ties too.
  2. Medicine – Contact Lens Solution and Case, sore throat lozenges, allergy medicine, Emergen-C, and headache medicine. Save yourself from having to ask the nurse or another coworker. I have never regretted having a small stash of my medicine cabinet in the locked drawer of my desk. 
  3. Back-up lunch and snacks. Even a Post-it Note reminder on my front door didn’t prevent me from frequently forgetting my lunch. I loved keeping a few non-perishable snacks that would tide me over in the event I forgot — peanut butter crackers, turkey jerky sticks, trail mix, and protein bars. Helpful hint: keeping a handful of utensils in my classroom prevented me from wasting precious lunch time hunting one down in the teachers’ lounge or cafeteria. 
  4. Tide-To-Go Pen or Shout Wipes – I liked to attach my pens to my lanyard so I would always have a pen on me. Well, I didn’t always click the pen closed and frequently allowed my shirt to be stained. This will keep all your clothes from becoming permanently stained. 
  5. Fanny pack – The fanny pack is back! If you are a child of the 80s like me, you remember the original fanny pack and it has returned in a better form. I started with a Home Depot apron and eventually graduated to a cute and functional fanny pack.  

Things Your Students May Need

  1. Bandaids, feminine products, mints, ice pack – If I could prevent students from making an additional trip to the nurse’s office to get any of these items, I considered that learning time saved. Note: most of these you can even get from your school nurse by just going in and asking to have some handy in your classroom
  2. Safety pins and a glasses repair kit – Ever have a wardrobe malfunction or a lost button…those safety pins can come in handy for you and students. The number of glasses that I have repaired in my teaching career is pretty impressive too! Parents will thank you! 
  3. Ziploc bags or even grocery store bags – Ziploc bags serve 100 uses in the classroom, so just go ahead and buy some the next time you’re grabbing groceries, but their uses aren’t just for organizing supplies. In 6th grade, students are still losing teeth or needing a place to store their phone after a water bottle leaked in their backpack soaking everything. They will get used. I have saved the day when a student’s backpack has torn open and they needed a place to store their stuff for the day. 

Items that Will Help Your Environment

  1. If you check the comments from this post, you will see one of our most recommended items is scent related.  Febreze! Scentsy pods! Candle warmers! You only have to be in the class after gym to realize these middle school students don’t smell like daisies and are still learning the ins and outs of hygiene. Some teachers recommended spray deodorant for students. I never did this, but a student might feel desperate!
  2. Jolly Ranchers – I could never have chocolate because I would just eat it all. But a jolly rancher satisfies a sweet craving and lasts a long time so you can limit yourself to one.  Plus, they are one of my favorite treats for kids and can be purchased in a giant bag at Target or Walmart. They aren’t messy, are gluten free, and a little goes a long way. I did tell students that if I found trash, we would have to discontinue the use of jolly ranchers.  I used these personally, as incentives to begin the warm up right away (simply passing them out to students who were on task when the bell rang), and incentives for working well in groups. Win-win!
  3. Blank notes – always be ready to send an encouraging note to a team member or a forgotten happy birthday to a student. If you are feeling down, writing something kind to someone else will always cheer me up!
  4. Extra phone charger – This is the gift that keeps on giving. Once you become known as the teacher with an extra phone charger, staff will always need you to come to the rescue! Just make sure to label it with your name, so it doesn’t disappear. 

I hope this list gets you thinking, it has saved me lots of time and headaches (literally).  

If you love teacher supplies as much as I do, check out this post with 20 Must Have Teacher Supplies Under $20. 

Also, check out the comments (even if you don’t have anything to share) because there are many great ideas to round out ANY need you might have during your day of teaching! What teacher desk supplies do you rely on in your classroom?

What teacher desk supplies do you need to get through the school day? It isn't always pens or post its, but hair ties and a phone charger. Keep reading to find out more. | maneuveringthemiddle.com

Editor’s Note: We have been publishing content for the Maneuvering the Middle blog for over 7 years! This post was originally published in February of 2015 and has been revamped for accuracy and relevancy. 

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Reader Interactions

213 Comments

  1. Sharon says

    June 11, 2015 at 9:20 pm

    Tums, extra monthly protection items, clear nail polish (for runs in hose or tights), band aids, brush or comb, pocket mirror, travel toothbrush and toothpaste or Wisps…

    • Nelle says

      July 14, 2016 at 11:52 am

      Don’t forget pepto and Imodium AD????????

    • Gretchen Landin says

      July 23, 2016 at 9:01 pm

      Peppermint oil. Sometimes those teenagers smell terrible. I just leave the little bottle open or put some on my wrists. It helps with headaches and allergies.

    • Vanessa says

      July 26, 2016 at 9:20 pm

      Chocolate (a must have) bandaids, water bottle, picture frame, Monday-Friday organizer, bamboo plant and of course a snack to re-energize.

      • Carol says

        June 8, 2017 at 11:17 am

        Just curious…Why the bamboo plant?

        • Karla says

          July 2, 2017 at 8:02 am

          I keep fresh flowers on my desk, they brighten up my day! 🙂

        • Liz says

          September 20, 2019 at 11:44 pm

          I also keep feminine products in case. We are a good 5 minute walk to the office/nurse. I keep perfume and now I keep some cologne since last year a student asked for some Bc he forgot his deodorant and just had P.E.

    • Celeste says

      December 22, 2016 at 3:11 pm

      Add cough drops!

      • Meredith says

        June 24, 2020 at 3:59 pm

        I keep cough drops for myself but wouldn’t share with a students. (They’re considered a medication in our district.) I keep a giant bag of hard peppermint for students—can relieve a mild headache, a sore throat, sinus congestion, and even wake up a sleepy kid.

