I love cooking, but what I don't love is having to spend ages cleaning my pots and pans afterward. Thankfully, this isn't an issue for me anymore, as I always have my faithful sponge to hand.

I saw so many people using this sponge on TikTok and I had to try it for myself. Now, I've been using the Scrub Daddy (available on Amazon) for two years now and I can't imagine cleaning without it. I've delved into why I love it, asked cleaning experts why they do too, given top tips for using it, plus picked out other Scrub Daddy favorites people love.

If you're looking for the best cleaning supplies to add to your cupboard or caddy, this sponge is as powerful as it is adorable.

Why I love the Scrub Daddy

I bought my first pack of three Scrub Daddies in 2022 and I have only just had to buy a new pack after two years. That's how robust they are.

Even though they're strong, the sponges are great on plates and pots, as they soften up in warm water. This means they don't leave any scratches, making them perfect for use on non-stick pans. I use mine on my Our Place Always Pan and it has kept its coating and looks pristine.

You can also use them with cold water, which allows them to be extra firm. I've used mine on my electric stovetop to remove dirt in this way and it completely removes them with just a few seconds of scrubbing. I'm going to try using it for oven cleaning next and I feel like it's going to work a treat.

“The sponge’s adaptability is part of what makes it such an effective cleaning agent,” says Andriy Neborak, cleaning expert and founder and CEO of Luxury Cleaning NY. “No matter what job you need it to do, the Scrub Daddy can adjust to the task at hand without damaging your surfaces.”

I don't have a dishwasher, so I have to rely on my own elbow grease for getting dirt off plates. Using a Scrub Daddy makes it easy to get sticky stains, old stains (sometimes I don't wash up right away, sorry!), and food stains that have cooked on.

It's not just the kitchen that I use it in — I also use it for cleaning my bathroom. I'll use it on faucets and on my showerheads, along with a strong bathroom cleaner.

It also has a unique texture that’s unlike any other regular sponge. “The Scrub Daddy has texturing that provides an excellent scrubbing action,” Andriy adds. “This unique surface, combined with its abrasive side, provides a powerful cleaning action, but one that won’t scratch surfaces.”

Top tips for using the Scrub Daddy

For best results, make sure to pair up the Scrub Daddy with a mild cleaning solution. I use it with the Mrs Meyers Cleaning Spray (available from Amazon). “For tougher jobs, pair it with a slightly stronger cleaner,” says Andriy.

It’s also a good idea to switch up the water temperature depending on the surface you’re using. “Remember to use cold water for tough scrubbing tasks and warm water for more delicate cleaning, as this will ensure you get the best performance out of your Scrub Daddy,” explains Muffetta Krueger, cleaning expert and founder of Muffetta Domestic Assistants.

Just like I do, Muffetta recommends not just limiting the Scrub Daddy to your kitchen.” It’s perfect for cleaning sneakers, outdoor furniture, and car interiors,” he says. “Its non-scratch surface means you can tackle almost any cleaning task with confidence.”

If you’re cleaning utensils, you can also move them back and forth through the cute smile on the Scrub Daddy to get into the nooks and crannies of them.

It’s also important to rinse the sponge well after each use and allow it to dry and air out in between. “With this type of care, the Scrub Daddy will last for months,” Andriy adds.

Other Scrub Daddy favorites

The Scrub Daddy is one tool that has proven to be a game-changer in the world of cleaning.

“It’s not just a sponge — it’s a versatile, durable, and highly effective cleaning tool that has earned a place in many homes and professional cleaning kits alike,” Muffetta finishes by saying.

Want to see more of my cleaning must-haves? I also love the Swiffer PowerMop which has revolutionized polishing my floors.

Finding cleaning products from Amazon is an easy way to make sure your home scrubs up well quickly. With the site's speedy Prime delivery and subscriber options, you can make it sparkle in no time and never run out of key products.

I've asked cleaning pros for the products they swear by daily, which they and their teams use to make homes big and small sparkle. From wonderful window cleaners to dazzling dish soap, there are so many brilliant basics they always have ready to use. As well as sharing our experts' advice, I've put together all the relevant specs and info for each of these items, and carefully checked hundreds of reviews from real customers who bought these items, so you're fully informed before heading over to Amazon.

If you're searching for the best cleaning supplies out there and are just searching for ones specifically on Amazon, these are all worth scouting out.

Finding cleaning products from Amazon that the pros use daily is a great way to tick off your cleaning caddy checklist and fill it with highly rated, quality items.

Still browsing the site after stocking up on cleaning supplies? The best Amazon furniture brands and finds are super for decorating your home.

The Swiffer PowerMop is my secret for keeping my floors sparkling. Whenever I have a spillage, have quick crumbs to clear up, or have guests coming round, it's the only thing I reach for.

Okay — it was my secret. I've spilled on why I'm obsessed with it, show you where you can shop for it, plus picked out alternative options. I have also asked cleaning pros why a spraying mop like this is much more efficient than a regular one.

For those looking for the best mops and don't want anything complicated to use, I think this mop is no-fuss and highly effective.

The Swiffer PowerMop is a cleaning dream

This mop saves you from getting out your best cleaning supplies when you have minor spills on the floor and even prevents the need to use your best vacuum on smaller crumbs.

I have scouted out where you can shop it, as well as picked out alternatives so you have lots of options to choose from.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Why I love the Swiffer PowerMop

I'm not the biggest fan of cleaning in the world. Some people love it, but I am not one of those people. This is why I am always looking for solutions that are simple to use and will save me time in the long-run. 

The Swiffer PowerMop ticks all those boxes for me and more. It couldn't be simpler to use — just press the button on the top and wipe away your debris. The head picks up crumbs and mops away spills, without the need to bend down on the floor with a dustpan and brush or microfiber cloth. I can imagine this would be especially useful for those who struggle to do this normally.

As well as this, it comes with the most delicious floor cleaner that lives up to its promise of keeping floors fresh for 24 hours. I go over mine with the Swiffer PowerMop before guests arrive and I always get comments on how wonderful my home smells. It dries super quickly, making it a much more effective choice than a damp mop and bucket.

While it does come with scrubbing strips that I did find hugely effective and absorbent, I wasn't a huge fan of the fact that you have to throw them away. Instead, I use reusable pads that I can wash and reuse — the Juvale 10-Pack Microfiber Mop Pads from Amazon are similar, come in a pack of ten, and can be used on all surface types.

It also has a slimline frame, which is much less cumbersome than using a mop with a heavy head. This makes it easy to grab, use, and quickly put away. At the top it has a handy loop which means you hang it up when you're done. I have mine hung up on the basement door in the kitchen for convenience.

Shop the Swiffer PowerMop

Why cleaning pros love spray mops

I love using my Swiffer PowerMop thanks to its ease of use and efficiency — and cleaning pros agree that spray mops are a brilliant option.

“Spray mops are especially great for quick clean-ups in high-traffic areas, such as in homes with kids or pets where spills and messes are frequent,” explains Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and founder of E.C. House Cleaning.

She says that a spray mop can tackle these immediate concerns swiftly without the hassle of preparing traditional mop water. “The Swiffer PowerMop, for instance, comes with a powerful battery-driven spray mechanism that provides an even, controlled application of cleaning solution, allowing for thorough and even cleaning across all types of flooring.”

The fact it eliminates the typical gross, heavy bucket is a big bonus. “The lightweight design makes it easier for anyone to use, including those who may have physical limitations or prefer to avoid the back strain associated with traditional mopping,” says Yessica Bello, cleaning expert and founder of Bello Cleaning.

“We've found in our operations that utilizing spray mops like this one improves overall cleaning speed and quality, allowing us to focus on more complex tasks and leading to a more thorough and satisfying cleaning experience for our clients,” she adds.

This is one of my favorite parts of using the Swiffer PowerMop — the quicker I can rattle through my house cleaning schedule, the better.

Shop alternative mops

I can’t imagine life without my Swiffer PowerMop, and if you’re a low-maintenance cleaner like me, I highly recommend it.

“Spray mops like the Swiffer will allow you to clean more efficiently without compromising on quality,” Eliana finishes by saying

If you’re looking for other ways to freshen up your home, be sure to find the best home fragrances, candles, and diffusers, too.

Cleaning with vinegar is the key to a fresh and vibrant home you feel proud of, and there are lots of uses for it.

When it comes to sprucing up the house, few ingredients boast the versatility of vinegar. Our cleaning experts reveal 10 household cleaning jobs you can do with vinegar, how to do them, top tips on homemade solutions and which vinegar is best for cleaning.

When on a tight budget, you don’t always need oodles of expensive products to clean a house, so let our experts’ years of experience guide your use of this inexpensive, handy liquid.

Pro cleaning with vinegar ideas for the home

When it comes to the best cleaning supplies for your home, it's hard to beat vinegar for its blend of versatility and efficiency, and chances are, you already have some in your kitchen. 

Learning how to clean with vinegar, whether using distilled white vinegar for its potency, cleaning vinegar for extra acidity, or apple cider vinegar for fragrance, means you'll spruce every room in the house with ease — and little cost.

Where our pros have suggested products, we've sourced matching picks from trusted retailers.

Prices were correct at the time of publication. 

1. Brighten your windows

Windows brighten up your home and allow views of nature's splendor, but they're also magnets to dust, grime, and finger (or paw) prints.

Cleaning windows with vinegar — white or distilled vinegar, such as Walmart's Heinz All Natural Distilled White Vinegar — is the best for restoring sparkle.

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, "First, use a dry fabric to clean the glass of any residue. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, then generously spritz the glass. 

"Use a clean, microfiber cloth to wipe, or for bigger windows, a squeegee will provide  great results in less time."

Wells recommends the lint-free E-Cloth Window Cleaner Kit from Amazon for a streak-free finish. The OXO Wiper Blade Squeegee from Target is effective for windows,  mirrors, showers and glass tables too. 

2. Clean your kettle

Over time, mineral deposits can accumulate in your kettle, corroding the kettle and shortening its lifespan — not to mention compromising the taste of your hot drinks.

Fear not! Cleaning with vinegar will rescue your kettle from the clutches of limescale buildup. 

Wells says, "Fill around half of the kettle with a solution of one part vinegar, one part water. Bring it to boil, then let the solution sit for an hour. While soaking, use a brush to agitate the kettle surface, being careful not to burn your hands."

Wells recommends the OXO Good Grips Deep Clean Brush Set from Amazon. 

He adds, "Empty the kettle, then refill it with fresh water, boiling this and pouring away. This ensures no lasting taste of vinegar in your tea or coffee."

3. Drive away pests

Vinegar is a great natural way to deterring and removing unwelcome guests (the pest kind, not the human kind). You can use it to get rid of ants in a kitchen, for example.

A one-to-one mix of water and vinegar sprayed (we recommend Wayfair's Prep & Savour Spray Bottle Set) generously along the ants' common routes in, and colony trails can disrupt their pheromone trails and stop them finding their way back in, though you'll need to repeat the process for several days to create lasting impact. 

4. Unclog drains

When it comes to cleaning a sink, vinegar forms half of a decidedly brilliant drain-unclogging duo. 

Wells says, "Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a generous glug of white vinegar. This dynamic duo dissolves blockages and devours odors. 

"Give the mixture a few minutes to bubble and pass through the drain, before washing any remaining particles from the channel with boiling water."

Cleaning vinegar's 6% acidity works well for this task. Try Amazon's Harris Cleaning Vinegar, which also leaves a pleasant orange scent. 

For baking soda, we recommend a pack of two boxes from Walmart. 

Though an effective cleaning duo, never mix vinegar and baking soda in a closed container as this will lead to a dangerous chemical reaction.

5. Remove odors

From the front hallway through to the guest bathroom, there's nothing worse that foul smells. Yes, you guessed it — vinegar is your ultimate odor eliminator!

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "To absorb unwanted room odors, simply place a small bowl of vinegar in the room. For stronger odors, simmer a pot of water with a few tablespoons of vinegar and some citrus peels."

From musty curtains to worn upholstery, vinegar is also highly effective at removing odors from fabrics.

Karina adds: "Simply spritz an equal-parts mixture of vinegar and water onto the fabric and let it air dry. The acetic acid in vinegar neutralizes odor-causing bacteria, leaving fabrics smelling fresh and clean. As the vinegar evaporates, it takes away foul odors with it, leaving behind nothing but a clean scent."

6. Spruce floors

For your kitchen and bathroom to really pop, you'll want to know how to clean floors with vinegar.

Whether it's hardwood, tile, or laminate, a solution of vinegar and water is suitable for most floor types, effectively cutting through dirt and leaving a sparkling finish.

Karina says, "For tile or linoleum floors, add a cup of vinegar to a gallon of hot water and mop well. Hardwood floors require extra care, so go with a quarter cup vinegar per gallon of water. 

"Dampen a microfiber mop with the solution and mop the floor, working in the direction of the wood grain. Be careful to avoid soaking the floor as oversaturation can cause warping or discoloration."

Our experts recommend the Rubbermaid Microfiber Reveal Mop Cleaning Kit from Amazon. 

Karina adds: "Test the solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the floor finish. This might seem like a small detail, but it's a crucial step in preserving the integrity of your flooring."

7. Clean kitchen appliances

From microwaves to refrigerators, kitchen appliances are workhorses of the home, but their regularity of use means grease and grime can accumulate quickly. 

However, vinegar's quality as a natural degreaser makes it perfectly placed for the job. Cleaning with apple cider vinegar works well here for its combination of potency and pleasant smell.

Karina says, "For your refrigerator, mix equal parts water and vinegar to clean shelves and drawers. The acidity of vinegar helps to break down grime and food residue. Not only does it cut through tough stains and spills, but it also eliminates any lingering odors, ensuring that your fridge remains fresh at all times."

For cleaning microwaves with vinegar, simply heat a bowl of vinegar for a few minutes, before wiping down the interior. 

Karina says, "The steam generated by the heated vinegar helps loosen caked-on food residue, allowing you to wipe it away effortlessly with a damp cloth."

As well as playing a key role in how to clean an oven, running a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar through a coffee maker removes mineral deposits.

Karina adds, "The acidity of vinegar helps to dissolve calcium and mineral buildup, restoring your coffee maker's performance and prolonging its lifespan."

