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30 Essential Cleaning Products Everyone Should Own
Create a ready-for-anything cleaning kit with our editors' favorite sprays, supplies and more.
Maybe we weren't formally taught how to iron in a home economics class, but that doesn't mean we don't want (or need) to learn. For a new homeowner or someone just starting out on their own who feels intimidated by household chores, it's easy to get caught up with the latest gadgets and devices that promise to make cleaning easier. Truthfully, you really only need a few simple items to tackle the most daunting cleaning tasks.
Because we've been there and have spent a lot of time testing cleaning products, from robot vacuums to hand soap, we're offering our expert recommendations for the best, most effective cleaners.
Here are 30 versatile and handy products that make this whole housekeeping thing more manageable and approachable. Keep scrolling to see what every homeowner should have on hand when cleaning day rolls around.
The Best Cleaning Tools
Keep the floors sparkling with a mop that has a built-in sprayer. The ability to fill the attached bottle with your favorite liquid cleaner will save tons of time. Plus, the replaceable mop pads are more sanitary than a traditional mop.
Instead of reaching for paper towels the next time you need to dust or clean, give a microfiber cloth a try. They're great for achieving a streak-free finish on mirrors, windows, TVs and computers. And, of course, they're reusable to help you cut down on waste.
Trap crumbs, dirt and dust in one fell swoop with a high-quality duster. The eco-friendly option features a washable and reusable dusting head that extends to 54 inches. No more excuses for dusty shelves and filmy fan blades. We also like this handheld option for quick sweeps of coffee tables and nightstands.
You need to have the right tools to get the job done. That means having the proper brushes for every situation. Skip the plastic and invest in a few sturdy wooden brushes for scrubbing produce, dishes and tile. This German-made wooden dishwashing brush removes tough stuck-on foods, yet its gentle bristles won't scratch nonstick cookware.
A high-quality vacuum is a must for banishing dust bunnies. Stick vacuums are the most versatile for a variety of lifestyles: compact for small-space dwellers, powerful against pet hair, lightweight for quick cleanups after kids. This Dyson machine consistently receives high ratings and reviews, so it's time to kick that old clunker you've had since college to the curb and invest in something nice. You've earned it, after all.
Mix your own natural cleaning solutions at home or buy bulk liquid cleaner refills to cut down on waste. These beautiful amber glass bottles can be used again and again.
Cleaning water droplet residue from glass shower doors is a pain, so this squeegee helps minimize the residue buildup. Keep it in the corner of your shower or just in the bathroom and quickly wipe down the door after a shower.
Vacuums are wonderful for removing dust, dirt and hair, but carpet cleaners take it a step further by lifting and removing built-up dirt from your rug or carpet. If your home is mostly carpeted, this budget-friendly machine is a must-have.
Cleaning grout is one of those tasks that no one really wants to do (ever) but the results are so immediate and satisfying that you'll wonder why you put it off so long. Make quick work of scrubbing with this editor-favorite brush that works away at dirt or mildew. Stiff bristles and an ergonomic handle earned it our top spot as the Best Grout Brush.
No, it's not glamorous, but a durable, stiff toilet brush is absolutely essential. We recommend a reusable standalone brush instead of wands with disposable heads because the bristles on reusable brushes tend to be more aggressive on tough stains and you'll save money in the long run by not having to buy replacement parts.
The Best Household Cleaners
Wiping windows and mirrors at least once a month (more frequently if you have kids) makes such a difference in how clean your house feels. This ammonia-free cleaner works like a charm on fingerprints, dried-on toothpaste marks and other scuffs and grime.
For quick cleanups, multipurpose wipes are your best friend. These Everspring ones smell heavenly, contain no dyes or synthetic fragrances and are completely safe to use around children. They're compostable, too!
This pantry staple is safe to use on nearly all surfaces. It's a must-have for mixing up homemade cleaning solutions in a pinch and cutting out the chemicals. Add in 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil and you've got the cheapest (and, in our opinion, the best!) natural cleaner.
Keep your hardwoods shiny and clean with this trusted spray cleaner that is safe for unfinished, unwaxed floors. Weekly mopping becomes the norm if you have pets and/or kids in the house, and we can confirm that this floor cleaner works on all kinds of messes.
Tackling messes as soon as they happen is the key to avoiding permanent stains. For quick spot-treating of accidental spills, we love this OxiClean spray stain remover.
Everyone's preferences will differ when it comes to laundry detergent scents, but the bottom line is you need one that really works against stains and stale smells. Our editor and reviewers love this one mostly for its effectiveness at cleaning and refreshing laundry.
There's really nothing this eraser pad can't do. We like using it on bathtubs and showers, stovetops and walls to effortlessly "erase" grime, grease and stains. It's a must-have for every home cleaning toolkit.
Cut through grease and hard-to-eliminate stains with this powerful yet gentle powder-based cleanser. We like using it on stainless steel kitchen sinks, stovetops and pots and pans to effortlessly wipe away built-up residue and add shine.
This natural disinfectant spray works just as well as its chemical-based counterparts while delivering a refreshing, light scent that we prefer over other brands. We recommend keeping a disinfectant spray in your cleaning kit instead of disinfecting wipes because a spray covers a larger surface area and allows you to quickly treat germy surfaces without much effort.
Another essential for your cleaning supplies is this classic, tried-and-true toilet bowl cleaner with bleach. When it comes to bathrooms, it's best to keep it simple and stick with the hard-hitting cleaners that just work.
Stay on top of soap scum with a daily spray that you can quickly spritz all over the shower or tub after getting out. And for deep cleans, we really like Method's foaming cleanser. Aside from the lovely eucalyptus, citrus and minty scent that leaves your bathroom smelling like a spa, it really breaks down scum and mildew resulting in a fresh, sparkling clean finish. (Psst, use it in conjunction with Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath Scrubber, and you'll see amazing results.)
The Best Cleaning Accessories
Keep all of your cleaning tools and products organized in one place with a carryall tote. Repurpose a shower caddy or purchase one like this one with a divided plastic compartment to store cleaners and cloths.
There's no need to destroy your clothes if you're cleaning or getting down in the dirt. This cute apron will keep your clothes looking as fresh as your place will be once your cleaning chores are done.
Skip disposable dryer sheets for a more eco-friendly wrinkle fighter. Wool dryer balls last for months and the shape helps fluff pillows and sheets while also reducing static on clothing.