        • Tyne Brack says

          June 28, 2020 at 3:31 pm

          Celeste — that is so true. We give them out during state testing to keep students alert. Brilliant! –Tyne

    • B Sizemore says

      May 27, 2018 at 1:06 am

      add duct tape and Zip Ties for the kids that “forget” that their pants sag Zip tie them and for the students with the ripped jeans Duct tape

    • Carisa says

      May 27, 2019 at 10:28 pm

      One of the best investments I made for my teacher desk was an adjustable desk drawer organizer that floats on top of the desk drawer. It holds pens, paperclips, my chapstick, and other random supplies and hides my medicine stash underneath.

  2. Katie says

    June 15, 2015 at 5:41 pm

    starbucks via packets 🙂

    • Noelle Pickering says

      June 24, 2015 at 2:41 am

      Now you’re talking 🙂

  3. Cat says

    June 20, 2015 at 2:55 am

    Lip balm
    Lotion

  4. Anonymous says

    June 22, 2015 at 2:58 am

    Deodorant

    • Kim says

      March 23, 2016 at 9:37 am

      definitely!

    • Nancy says

      July 27, 2016 at 4:46 pm

      Yep. A must have in September!

    • Jennifer says

      July 27, 2016 at 7:04 pm

      I have it too – for myself! Sometimes the morning rush in my house means forgetting to put on deodorant – only needed to learn that lesson once ????

  5. Beth says

    June 24, 2015 at 2:10 am

    Sewing kit, dental floss, small mirror, Altoids tin full of change for vending machine and one full of pennies for students that need to pay library fines….

    • Noelle Pickering says

      June 24, 2015 at 2:40 am

      Ah yes, the vending machine…the death of me.

    • Danielle says

      May 12, 2018 at 9:03 am

      The emergency toothbrush (disposable) for the hurried mornings. White out . Outlet covers. 3×5 cards work as parent reminders.

  6. M0U5E says

    June 24, 2015 at 3:51 am

    Lotion for myself and students – it’s hard to focus on your writing when your hands are so dry they are cracking. A lint roller too.

    • Cathy Dugan Evert says

      July 10, 2015 at 2:41 pm

      I have lotion too. My boys will use it because I make sure to get unscented lotion.

      • Samy says

        July 8, 2016 at 11:05 pm

        Maybe it’s an age thing but my high school boys love the flowery lotions

        • Emily Richards says

          July 15, 2016 at 2:58 pm

          Mine too! Weird!

  7. Chrissie says

    June 24, 2015 at 12:40 pm

    Wintergreen mints–for students with tummy aches or cramps (or for your breath)

  8. Beth says

    June 24, 2015 at 7:40 pm

    A small piece of paper with a prayer on it.

    • Jeannie says

      July 28, 2016 at 9:36 am

      Amen!

  9. Melissa says

    June 26, 2015 at 3:22 am

    Granola bars &/or saltine crackers…quick snacks for me or my students.

  10. Staci says

    June 26, 2015 at 4:57 pm

    Vaseline And q-tips for winter time when kids have cracked, chapped lips!

    • Denice says

      August 1, 2018 at 10:12 am

      Yes! This saves on trips to see the nurse.

  11. Jennifer says

    June 26, 2015 at 10:35 pm

    A screwdriver, lint roller, and safety pins!

    • Kristine Boydstun says

      July 27, 2016 at 11:45 am

      Yes! I have a screwdriver, needlenose pliers (for those staples that get stuck) and a hammer!

  12. TLD says

    June 27, 2015 at 8:06 pm

    Agree with safety pins! Also tooth-picks, a Scentsy pot (because middle schoolers), and some small tools like hammer and screwdriver.

    • Jen says

      July 2, 2015 at 2:29 pm

      Hilarious – (because middle schoolers) – enough said!!

      • Jodi says

        July 15, 2016 at 6:58 pm

        Because 5th graders… I feel your pain except many of my students’ parents don’t think they “need” it yet.

    • Kathy says

      July 27, 2016 at 10:52 am

      I have a Scentsy pot too!! I teach Middle School. I also have scented hand santizier on my desk that helps keep me healthy when collecting papers.

      • Kim says

        January 3, 2017 at 4:55 pm

        My school restricted extra plug in gadgets due to reducing electric bill this year.

        • Ashley says

          August 16, 2017 at 10:56 am

          If you have a classroom with a window, you can take a canning jar and poke holes in the top. Put the ace ray wax in the jar and set the whole thing in the sun. When it melts it will produce the smell without using electricity. ????????

          • Ashley says

            August 16, 2017 at 10:57 am

            Scentsy wax*

    • Amanda says

      March 12, 2017 at 6:42 am

      Totally resurrecting an old post, but I loved this comment.

      I have a candle warmer in my room (I teach middle & HS). A colleague walked in and said, “Your room smells nice.” I said, “I have a candle warmer.” “My room smells like teenage butt.” “That’s why I have a candle warmer.”

      • Bri says

        July 14, 2017 at 12:38 am

        Omg. This is hilarious and a good reminder for me as I start student teaching in the Fall. ????

        • JP says

          January 17, 2018 at 1:19 pm

          If you can, keep the scents low-key. Several of my coworkers, self included, and students suffer from migraines.

  13. Dws says

    June 27, 2015 at 11:37 pm

    Hand sanitizer!

  14. D.James says

    June 28, 2015 at 3:30 am

    small tools, nail clippers, tweezers, safety pins, bobby pins, vending machine change, monthly items, mirror, bible, oh the list is endless.

  15. Sonia Steckert says

    June 29, 2015 at 2:18 am

    Emergency snacks. Mini packages of chips, peppermints, cashews, in case, lunch is running late or you are working late after school.

  16. Bren says

    June 30, 2015 at 12:32 am

    Dryer sheets–to take care of static in hair/clothes and small packets of stain presoak.

    • Kim says

      March 23, 2016 at 9:39 am

      I was going to suggest Static Guard, but I like this, too!

      • cristy says

        August 1, 2016 at 7:46 am

        I keep a tide pen. I inevitably dribble coffee when I’m wearing a white blouse!

        • Kathy says

          August 7, 2016 at 12:55 pm

          Do those tide pens work well?? I’ve thought of trying them.