8. Whiten whites

Vinegar's acidic properties lend itself to whitening fabrics, making it a great, eco-friendly alternative to bleach. 

Simply add a half cup vinegar, along with the detergent, to the laundry cycle for extra-gleaming whites. As an added bonus, vinegar also acts a deodorising softener, so your clothes will emerge soft and fresh. 

9. Clean showerheads

A clogged showerhead can put a damper on your morning routine, reducing water pressure and leaving you less than refreshed. Vinegar offers a simple solution to this common problem. 

By soaking the showerhead in a mixture of vinegar and water, you can dissolve mineral deposits and restore optimal water flow, ensuring a rejuvenating shower experience every time.

Karina says: "Simply fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it over the showerhead. Leave it overnight to remove mineral deposits, before scrubbing with an old toothbrush. The combination of vinegar's acidity and the scrubbing action helps dislodge mineral deposits and bacteria, restoring your showerhead's flow."

10. Remove rust

Rust can mar the appearance of metal surfaces, leaving them looking worn and neglected. Vinegar's acidic nature makes it an excellent rust remover, capable of dissolving rust and restoring metal to its former glory. 

Salt and vinegar work a dream here. Not only is it America's most popular crisp flavor, but this pair combine brilliantly to get rid of rust.

The salt increases the natural acidity of the vinegar to the point where it can dissolve the oxidized metal. The salt also acts as an abrasive when it comes time to start scrubbing.

In a tub or basin, mix one cup salt with two cups white vinegar, then dilute with water. 

If the item is removable, like a grill, pop it into the solution and allow it to soak overnight before scrubbing the loosened rust away. If not, drench a brush or microfiber cloth in the solution before getting to work. 

Cleaning with vinegar, whether in the kitchen, bathroom, living room, garden will transform your routine — vinegar can work its natural magic anywhere. 

Next, check out two more important household jobs where vinegar plays its part — how to clean mold from carpets and how to clean bathroom floors.

Washing clothes is a chore, but luxury laundry detergents will make the experience feel less like a burden and more like a feast for the senses. 

Part cleaner, part aroma, and wholly satisfying, these sophisticated selections up the ante and will make you look forward to tackling the dirty sheets and delicates you've been avoiding. Heck, you might even do away with scented candles and reed diffusers after washing a bunch of towels with these awesome detergents.

Since luxe selections can get a bit pricey, we found our favorite eco-friendly laundry detergents to elevate the cleaning process without breaking the bank.

Our favorite luxury laundry detergent selections

One of the things people with nice-smelling homes always do is consider all rooms and diversify their scent options. 

Home fragrances aren't limited to candles and air fresheners. Doing laundry is one of the most basic ways to keep things smelling fresh at home, and if one viral option just so happens to smell like the beloved Le Labo Santal 26 fragrance, so be it. You certainly won't hear us complain!

What to shop

You might be wondering how often to do laundry and consider taking your schedule up a notch or two with these picks. Not only do these selections have fresh aromas, but a few offer sustainable formulations and a tough-on-stains-approach that we can all appreciate.

Now you've uncovered some generous cleaning products for your garments, it's time to make your laundry room sparkle. We've uncovered Insta-worthy laundry detergent storage ideas, laundry room essentials, and adorable yet sturdy laundry hampers to pull the whole look of this vital, functional space together.

To be totally honest, I think cleaning supplies subscriptions are the way forward. Staying on top of cleaning isn't always an easy process, and it gets more difficult when you end up running out of the product that you need when you need it. Anyone else running to Target in the middle of the night for a dish soap emergency?

That's where a cleaning supplies subscription service that delivers the perfect solution right to your door comes in. With a subscription, you don't need to worry about adding cleaning supplies to your weekly grocery run or lug home big bottles of detergent. On top of being convenient, many subscription services also offer significant discounts and reduce plastic waste.

Whether you want all the best cleaning supplies you could ever need delivered on a specific schedule, you're looking to investigate some greener alternatives to your current products, or you just want a cleaning solution with ingredients you can name, we have you covered! 

Best cleaning supplies subscriptions  

I compiled all the best cleaning supplies subscriptions so you never have to make those emergency runs to Target for dish soap when you've run out. Now you'll never have an excuse for not having cute cleaning supplies on hand.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Grove Collaborative

Grove specifically aims to help folks cut down on plastic waste and delivers sustainable brands for eco-friendly cleaning. They boast over 200 brands including Seventh Generation, Burt's Bees, Mrs. Meyers, and even their own home care brand Grove Co.

You'll find options for glass receptacles so that you can mix your own cleaner with water and concentrate, rather than buying a new one each time. Their prices are also super affordable compared to many brick-and-mortar locations, making them perfect for anyone balancing a budget.

Unlike many other subscription options, you'll pick the brands and products that you need delivered, along with the frequency of deliveries. This means you can ensure you have what you need, when you need it. Subscriptions can also be updated, changed, or edited at any time, making it easy to add new must-haves. With options for deliveries every 4 weeks, 6 weeks, or 8 weeks, you can also make sure that different items arrive precisely when you need them.

With options that cover everything from pet supplies to personal care, Grove Co. has tons of options for an earth-friendly home. By allowing you to customize and subscribe to the crucial items for your home, you know you can always access the brands you love, at prices that can't be beat. 

Blueland

For anyone who considers their carbon footstep, single-use plastic is one of the largest problems folks run into. Blueland delivers stellar cleaning products for the home that are all based around a tablet and reusable bottle system that eliminates single-use plastics, without compromising on the cleaning ability of their product.

To start, you'll pick a starter kit. There are seventeen options to choose between, and they cover everything from just glass and mirror all the way up to their Clean Suite Kit which has everything you need to get started with bathroom cleaning supplies, dishwashing, hand soap, multi-surface cleaner, laundry, and more.

When you pick out your starter set, you will get enough cleaning tablets for each surface, along with a Forever Bottle, Forever Tin, or Forever Shaker. You can outright buy the kit one time, but this is also when you have the option to subscribe to the tablets that make up the cleaning product supplied by Blueland. You have the option of deliveries every three months, four months, five months, or six months. 

You can also choose specific items to get refills on, at the same frequency if you only want to keep getting specific products. No matter what products you subscribe to, there is a 10% discount when subscribing, and they always come in the same eco-friendly packaging that Blueland is known for. All of their packaging is recyclable or compostable, if not both. 

Branch Basics

Not all cleaners are made equal, and not all people will react the same to cleaning agents brought into their homes. If you've found yourself having reactions to the harsh agents in other cleaners, then Branch Basics may be the first cleaner that keeps you in mind.

Branch Basics uses one concentrate that is broken down into specific sizes for use around the house. You can pick up all-purpose bottles, bathroom bottles, streak-free bottles, and even laundry bottles right from Branch Basics, to ensure they're diluting the concentrate at the correct levels. The perfect addition to your cleaning caddy.

The concentrate itself is plant-based with natural water softeners and flower extracts and is a gentle but thorough cleaner safe for skin and surfaces all over your home. The Branch Basics Oxygen Boost is also a powerful boost to whiten and brighten fabrics or surfaces that have been stained. 

Clean Cult

Clean Cult delivers top-notch cleaning products inside non-plastic containers to help break the reliance on plastic where it isn't needed. Their line of products includes hand soaps, cleaning sprays, laundry detergent, dish soaps & tablets, and bars of soap that you can add to your dorm cleaning supplies line-up.

Their cleaning supplies are all packaged inside paper containers that look like milk cartons. This means that the containers are biodegradable, and 100% recyclable, meaning you won't have to worry about them moldering away in a landfill once you've used them. The line of glass bottles available also features a silicon base to help keep them from slipping and are shatter-proof.

When you make a purchase from Clean Cult, you can choose between a one-time purchase or setting up a subscription then and there. A subscription will net you a 5% discount on recurring purchases, and they can be set to deliver anywhere from monthly, to every six months.

Clean Cult is also serious about the ingredients they use in their products. Every product listing has an ingredient list, making it easy for you to tell exactly what is coming into your home. For families with allergies, or environmental sensitivities this can mean the difference between a good clean and an outbreak of hives. You won't ever find phthalates, phosphates, SLEs, SLs, dyes, or parabens in their cleaning products, making Clean Cult a line of products you can trust in your home.

Dropps

Dropps has two lines of products, one for laundry and another for the kitchen. They have an eco-friendly laundry detergent, fabric softener, and even an oxi-booster, all of which are in a pod form. The detergent and fabric softener are both available in five different fragrances, and all the pods come in quantities of 64, 128, and 192.

Dropps also has a full line of kitchen products to continue cutting down on plastic waste in your home. They start with a pod-based dish detergent, which is available in three fragrances, and comes in quantities of 64, 128, and 192.

They also have a line of dish spray, and foaming hand soap. Both of these options require a starter kit, which comes with glass bottles to be filled up. The dish spray uses a concentrate that you'll add to the starter bottle, and each bottle of concentrate is good for up to six refills. Their foaming hand wash still comes in a pod and can be snagged in three different fragrances in quantities of 64, 128, or 192.

Whichever product of Dropps you snag, you'll be able to set up a recurring subscription or just grab what you need for a one-time purchase. Subscriptions will save you a whopping 25% and will deliver every four months. Dropps also has a 30-day risk-free trial, so if it doesn't work for you then you can get a full refund by reaching out to their team via email. 

Force of Nature

Trying to figure out which cleaner is best for which part of your home can be a headache that nobody wants to deal with. Rather than buying a cleaner for the windows, another for mirrors, and yet another for surfaces, Force of Nature delivers a one-solution-fits-all cleaner that is easy and safe to use in any room of your home. 

Force of Nature uses an electrolyzer to combine water with the small activator capsules in order to make the cleaning solution. It's then good for up to two weeks and can be used on any surface of your home including the carpets. The one caveat here is that there is no whitening solution in the chemical makeup of Force of Nature, so it isn't going to be great at lifting stains like hard water.

We recommend that you kick things off with a starter kit with handy cleaning tools since it includes the cleaning bottle, electrolyzer, and enough capsules to get started. The only thing you'll need to grab on a regular basis is the activator capsules, and you can set up deliveries monthly, every 2 months, every 3 months, or every 6 months. Capsules are available in packs of 24 or 50.

Force of Nature also sells a variety of reusable cleaning tools, glass spray bottles, and even travel bottles so that your favorite cleaning solution can roam with you, no matter where that happens to be.

Public Goods

Public Goods knows that people are always going to purchase the things they want and need for their homes. Their goal is to deliver a healthy, sustainable, and affordable option that allows people to make a choice that is net-positive, without sacrificing anything along the way. They create all of the products sold, and their product lines are way more than just cleaning supplies.

Instead of subscribing to get certain items delivered, when you subscribe to Public Goods you're getting a membership to their wholesale prices. Think of it like an organic big-box store without the lines, the sensory overload, or the need to fight traffic to get there. Everything they sell is eco-friendly and packaged to be recycled when you're done with it. Best of all since Public Goods sells so many different types of items, you can do much of your shopping all at once, cutting down on the amount of boxes arriving at your home.

Their cleaning supplies are all plant-based and their dedication to sustainability means that you won't find a bunch of useless extra packaging here. You can rest assured that the products delivered by Public Goods are safe to use and that you're supporting an ethical company trying to eliminate plastic waste in whatever ways they can.

Puracy

Puracy has a number of different products to choose from including laundry detergent, surface cleaners, shampoo, and dish soap. If there's a cleaning solution you need to pull off a cleaning hack, chances are they have a plant-based option that can get the job done.

They also have a unique new line of products called clean cans. These are aluminum cans, filled with the labeled cleaning solution, that pop right into a bottle and can be used immediately. When you're done with them just drop the can into your recycling and open the next one! Their clean can system does require a special bottle, but this system is super easy to use and eliminates the disaster of a messy cleaning solution when you move it from one container to another. The clean cans are available for laundry detergent, surface cleaner, stain remover, and dish soap.

All of Puracy's products are available to be delivered regularly via a subscription. Each item is set up on a subscription separately, and you're able to adjust the frequency and exact details of your subscription at any time. If you're trying to keep your home tidy while also using the best eco-friendly cleaners available, then Puracy should absolutely be a brand on your list.

Honest

Honest has a huge line of products, all of which work well, and are created with sustainability in mind. Honest has banned over 3000 ingredients they found to be questionable. Their dedication to sustainability is also written over everything from fully recyclable packaging, and using less plastic than some competitors.

There are two basic options when bundling products from Honest. The first is a diaper and wipes bundle, which lets you choose 7 sets of diapers and their patterns, along with 4 wipes options. It gives you a 20% discount on diapers and wipes, free shipping, 15% off on additional add-ons, and includes a freebie of your choice with every 3rd shipment.

If you're more interested in specific products, you can also build out a personalized bundle from the entire line of Honest products. Each bundle can contain 5 total items, with up to 3 premium items. They're priced at $54.95, and depending on the items you snag can deliver up to a 30% discount over buying them one at a time. You're able to set when deliveries are supposed to arrive, and like their other bundle, it comes with free shipping.

FAQs

Between the labor involved in cleaning the whole house, along with buying the items you need, hauling them home, and ensuring you have them when you need them, keeping your home tidy isn't always an easy proposition. If you lack personal transport, have kids, or are cramming in tons of events to your schedule then a subscription service can make life a bit easier by delivering the products you need, on a schedule that works for you.

Just like that butterfly chair and mini fridge, dorm cleaning supplies are non-negotiables — trust us. 

Things will get messy in between bites of ramen and during long study sessions, and you'll want to know how to clean your dorm, especially after your dorm party wraps for the evening early morning. It's inevitable, so you're going to have to be prepared. But where to start? Have a conversation with the roomies, according to Jean Prominski, the founder of Seattle Sparkle. 

"The best way to keep dorm rooms clean is to talk as a group to see where everyone’s level of comfort is with cleanliness," she says. "This is an important discussion so everyone can communicate their expectations, get their voices heard, and then come up with a plan that takes everyone’s desires into consideration."

After creating to-do lists and divvying up tasks, you're one step closer to keeping your study/sleep sanctuary spotless (and adorable, obviously). But make sure not to overwhelm yourself. Cleaning definitely should not be equivalent to an elective.

