Well, it sounds like everyone’s getting serious about this Spring Cleaning stuff. And while it’s true that no two homes are alike, there are certain items that are essential to having a clean, well-maintained home. Here is a list of essential tools and supplies that will assist in keeping almost any home a clean and healthy living environment. [image via microfiberchina]
Microfiber Cloths
Normally sold by the bag, these cloths can be used wet or dry and are a virtual magnet for dust, pet hair and dander and even grease. They are the perfect tool for cleaning wood surfaces and furniture since they are durable and non-abrasive.
Sponge Mop
A sponge mop is a good multi-surface cleaning tool. It can be used on a variety of surfaces and can go directly from tile to vinyl to hardwood. It is self-wringing which keeps germs contained and prevents dripping and splattering. Some sponge mops are slightly abrasive so be sure yours is rated for the surfaces in your home.
Dust Mop
For vinyl, linoleum, hardwood and other bare floor surfaces, a daily sweep with a dust mop will remove a large percentage of dust, pet hair and dander from your home. Best of all, they are machine washable and one mop head will last a long time.
Broom and Dust Pan
A regular-sized broom and hand broom are both necessary accompaniments to your dust pan: the large broom for whole-room cleaning and the hand-broom for grabbing the dirt and dust that is too small for the regular broom to catch or for dirt stuck in corners and crevices.
10-Gallon Bucket
A good-sized bucket will serve multiple purposes, especially when it comes to mixing the right concentrations of cleaning solutions. One bucket can do the job for most or all floor and surface cleaning tasks.
Multi-Colored Sponges
Your sponge should have its own job (or at a minimum its own area). Multi-colored sponges allow you to designate tasks for each color so they all get used to do their own jobs: yellow for the fridge and freezer, blue for the toilet, orange for the bathroom sink and tub, red for the kitchen, etc. Assign them as you wish.
Vacuum Cleaner
Every home needs a vacuum cleaner, even if you have hardwood floors. Dust and allergens settle in upholstery and in throw rugs, even in corners and along baseboards. A vacuum cleaner with attachments for cleaning upholstery, walls, curtains, etc. is essential for controlling dust and keeping pet hair and dander at bay. If you have multiple pets, there are a number of models rated to handle pet hair and they are well worth the few extra dollars for their ability to avoid clogging.
Basic Cleaning Supplies
Every home should have a basic supply of cleaners for everyday applications: glass cleaner, spot treatment foam for rugs and upholstery, scouring powder, dish soap, tub and tile cleaner, pine floor cleaner, wood wax polish, disinfecting spray and a general all-purpose multiple surface cleaning spray are all good, basic items to have on hand for everyday cleaning needs and emergencies.