        • Gwen says

          December 16, 2016 at 8:47 am

          I found this was a must my first year and not just for myself. Students and fellow colleagues gravitated my way for this one.

  17. Stephanie says

    June 30, 2015 at 12:11 pm

    A box of thank you notes!! That way when a kiddo brings in a sweet little surprise gift, you can write a note to them right away!

    • Emily Richards says

      July 15, 2016 at 3:01 pm

      Great idea’!

  18. Rhonda says

    June 30, 2015 at 5:06 pm

    A piece of pantyhose, to get off deodorant stains on shirts that show up when you get to work.

  19. Kaylon says

    June 30, 2015 at 11:17 pm

    "Girl" supplies, not only for you but those little ladies that are in need and would spend half your class in the nurse’s office…

  20. Jen Bindman says

    July 2, 2015 at 12:04 pm

    Chocolate! I would say it is an essential item deep in a teacher’s desk drawer. And a few extra Keurig caps…..

    • Karen says

      July 8, 2016 at 4:34 pm

      The teachers on my team kept a basket stocked on top of the cubbies in my room. Near the end of the year, I would see my door open and a co-worker sneak in to grab a treat. The kids never figured it out, but the rest of us got a charge out of it.

      • Beth says

        August 4, 2016 at 8:06 pm

        I love chocolate too much to have it in my room. So I have a co-worker who is not a chocoholic keep a stash for those times you just have to have it lol!

  21. Brittany says

    July 3, 2015 at 11:28 am

    A picture of myself in MS… To remind me how annoying I myself would have had to been during those hard times lol

    • Lisa Larson says

      July 14, 2015 at 1:46 am

      I love this one! 🙂

    • RecabEli says

      February 24, 2016 at 12:58 pm

      What a brilliant idea! Do you let your kids see it? They sometimes need a reminder that we are human and haven’t always been the (super cool and pulled-together) grown-up they see today.

    • jessica says

      November 22, 2017 at 8:35 pm

      this is a great idea .. i love it .

  22. Becky Hansen says

    July 3, 2015 at 10:27 pm

    granola bars, spare socks, a travel salt & pepper shaker, spare reading glasses

  23. Ann M. says

    July 6, 2015 at 11:00 pm

    I keep a Gumby figure on my desk to remind myself to be "always flexible."

    • Michelle D says

      July 28, 2016 at 3:29 am

      Rubber ducks to remind me “be a duck!”. Means to let stress (via parents/administration ) or anything else just slide off like water on a duck!!

  24. Valerie says

    July 8, 2015 at 5:45 pm

    I also keep headache pills!!!! I have gum/mints, water bottle, chocolate, "girl time" supplies, picture of me and Boyfriend and thank you cards so I can get them done right away and not forget! ?

    • Nelle says

      July 14, 2016 at 11:59 am

      I always have everything on the list including pepto and Imodium, the phone charger is a big hit everyone comes to me lol, my girl time supplies my co workers appreciate me for that, i keep extra dress and extra shoes. I’ve had my shoes break at work so happy I had that extra pair ????

  25. Cathy Dugan Evert says

    July 10, 2015 at 2:42 pm

    Band aids

  26. Ingrid says

    July 11, 2015 at 12:25 pm

    Lipstick of course! You don’t want to look drab in front of other staff members.

  27. Dionne says

    July 13, 2015 at 12:17 am

    All those listed here plus baggies – both from the grocery store as well as sealable sandwich baggies. I teach secondary and it has never failed that at the most random times, and for the most random reasons, students come asking for a baggie, or I’ve used one.

    • Terri says

      August 11, 2017 at 3:10 pm

      Baggies are also useful in elementary grades for loose teeth that fall out.
      This happens more often than you would think.

      • Amy says

        August 9, 2018 at 9:13 pm

        Also just plastic bags for kids that need a gym bag quick or you need to haul things home.

  28. Alicia says

    July 13, 2015 at 9:46 pm

    Sewing kit with extra buttons, lotion, toothpaste/toothbrush/floss, some kind of quick snack, deodorant, other meds like Imodium, Tums, Migraine pills, allergy meds, and a bottle of water. Basically, an overnight bag.

    • Kyra Knox says

      July 14, 2015 at 4:57 am

      I have a toothbrush, floss and toothpaste as well.

    • Kacy Acevedo says

      July 15, 2016 at 12:32 pm

      Imodium is a must! It’s nearly impossible to make a run to the loo for 15 minutes for tummy issues when you are teaching.

  29. Karen S says

    July 13, 2015 at 9:49 pm

    Safety pins

  30. Carla Keeter says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:38 pm

    Chocolate and water bottle.

  31. Mrs J says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:43 pm

    Feminine supplies and chocolate!

  32. Janet says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:51 pm

    All the other things people have named off here but one most important things I have needed over the years is yarn. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to use yarn to help secure a little ones pants that were too big. They always have a smile and thank you once they realize their pants aren’t going to fall down any more.

    • Dana says

      July 15, 2018 at 9:37 am

      I second the yarn. Weird how often I have needed it.

  33. Stacie says

    July 13, 2015 at 11:09 pm

    Tampons, quarters, chocolate, make-up (because I have shown up to school without it on), Tums,Thank You notes, and Band Aids. ?

    • Kyra Knox says

      July 14, 2015 at 4:56 am

      Yep – I have all that, as well as a hair brush, flat iron, back-up body spray and deodorant.
      I have a huge chocolate bucket – the majority of the staff knows it’s there and has visited.

  34. Jessica Waller says

    July 14, 2015 at 4:23 am

    I know this is mostly for middle school teacher but all teacher might need an extra pair of clothes for all those accidents and opps its that time of the month EARLY lol

    • Kyra Knox says

      July 14, 2015 at 4:55 am

      I have spare clothes and a supply of eh-hems in case. 😉 And, that is for ME! Lol!