"Remember to keep things simple and achievable," Prominski recommends. "And if you or your roommates have a hard time keeping up with the tasks, have an open, kind, and compassionate conversation with each other, keeping in mind how much pressure everyone is under."

And when all else fails, never underestimate the power of a handy cordless vacuum (Prominski's go-to buy for college students). Here's what else needs to make its way into your boxes before move-in day.

Essential dorm cleaning supplies for the new semester

FAQs

ICYDK: you need to clean your bathroom with different cleaning supplies than you'd clean your kitchen or your bedroom with. How comes? Bathrooms are damp and are very prone to mold and mildew build-up, while if you live in a hard water area like me, you'll need some limescale-busting products to make a real difference. Otherwise, you'll end up putting in a load of elbow grease for not very impressive results.

Cleaning your bathroom every day is not a vibe. Yes, your Mom might do it, but ain't nobody got time for that IMO. And, if you buy the best of the best products, you shouldn't need to do this job every day. Especially if you live alone or with only one other person. Do it right and do it once (a week).

Quick Menu:
1. The best bathroom cleaning supplies
2. FAQs
3. How we test

These are the best tried and tested bathroom cleaning supplies to buy for the cleaning caddy that lives in your washroom. Besides the obvious products (like bleach and a toilet brush) that you need, here's what else you need to buy if you're totally clueless like I was when I first moved out. Basically, here's how to whiz through that bathroom cleaning checklist of yours within 10 mins...

The best bathroom cleaning supplies

So, you've clued up on how to clean a bathroom but now need to know what to use to clean a bathroom. Well, here's your shopping list...

FAQs

How we tested these bathroom cleaning products

Cleaning products are so important when it comes to making your home sparkle, which is why we've gone to lengths to test the majority of these products out firsthand as a team at Real Homes. The products we've given a star rating have been tested, while the others have been featured based on their customer reviews.

First of all, we asked our whole team what their favorite bathroom products are (and their reasons why) so that we can show you why we really think these products are worth your money. Then, we include the products that we've used to test cleaning hacks and to write our how-to cleaning guides, too. 

Confession time: I didn’t realize that dishwashers needed to be deep cleaned, and FYI, it’s not just me. After chatting to some friends — none of which knew that they needed to deep clean their dishwasher — I realized that dishwasher care is one of those things a lot of us put off. 

It was only when I noticed a rather funky smelling odor emanating from my dishwasher whenever I opened the door, that I realized that it was in need of a little TLC. After doing a deep dive on #CleanTok, I learned that your dishwasher needs to be deep cleaned every two months. To keep it smelling fresh, distilled white vinegar is a great option. 

But, why does vinegar work to clean your dishwasher? I spoke to professional cleaning expert Jade Piper about the benefits of vinegar for cleaning. “Vinegar is a natural, all-around, and eco-friendly household cleaner," said Piper. "It’s also a very accessible, cheaper, and safer option than other chemical-based cleaning products which might have harsh ingredients.” 

Good to know

Time: 1 dishwasher cycle 

Effort: Easy 

Here’s what you’ll need

• A dishwasher-safe bowl or cup
• Distilled white vinegar (this one from Heinz that's available on Amazon is my go-to)

How to clean a dishwasher with vinegar

Step 1: Fill a cup with white vinegar

Cleaning expert, Jade Piper explains that, the first step to cleaning your dishwasher with vinegar is to, “place a cup of white vinegar in your dishwasher” — ideally this should be positioned on the top shelf for maximum results. 

Step 2: Run your dishwasher on a hot cycle

The next step is to turn your dishwasher on, running a hot cycle with the cup (or bowl) of vinegar left in there. 

Step 3: Remove the cup of vinegar

Once your dishwasher has finished and the steam has begun to disperse, you can remove and pour away the leftover vinegar. 

FAQS

Whether you’re doing a deep spring clean or sprucing things up, cleaning the windows shouldn’t be overlooked when cleaning your home.

I always find that when I clean mine, my home feels that little bit brighter, as the sunshine doesn’t have any dirt to compete with. Basically, cleaning your windows will make the whole room shimmer. Plus, it’s such an easy task to do, that should take no longer than 10 minutes per window.

If you don't have any window cleaner, fear not. I’ve got homemade window solutions aplenty, people. This guide includes the best one, plus alternatives in case you don’t have the ingredients or want to try something else.

Each of these also includes items that you should already have in your cabinets, so you won’t need to go out and get anything (I hate leaving the house too, DW).

Your windows are going to look so sparkly after trying these…

Homemade window cleaning solutions that you should def try out

There are three methods listed here, including the very best IMO. I've explained why they’re so amaze, what ingredients you’ll need, and how you can make and use them.

What is the best homemade window cleaning solution?

The best option for making your windows shine has to be vinegar and water. Distilled vinegar (FYI: Heinz’s from Amazon is our fave here at Real Homes) is just incredible for home cleaning. Its natural acidity flushes away any nasty grime and germs.

How to clean your windows with vinegar and water

To make this window cleaning solution, first fill an empty spray bottle (like this Amazon’s Choice one) halfway with vinegar. Then, fill the bottle with warm water, close the lid, and shake to mix together.

From here, spray the windows with the solution, wipe around with a sponge, and leave for a couple of minutes. You can then use a squeegee to get any extra solution off, before wiping down with a dry microfiber cloth to get rid of any streaks.

Top tip: If you don’t want your room to smell like vinegar afterwards (let’s face it, it doesn’t smell of roses), add ten drops of any essential oil to the mixture for a lovely scent. 

Other homemade window cleaning solutions

If you’re out of vinegar or not a fan of the scent, these two solutions are also easy and effective. 

How to clean your windows with dish soap and water

I know that you have dish soap around (Method’s is my go-to and you can buy it from Amazon in bulk). But did you know that it can be used around the house for cleaning? It’s antibacterial and obliterates stains, even when diluted with water, so it makes sense to use it on other household items as well as dishes.

To clean your windows with it, first put a couple of drops of dish soap into your spray bottle. Then, fill the rest with water and close the bottle. Give it a little shake, but not too much as you don’t want it to be too bubbly.

Following the same steps as the vinegar solution method, spritz the window, wash the solution around with a sponge, then use a squeegee (BTW, this is Amazon’s bestselling squeegee) to remove any excess. Dry it off with a microfiber cloth, and you’re done.

Top tip: Be careful not to use too much dish soap, as this can make your windows streaky and sticky. 

How to clean your windows with lemon juice and water

One of the best household cleaning products is probs living in your fruit bowl. Yes, say hello to the lemon. Lemons and lemon juice can be used around the house for a variety of different things. The acidity makes it a cleaning dream, just like vinegar, and it has a gorgeous zesty scent, too. For cleaning the windows, you’ll just need the juice, along with some water.

To do this, pour two tablespoons of lemon juice (this can either be fresh or pre-packaged) into your trusty spray bottle, before topping the rest up with water.

Same as before, shut the lid, give it all a shake, and head to your window for cleaning time. Spritz the window, wipe around, squeegee from top to bottom, and then dry the window for a streak-free finish.

Top tip: If you are using a fresh lemon, strain it before putting it in the spray bottle, as you don’t want lemon pulp on your windows.

You've loaded your dishwasher up and are about to click start when... oh no. Your little bag of dishwasher tablets is completely empty. Yikes.

But those dirty dishes need cleaning, like, now. You don't have time to dash and get some dishwasher detergent. And you've just cleaned your dishwasher so it really is ready to go. So what do you do? Well, you can scroll through this article and find some sparkling solutions that will get the job done.

I’ve rounded up a range of different ideas, which you’re pretty much guaranteed to have all the ingredients for in your apartment cleaning cabinet. They’re also renter-friendly, so you won’t be at risk of damaging your dishwasher by using these. Trust me, I know how important it is to keep that security deposit in check.

Whether you’re all out of detergent or just feel like trying something new, these dishwasher detergent alternatives will make your dishes dazzle.

What you can use instead of dishwasher detergent 

While these may not be as good as using actually dishwasher detergent, these will still clean your dishes just fine if you’re in a bind…

1. Baking soda alone

Oh baking soda, let me count the number of uses for you. It’s just incredible for cleaning appliances, furniture items, and even laundry. But RN, I’m focusing on how you can use it to clean your dishes. Fill the whole dishwasher tab slot with baking soda (around a tablespoon), and then put it on a standard cycle. For household use, we recommend Arm & Hammer’s  baking soda, which you can find on Amazon.

2. Borax, washing soda, and lemon juice

Borax is a fab household cleaner (the 20 Mule one which you can get from Amazon is a good pick), and when it's mixed together with a couple of ingredients, it can be a seriously handy emergency dishwasher detergent. Combine with half a tablespoon of washing soda, which is different from baking soda (but Arm & Hammer is here to save the day with its own washing soda, also from Amazon), and a couple of drops of lemon juice. A few sprinkles of salt will also boost this mixture’s cleaning power. Once you’ve mixed everything, pop the solution in the dishwasher detergent slot, and you're back in business.

3. Vinegar in a bowl

Vinegar is a fab natural cleaner and can be used for both handwashing plates and even inside the dishwasher. Our fave is Heinz’s vinegar, which you can grab on Amazon. Fill a medium-sized bowl with half a cup of white vinegar, then place on the top shelf of your dishwasher. The dishwasher process will get it around the whole machine and on your plates. Its acidity will wash all the grime off, so you don’t have to waste your time scrubbing. 

4. Liquid dish soap and baking soda

You just can’t beat ol’ reliable dish soap, and matched with baking soda you’ll have extra clean dishes. Squeeze three drops of soap into the detergent slot, then fill up the rest of the way with baking soda. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly dish soap option, Seventh Generation's dish soap is a delish lemongrass and clementine scent, and is Amazon’s Choice, too. Don’t use dishwashing soap alone though, as you could end up with serious bubble trouble.

5. Washing soda alone

If you don’t have borax or lemons handy, but you do have washing soda, you can just use this alone. Same as with baking soda, simply fill up the detergent compartment with washing soda (yes, Arm & Hammer’s washing soda again), close, and turn on your machine. This can be really strong by itself, so be sure to not inhale it too much, and use rubber gloves while handling. 

6. Lemon juice in a bowl

This trick works similarly to putting vinegar in a bowl to clean your dishes. Pour half a cup of lemon juice into a medium-sized bowl, and then place onto the top shelf of your dishwasher. If you’re using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled, make sure to strain it through a sieve so you don’t get sticky fruit on your dishes. Then, turn on the machine as normal. Not only will the citric acid clean your dishes, but you’ll also be left with a lovely zesty scent. Mmm, so satisfying.

What not to use as dishwasher detergent alternatives

Not only will these do a bad job of cleaning, but they could also damage your dishwasher.

• Dish soap by itself
• Liquid laundry detergent
• Laundry pod
• Fabric softener
• All-purpose cleaning spray
• Room spray
• Shampoo
• Bar soap

Browsing DIY or natural cleaning methods that’ll ensure every inch of your home stays pristine? Then chances are you’ve come across both lemon and white vinegar, two of the most commonly touted "do-it-all" cleaning solutions out there. 

Whether it's the non-toxic nature that's got your attention or you're looking to save a little money, you're probs wondering just how well these cleaning methods work and which one offers the best results. 

Personally, I love both options for cleaning, and I'll tell you why. Back when I was a seriously broke college student, I used to moonlight as a cleaner, and two of my go-to products of choice were always lemon juice and white vinegar. Why, I hear you ask? Well, mainly because they were seriously cheap and because they actually tend to work (well, most of the time), especially when it comes to cleaning hacks for all around your space.

While both lemon juice and vinegar can be safely used to clean most things, let's compare which option is best for which task  — and why. 

Lemon juice vs. vinegar  — which is best?

We know that both lemon juice and vinegar can be used for cleaning, but if you’re going to pick just one to use, which should it be and why?

The reality is that both lemon juice and vinegar come with their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to getting your home sparkling clean. While one might work amazingly for one task, the other may work better for another. Both are very acidic and have similar pHs (think back to biology class). When compared, you'll find that lemon juice has a pH hovering around two and vinegar between two and three.

We tend to use Heinz's cleaning vinegar, which you can buy from Amazon. For cleaning with lemon, we tend to have some lemon juice in our cupboard or a fresh one in our fruit bowl.

Let's take a look at the pros and cons of each. 

What are the pros and cons of using lemon juice for cleaning?

Let's start by looking at the pros and cons of cleaning with lemon juice. 

Pros of cleaning with lemon juice

• It can neutralize the smell of vinegar 
• Cheap to buy compared to store-bought products
• Safe to use around children and animals 
• Environmentally friendly 

Cons of cleaning with lemon juice

• If mixed with bleach it can cause toxic fumes
• May not work as effectively as store-bought products

What are the pros and cons of using vinegar for cleaning?

Now, let's take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of cleaning with vinegar. 

Pros of cleaning with vinegar

• Cheap to buy compared to store-bought products
• Safe to use around pets and kids 
• Environmentally friendly 
• Diverse cleaner that can be used on many surfaces types 

Cons of cleaning with vinegar

• Even when mixed with water it can have a strong smell
• Fails to cut through grease effectively 

What are the best uses of lemon juice for cleaning?

We’ve established that lemon juice can work well as a cleaning formula but what are the bests tasks to use this acidic juice for? 

From my experience working as a cleaner (and from all my #CleanTok scrolling) when I was younger, I’ve found that lemon juice is great for the following: 

• Removing nasty odors from the microwave and fridge
• Blasting through limescale
• Polishing pots and pans
• Removing stains from natural stone countertops
• Descaling kettles
• Cleaning the toilet
• Removing stains from dishes and food storage containers
• Killing bacteria on chopping boards
• Deodorizing the garbage disposal
• Cleaning mirrors and glass
• Cleaning taps  — and other stainless steel surfaces, like shower heads

What are the best uses of white vinegar for cleaning?

Like lemon juice, vinegar has lots of uses, and can be used in a diverse number of ways, such as:

• Removing stains from mugs
• Cleaning windows and mirrors
• Cleaning the toilet
• Cleaning stainless steel surfaces  — like taps and showerheads
• Descaling the kettle
• Removing limescale
• Killing weeds

Overall, lemon juice and white vinegar are both smart options to have hanging around your house when it comes to cleaning. It's just a matter of knowing which is best for certain chores. 

