It depends on the valve you’re trying to turn. A dedicated water meter key or sillcock key is ideal, but a few workarounds may help in a pinch.

• Outdoor spigot (missing handle): A small adjustable wrench or locking pliers can grip the square stem gently.
• Indoor main shutoff: Many homes have a wheel or lever you can turn by hand; if it’s stubborn, use an adjustable wrench carefully.
• Street/curb stop: These typically require a long T‑handle meter key. If you don’t have one, consider contacting your water provider or a licensed plumber.

Safety: Avoid excessive force to prevent damage. Only operate valves on your property or with permission, and consider shutting water off inside the home during emergencies.

There isn’t one key that fits every valve, but some styles cover common sizes.

• 4‑way sillcock keys: These compact cross keys offer four square sockets (often 1/4", 9/32", 5/16", 11/32") that fit many hose bibs, spigots, and utility valves. They won’t match every setup, though.
• Water meter/curb keys: Long T‑handle tools with U‑shaped or slotted heads. Designs and sizes can vary by municipality and valve type.
• Specialty valves: Some cabinets, radiators, and hydrants use unique shapes that require specific keys.

Tip: Check the stem size and head shape on your valve, compare to product specs, or take a photo for reference. Matching style and size helps improve compatibility.

You can shop a range of water meter keys, sillcock keys, and utility keys at Walmart.

• Online: Search for terms like “water meter key,” “sillcock key,” or “utility key,” then filter by length, material, and features. Choose delivery or store pickup where available.
• In store: Look in Home Improvement—often in Plumbing or Tools. An associate can help you compare sizes and styles.

Helpful prep: Know whether you need a long T‑handle curb key or a compact 4‑way key, and note your valve’s stem size or shape. Checking local store availability on the product page can save a trip.

Two common styles show up most:

• Water meter/curb key: A long metal shaft with a T‑handle on top and a U‑shaped or slotted head at the bottom to turn underground curb stop valves. Lengths vary (often around 15–48 inches) to reach deeper boxes.
• 4‑way sillcock key: A compact cross‑shaped tool with four square sockets (commonly 1/4", 9/32", 5/16", 11/32") for outdoor spigots and utility valves. Some versions include an attached bit or chain.

Both styles are typically steel or zinc alloy for durability, and they’re designed for plumbing, emergency prep, and home maintenance tasks.

Start by identifying the valve you need to turn and where it’s located.

• Street/curb shutoff (underground box): Choose a long T‑handle water meter key. Pick a length that reaches your box depth and a head style (U‑shaped/slotted) that matches your valve.
• Outdoor spigot without a handle: A 4‑way sillcock key with common square sizes (1/4", 9/32", 5/16", 11/32") covers many stems.
• Utility cabinets or specialty valves: A universal utility cross key may help where permitted.

Tips: Measure the stem or take a photo, check product specs, and consider corrosion‑resistant materials. Only operate valves you’re authorized to access, and avoid forcing a tight valve.