  35. Laura says

    July 14, 2015 at 11:24 am

    I keep boxes of ziptop bags in all sizes, brown paper lunch bags, and breath mints.

  36. Robin K. says

    July 14, 2015 at 1:31 pm

    I keep Band-Aids and safety pins in various sizes, and a locker mirror on my filing cabinet.

  37. Elizabeth says

    July 14, 2015 at 4:31 pm

    As a coteacher, I travel from class to class all day with my backpack. I always have band-Aids and Jolly Ranchers. They are good for sore throats, as a little reward for doing something nice, and I let the kids have one when they take tests. Kind of helps them relax and not be so anxious about the test.

  38. Pamela Adams says

    July 15, 2015 at 2:08 am

    Deodorant for after recess when it is really hot. Peppermints and cough drops for kids with sore throats or lots of coughing. Tampons, pads, safety pins, sewing kit, buttons, nail clippers, emory board, hair pins, belts for saggy pants. I am ready for every emergency.

  39. Paulette Pepin says

    July 15, 2015 at 2:42 am

    Extra pair of "cheater" glasses…I lose my glasses ALL the time…

  40. Jen says

    July 15, 2015 at 3:00 am

    Mini screwdriver set from Dollartree…great for opening up things that need batteries and quick fixes on a number of other classroom things.

    • Kelly Wade says

      August 19, 2016 at 7:56 am

      And don’t forget the actual batteries. Teachers always come to me to be rescued when battery operated stuff suddenly quits.

  41. Mrs. B says

    July 15, 2015 at 4:07 am

    I think most of these suggestions are great but I can honestly say that the best thing I keep in my desk almost all year are cough drops and a Costco size bottle of Advil. Cough drops for the kids and the Advil for me. So many kids were sick this year with colds and sore throats. They were very appreciative of the cough drops. Also I buy boxes and boxes of Kleenex.

  42. Barbi says

    July 15, 2015 at 7:11 am

    Imodium

  43. Pam says

    July 15, 2015 at 10:54 am

    I teach Secondary, and a commonly asked for item is my Tide To Go pen!!!

  44. Brandy says

    July 16, 2015 at 2:04 am

    Slippers, the kind that look like ballet flats! Just in case my feet start hurting! And I always have gum, mints, chocolate, glasses kit, nail clippers, nail file, tweezers, band-aids,and a host of other random things!!

  45. Paula says

    July 16, 2015 at 8:56 pm

    I keep peppermints for upset tummies, spearmints for sore throats, chap sticks for the winter months, screwdriver kit, glasses repair kit, and Band-Aids. These items are used to made trips to the nurse few and far between. For myself, I keep lipstick, handcream, spare change for snack attacks, and as I am over fifty, pads for overactive bladder!

    • Michelle says

      July 28, 2016 at 3:35 am

      A desk fan from Target dollar area… I’m premenopausal… Blah hot flashes!!

  46. Tracey says

    July 19, 2015 at 2:34 pm

    Shout wipes or a tide/oxy pen. Band aids. Advil, pepto/immodium. I keep it all and more in and small plastic tote under my desk.

  47. Debbie says

    July 21, 2015 at 11:49 pm

    Small snack size packages of almonds. Good for you and a great snack for prep time. Also "To Go" packets of Lemonade ade or tea mix. Mix with a cold bottle of water for a scratchy throat.

  48. Carolyn Saccomanno says

    July 24, 2015 at 11:35 pm

    I agree with everything already listed (great ideas!) — and I also keep some of those heating packs filled with rice in one of my cupboards. My female students know where they are and heat them up in my microwave when they have bad cramps. The girls love them, and they stay in my classroom instead of going to the nurse!

    • Shari says

      July 14, 2017 at 11:14 pm

      So thoughtful!

  49. Kris Harrell says

    July 25, 2015 at 12:29 am

    I also keep tums, allergy medicine, immodium, a small sewing kit, nail clippers and a sharp knife. These items are off the top of my head-I’m sure there are others I have learned to keep over the years.

  50. Mandy says

    July 25, 2015 at 1:05 am

    Breath mints for my awful coffee breath and birthday/sympathy/congrats/blank cards for colleague and student life events.

  51. Virginia Greene says

    July 26, 2015 at 3:27 pm

    All teachers should have a Pikle!! I just got mine for my school bag and desk!! Check it out. !http://parties.inapikle.com/inapikle.aspx

  52. Jen says

    July 26, 2015 at 3:38 pm

    Great article, will be adding to my shopping list. However (and maybe this has already been mentioned – haven’t read every comment yet) please don’t ever give a student any medicine or candy in the classroom, unless you have at least checked with the nurse, due to potential drug interections, allergies to ingredients, and sensitivites to food dyes, even with something as innocent as a cough drop or hard candy. One can never assume to know the preferences of the parent.

    • Lori says

      July 28, 2015 at 2:44 pm

      If you’re referring to the emergencies…I was thinking the same thing at first. But this is actually for the teacher to fight off sickness.

  53. Valerie says

    July 26, 2015 at 5:12 pm

    I do have #’s 1-7 in my desk. #8 would have come in handy last year, perhaps I will invest for this year:-)

  54. Laura says

    July 26, 2015 at 7:09 pm

    This will be the first year that I have a desk, moving to a new school old one I had a cabinet but no room for extras if it didn’t fit in my purse it didn’t make it to school. I will be taking this list with me to supply my desk. One thing I will be adding is some chocolate and an extra bottle or 2 of water.

  55. J Tsy says

    July 27, 2015 at 11:30 am

    Lipgloss and/or Chapstick. Not anything too brightly colored though. Easy to put on without a mirror is a must. However, I am going to buy a small "locker" mirror this year and put it on my filing cabinet which is near my desk.

  56. Cheryln Kurz says

    July 29, 2015 at 2:49 am

    I have a nail file (such a life saver!), chapstick, hand sanitizer, bandaids, a screwdriver, cough drops, a mirror, hand lotion, advil, deodorant, and sanitary pads for the girls. All the girls from 4-8 know that I’m the teacher with the pads, so the teachers know that when a girl has that fearful look in her eyes, they send her to me lol!