Vinegar is hailed as the super versatile, non-toxic cleaning solution that can tackle pretty much any mess. Yes, there are so many ways to use vinegar to clean your home, but it’s not actually safe for use on every single surface FYI. I mean, who knew? Anyone? 

I always assumed vinegar could be used for practically anything — from cleaning your windows to scrubbing your floors — but it turns out that isn’t the case. And, FYI, I’m as shooketh as you. Just Google "white vinegar for cleaning" and you’ll see hundreds — if not thousands — of articles on all the best ways to clean with vinegar. And, the same goes for TikTok. Head over to #CleanTok and you’ll stumble across video after video hailing white vinegar as some kind of cleaning god. So, it’s easy to see why so many of us think of vinegar as our cleaning go-to. 

But do a little digging and you’ll find that while white vinegar works wonders on certain cleaning tasks (dirty windows, we’re looking at you), there are other things that vinegar should never be used for. If you're someone who swears by vinegar for cleaning, then you don't want to miss this list. We've asked cleaning and home experts to name the things in your home you should never clean with vinegar — and what you should use instead. 

Why can vinegar be detrimental?

Vinegar might be touted as a seriously great cleaning tool with as much power as Mr. Clean himself, but there are some circumstances where it’s best to put the vinegar down and reach for a properly formulated cleaning solution instead. 

Sometimes, vinegar just isn’t up to the job — such as if you’re cleaning a seriously greasy surface. Other times, vinegar is too acidic for a surface and may cause damage. That’s why knowing what not to clean with vinegar, as well as what you can clean with this non-toxic formula, is worth it. 

What not to clean with vinegar

It's some select surfaces and materials that absolutely shouldn't be cleaned with vinegar. We're not just talking about vinegar being ineffective in these instances, but it can actually be harmful. 

1. Natural stone

Want to know how to clean countertops? If yours is made from granite or marble, then make sure that whatever it is you use, it's not vinegar. "Vinegar has a pH value of 2.4, making it highly acidic," point out the cleaning experts from Molly Maid. "Even diluted, it can etch natural stone. Makers of stone countertops and floor tiles strongly advise against using it on their products."

The acid of the solution can etch and dull natural stone; reducing shine and leaving patches of scarring. Vinegar is also problematic because it can break down sealants that have been applied to the material, putting them at risk of water damage. 

Basically, if it's natural, don't use vinegar — just stick to warm water and a mild soap like Dawn. Porcelain and quartz are fine to clean with vinegar, however.

2. Sealed hardwood floors

By sealed we mean coated with wax. I'm constantly seeing people add a shot of vinegar to their floor cleaning solution or a mop bucket, and the results are normally sparkling. But, if you have hardwood (or stone) floors, it’s not recommended to use vinegar to clean them. In fact, using vinegar on a hard floor can be so detrimental to flooring that if there are signs that vinegar has been used to clean the floor, the warranty will be voided. The issue is that vinegar — even when diluted — can cause the protectant seals to dissolve or leave the floor itself looking cloudy and scratched. 

Cleaning expert and founder of Steam Clean Queen Emma Barton has a strong warning for anyone who wants to clean their wood floors with vinegar: "Be prepared to write a check in thousands of dollars for the repair," she says. "Chemicals used to produce the wax coating crumble and decompose under vinegar. It leaves white patches on the flooring, unsettling to look at." Yikes. Again, stick to mild soap and water, or a dedicated wood floor cleaner. 

3. Egg spills

"Never use vinegar on an eggy mess," says Molly Maid. "The acidity will cause it to coagulate and become even more difficult to clean." If you've spilled egg on the floor, just mop it up with a paper towel and remove any remnants with an all-purpose cleaner, we love the one from Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day.

4. Your coffee machine if you have purchased a warranty

You may have heard that vinegar is great for descaling your coffee machine. That is true, and many people swear by cleaning their coffee machines with vinegar. However, Oli Baise, the founder of coffee blog Drinky Coffee warns coffee lovers that "if your manufacturer knows that you have used vinegar to clean your machine the warranty will be voided."

Instead, stick with a special-made cleaning solution and double-check your warranty and Ts and Cs. "If you have purchased a machine with a warranty — I know Nespresso upsells 24-month warranties, for instance — then it's worth opting for specialized descaler rather than using vinegar."

5. Freshly painted wood

If you've recently finished a DIY furniture painting project, don't clean said furniture with vinegar. "If you apply vinegar to painted wood, the vinegar will soften the paint and the paint will peel off after a while," says Tony Adams a painter and co-chief editor for DIYgeeks.com. "It takes vinegar 10 minutes to fully dissolve water-based paint, while it takes up to 30 minutes to fully dissolve oil-based paint. The vinegar can also discolor the wood if it's not heavily diluted with water."

Painted wood on features like kitchen cabinets can be cleaned with dish soap and water.

6. Wool rugs

Spent a hefty sum on an on-trend rug? If it's made from real wool, do not clean it with vinegar. Ben Hyman, the Co-Founder and CEO of Revival Rugs, says he wouldn't risk it. "The acidity could permanently damage the fibers," explains Hyman. "Instead, I would blot the spill up and then use a small amount of clean water and blot some more. If the stain is persistent, you could use a small amount of dishwashing soap mixed with water. If all else fails, get your wool rug professionally hand-washed."

Needless to say, vinegar also shouldn't be used on sheepskin rugs for the same reasons.

7. Kitchen knives

A set of kitchen knives can cost a lot, so you don't want to ruin those gorgeous sharp blades with vinegar. Lily Cameron, a domestic cleaning expert at Fantastic Services, says that "the acidic properties of white vinegar can cause corrosion to the metal blades and dull the knife’s edges." She says to instead opt for "washing them with warm water and soap and thoroughly drying them afterward."

8. Electronic screens

It’s easy to assume that vinegar would be a great screen cleaner, especially since works so well when it comes to leaving windows streak-free. But it’s not recommended for use on electronic screens (think: computers, smartphones, tablets, and TV sets) as it can damage these delicate surfaces, reducing their anti-glare properties and any protective layers, making touch screens less responsive and safe. Unless you can afford to replace all your favorite tech, it's probs best to steer clear of vinegar. 

Cameron says, "It’s best to use a microfiber cloth and a specially formulated cleaner for electronic screens."

9. Appliances with rubber parts

Did you know that white vinegar can ruin the integrity of rubber? Any appliance that has a rubber seal needs to be clean of course, but try to avoid using vinegar on these parts. Over time it can start to break down the material and ruin its effectiveness — and no one wants to deal with a broken dishwasher or fridge.

10. Cast iron or aluminum pans

Last but not least, if you've spent hundreds on your cast iron skillet or quality aluminum pots, do not ruin them with vinegar. Paul Moody, home cleaning expert and the Founder of Pro Mover Reviews, warns that aluminum and cast iron can have issues handling certain acids. "With iron, the acetic acid in vinegar causes an exothermic reaction that causes heat and removes the protective coating on the metal and makes it susceptible to rust," explains Moody. "When aluminum reacts with vinegar, it creates aluminum acetate, which is soluble. When you scrub the surface of the pan with vinegar, the aluminum will slowly be eaten away."

Instead of using vinegar, Moody notes that sticking with good ol' water is the best solution with a bit of soap if necessary. Once you've finished cleaning your cast iron skillet, you will need to reseal it with an oil (linseed or rapeseed works well).

11. Your iron

To give your iron’s tank a good clean, you might think that a squirt of vinegar is the answer, but it can actually cause damage to the inside of the tank. You see, most irons contain a protective inner coating that the acid from the vinegar can corrode, causing damage and impacting usability. 

Vinegar is still brilliant — just not for every single thing in your home! Avoid using it on these surfaces and you will avoid costly replacements and repairs.

Here's are some things we would suggest using vinegar to clean:

• Descale your kettle with vinegar
• Clean your fridge with vinegar
• Clean your showerhead with vinegar
• Clean a stainless steel sink with vinegar

This just in: England's favorite cleaning brand has officially arrived on our shelves, and all of its products are *chef's kiss.* Meet The Pink Stuff: a non-toxic cleaning brand that uses the power of baking soda to cut through all things greasy, grimy, and gross. Rest assured the three cleaning supplies it sells can help you clean your entire home from top to bottom. And if you're wondering how to use The Pink Stuff, I've found five hacks to make these products work harder for you at home.

Its products have been flooding my FYP, so I was set on buying a tub of its famous cleaning paste to try it out for myself. The results of the paste's scrubbing power are mind-blowing. Plus, it's less than $6, and your tub will last for months. If you haven't seen The Pink Stuff yet, let me formally introduce you to the (possibly) magical goop the brand sells and a whole bunch of kitchen cleaning hacks to test.

As well as the cleaning paste, there's also an Oxi Powder Stain Remover for your laundry, plus an all-purpose cleaning paste. You can shop my cabinet staples below before I show you my favorite uses for The Pink Stuff.

How to use The Pink Stuff ⁠— 5 cleaning hacks to try

1. Banish stubborn stains from mugs and ceramics

My personal favorite (and seriously underrated) way to use The Pink Stuff cleaning paste in my home is in my dishwashing routine. I drink a lot of herbal teas like green, peppermint, and fennel, and find that my mugs end up looking super stained and scummy after a nice warm drink. 

Tea stains can be beyond stubborn, and scrubbing my mugs and dirty baking sheets or dishes down with a wet cloth and The Pink Stuff has been life-changing. My tub of paste lives next to my kitchen sink, and comes to other rooms in the house as needed.

2. Get your sink sparkling

The Pink Stuff isn't just a paste. There are a bunch of other cleaning products available that use the same signature scent and formula, including this cream cleaner that can be applied to sinks and bathtubs to get rid of buildup. 

Get your kitchen and bathroom sinks extra-sparkly with the help of the cream cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, and the paste if needed. Personally, I also like to fill my sink up with hot water, dish soap, and dissolved Pink Stuff laundry powder to get an easy head start on the cleaning process (weird, but it works so well!). 

Yes, we've got a whole guide on how to clean a stainless steel sink.

3. Scrub your sneakers

If you adore white sneakers but struggle with how easily they scuff and get dirty, the Pink Stuff is about to save you some serious money and extend the life of your cutest pair of shoes. 

Grab a cloth or old toothbrush, dip into the paste, and prepare yourself for your sneakers to look brand-new. Leaving your shoes in a sunny area to dry will also boost the natural bleaching properties of the baking soda in the paste for an even brighter white look.

4. Clean your oven

Confession time: I didn't actually know I was supposed to be cleaning my oven until seeing these wild before and after videos using the Pink Stuff paste (yikes). 

I've seen the paste, cream cleaner, and all-purpose spray both being used by creators to clean their oven doors and interiors, but results with the paste always seem the most dramatic. I'll be grabbing my tub this weekend and tackling my oven for the first time, and I suggest you do the same ASAP.

5. Clean your shower glass

After a bathroom deep clean, do you ever still feel like your space isn't ~really~ clean, thanks to shower glass scum that just won't go away? Don't worry, it's not dirt or germs, but those droplet-shaped stains are actually the result of limescale buildup caused by hard water. And, you guessed it, you can use The Pink Stuff to clean your shower, too.

Grab your tub of paste and a sponge or cloth and scrub away for your clearest shower screens ever. You can also pre-treat the area with a limescale removing spray and finish with your favorite glass cleaner for an even glossier look.

I’ve had pets my entire life. I grew up sharing my family home with our two cats, and then as soon as I moved into my own apartment after finishing college, I got two kittens of my own. Now, I share my tiny rented townhouse with a Bengal cat ⁠— who has a penchant for sprinting around in the early hours of the morning ⁠— and a Jack Russell cross who has a hyperactive streak. Though they bring a serious amount of love to my home, they also come with some rather smelly odors and a hell of a lot of messes. And any new pet owner will know the feeling of browsing the cleaning section of their grocery store with nothing but confusion in their mind ⁠and 1,000 questions to ask someone (anyone!).

Yes, you can't just use your same-old cleaning supplies to clean your home once your furry friends are present. And luckily for you, this means that over the years, I've managed to collect quite an arsenal of pet-friendly cleaning products, so I thought I would share the ones I repurchase over and over again ⁠— and that I pretty much rely on these days. No, I'm not just talking about a pet-friendly vacuum (though that definitely helps, take it from me). It’s pretty easy for me to keep the pet stank and muddy paw prints at bay now, whether they’re spread across my linoleum floors or stained into my lovely carpets. The things we do for our furry friends.

These are the 6 safe pet cleaning products I really recommend

Note: I use these at home to clean around my pets, but I do always ensure that my windows are open when using sprays, and I will always prevent my pets from re-entering a wet area until it's dry. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

Next up: 9 interior buys for your pet that are just as cute as they are

Let's get straight to the point here: spring cleaning season is basically here, and a lot of us don't have the time to dedicate an entire weekend to cleaning our house. And who wants to spend their time doing that anyway? I'm always searching for game-changing cleaning hacks to help make chores feel, well... like less of a chore, and this (not so) little gadget is one that has popped up on my FYP so many times now that I just had to do a little digging myself. Gone are the days of relying on an upholstery cleaner spray to deep clean your soft furnishings, that's all I'll say.

This cleaning gadget is perfect for renters and homeowners, whether you purchased all of your furniture yourself or your landlord owns it all. The Bissell Little Green upholstery cleaner can help deep clean pretty much any soft surface in your home. Yep, that old dusty rug you're attached to can finally look new again. And the sofa that you spend 90% of your waking hours lounging on. Your patio cushions can also get a refresh.

With over 39,000 five-star reviews, buyers are “in awe” of how it makes old fabric look brand new. It's currently on sale for less than $110. If the price sounds steep for a cleaning tool, I get it. But I was both impressed and disgusted at how much dirt it managed to collect around my space. Scroll for the slimy deets.

What can you use it to clean?

You can use this gadget to scrub down a bunch of stuff around your home. Nearly anything with a soft surface can handle its powerful clean. That includes:

• Rugs
• Carpets
• Couches ⁠
• Armchairs
• Bar stools
• Dining chairs

• Pillows
• Chaise lounges
• Mattresses (and toppers!)
• Car interiors
• Patio furniture cushions
• Bed frames
• Curtains

4 reasons to buy this Bissell upholstery cleaner

1. It's nice and compact
Unlike most carpet cleaners, which are bulky (and definitely not small space friendly), this one is super lightweight. It comes in at just over 9.5 pounds, meaning you can carry it easily around your apartment and clean everywhere that needs a good scrub. It has a 7.25-inch width that won’t take up tons of room in your cleaning cabinet either.

