Essential Cleaning Supplies

It is vitally important to use the correct cleaning supplies so the surfaces you are cleaning do not get damaged from using cleaners that are too abrasive, too strong of chemicals, etc. Proper cleaning supplies can also save time and effort it takes to clean.

At the store, before you even buy the product, it is vital that you read the label on any container, but it’s even more important for cleaning products. The label will list its common uses, any precautions, and solutions. Even though a product could be labeled as an “all-purpose” cleaner, it may damage some surfaces. 

Products that contain strong chemicals like ammonia may permanently damage laminates or other plastic surfaces. Usually the kitchen needs cleaning the most. Make sure any chemicals used, are safe around food. READ the label. In cleaning a strong cleaner is not always necessary. Stronger is not always better. You may only need mild soap and warm water. 

Before you start cleaning, whether a large annual spring cleaning or a light everyday cleaning, it is a good idea to get your essential cleaning supplies together. Think about things that you are going to clean to decide what essential supplies that will be needed. 

Start from the ceiling and work your way down to the floor. Rags used to dust cobwebs in the corners, ceiling fan blades, and the tops of shelves and ledges would be one essential cleaning supply. The truth is that an old rag will work just as well as those new products out recently that advertise “a better way to dust”. Obviously, they are more cost effective because the rag is probably an old shirt or sock that can therefore be washed and used again. Use a little bit of furniture polish on the rags to enhance the ability to pick up dust from shelves and ledges. In addition to rags in your cleaning kit, make sure to add furniture polish. 

Another essential cleaning supply to add to your cleaning kit would be window washing liquid. Even though products advertise a streak free shine with their product the trick to get streak free windows; use newspaper to wipe down the window glass instead of paper towels. Keep a paper bag in your cleaning kit to toss used cleaning supplies in so when you’re finished cleaning, the whole bag can be thrown into the recycling bin. 

You should also have some anti-bacterial spray in your essential cleaning supplies. There are many products for sale that are specifically made for cleaning different parts of the house. Most are okay to use on any surface. You should also include in your cleaning kit, a spray that is specifically designed for hard to clean soap scum and mildew for the bathtubs and showers. A spray that is designed to be used on kitchen counters especially is also recommended.  White vinegar can always be used for eco friendly house cleaning.

The last thing to clean in a room is the floor. Besides the vacuuming, you will need to include mop, bucket, and floor cleaner for cleaning the non-carpeted areas. Keep these things together and pull them out when you are ready to use them. Also, keep a rug freshener like a powder or spray for your carpets. If you can keep your cleaning supplies, organized and easily accessible, it makes household cleaning faster and more efficient.