  57. Janet says

    July 29, 2015 at 4:07 pm

    I keep calamine lotion for ant and mosquito bites, also Vaseline with Q-tips for dry lips in Winter. It really helps to keep them in the classroom.

  58. Ronita says

    July 29, 2015 at 10:22 pm

    Altoids (for after lunch!), NIPS coffee-flavored hard candies (for a little pick-me-up), lip gloss/balm, scented lotion, loose change, small mirror.

  59. Kristin says

    July 30, 2015 at 6:55 pm

    I keep a small sewing kit with extra safety pins.

  60. Diane says

    July 30, 2015 at 7:47 pm

    Thank you for sharing. I have basically what everyone else has said. I am surprised though that teachers give students cough drops. Our students must turn them into the clinic and cough drops are considered medicine. I’d give them a jolly rancher or a peppermint before I’d give them cough drops.

  61. Tonia Armstrong says

    July 31, 2015 at 7:06 pm

    I teach middle school and found that shout wipes for a stain (for you or the student). Finger nail polish remover, for when the cheerleaders forget to remove their nail polish and they have a game that day. Crackers for an upset stomach and Bath & Body Works spray mist (when girls forget theirs and they have PE).

  62. Megan says

    July 31, 2015 at 10:58 pm

    Nail clippers and tweezers (splinters)(elementary level)
    band-aids

  63. Berta says

    August 2, 2015 at 12:44 am

    Advil, Rolaids, Static Guard, Tide-To-Go pen, hydrocortisone cream (for my eczema), water, small sewing kit, eyeglass repair kit, safety pins, tampons and sanitary pads, hard candies, cough drops.

  64. Cathy Dugan Evert says

    August 2, 2015 at 12:59 am

    Tide pen – Neosporin – Band-aids – moisturizer (with no scent)

  65. Rebecca says

    August 2, 2015 at 8:26 pm

    Chewable gas medicine! Nothing is worse than having gas pains during class! Lol

  66. Melissa Schaeffer says

    August 8, 2015 at 3:17 am

    Band-aids, chap stick, nail file, lint roller…….

  67. Robin says

    August 9, 2015 at 4:05 am

    Sewing kit and Chapstick

  68. Carmen says

    August 9, 2015 at 1:53 pm

    Vaseline and q-tips for chapped lips.

  69. Kelley says

    August 18, 2015 at 4:11 am

    We talk about this list on this week’s podcast. Please listen and spread the word! teacherbestiespodcast.tumblr.com and on iTunes under Teacher Besties

  70. Joann Greenough says

    August 20, 2015 at 6:13 pm

    Safety pins when your button comes off, a hem comes out or your zipper breaks and tide stick for those oops moments when you spill something on yourself

  71. Joann Greenough says

    August 20, 2015 at 6:15 pm

    I forgot to mention Static Guard spray for when your clothes cling to you.

  72. Anna Lucia says

    August 22, 2015 at 1:46 am

    Everything- I keep everything a person could need!
    Cough drops, sugar for tea, hair ties, bobby pins, brush, hairspray, DEODERANT (by the end of a hot day you will be glad to have this), lint roller, mouthwash (garlic and onions for lunch- no problem), tampons, Tylenol, and a mini makeup bag (ever have an important vistor show up in your building on the one day you decided not to give one flip about your makeup)

    I also keep a "better center" for my students with QTips and Vaseline for chap lips, lotion, baby wipes(no bath? Dirty hands?) band aids, mini baggies for teeth, the wax stuff for braces…

    Basically if a student or I ever wish I had something when I didn’t I made it a point to add it to my emergency baskets. This way we could all live happily ever after

  73. JD says

    August 22, 2015 at 6:27 am

    Static guard! They sell mini sizes in the travel section at Target. Nothing worse than a dress that decides to cling!

  74. Laura says

    August 22, 2015 at 11:47 am

    Band aids, & make them fun ones, colors, patterns etc.
    Pens, that you don’t mind "lending" to students & never see again.
    Snacks – for hungry kids
    Tissues- lots of them

  75. Karen Talbott says

    August 25, 2015 at 5:54 pm

    I like to keep scented lotion and chap stick.

  76. Anna says

    September 6, 2015 at 1:07 pm

    As a female teacher of high school students, feminine hygiene products, both pads and tampons

  77. EmilyK says

    September 15, 2015 at 4:06 am

    I agree with the screwdriver. So handy! Spare change for the work soda/ snack machine, a box cutter, and a special "hallway bag" to take with me to the bathroom. It contains female supplies and a regular roll of toilet paper. That school grade stuff isn’t good enough on certain days. 😉 A couple travel mugs. You can never have enough cups with lids. Lastly a basic small flower vase for when some of my darlings bring me flowers they found at the bus stop or for Valentines Day!

  78. Jenn says

    September 24, 2015 at 3:10 am

    I have an Allen Wrench to fix those sqeaky trapezoid desks during test talking.

  79. C. Aguirre says

    September 26, 2015 at 5:44 am

    I have an emergency small sewing kit. It has saved me a couple of times. Also a travel size hand cream. After messing with chalk, during the day I need hand cream.

  80. Candle says

    September 26, 2015 at 3:16 pm

    Pics of your family, loved ones. We all have those days when we need a little pick me up.

  81. Johnson says

    September 27, 2015 at 12:51 am

    Cough drops, Band Aids and a multi purpose tool!!

  82. Shonn says

    October 5, 2015 at 12:52 am

    Fingernail clippers, lint roller, mentos for upset tummies, cough drops, q-tips

  83. Lcoglaindo says

    October 11, 2015 at 7:22 pm

    don’t forget band aids for that annoying paper cut or that child who needs a little TLC and approaches you with the tiniest prick on their finger.