 2. It's powerful and requires zero effort from you
Considering its size, it has seriously strong suction and spray, which you just can’t match by scrubbing your couches manually. Lots of happy customers have praised this, with one being “shooketh and bewildered to witness how much power/suction this little guy has.” Talk about being blown away. Another agreed: “Suction is perfect, almost completely dry when I am finished.” So, once you’ve cleaned, you can go back to watching your fave shows ASAP.

3. It's PERFECT for pet owners
If you have pets that are getting their grubby paws everywhere, or even puppies that are still *ahem* training, it’s super efficient for cleaning up after them. “No stain, no smell, nothing," wrote a reviewer. "Would absolutely recommend especially for pet owners.” It can handle much more than dirt, too. Many reviewers have been thrilled with how well it vacuums hard-to-see pet hairs.

4. Let's be real: It looks cute
I’m low-key loving the sage green shade it comes in. So much cuter than a boring black or gray.

Confession: I'm a certified lazy girl. I watch the TikToks and want to have a flawless apartment maintained through a weekly routine, but that's much easier said than done. I used to hate cleaning, but upgrading to some aesthetically pleasing supplies has been the push I needed to finally get into my groove. 

It isn't the most fun way to spend a free day, but cleaning regularly is absolutely essential to keep an apartment or small space looking and feeling its best. It's cheesy but true: a clean home really does help me have a clear mind. 

So if you're struggling to find motivation like I was, let yourself be inspired by making your cleaning products as pretty as your home. These supplies are great for any apartment, smell beyond dreamy, and have some serious countertop appeal — plus, some adorable tools to go with them.

Sustainable starter kits

If you're starting from square one and want to curate a cleaning collection that looks gorgeous and is kind to the planet, these sustainable sets are the way to go. They're from earth-conscious companies that send you glass bottles designed to last and have come up with their own amazing ways to cut down on plastic waste and consumption.

Method mood

I am a Method girlie through and through, and trust me, it's about to change your life. This plant-based brand is known for its minimalist bottles that allow its brightly colored cleaning products to take the spotlight. From living in a dorm to finally moving into my own apartment, I've tried almost every scent, and my cleaning cabinet is now a rainbow of Method products. Check out my absolute faves, below.

Meet Mrs. Meyer

I've been seeing these adorable bottles and their vintage vibes all over my feed lately, and recently discovered they're from Mrs. Meyer's, another plant-based brand. All of its products are made with essential oils, and the brand is known for its signature garden-themed scents that pair perfectly with its cottagecore look. 

Adorable Essentials

These finds from Amazon are exactly what you need to finish off your aesthetic cleaning collection, and seeing their cute colors alongside your new pretty cleaning products will definitely help you find the motivation to start on that spring Sunday reset.

Just like when living in a house, keeping an apartment or condo squeaky clean will feel like a chore to most of us. Dust bunnies, debris coming from open windows, grease from cooking in the kitchen, and just generally speaking, everyday dirt piles up a whole lot faster than in larger homes. So finding cleaning products that clean effectively and don't require too much storage is essential. 

I recently spoke with several cleaning experts to learn how they choose products to clean small spaces as well as some of their favorite picks. Remember, just because your home is small doesn’t mean it can’t sparkle. Here is what they advise:

1. Think before you buy

Maximizing space often means minimizing the number of cleaning products, so professional organizer and founder of Shantaeize Your Space, Shantae Duckworth recommends only buying what you really need. “I would encourage all apartment dwellers to keep their cleaning supplies to a minimum due to the amount of space that you have in your apartment. Your space is precious and should not be taken up with products that you don’t need or are one-dimensional,” she says. “When it comes to finding cleaning supplies, you really have to narrow down what you were looking for in a product. Are you looking for something all-natural or something that is reasonably priced? Are you looking for something that smells great? Are you looking for something that is multi-purpose?”

2. Go eco-friendly

Living in a small space like an apartment often means breathing in the cleaning products you use. So Val Oliveira, founder of Val’s Services suggests only using eco-friendly or natural cleaning products: “We pride ourselves in providing cleaning services to our customers using all-natural products and have seen the positive results from not using strong or harsh chemicals like more efficient cleaning, avoiding damage to delicate appliances, and securing a safer environment at home and in the air that we breathe,” she says.

One example of a product that Oliveira likes is Safely Universal Cleaner. “[It] is a PH-balanced, plant-powered cleaner without harsh chemicals. It does an amazing job on dirty surfaces like steel, marble, hardwood, and more. All you need is to spray the surface and wipe it down with a clean cloth.”

3. Choose multi-purpose products

Opting for one product that can clean multiple surfaces saves space and money. It’s also better for the environment. “Our Multipurpose Surface Cleaner is formulated to work on cleaning many different surfaces including stone, tile, sealed marble, granite, wood, and even glass. The versatility of what it can clean from tougher messes on floors and counters to windows, faucets, stovetops, mirrors, and stainless steel (it can even spot treat fabric) is endless,” explain Lindsay Droz and Kristi Lord, founders of L’Avant Collective. 

Furthermore, instead of stocking up on multiple bottles that you may not necessarily have room for, you can buy concentrate refills, which take up a fraction of the space. Just add water. 

Cleaning wipes such as L’Avant Collective Biodegradable Cleaning Wipes are another option especially if you don’t have room for bottles of cleaners, rags, or paper towels. “These multipurpose cleaning wipes are uniquely formulated using plant-based ingredients (made from coconuts, corn, and other biodegradable solvents) and are powerful enough to wipe away the dirtiest of sinks, floors, counters, and toilets! They make quick work of wiping down your countertops and can even work miracles on clothing stains and even stains on furniture,” Droz and Lord explain.

Not quite ready to jump on the natural products bandwagon? Duckworth is a fan of Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, “They can do so many things,” she says. “Need to wipe down a counter? Clean up a mess? Use the wipes! Both of these products have served a long way in my home as well as in my organizing sessions with clients. It’s great to know that I only need these two products to be able to bring a space back to life.”

4. Go with a quality vacuum cleaner

There are lots of affordable vacuums great for cleaning small spaces, but Oliveira enthusiastically recommends the Hoover Commercial Portapower Lightweight Canister Vacuum Cleaner. “We love this vacuum cleaner because it is lightweight, easy to carry, portable, reliable, professional, and has incredible suction. This vacuum can easily reach tight corners and spaces that might seem unimportant but are necessary to clean. These include areas such as under the bed, couch, and other furniture.”

Duckworth is also a fan of Hoover and suggests the Hoover FloorMate Deluxe Floor Cleaner. “It will vacuum, mop, and dry your floors all in one machine.”

5. Consider budget options

However, if a larger vacuum cleaner isn’t in your budget, Duckworth tells me, “There’s nothing wrong with a standard broom and dust pan. These tools have proven time and time again to be able to get the floor clean and get rid of debris.”

She also recommends the Swiffer WetJet Starter Kit. “You can use a solution on any floor surface. And a bonus, you can add a microfiber cloth to the end of the mop, spray down your shower with any solution of your choice, and wipe down your showers with ease without breaking your back.”

The best cleaning supplies are a must-have in any home to tackle everything from dust to messes and spills. From the bathroom to the kitchen, there are lots of products to consider when cleaning up.

We tested several cleaning products and found the best-performing sprays, soaps, and sponges. See our selection of general cleaning products for all kinds of tasks around the house, plus specific products for room-specific chores. 

Once you have all your supplies in place, you can get started on cleaning your whole house. Just take it one room at a time.

The best cleaning supplies, as tried and tested by the Real Homes team

General cleaning supplies

In order to keep your house clean and tidy, you need a few of the basic essentials to get you by. We're talking about the cleaning supplies that you stock up on or buy time after time, like with a cleaning supplies subscription.

We've categorized these into general stock because you'll find yourself using them all around your apartment and even to repel pests once you've identified bugs in your home.

Kitchen cleaning supplies

As a food preparation space, it's no wonder that the kitchen can get pretty grubby at times. If a mess isn't cleaned up quickly, it can be an open invitation for pests and harmful bacteria. These are the things you need to deep clean a small kitchen.

Bathroom cleaning supplies

It's vital that your restroom, bath, and shower are kept clean and hygienic. Thankfully, you only need a few essentials to keep that communal space of yours spotless — here are three must-have bathroom cleaning supplies.

What to consider when buying cleaning supplies

There's plenty to consider when you're building up a cleaning selection for your home, from where you're going to stash it all to what kind of scents you favor. These are the essential things we keep in mind when restocking your cleaning caddy. 

1. What does it smell like?
We know there's more to a spray or toilet cleaner than its scent, but at the end of the day, it is still important to like the smell of whatever you're spritzing in your home. Work out which scent profile you like, whether that's fresh cotton, a citrus burst, or something more specific like lemongrass, and try and line your products up with that smell, to avoid a headache when you're deep cleaning. 

2. Does it have any eco-friendly credentials?
For a lot of us, it's becoming increasingly important to ensure that the things we buy for our homes are certified as being good for the planet in the long term. Some companies have started to bottle their products in recycled plastic, and others create concentrated formulas so you can dilute them at home (saving on water and shipping costs). There are so many great brands you can invest in that have starter bundles featuring glass bottles and cheap refill programs for when you run out of your favorite cleaners. Some of our favorite eco-friendly cleaning retailers include Blueland, CleanCult, and Grove Collaborative. Oh, and don't forget that you can subscribe and save on cleaning products on Amazon. Take this Lime and Sea Salt cleaner from Method as one example.

3. How long will it last?
Investing in a cleaning product that you can only use once always feels wasteful, and isn't good for those who forget to pick another one up next time they're at the store. Using microfiber cloths or mops with washable heads is great for ensuring longevity, as you can throw them into your washing machine and use them again once they're nice and clean. Just be sure to ditch the fabric conditioner when washing cloths as they can become clogged with the waxy residue.

4. Is it made using any hazardous chemicals?
Understandably, people have different viewpoints when it comes to using chemicals to clean their homes. While some won't mind using a stronger cleaner to get rid of something like mold, some want to avoid it entirely. Always check the hazards involved when it comes to cleaning supplies, and prepare yourself with a pair of household rubber gloves (available at Amazon) and protective clothing if necessary. If you have pets or young children, ensure these are kept out of reach where possible. You might want to store these out of reach. If this isn't a viable option, consider investing in some magnetic cabinet locks from Amazon.

Where to buy cleaning supplies online

Cleaning your home is a pretty personal thing, and you might be searching for a more niche product for a particular area or appliance. Or, you might have more specific needs when it comes to sustainability or products needing to be used around children, animals, and those with sensitive skin. These are our favorite retailers to head to, to stock up on cleaning products for your home.

• Ace Hardware cleaning supplies
• Amazon cleaning supplies
• CVS Pharmacy cleaning supplies
• Dollar Tree cleaning supplies
• Kohl's cleaning supplies
• Lowe's cleaning supplies
• Macy's cleaning supplies
• Sam's Club cleaning supplies
• Target cleaning supplies
• The Home Depot cleaning supplies
• Walgreens cleaning supplies
• Walmart cleaning supplies

How we test cleaning supplies

Cleaning products are so important when it comes to making your home sparkle, which is why we've gone to lengths to test the majority of these products out firsthand as a team at Real Homes.

First of all, we asked our whole team what their favorite products are (and their reasons why) so that we can show you why we really think these products are worth your money. Then, we made sure to include the products that we've used to test cleaning hacks and to write our how-to cleaning guides, too. 

We tested these products' effectiveness in removing stains, lifting dirt, and leaving streak-free results with no residue. We also looked for products that had pleasant fragrances and avoided too many harsh chemicals. We tested daily household chores like washing dishes, removing stains from carpet, and cleaning mirrors.

Meet our cleaning experts

What are you waiting for? You can use these supplies for all of those TikTok cleaning hacks that are always on your FYP, too. 

Do you know there are cleaning products you should never use around pets? Well, you should! If, for whatever reason you're doubling down on your cleaning regime at the moment, determined to keep everything germ-free and smelling fresh, spare a thought for your pet pooch or puss. 

Dogs and cats can get everywhere and into everything – including using the toilet as an alternative water bowl, or the kitchen bin as an all-you-can-eat buffet (gross!). However, if you have just squirted bleach around the toilet rim, or used one of many clip-on cleaning supplies, this could be dangerous for your precious fur baby.

So swap toxic detergents for pet-friendly cleaning products that will still function in killing harmful germs and bacteria – without a costly trip to the vet. Using gentle alternatives need not be expensive. If you've got a cupboard dedicated to baking, and keep a good collection of condiments, chances are you're halfway there.

We'll show you what to look out for so that you can take the appropriate steps in either replacing your supplies altogether or using them with caution. 

Cleaning products you should never use around pets

Our four-legged friends are hypersensitive to the strong odors and fragrances from cleaning products, which could lead to irritation and, sometimes, breathing difficulties.

And, as cleaning expert Deyan Dimitrov, CEO of laundry delivery service Laundryheap, warns, there are ingredients in the liquids and sprays that can cause harm to animals. Read on to see what they are.

1. Ammonia

Commonly found in drain cleaner, oven cleaners, and floor cleaners, ammonia is a popular ingredient in cleaning products because of its degreasing ability. It is highly toxic to pets and can cause severe irritation to their skin and eyes, as well as burning in the nose, throat, and stomach if they lick it.

Keep your furry, or feathered, friends away from products containing ammonia. If you use them, ensure your pet stays in a different room until it’s completely dried and ventilate the space well.

2. Bleach

Your pets' sense of smell is hypersensitive. Bleach is highly likely to irritate dogs’ delicate noses and can even cause breathing problems, such as asthma. If ingested, bleach is toxic to dogs and cats because of its chlorine content. If possible, opt for a safer, non-toxic eco-friendly cleaner such as Milton’s All-Purpose Cleaning Spray. If you must use bleach, rinse the area with plenty of water and keep your pets away until it is completely dry.

