Keeping a recording session running smoothly is essential. These are items not recording equipment, but you’ll need them in almost every recording session. Even if you are working in the studio alone, having these things on hand close by allows the flow to keep going and keeps you from having to run out and search for the item somewhere else in the house.

1. Hydration. Human beings need water, especially ones that are singing or playing music. Always have bottled water on hand. It doesn’t even have to be cold, just wet. Cold liquids are usually not helpful for singing and speaking voices.
   
   
2. Tissue. Everyone always asks for tissue, especially during cold and allergy season. Keep a couple of boxes around not only for their intended use but also for spills and cleaning eyeglasses
   
   
3. Sharp Pencils with erasers. People often need to make notes and corrections on scripts and music. Part of my prep for a recording session is to sharpen a bunch of pencils. I have an electric pencil sharpener within reach in the control room. A few other basic office supplies might come in handy also, especially scotch tape and Post-It notes.
   
   
4. Over-the-counter meds. Pain relief meds such as Acetaminophen are often requested. Cough drops, Claritin, and antacids might be other good things to have in the drawer depending on your own needs and those of your clients.
   
   
5. Clip-on lights for music stands. Lighting in most studios is uneven, especially home studios. I often found myself positioning musicians for adequate lighting rather than the best sound. The advent of clip-on LED battery operated lighting for music stands has been a real boon. Most of them run off of an AC adapter if you don’t want to keep replacing batteries. You can also get them with rechargeable batteries.