  84. Amie says

    October 11, 2015 at 7:58 pm

    We don’t have desks so I’d just be happy to have one of them. And even if we did have our desks back, the majority of things people have suggested in the comments; nail files, nail scissors, sewing kit, screwdriver etc, we’d definitely never have in our classrooms anyway.

  85. Carla says

    October 11, 2015 at 9:09 pm

    Post it notes

  86. Karen says

    October 11, 2015 at 9:17 pm

    I keep an extra makeup bag for of the essentials. This way on days with conferences, Back To School Night, etc. I don’t have to bring my makeup from home. Also have gum, mints, a nail file, extra contacts, a tool box, and extra k-cups & tea.

  87. lin says

    October 12, 2015 at 1:48 am

    Needle and thread! Oh, and an emery board

  88. lisa says

    October 13, 2015 at 11:01 pm

    stain stick / double sided tape

  89. Betty says

    October 16, 2015 at 6:33 pm

    Aquaphore and WD-40

  90. Kathy Fritze says

    October 18, 2015 at 6:45 pm

    Extra pair of earrings in case you lose one of a pair. Just used my emergency extra earrings this week when I discovered one was missing.

  91. Annette says

    November 2, 2015 at 3:55 am

    In my desk, I wouldn’t be without a nail file, tube of lip moisturizer, granola bars, favorite tea bags, a small hammer and screw driver, a roll of magnetic tape, and a box or two of note cards (especially Thank you cards).

  92. Babs says

    November 18, 2015 at 10:28 pm

    Tissues, stapler, pencil sharpener, hole punch

  93. Anna says

    November 20, 2015 at 2:28 am

    Bandaids! It is SO much easier, faster, etc. to just give a kid one then to send them to the nurse. Plus, when your shoes rub your heels or toes raw!

  94. Jill says

    November 26, 2015 at 3:36 am

    Spray deodorant (boys and girls). My students use it all the time!

  95. Mary says

    December 3, 2015 at 1:07 am

    Shout wipes, safety pins, and a small sewing kit of prethreaded needles.

  96. Erica says

    December 6, 2015 at 4:05 am

    Altoids!!

  97. Suzy says

    December 6, 2015 at 5:16 pm

    Tooth brush, toothpaste and floss! It comes very handy after lunch!

  98. Alicia says

    December 7, 2015 at 2:26 am

    Flashlight

  99. Andrea says

    December 8, 2015 at 3:15 am

    Hand sanitizer!!

  100. Patricia says

    December 13, 2015 at 11:07 pm

    Duct tape and Safety pins

  101. Mrs. S. says

    December 14, 2015 at 3:53 pm

    I keep screwdrivers in my desk drawer – can’t tell you how many times I (or another teacher) have needed them. I keep packs of peanut butter or cheese crackers for those kids who about to starve to death, and the best way to become the favorite teacher in the whole school is to have phone chargers for the kids to borrow. I have one that fits all phone types.

  102. Christina says

    December 14, 2015 at 6:14 pm

    I just finished my first semester of student teaching and my Cooperating Teacher shared her brilliant idea with me that saves her a lot of headache and time during the winter season. Students always complain of chapped/cracked lips, and become very uncomfortable which in turn causes their focus and engagement on the lesson to decrease 🙁 So her solution is keeping a jar of Vaseline in her desk along with q-tips so students can relieve that pain. I thought that was so great and it’s definitely something I’ll utilize in my future classroom one day! Hope you like it, and that it helps some of you out!

  103. Theenglishteacherga says

    December 16, 2015 at 9:53 pm

    Bandaid, Vaseline, Carmex, cough drops, dental floss, spray deodorant, alcohol wipes, first-aid spray, Neosporin, Benadryl cream, air freshener, pocket mirror, rubber bands, lotion, tissues, Qtips, Advil, iPhone charger..:as you can see, I try to be fully prepared for the students and for myself!

  104. Beth says

    December 17, 2015 at 1:14 pm

    Blissful Teacher essential oil mist!
    etsy.com/shop/theblissfulteacher

  105. Virginia says

    December 20, 2015 at 1:25 pm

    Band aids.

  106. M says

    December 22, 2015 at 3:51 pm

    Lip gloss or chapstick, hand lotion, and room spray to cover sweaty kid smell after lunch.

  107. Brenda says

    December 24, 2015 at 3:20 am

    Nail clippers — there are constant hangnails in my world.

  108. Jamie says

    December 25, 2015 at 4:56 am

    Hot glue gun

  109. Tess says

    December 26, 2015 at 8:53 am

    Toothbrush, toothpaste, Listerine, first aid kit, screwdriver, nail file, Goo Be Gone, Lysol Wipes, double sided tape (much of my wall space is brick and nothing sticks to it but double sided tape), chocolate (for my sanity), eye glass repair kit for my glasses and students, safety pins, body spray, skin lotion, packing tape, hair ties.

  110. Brandi says

    December 28, 2015 at 4:46 am

    After being thrown up on….twice, I always keep a change of clothes just in case.

  111. Paige says

    December 30, 2015 at 1:57 am

    Paper lunch bags…for students to throw their snotty Kleenexes in while at their desk.

    • Mackenzie Elizabeth says

      December 30, 2015 at 5:59 am

      This is brilliant! Thanks for sharing!

  112. Mari says

    January 2, 2016 at 5:44 pm

    A mini sewing kit. There is always s hole somewhere!

  113. Jeannie says

    January 6, 2016 at 12:43 am

    Warm socks

  114. Elise says

    January 11, 2016 at 5:12 am

    Candle & matches (hidden or locked away)
    Plates
    Forks
    Sharp knife
    Party hat
    Napkins
    …for that day the unorganised parent brings in only the uncut cake.

  115. Kimmie says

    January 15, 2016 at 6:24 am

    Chapstick/vaseline, mints/gum, dental floss, fingernail file and clippers and hand sanitizer.

  116. Jan says

    January 17, 2016 at 10:34 pm

    Magic mints. Great for "my tummy hurts"

  117. Laurie says

    January 20, 2016 at 10:34 pm

    Chapstick and hand lotion for those cold recess duty days.