3. Phthalates (sometimes listed as fragrance)

Phthalates can be found in products used to make your home smell good. These could be air fresheners, linen sprays, carpet fresheners, and other home deodorizers. They can be dangerous if inhaled or used near pets, so again, make sure animals are kept out of the room if you’re using a product containing phthalates, or opt for a non-toxic alternative.

In fact, when you take your pet's sense of smell into account, you should treat all home fragrances with caution. Not all are dangerous, but if you have ever found one overpowering, think about how your four-legged friend feels.

Instead, look to freshening alternatives to common scents. One of the benefits of houseplants is that they can purify the air. But before you pick up an indoor plant online, or at your local garden center, beware that some plants are fatal to pets. Lillies, for instance are commonly known as a toxic plant to cats, though there is a long list of plants that are poisonous to dogs too.

4. Benzalkonium chloride (disinfectant)

Many disinfectants contain benzalkonium chloride so it’s best to be cautious with this product. This chemical can cause surface irritation on paws, eyes, and the nose if it comes into contact with them. Disinfectant is often used in the home to keep viruses and bacteria away, but dilute it before use (as recommended on the instructions) and wait until all areas are dry before letting your pet near it.

Be sure to look at the packaging of things like your patio cleaner in particular as it can contain this irritant. Annie Collyer, our deputy eCommerce editor, and pet mom to pug Doug, swears by the GardenersDream Kennel Cleaner (available at Amazon) as one of the pet-friendly cleaning products to clean paving and outdoor areas.

5. Essential oils

Are essential oils bad for dogs? You might be wondering whether your relaxing oil diffuser is doing wo(man's) best friend any harm. But, the answer isn't crystal clear it seems.

According to veterinary experts, dogs can tolerate natural oils better than cats but this is only limited to certain fragrances. For example, when looking at which essential oils are safe for dogs cardamom, fennel, helichrysum, frankincense, spearmint, chamomile, frankincense, ginger, lavender, myrrh oil, and cedarwood are approved for use by the pros. On the other hand, you might want to give cinnamon, citrus oils, tea tree, and peppermint a wide berth.

6. Nonylphenol ethoxylate

Unless you're a vet and know all the likely toxins in your home, you may take for granted what you put into your washing machine, including washing powders and pods. Capsules in particular can look like toys or treats so if you're worried that your pet will ingest one, switch to a pet-friendly cleaning product or, keep your tabs in a tightly-sealed container. If yours are particularly pretty (like the Smol sachets), consider displaying them in a chic glass jar on an open kitchen shelf.

It's best to treat pets as if they are small kids, so just as a packet would say 'keep out of reach of young children', you'll want to adhere to the same advice for your animals.

'Nonylphenol ethoxylate is a chemical commonly found in laundry detergent. This is something that can cause massive skin irritation on pets, leaving them with uncomfortable rashes, spots, and flaky skin,' explains Jacquelyn Kennedy, CEO, and founder of PetDT.

'It is also why you should use eco-friendly laundry detergents that are as toxin-free as possible when washing items that will be in contact with your pet, such as dog blankets and similar. If they are washed with laundry detergents that contain these harsh chemicals, they will irritate your pet's skin and cause serious problems.'

Pet-friendly cleaning products you can use instead

Avoiding harsh cleaners doesn't mean that you can't sanitize your space. Vinegar can be used to clean the majority of surfaces, and you can choose between distilled white vinegar or ACV to clean countertops that pets might have jumped on, as well as paw-printed floors and the perimeter of a messy litter tray.

Just as we need to use the loo, our pets do too. But while we've listed the Poo-Pourri in our air freshener guide, you can't go spritzing that on kitty litter. Instead, cleaning with baking soda is a cheap and effective way to stop the smell of poop and pee from taking over your house or apartment.

And, don't underestimate the cleaning power of hot water alone. The best steam cleaners can remove stubborn marks and debris without the need for additional product.

How do you clean a house with pets?

According to Method's cleaning experts, 'If you’ve got furry family members, it’s important to use cleaning products that are thoughtfully formulated, particularly on surfaces which most household pets, like cats and dogs, may come into contact with,'

'Opt for plant-based and highly concentrated products where possible to ensure maximum power when fighting stagnant odors and muddy paws. Fragranced cleaning products will also be your friend, allowing you to react quickly and refresh your home in no time – our Multi-Surface Concentrated Cleaner in Joyful Bing Cherry + Bergamot is a firm favorite for everyday use.'

'Fur and dust can easily collect on surfaces and in corners, so it’s best to clean your home top-to-bottom: starting by dusting the ceiling, then wiping surfaces and saving vacuuming and mopping until the very last.'

'We would always advise following any cautions on the pack and use the usual precautions, as with any household products. Should excess amounts of any product come into contact with your pet’s skin or fur, wipe this off with water, and if ingested, call your vet immediately.'

Sanitize your floors with one of the best steam mops on the market. Steam makes it so easy to give your surfaces a deep clean, and these incredible machines are the best of the bunch.

Whether you live in an apartment or a five-bedroom home with roommates and pets, a steam cleaner will prove itself to be a worthy (and not to mention satisfying) investment. Below, we've listed steam mops and cleaners that a member of the Real Homes team has tried. 

Otherwise, the steam cleaners we've not tested have been included only because of their customer ratings — shoppers love them and we know that you will too. Along with the best vacuum cleaners, your home will be looking cleaner than ever.

The best steam mops and steam cleaners to buy in 2026

If you're a small space dweller, then this Bissell steam mop is perfect for you — it's so easy to store in a closet and it comes with a huge range of tools. Despite its size, you can use it to clean everything from your floors to your stovetop and your bathtub. It's truly versatile and not to mention nice and affordable. We would suggest avoiding it if you live in a somewhat larger home, though, as it has a smaller water tank than you might need.

In review
Our reviewer Molly really loved the lightweight design of this cleaner and she noticed that the swivel cleaning head can help those who don't want to (or can't) bend down to get into corners or underneath furniture. The extended wand does the same and allows for easy floor-to-ceiling cleaning. She found it super simple to refill although its water tank is admittedly quite small. Conveniently, it only takes 30 seconds to heat up, then you need only press the trigger for steam to release. There are two modes — low and high steam — and there's a light to display which one you are currently in. There's also little maintenance required after using this steam mop. Simply wash the head you used in your washing machine the next time you put it on, then just empty and rinse any parts that have touched water including any attachments.

Good to know
It's safe to use on all sealed hard flooring types and using only water, it can eliminate 99.9% of germs and bacteria. It also comes with a wall mount so you can hang it up in your cleaning closet after use. With this steam mop comes seven tools in total. You'll get a flat surface tool to clean countertops and tables, a red brustle scrub brush to get into nooks and crannies, and a clothing steamer tool. The bristle scrub brush will prove itself handy for cleaning your kitchen and bathroom sinks and your microwave and oven, the angle tool is really good for getting into tight spaces.

Read our full Bissell PowerFresh Slim 3-in-1 Steam Mop review.

An impressive-looking piece of kit, this steam cleaner from Kärcher delivers sensational deep cleaning results using just tap water. It heats quickly and is great for hard floors, plus limescale and stubborn stains around the home. It's ideal for busy family homes, but the only drawback is a short lead. 

In review
Our reviewer Lucy preferred the SC3 for smaller, more detailed jobs and used this steam cleaner in her large family home. She was shocked at just how lightweight it is for its size, and said that the handle made it super easy and comfortable to carry (it does have wheels too). It has a sizeable water tank which is great for larger homes and noted that the steam starts to wane when you need to refill. Lucy used this steam cleaner to clean nooks and crannies in her kitchen and bathroom including around sinks, plug holes, and tiles. She used the hand nozzle (carefully) to clean the front of her kitchen cabinets and her oven. Then with the floor cleaning head, she tackled her kitchen floor. She used the round brush head to clean the patches of a grubby rug in her living room within five minutes.

Good to know
It comes with three attachments — a handle nozzle, a spotlight nozzle, and a nylon brush. For easy use, it has its steam volume control on the handle, which you can use to suit the type of surface and level of dirt you’re dealing with in your home. Its microfiber cloth can be cleaned in your washing machine.

Read our full Kärcher SC3 review.

If you’re looking for a powerful multi-purpose steam mop, then this Shark steam mop is perfect for you — it’s ultra easy to use and it comes with a wide range of tools. While a little chunkier than some of the more compact steam mops, it’s extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver. Thanks to multiple attachments and a lift-away water tank (that’s a pretty good size), it’s seriously versatile and can be used for everything, from mopping the floors and cleaning your bath tiles to freshening up your sofa or mattress.

In review
Our reviewer Beth really loved the lightweight and easily portable design of this mop, along with how versatile and easy it is to use. With a large capacity water tank and three steam settings, she found it simple to work with. One feature Beth loved was the kick-and-flip steam pad that can be easily swiveled around to make use of both sides of the reusable mop pad. Refilling the water tank was quick and easy, and she loved how the mop conveniently heated up in a matter of seconds — no waiting around. Featuring a wide range of clip-on attachments — all of which come with washable covers — Beth found the diverse mop super easy to use for various cleaning tasks, from mopping her floors to cleaning her windows and pretty much everything in between. The only downside she reported was the fact this mop design isn’t carpet-friendly and can’t be used on carpeted surfaces.

Good to know
Included comes a bunch of attachments, a garment steamer, a small above-floor pocket tool (and pad) plus a triangle scrubber pad and triangle scrubber dirt grip pad. You also get two dirt grip pads that are machine washable, plus a fill flask and an accessory hose. You need to unplug it before refilling the tank, btw. It's also a total bargain for the price.

This steam cleaner is currently in review by Beth.

If you have lots of carpets in your home and would prefer a handheld steam cleaner instead of one that you can use on your hard floors, then let us recommend the Bissell SteamShot. It's small but mighty and excels at blasting away grime, mold, grease, and much more from a manner of places in your home.

What reviewers say
With 40,000+ Amazon reviewers rating it 4.1 stars out of five, this handheld steam cleaner is a true winner. Lots of people use it to clean upholstery, from inside their car to their sofa and their curtains, and others use it for cleaning sinks, and tiles in their kitchens and bathrooms. Lots of people do comment on the size of the water tank as it's small, so do note that you might have to refill during cleaning which requires you to depressurize the tank first (don't worry, it's quite simple to do). Its power cord is nice and lengthy and makes it easy to reach into corners, and lots of reviewers rave at how good it is at getting rid of super tough stains on carpets.

Good to know
To release steam, press the trigger located above the handle. This function conserves steam and uses it only when needed. The kettle-shaped container is easy to hold to get into a handful of tight smaller spaces like an oven or a shower. The extra-long 20-foot cord enables you to move around freely, and though the water tank is small, the swift 30-second heat-up will have you back in action in no time. It comes with seven different tools in total.

A powerful steam mop doesn't have to be expensive, and Bissell's PowerFresh Deluxe Steam Mop is proof of that. Costing less than $100, it's safe on sealed hard floors and it has a special Easy Scrubber feature to scrub your floors clean and tackle crevices, floor grout, and tough stains. It doesn't convert to a handheld model, though, so you won't be able to use it to clean anything other than your floors.

What reviewers say
It has a stellar 4.6-star rating on Amazon from more than 40,000 reviewers. People really love it for cleaning floor tiles in particular, and they rave about its swivel steering as it makes it so much easier to get into tight spaces and under furniture. It's also said to be easy to refill as its water tank is removable and simple to store as it stands upright on its own, rejoice. Not a lot of people mention that they use the built-in Easy Scrubber, but those who do use it say it helps do the job.

Good to know
It has three different modes — high, medium, or low — and it's ready to use in 30 seconds. Much like some new vacuum cleaner models, this steam cleaner works with clever fragrance discs that will emit a nice scent as you steam clean. It comes with two washable microfiber pads. The white microfiber pad is best for everyday use on delicate floorings like sealed hardwoods and laminate, and the gray and white striped pad will heavily scrub soiled floors and clean tougher messes.

Amazon reviewers don't lie when they say that this steam mop is amazing. Plus, it's lightweight and easy to use! For less than $70, it can clean every inch of your home including your carpets and your clothing, and it comes with four different attachments. It can also transform to be a handheld steam cleaner with total ease. The best part? It heats in 30 seconds, just like our other picks. 

What reviewers say
Rated 4.2 stars out of five by more than 40,000 happy Amazon reviewers, most shoppers rave about its ease of use. It's simple to store as its handle folds down, it's easy to use (it only has a couple of buttons and three modes) and it's lightweight at just 2.2 lbs. Reviewers have used it to clean pretty much every room in their homes, and it apparently works very well on grout (in handheld mode with the grout attachment). Most shoppers were totally wowed at the results it left on tiled floors, saying it's also super easy to use and fast at that. 

Good to know
This steam cleaner comes with a variety of attachments to make your cleaning experience even more customizable. Included comes a window squeegee, a steamer jet nozzle for targeted steam cleaning of hard-to-reach spaces, various nylon brushes (for cleaning ovens, stovetops, and bathrooms), as well as an angled nozzle for hard-to-reach spaces. You can use the scraper tool for cleaning your oven and the grout brush for cleaning in between tiles. Its handy garment steamer attachment is great for clothing, curtains, and upholstery, plus it even comes with a carpet glider if you have any soft flooring. You get microfiber cleaning pads and a measuring cup to fill the water tank, too.

FAQs

What is the best steam cleaner?

If you want to get your hands on the best steam cleaner on the market, we recommend buying the Karcher SC3 Easyfix Steam Cleaner. To name a few reasons why: it has a large water tank, it doesn't require detergent, it can clean upholstery and kitchen appliances, and it comes with a range of attachments included. Oh, it also heats up within 40 seconds and it's great for cleaning larger, busier homes.

What is the best steam mop?

Depending on the size of your home, we really like both the options from Shark and Bissell in our guide.

The Shark Lift-Away 2-in-1 Pro Steam Pocket Mop S3973D is best for larger spaces as it has a bigger water tank so can be used for longer.

The Bissell PowerFresh Slim 3-in-1 Steam Mop (2075A) is a lot more slimline and it has a smaller water tank, making it ideal for apartments and small homes.  

What's the difference between a steam mop and a steam cleaner?

There's not a huge difference between steam cleaners and steam mops. We'd recommend opting for a steam mop if you live in a smaller home and don't have as much storage space, and a steam cleaner if you're the opposite and have a larger space to clean.

