Walk down any cleaning aisle and you’ll see shelves packed with sprays, scrubs, and gadgets promising to make your home sparkle. But the truth is, many of these products are redundant, overpriced, or simply unnecessary.
In fact, experts say a handful of basic supplies can tackle nearly every mess in your home. Here are 15 cleaning products you can skip — and what to use instead.
Fancy Glass Cleaners
Glass cleaners are often marketed as the ultimate solution to streak-free windows and mirrors. However, a simple mix of vinegar and water can do the job just as well. Plus, it’s free of harsh chemicals, which is a win for the environment. Who knew that the key to crystal clear glass was sitting in your pantry all along?
Don’t take my word for it, though. Hotel housekeepers swear by this simple, homemade solution.
Expensive All-Purpose Cleaners
All-purpose cleaners promise to clean everything from kitchen countertops to bathroom tiles. But the truth is, you can achieve the same results with a homemade cleaner. A mix of baking soda, vinegar, and a few drops of essential oil works wonders. Plus, it’s non-toxic and much cheaper.
Don’t believe me? Simple Made Pretty shares some great DIY cleaning product recipes. Give them a try and see for yourself.
Chemical-Based Drain Cleaners
These are some of the most dangerous products in your cleaning arsenal. They’re corrosive, harmful to the environment, and unnecessary. A simple baking soda and vinegar mix can unclog your drains without the health risks.
Interested in learning more about the dangers of chemical-based cleaners?
Air Fresheners
While they may make your home smell nice temporarily, air fresheners often contain harmful chemicals. Instead, consider natural alternatives like essential oil diffusers, or simply open your windows and let in some fresh air.
Remember, a clean home shouldn’t need to be masked by artificial scents. If there’s a persistent odor, it’s likely a sign that something needs addressing – not masking!
Single-Use Disinfectant Wipes
While they may be convenient, single-use disinfectant wipes are not eco-friendly. A reusable cloth and a simple disinfectant spray can do the job just as well. Plus, you’ll save money and reduce waste.
Specialty Wood Polish
The truth is that wood needs very little help to stay looking great. A slightly damp cloth for dusting and the occasional treatment with a simple oil like olive or mineral will do just fine.
By the way, using too much polish can actually dull your furniture over time, not to mention it can build up and attract more dust and grime. So, save your money and ditch the specialty wood polish.
Name-Brand Laundry Detergents
While they may smell nice, name-brand laundry detergents often come with a hefty price tag. Plus, they often contain unnecessary chemicals. Opt for eco-friendly and budget-friendly alternatives instead.
Alternatively, you can even make your own laundry detergent at home! It’s simpler than you might think, and your wallet (as well as your skin!) will thank you.
Separate Stain Removers
Stain removers are often touted as a laundry essential. The truth is, many common household items like vinegar, baking soda, or even dish soap can tackle stains just as effectively.
So, before you reach for that expensive stain remover, try a homemade solution first.
Specific Surface Cleaners
Having a separate cleaner for every surface in your home is not only unnecessary but also a waste of cupboard space. A good all-purpose cleaner can tackle most household cleaning tasks.
Remember, the key to a clean home is not a multitude of products but regular cleaning and maintenance.
High-End Dish Soaps
While they may promise to make your dishes sparkle like new, high-end dish soaps are often not worth the extra cost. A good quality but reasonably priced dish soap will do the job just as well.
And let’s face it, any product that’s used up as quickly as dish soap doesn’t need to be high-end.
Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners are another product that you can easily do without. They often contain chemicals that aren’t good for the environment or your skin. Instead, try adding a cup of white vinegar to your wash. It’s a natural fabric softener and won’t leave a smell behind.
Plus, vinegar can help to keep your washing machine clean and free of soap scum. It’s a win-win!
Extravagant Toilet Bowl Cleaners
Believe it or not, your toilet doesn’t need an expensive cleaner to stay sparkling. A good scrub with a toilet brush and some baking soda can do wonders. If you need a little extra cleaning power, add some vinegar to the mix.
And remember, regular cleaning is the key to a clean toilet – not expensive products.
Industrial Strength Bleach
Unless you’re running a hospital from your home, you probably don’t need industrial-strength bleach. It’s not only dangerous to have around the house, but it’s also unnecessary for most household cleaning tasks.
For most jobs, a simple homemade cleaner will do just fine. And for those tougher jobs, a smaller amount of regular bleach diluted with water should be more than sufficient.
Luxury Mop Solutions
These are often nothing more than overpriced scented water. Instead, use a simple mix of hot water and a little bit of dish soap for most floor types. For a deeper clean or for specific floor types, a mix of vinegar and water works great.
And remember, the key to clean floors is regular cleaning, not expensive mop solutions.
Overpriced Carpet Cleaners
Most carpets can be kept clean with regular vacuuming and prompt attention to spills. For a deeper clean, consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional service once or twice a year.
Bottom line? You don’t need to spend a fortune on carpet cleaning products. A little bit of elbow grease and some simple household items can do the job just as well.
So, there you have it. Cleaning doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. With a few simple household items, you can keep your home sparkling clean without the clutter and expense of unnecessary cleaning products. Happy cleaning!