  118. Patti Anderson says

    January 23, 2016 at 12:39 am

    Tums, Pepto Bismal and Musinex.

  119. Kindergarten Teacher says

    January 23, 2016 at 1:37 am

    Chocolate; lots of chocolate for those long school days especially during testing and no specials, bandages, body mist, tums, advil and sweets for teachers in need of an energy booster,antibacterial, swifter, lysol spray and air freshener for throw ups in the classroom, snacks.

  120. Jill says

    January 24, 2016 at 12:43 pm

    I keep headphones, so my students who listen to music when they’re doing independent work can borrow them if they want.

  121. Stacey says

    January 24, 2016 at 8:45 pm

    Deodorant for the hot sweaty days of no air conditioner and a flashlight for the days when there is no power and my little ones need to use the restroom but are afraid of the dark.

  122. Taina says

    January 25, 2016 at 10:55 am

    Paperclips, bullclips, tissuebox, hand sanitizer, floor fanfan and coasters for all visiting teachers…

  123. Alexa Haman says

    March 16, 2016 at 1:36 am

    I teach Kinders — I like to have extra mittens on hand for kiddos who forget theirs — plus lots of plastic grocery bags so they can bring home wet/soiled clothes from recess. Also extra crayons & markers, AND my oft-used crayon sharpener. Baby wipes are a must too, plus lots of stickers and/or stamps to put on their completed work. Everyone’s suggestions were great!

  124. Woo says

    May 1, 2016 at 12:39 am

    1. Notepad: Now/Later
    2. Tylenol (headache) & Advil (Pain)
    3. Sauce & ketchups
    4. Snacks
    5. Utensils
    6. Little speaker
    7. Hair tie
    8. Energy drink

  125. kimberelle says

    June 10, 2016 at 6:22 am

    My first year teaching I went to the dollar store and created a classroom tool box. It included a hammer, screwdrivers, small sewing kit, safety pins, glue gun, velcro strips, a long lighter, eyeglass kit, bungee cord, ans bandaids. My whole team comes to me for my kit.

    • Noelle Pickering says

      June 11, 2016 at 7:20 am

      This is an awesome idea!

  126. Dana says

    June 16, 2016 at 10:47 pm

    Echoing the sewing kit! More than once have I taught a whole class lesson while sewing buttons back on coats or tears in favorite shirts (after the student changed into a spare, of course!).

  127. Aaron says

    July 15, 2016 at 11:11 pm

    – Post its (because I cant remember everything)
    – Ditto lip balm and deotorant
    – Candy (for me or to bribe middle schoolers)
    – hand sanatizer for me and kids
    – picture of europe (for when the mind needs 2 seconds to escape)
    – union rep email and # (just in case)

  128. Melissa (Giggles ;) says

    July 16, 2016 at 7:37 pm

    I actually created a welcome back “toolbox” for my teammates with many of the same afore mentioned items purchased from the dollar store. I also include in my desk, velcro , Goo Gone (to remove sticky residue from things taped on desks), WD40 for those squeaky doors and desks (especially good during testing taking times!)sweetner and powdered creamer (seems to always run out in the teacher’s lounge-many have come to me for saving!), shaving cream (cleans desks safely and effectively, plus it smells good too–those fifth graders, ugh!).
    I also keep a frog sitting on my desk to remember, during those tough times, to F-ully R-ely O-n G-od!
    Good luck in the coming school year!!

    • Noelle Pickering says

      July 18, 2016 at 11:27 pm

      This is a fabulous idea! I love it!

  129. sci teacher says

    July 18, 2016 at 11:06 pm

    reusable cold pack to keep in mini fridge (or freezer) – saves A LOT of unnecessary trips to the nurse.

  130. Kara says

    July 26, 2016 at 1:59 pm

    I keep lots of the aforementioned items, but I don’t think I saw extra lead for mechanical pencils. I keep some of all kinds and give students a few pieces if they run out.

  131. Frank says

    July 26, 2016 at 8:32 pm

    Microwavable oatmeal and pasta. Great if you or a student forgets a lunch.

  132. Lydia says

    July 27, 2016 at 10:35 am

    I also keep a lot of the items above but also keep body spray to freshen up with, hair spray and a brush to pull up hair when needed. Baby powder (small one) to put in shoes if really hot. I keep a case of bottled water in my room along with packets of mixes to add for different flavors. Hot glue gun for minor quick repairs. Gum, mints, toothpicks.

  133. Amy says

    July 27, 2016 at 10:38 am

    My students and colleagues always come to me when they need something because the chances are that I have it in my desk. One thing that I did not read in any of the comments is a Tide to Go pen. I can’t tell you how many times it has been used.

  134. tb says

    July 27, 2016 at 11:09 am

    A Tide-to-Go pen and a magnet/picture with an uplifting saying that makes you smile. 🙂

  135. Nancy says

    July 27, 2016 at 4:50 pm

    Deodorant, Advil, nail file, lip balm, tic tacs, plastic spoons, 2 sided screw driver, allen wrenches, packing tape dispenser.

  136. Eileen Benjamin says

    July 27, 2016 at 5:34 pm

    Nail file

  137. Eileen Benjamin says

    July 27, 2016 at 5:37 pm

    I like to keep a nail file in my desk. Jagged edges drive me crazy!

  138. Denise says

    July 27, 2016 at 9:18 pm

    Safety pins. I don’t have time to sew buttons on during the day, but a safety pin will save me from an embarrassing wardrobe malfunction in a pinch!

    • Kathy says

      August 1, 2016 at 10:41 am

      As one who has experienced that wardrobe malfunction, I must agree. One day when I was a substitute, all the buttons of my skirt fell off. Fortunately, I was sitting at a chair. I sent a kid down to the home ec teacher. All she had were safety pins. Well, that at least kept me from loosing my skirt completely.