Steam mops look just like the usual spray mop that you'd buy from Swiffer or Shark. They usually have a slimline frame and they don't come with a hose. They're good for cleaning floors and underneath furniture, and most of the time they convert to become a handheld steam cleaners, to do smaller jobs like tackling grout.

Steam cleaners tend to be bigger and they can tackle more space thanks to their larger water tank. They usually come with attachments to make smaller jobs easier, and they need to be dragged around by their cord and hose. They require more storage space.

Handheld steam cleaners are smaller versions with a spout. They're perfect for anyone living in a tiny space and are made for cleaning floors, tiles, grout, walls, and other nooks and crannies.

How to choose the best steam mop or steam cleaner

When looking for a new, or replacement, steam cleaner there are a few elements to consider to ensure it is the best steam cleaner for you:

1. How long is its cable?
You shouldn't need to worry about this too much if your home is smaller. But anyone with a larger home, or fewer plus sockets, might want to choose a steam cleaner with a longer cord to prevent them from having to unplug and plug back in constantly. 

2. How large is its water tank?
Again, small space dwellers won't have to worry about this number too much. You just want to avoid anything with a super small tank capacity as you'll need to refill during cleaning, and sometimes it's not as easy as that. Some steam cleaners require you to let them cool down or expel any steam left in them before refilling their tank. Essentially, the larger the water tank, the more time you'll have to clean. 

3. How long does it take to heat up?
Waste no time waiting for your device to heat up, as the majority of our picks heat up in just 30 seconds. Some steam cleaners out there do take longer, but do think about whether you want to wait.

4. How much does it weigh?
You’ll find that handheld steamers and steam mops are lighter and easier to use but usually, they can't steam for as long as a steam cleaner because they'll have a smaller water tank. Opting for a lightweight steam mop is a smart thing to do, especially if you have stairs in your home.

5. Does it come with attachments?
You can also find a range of attachments for your steam cleaner, such as upholstery tools, scrubbing pads, and squeegees for cleaning windows and appliances, for example. These attachments will help you tackle jobs that you never even knew you needed to do. Some models come with three attachments, others come with 17. Think about how many you'll actually use, and how you'll store them all (a tote bag  works wonders!).

Real Homes review process

We've had the chance to review four out of seven of these steam cleaners, splitting the load between Real Homes team members (and ex team members) and also freelancers. The other three steam cleaners and mops have been included purely based on their incredible reviews that shoppers gave them.

For the models we tested, each one has been put through its paces and used to clean sealed flooring and much more. We make sure to test all of the attachments, too, and we use these steam cleaners for a number of weeks before writing up our verdict.

Meet our steam cleaner reviewers:

Investing in one of the best patio cleaners means you don't have to splurge on a professional to remove mold and mildew on your paved outdoor area. We've tested all six of these concrete cleaners on our patios. But for anyone who has been putting off this task, you'll be pleasantly surprised to see how dramatic the results can be. 

While sweeping can remove sand and dirt, a liquid patio cleaner often contains herbicides or fungicides that will clear moss, lichen, and algae — aka all the stuff that makes your patio turn green. It can also be used for decking which can become a slip hazard if left slimy in wet weather.

You won't have to worry about buying the best pressure washer — or think about where you're going to store it. Because, while some solutions work with this outdoor appliance, many do the job without it. Some spray on, and others might require a watering can to distribute. 

The quick list

The best patio cleaners for your garden or courtyard

Note: Some of these patio cleaners work instantly, and you'll see results once dry. However others take a few weeks — or sometimes even a month — to do their magic, so it's worth buying now in preparation for warmer weather. FYI, the clue is in the name of no-rinse solutions, so don't be tempted to wash the product away using your best garden hose. For best results, check your local weather report, and use your patio cleaner when there is no rain forecast over 24 hours.

This brilliant patio cleaner makes cleaning your outside space easy. Simply just pour it onto your patio, walk away, and marvel at the results once dry. It will work over a few days, so if you don't see results on day one then don't panic. In testing, I noticed that my patio looked brighter (and less green) within four days. We would suggest scrubbing any problem areas, though, and reapplication might be necessary if your patio is really bad. Luckily, it dilutes so you should have plenty of it to use, and you don't even have to rinse it off.

The clue is in the name of this one, as it really only works on mold and algae, but it does its job so well and results last for months. I used this formula on my green patio, and I was just about to give up when one day I noticed the difference. Results won't be instant but they will wow you, and the formula sticks to your patio for quite some time so it will prevent regrowth. It's a once-a-year job at best — but in some parts of my patio, it has cleared mold and algae for good. All you need to do is dilute it with water and apply it to your patio. Leave it to dry and be patient. So easy, so affordable, and a job to do ahead of summertime.

If you want a patio cleaner that will provide instant results, then this one from Jeyes is brilliant. It works to remove grime, germs algae, mildew, and general dirt, fast. It changed the look of my patio within hours, removing a layer of green stuff without even scrubbing. There's no need to scrub, but you can in problem areas. Simply just pour it on and leave it to work. After a few hours, rinse your patio with water and wait for it to dry for results you won't believe. It's best for smaller patios though as it doesn't need diluting, so you'd need to buy a lot of solution for larger patios.

Patience is a virtue and a clean patio is a must-have, and the best part about this wet it and forget it solution is that it will remove mould and lichen from your space. In testing, results were visible within one week and afterwards, it managed to keep mould and lichen at bay for a good while. It made the space look brighter, albeit slowly, but it's undeniably simple to apply. All you need to do is dilute it 1:5, pour it over your patio, and leave it to work. You will get better results if you're willing to scrub, but it's not necessary.

This 2-in-1 solution is your best bet if you're suffering from a smelly patio because of a pet. I've repurchased it time and time again to deodorise and rid our patio of bacteria from dog urine. PSA: The lemon scent is my favourite. For deodorising, you can dilute it 1:99, while for bacterial purposes it's 1:4. I think it works best diluted 1:5 for both, and I also use it on artificial grass. Do note that it won't do anything to mould, algae, and the rest as it's purely for getting rid of smells.

If you're eco-conscious but want to clean your patio, then this formula from Patio Magic! is biodegradable and the bottle is made from recyclable plastic. It also works wonders at cleaning mold and grime. We tested it and saw results in two weeks, as it had banished moss and most of the lichen on our patio. Green algae will disappear in just a few days. A slow burner for sure, but it definitely works.

Things to consider when choosing a patio cleaner

1. Think about safety — and when you're going to apply it
   If you have kids and or pets, it goes without saying that you will need a non-toxic patio cleaner. Check the product information to see what the guidance is on using the product you've chosen near animals and people. Most are safe for use after several hours, but it can be easier said than done to keep pets away — especially if you have outdoor cats — so do check. Also, see how long it takes to work or dry.
2. How versatile is its solution?
   Some patio cleaners are not just for stone but can also be used to clean your favorite small patio furniture, be it wood, plastic, or metal. For your best wooden outdoor furniture, you will want something that kills algae which is very prone to settling on damp wood. Metals will need to be treated with a non-corrosive liquid. It's handy to buy an all-in-one solution as if it needs diluting — or if you have a smaller outdoor space — you might not be able to use it all and storage of a bottle of this size might be a big no.
3. How does it need to be applied?
   There are lots of ways to clean a patio and the one you choose will depend on how big your outdoor space is — and how hands-on you are prepared to be. Patio cleaners have different levels of involvement, some you can pour over and leave to act (these are the easiest kind for sure). Others need to be used with a pressure washer or sometimes a scrub with a broom for the best results.
4. How much comes in a bottle? Check the capacity, and compare it with the price to see if you're getting good value. In some cases, where you needn't dilute the solution, you might need to buy more than one bottle. Solutions you need to dilute will be able to cover more space than those you pour on straight.

FAQs

Why do I need a patio cleaner?

"Not only is a build-up of algae or moss on your decking unsightly, but it can also make it slippery and dangerous," warns Sophie Herrmann, brand manager at Jeyes Fluid. "Debris such as leaves, dirt, pollen, and rainy weather can further add to the issue due to the moisture they can hold. Reduce the chances of your decking design getting slippery by sweeping the floor regularly. Don’t forget to get into the cracks and crevices."

Do I need a pressure washer to use a concrete cleaner?

The only situation where you might need a pressure washer is if the solution is strong and you don't like the smell lingering (or the idea of your pets walking over it). Otherwise, if there's a lot of algae build up it might be quicker to initially remove this with a pressure washer before using a solution. You can always do two applications of the cleaner for better results. Otherwise, using a stiff broom (like this one from Amazon) is enough for most situations.

How we test patio cleaners

All of the patio cleaners listed have been tested by two of our in-house team, one is a pet owner, and the other isn't. Both applied the solutions as per the bottle instructions and recorded their results. Only the patio cleaners found to have made a difference were featured.

Shop The Home Depot backyard and patio cleaning supplies we're stocking up on before the warm weather this year.

Going down the laundry aisle, you might've asked yourself: 'What does dishwasher salt do?' And, 'Am I wasting my hard-earned dollars on these glorified granules?' At first glance, it might look like the table or sea salt you season your food with, but this clever cleaning product is so much more.

The truth is, even the best dishwashers need a little help now and again, and this granular product will help keep it washing dishes for years to come. Even in economic hardships, dishwashing vs. handwashing is still cheaper and uses less water, so it's worth looking after your appliance to save money (and time standing at the sink).

If you live in a hard water area, it's beneficial to use it in your appliance (and much cheaper than installing a water softener). But do you know the reasons why? If not, along with the experts, we'll 'dish' out the knowledge on what dishwasher salt actually is, how much to serve your washer and when to replace the salt.

We'll also dive into why the area you live in can determine whether you need to pop this product in your basket, alongside the best dishwasher tablets.

What is dishwasher salt?

'The salt for your dishwasher is essentially course-grained sodium chloride – it helps to soften the hard water that’s tough on your dishes and prevents the dishwasher’s softener unit from clogging up,' explains Lara Brittain, Currys 

'Most modern dishwashers will have an indicator light to remind you, but if not, there will be a float indicator in the drawer. It might be hard to see through, so you may want to set a reminder in your calendar once a month to fill it up.'

'You can find dishwasher salt in most supermarkets. Don’t just go reaching for the regular table salt to top it up though, because that will corrode the pipes and get clogged, which will break the machine!'

It's worth noting that if you are looking for planet-friendly cleaning products, you can get buy eco-friendly dishwasher tablets and 100% natural dishwashing salt from the dead sea, available from Aromasong on Amazon.

What does salt do in a dishwasher?

'Dishwasher salt refreshes the dishwasher's water softening system. A dishwasher needs soft water so glasses come out shiny, clean, and free from water spots,' says Koulla Henry, business unit head, dishwashing, BSH Home Appliances.

'Hard water contains high levels of calcium carbonate, also known as lime. Using hard water in a dishwasher can lead to limescale build-up on utensils and can potentially damage the appliance. That's why it's crucial to soften water that has a hardness above a certain threshold.'

Yes, you can remove watermarks post-wash or clean a dishwasher using a DIYing own limescale remover, but then you're just adding to your workload and might as well hand wash with the best washing-up liquid.

If you do want to know whether you've got soft or hard water, you can either buy single-use water hardness test strips or a digital hard water monitor, both available on Amazon. You might also find this information on your water bill, or your supplier might be able to tell you.

For example, in the United Kingdom, you can refer to this map on Aqua Cure. Or, if you live in the USA, refer to this infographic on Homewater 101.

Where does dishwasher salt go?

It’s easiest to top up with dishwasher salt simply when your machine is empty, so after unpacking a clean load of dishes is the most suitable time,' says Burrel.

'Dishwasher salt needs to be added to an extra filter in your dishwasher. This is usually found in the base of the washing unit, as opposed to the door, but make sure to check your manufacturer's guide or instruction manual to make sure. To add dishwasher salt, open the cap and pour the salt in. Ensure you check the packaging to find out how much salt you will need, and it may help to use a measuring cup, and a funnel, to both measure out and supply the salt to your dishwasher.'

'If the reservoir for the salt is full of water, you can still pour the salt in as it will displace what is in there. If you don’t plan to run the machine immediately after refilling, it’s recommended to wipe out displaced water from the machine with a paper towel.'

'If you run the machine for the first time make sure to fill the salt reservoir with water - in order to regenerate the softener unit salt must be in a solution. Always follow the instructions from the manual provided by the machine manufacturer. Once poured, replace the cap, ensuring it is closed tightly and it should be ready to use again. Most water softeners will have an adjustable setting for water hardness, so make sure this is adjusted correctly to make sure that you get the perfect clean. Remember to top up your dishwasher salt regularly if you notice it’s running low.'

On the flip side, if you do overdo it with the salt, you may experience a number of problems including your dishwasher not draining properly, a bad-smelling dishwasher or you're noticing that the dishwasher isn't filling with water. In which case, you might have to get your hands dirty and learn how to clean a dishwasher filter.

Tim Dunphy, water expert, Leaf Home Water Solutions also cautions that 'Not all dishwashers have a built-in water softener or an area to place salt in. If you try to add salt without these components, the salt won’t help. It can actually hinder washing performance and cause issues with your appliance. The best solution is a water softener that addresses the whole home.'

How much dishwasher salt should I use?

Before you go and tip the whole bag of dishwasher salt into your best slimline dishwasher: stop. Most of the time your machine will signal when it needs a top-up of the saline stuff. But, to make sure you don't overfill your machine, we got a proper answer from the pros, so you don't make one of many dishwasher mistakes.

'Ensure you check the packaging to find out how much salt you will need.' advises Lorna Burrel, brand manager, Finish UK.

'It may help to use a measuring cup and a funnel to both measure out and supply the salt to your dishwasher. We recommend leaving the salt level approximately 1cm under the lip of where the cap will screw back on so you don’t overfill your machine and potentially waste your product.'

Can you use normal salt instead of dishwasher salt?

'Dishwasher salt, like table salt, consists of sodium chloride,' says Henry.

'However, dishwasher salt comes in coarse granules to prevent clogging the dishwasher salt tank while table salt is finely ground. Though it might be tempting in a pinch, do not use table salt in your dishwasher. Doing so could damage the water softening system.'