  139. Daphne corneil says

    July 27, 2016 at 11:42 pm

    Kind notes and letters from ex-students and parents. For those dark and dismal days when you feel like you aren’t making a difference– a reminder that others think you already have.

  140. Madame says

    July 28, 2016 at 11:17 pm

    I have a lot of these things but also Shout Stain Wipes. Faculty and staff know I have them and have come looking for them. They are always very thankful when they spill on their clothes and can clean it instead of wearing their shame all day!

  141. Valerir says

    July 29, 2016 at 9:37 pm

    Sewing kit ang special band aids ????!

  142. Kathy says

    August 1, 2016 at 10:37 am

    Non-perishable, microwaveable food, for those days you forget to bring your lunch. Also, quick little snacks.

  143. Lori Wilson says

    August 2, 2016 at 8:06 am

    I have taught High School up to this point, but I’ll be starting at a new school teaching MS, and in anticipation of those sticky days outside during their recess, I have purchased Febreze (I always think I smell like “outside” after coming in). I also always keep a jacket on my chair, and one of those cheap blankets from Walmart in my desk just in case I can’t seem to get warm. I also plan to keep a couple pairs of gripped socks in my desk for comfort and warmth to use in my classroom.

    I’ve also always kept a mug for my tea and hot cocoa. Idk why things taste so much better when you have familiar items.

  144. Tracey says

    August 11, 2016 at 2:25 pm

    Guys!!! This is awesome! I’m still in college but I’m already thinking about a classroom kit!

  145. Pam Galloway says

    August 15, 2016 at 12:56 am

    Thank you for all these wonderful suggestions and reminders. I’ve been without a classroom for a year and changing schools to sharing a classroom this year. One thing, as a Theatre Director, I always wind up needing: TAPE! Plain, double sided, wide clear packing, blue painters, duck, washi…amazing how you’ll have a need for these various types!

  146. John Ayala says

    August 17, 2016 at 9:22 am

    I have one of those small tool kits with everything, nails, screws, in a cabinet; at my desk, tums definitely, chapstick, I like Badger Balm, Altoids, granola bars, baby wipes, eyed drops, water bottle, band-aids a must.

  147. Deirdre says

    August 29, 2016 at 7:57 am

    Double sided-tape is a must, great for when a blouse doesn’t fit quite right and a million other uses. I have several phone chargers in my room and let my students charge their phones, provided they leave them there at the charging station. Definitely a first aid kit to avoid nurse trips for paper cuts. Recently I found some reusable rubber zip-tie-like things. Great for organizing all of the wires and securing them to desk legs so I don’t trip on them. Lots of great tips here, I will be adding a few more!

  148. Mssy says

    August 30, 2016 at 8:36 pm

    I have an inconspicuous zipper bag with pads in the for girls to fall back on if they run out of supplies or get surprised. It’s hidden in a place which the boys don’t know!! I also have extra mascara and an eye pencil (for when I don’t hit enough red lights on the way to school!), and a mini toolkit (hammer, nails, putty knife, screw driver, etc)

  149. Emily says

    October 30, 2016 at 7:20 am

    A timer for kids complete their work

  150. Samantha says

    August 4, 2017 at 1:24 pm

    I have lip balm, nail files, cough drops, deodorant, lotions, Tide-to-go pen, After-bite stick (those pesky mosquitos always find their way in), feminine products (tampons for me, pads for my sophomore girls), Colgate Wisps, mints, sewing kit, safety pins, SEVERAL empty water bottles (the water fountain is right outside my room, and I somehow always lose a water bottle or take it home), phone chargers (both lightning and micro-USB), Febreze (for when that ONE sub sits in my chair…), plastic utensils, coffee k-cups and tea bags (I have a Mini Keurig for coffee in the morning and tea in the afternoon), wax melter and a wide variety of scents (sometimes I’ll let the first student in the room in the morning choose the scent for the day), emergency chocolate (duh), hand sanitizer, Advil, extra face-powder and oil blotting sheets (I’m so ridiculously oily), and a little travel brush with mirror. I also keep a simple black Columbia fleece on my chair, as well as some of my husband’s extra hoodies/sweaters for when my kids are cold. This year, I actually had to buy a small heater – the AC in my room was basically on full blast from October until April. I’m in Austin, TX, but it still gets cold! I also have a little fan for when the AC isn’t working… I’m just about prepared for every situation!

  151. Pollyanna says

    February 5, 2018 at 4:41 pm

    I’d add the following
    –At least one full bottle of water. If I don’t start the day with a full bottle or two, I rarely find the time to fill my bottle since I am the sole teacher in my full day classroom.
    –A box of tissues and bottle of sanitizer – early childhood, enough said.
    — Thank you cards – a little appreciation immediately beats a great deal of tardy praise.

  152. Dana says

    July 15, 2018 at 9:51 am

    Cute and comfy slippers for those times when my shoes begin hurting my feet. Always deoderant and a change of clothes for me, as well as spray deoderant for students. Band-Aids. Rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and Neosporin. Tums/Rolaids. Excedrin migraine and motrin. Scented candles which have never been lit, but provide subtle fragrance for years. Two kinds of chocolate: student chocolate and teacher chocolate. Students know not to even look at the teacher chocolate! And I have Ebola… A wacky miniature stuffed animal that looks like an Ebola cell. The kids love that thing. I know, weird. Got it from a colleague one Christmas.

  153. Shell307 says

    August 9, 2018 at 8:22 pm

    The Dollar Tree has a Hallmark line of greeting cards that are nice and 2 for a dollar. It’s great to have birthday/sympathy/get well cards on hand for staff members. I keep some in my desk drawer for those life events for that occur during the year.

  154. Amelie says

    August 25, 2018 at 8:04 am

    A warm sweater (or shawl); seasonal allergy medication; some subject-related movies (I teach high school art, so I have a few: Big Eyes, Wasteland, Loving Vincent, Exit Through The Gift Shop, to name a few); needle and thread; band aids; an umbrella (saved my life a few times!).

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