Do I need to use salt and rinse aid in my dishwasher?

'Yes, salt is required in every dishwasher even if living in a soft water area, however, when the water is softer it will take longer before needing to replenish the salt.' says Anna Batten, product manager, Smeg

'Salt is required to protect your machine from limescale and assists with the water softening process within the machine. Rinse aid assists the drying of the crockery meaning your crockery is spot and streak free.'

Do I need to add salt to my dishwasher if my water is soft?

'We would still recommend adding salt to a dishwasher, even in a soft water area,' says Tom Akers, product sales trainer at Miele GB.

'This is because soft water still contains very small levels of the components that form limescale.  Over time these can cause limescale to build up and cause adverse effects such as poor overall performance, or even cloudy glassware.  Adding salt eliminates these possibilities and ensures optimal performance for the lifetime of the dishwasher.'

Is pouring salt down the drain a good idea? Perhaps you've read up about using salt in the drain at night to stop bad smells wafting through the air – if you think there are fat deposits down there – when you don't have a dedicated drain unblocker handy. And we all know how tempting it is to follow the latest viral cleaning trends and hacks after all...

If you tend to stick by the most eco-friendly cleaning products around, then the salt hack is especially appealing. Even more so as it's pretty inexpensive and readily available as a pantry staple. You may already use salt for cleaning... So is pouring salt down the drain actually an effective way to clean and unclog a sink? Or are we just wasting our time? Not to mention, salt.

We asked some plumbers.

'Pouring salt down the drain doesn't work'

Sorry to disappoint, but the verdict from plumbing experts is that pouring salt down your drains is just not a good idea. Whether it's to clean a shower drain or your kitchen sink drain.

The idea behind this hack is that because salt is abrasive it will physically scour your pipe, thereby flushing out any clogs. That's a nice idea in theory, but in practice, there is no evidence that salt actually does this. Plumbing experts at Meyer's explain that 'you would need a lot of salt to scour the entire interior of your pipes, and we never recommend dumping a large quantity of anything but water down your drains.' 

And, if you've got uPVC pipes, you must never pour salt down them as it could corrode the inside of your pipework.

Would you really want to pour your entire supply of salt down the drain? You wouldn't be able to use just table salt, either – you'd need crystallized salt, which means using your expensive, high-quality sea salt. From the expense point of view alone, this isn't worth it.

Moreover, you could end up damaging your plumbing. Owner of John The Plumber Jake Romano says using salt to clear your drain:  ' I honestly can't imagine it being very effective. It's certainly not a remedy that I've recommended. On its own, I can't imagine it being too useful. Maybe it becomes effective when combined with other stuff.'

In other words, if you pour a bit of salt down your drain, it probably won't do any harm, but you won't see much of a result. Combine regular salt, from Amazon or another store, with other ingredients, though, and you're in for a better chance of success.

What to clean drains with instead of – or as well as – salt

You will notice that most DIY drain unclogging remedies use more than one ingredient. Typically, some combination of baking soda, borax, vinegar, and soap is used, but rarely just one ingredient on its own. 

The plumbers at Meyer's approve of baking soda for getting rid of the odor caused by accumulations of food waste sticking to your pipes, and of borax for dissolving grease, but caution that 'if there is a stubborn blockage deep in your plumbing, you won’t solve it by pouring a homemade or store-bought solution down the drain. At that point, the most effective solutions are snaking (or cabling) the drain with a drain snake or hiring a plumber to perform hydro jetting.'

So, by all means, give a DIY drain clearing hack a go, but try using more than just one approach. If a combination of several ingredients does nothing, and to avoid adding to any plumbing problems, call a pro.

'Are essential oils safe?' is a question many people ask themselves. There's no denying that essential oils are experiencing a boom, partly as a backlash against chemical cosmetics and partly due to a resurgence of alternative medicines and aromatherapy. 

Essential oils also smell amazing, which is their big draw for those who like home fragrance. When paired with an essential oil diffuser, they can promise relaxation, reduced stress levels, and even improved sleep, But are essential oils really safe, and what do you need to know before using them? 

We've asked experts with medical backgrounds to give their honest advice on the safety of essential oils in everyday settings. 

Are essential oils safe to inhale?

Broadly speaking, yes, but with exceptions. Dr. Enrizza P. Factor, a clinical dermatologist, and researcher with MyEczemaTeam told us that "inhaling essential oils that are diffused is safe for most people."

However, some people may react to the fumes and get an asthma attack. Breathing in essential oils can cause a severe lung infection known as pneumonitis in some people. In general, however, essential oils are safe when used externally (not ingested) in low concentrations.'

Ideally, you should use your diffuser in a well-ventilated area for no more than 15 minutes an hour. You should also be careful with some essential oils as they can be irritating to the respiratory tract, especially eucalyptus and peppermint, as these contain a chemical compound called phenol.

On the other hand, if you're suffering from a cold and sinus congestion, both peppermint oil and eucalyptus can be used to help unblock your sinuses and relieve symptoms. A study has found cineole, the chemical found in eucalyptus oil, to be effective at treating rhinosinusitis. The best way to use these oils is by inhaling a few drops diluted in a large bowl or pan of steaming hot water.

Can essential oils help you sleep? 

Yes. Some essential oils have been found effective at assisting sleep and even treating mild sleep disturbances. Lavender, chamomile, bergamot, clary sage, and cedarwood essential oils have been found to be effective in reducing stress and improving sleep in several clinical studies (the Sleep Foundation provides an extensive list of studies that support these claims). 

The best way to use these oils is either in your diffuser or in a pillow spray. The This Works Pillow Spray, for example, has been around for many years and many people find it effective. 

You could even learn how to make a reed diffuser yourself and create your own essential blend.

Are essential oils safe for skin?

This is where it gets a little trickier. Depending on who you consult and what you read, you may find information that advocates both for and against essential oil use for skin health. Essential oils have been used traditionally in many cultures to treat a variety of skin problems, but modern dermatologists are not so keen, warning that essential oils can cause severe allergic reactions and sensitivity. Many will advise against all essential oil use, just to be on the safe side. 

As a general rule, you shouldn't use essential oils or products containing them if you have sensitive skin or known allergies. And even if you've never had an allergic reaction before, it's always possible to develop allergies later in life, so always approach products containing essential oils with caution. 

Some essential oils, particularly those in the citrus family, make your skin more sun-sensitive, so be extra-vigilant with wearing SPF if you are using skin products containing these oils (orange, lemon, and bergamot oils in particular).

Essential oils also must never be used undiluted on the skin – they should only be applied to the skin using a neutral carrier oil (sweet almond oil, for example). Dr Factor recommends using essential oils at 'concentrations no higher than five percent.' That means only a few drops per bottle of carrier oil. Some essential oils are extremely strong and can cause chemical burns on your skin if not appropriately diluted. 

If you're not confident that you won't use too much, buy a product containing essential oils, buy a skincare product from a reputable natural brand instead.

If you experience redness, hot skin, or a rash – you're having an allergic reaction and should stop using the oil.

Are essential oils safe to ingest?

No. Dr Factor recommends that 'you never eat or drink essential oils.' Licensed cosmetologist, registered esthetician, and CEO of Editor's Pick Kathryn McDavid agrees, especially stressing that essential oils should never be given to children: 'Unless under the direct supervision of a medical specialist, children
should never eat essential oils '

Ingesting essential oils is sometimes promoted in alternative medicine practices to treat a variety of ailments, but it's important to note that no conclusive research exists to prove their effectiveness. Conversely, ingesting too much essential oil can lead to severe poisoning. Victoria Glass M.D., a practicing doctor with a focus on medical research at the Farr Institute, also points out that essential oil use can cause 'nausea and headache' and 'hormonal issues.' 

Essential oils are not regulated by the FDA (or any other medical body anywhere, for that matter), so there's no way to even know if the specific oil you're using is chemically what it is supposed to be. Best steer clear. 

How can I make sure the essential oils I'm buying are quality?

If you want a nice essential oil blend for your diffuser, you should try to get the best possible quality. This can be challenging due to the lack of regulation. McDavid warns consumers that 'essential oil items sold at big-box stores or chain drug stores are almost always fakes. 

Many mass-market ''aromatherapy'' items that claim to include oils contain synthetic perfumes or isolated fragrant compounds like linalool and geraniol limonene, rather than natural essential oils. It might be difficult for even a seasoned lab worker to detect if an essential oil has been tampered with.'

Basically, if it's sold at your local dollar store for less than $5, it's probably not worth your money. Buying certified organic essential oils (available at Amazon) is a safer bet as this ensures that at least some of the production process was properly regulated. 

Are essential oils safe for pets?

Absolutely not, with very few exceptions. Our pets, including cats and dogs, have different endocrine systems and liver functions than us, so they can't process essential oils in the same ways we do. 

Many essential oils, including tea tree, eucalyptus, citrus, mint, wintergreen, pine, and ylang-ylang are highly toxic to cats and dogs, regardless of whether the oils are ingested, inhaled, or get on their fur or skin. Side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even coma and death in cases of severe poisoning. It is best to keep all oils and diffusers well out of areas your pets use. 

A very limited number of oils, namely lavender, rose, and jasmine essential oils, can be used in a diffuser around your pets. Just to be on the safe side, when you're done with your aromatherapy session, open the window. 

Baking soda cleaning hacks have been doing the rounds on TikTok lately, transforming everything from smelly trainers to discolored laundry. When we found this incredibly simple trick using bicarbonate of soda to wipe away wall scuffs, we decided to put it to the test.

When it comes to how to clean walls, there's the risk of removing the paint by accident, so make sure you try an inconspicuous area first. We tried a cheap baking soda wall cleaning hack that simply involves dipping a damp sponge into some bicarb and gently rubbing away marks.

We try the bicarbonate of soda wall cleaning hack

You will need: a damp sponge – I used the soft side of a Scrub Mommy, available at Amazon – and about half a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda. I tested it on a discreet part of the wall first, and it seemed to work. 

So I went in for my wardrobe door that I'd marked by bashing against my bedside table. I was honestly shocked how the mark disappeared before my eyes. 

Before trying the baking soda, I used just the sponge and water to check it wasn't just a case of rubbing it off. The sponge solo had no effect, so it was definitely thanks to this tip. 

Before

Bicarbonate of soda worked wonders on the scuffs on my wardrobe door. However, a word of warning, I also tried the tip on a blue tac mark on my wall and it didn't go quite so well.

It's a different surface to the outside of my wardrobe, and I ended up making it worse. Some of the paint came off onto my sponge, and I now have a slightly murky mark on the wall. 

Overall, though, I'd definitely recommend trying this budget-friendly bicarbonate of soda wall cleaning hack. Particularly if you're renting and need to get rid of marks in your hallway (or any other room) before leaving your apartment.

After

As if by magic, the marks vanished. If it doesn't work for you, you can always read up on other ways to clean white walls and, hopefully, get your deposit back.

Would you try this cleaning tip?

Investing in one of the best carpet cleaners is a great idea for pet owners and families with little ones. From combating both stains and odors, a deep clean will get your carpet looking as good as new.

From red wine to pet mess, we've tested three of the carpet cleaners in this guide, evaluating their stain-removing powers on woven floor covering and rugs. The rest are pending review, but come highly-rated by online shoppers. 

Some machines we've mentioned double up as the best upholstery cleaners, and can be used to refresh furniture, including your couch, accent seating, and dining chairs.

The quick list

In a rush to get rid of that stain? Here's a quick low-down on the carpet cleaners we love the most, and you can click to jump down the page.

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The best carpet cleaners we recommend

The best carpet cleaner vacuum

This carpet cleaning machine also doubles as a vacuum cleaner, sucking up debris and pet hair in the process. This means you won't have to use a vacuum before switching on the Messmaster; a total game-changer for busy people.

Despite its multifunctionality, it weighs less than 10 pounds and has a carry handle. Its hose and cord aren't the longest, so if you're cleaning a large room, or one with few power outlets, you might want to get your measuring tape out. The wire can be wrapped around the machine, and the squeegee tool, carpet tool, crevice tool, and extension wand (great for cleaning under furniture) can be stored on board.

It has a tank that you can use with bags to make the machine easier to clean after use. Otherwise, it's surprisingly easy to clean as you only need to vacuum up a cup of clean water to make sure it's ready for next time. Its dust bin is also dishwasher safe for total convenience.

Reviewers on the Shark website rate it 4.7 stars out of five, commending its powerfulness, and compact nature.

Read our Shark MessMaster carpet cleaner review

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The best affordable carpet cleaning machine

The Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner can be used on any soft surface, from your favorite rug to your entire couch. With a 4.5-star review on Amazon, this is the best carpet cleaner if you live somewhere small or want something compact because you lack cleaning closet space. 

You need only fill it with water (and cleaner) to its fill line and then turn it on. Use it with the right tool based on the job you're tackling, and keep an eye on its tank to check it's not running empty. It can hold 48 ounces of water, which should last for a decent amount of time. When it comes to cleaning, it has a dedicated tool to use so that it essentially cleans itself, ready for the next use.

It can cope well with pet messes, but might not be the best for larger jobs or deep cleaning as its cleaning head is only three inches wide. It features a built-in handle for portability and comes with a 3-inch tough stain tool, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, plus eight ounces of spot and stain cleaner.

Read our Bissell Little Green Carpet Cleaner review

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The best carpet cleaning machine for larger homes

With a 20-foot-long hose and a 6.5-inch cleaning head, the Kenmore KW2001 can quickly cope with heavy messes caused by kids or pets.

Simply fill the clean water tank with solution and water, choose your attachment, and you're ready to go. It has a power button and a button on both attachments for spraying but doesn't have any specific cleaning modes. Instead, you'll need to follow the instructions and clean each water tank, as well as the attachment you've used. Make sure to leave them to dry fully before storing them.

It'll take less time to deep clean an entire carpeted room or even a large couch than smaller models like the Bissell Little Green would. Plus, it comes with a smaller 3.5-inch-wide head for your car, accent chairs, or tight spaces. Its design features a built-in handle and its hose wraps around the unit. There's also onboard storage for tools.

Read our Kenmore SpotLite Portable Carpet Spot and Pet Stain Cleaner review

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The best Hoover carpet cleaner

This machine is best for anyone who is looking to get into the nitty-gritty and wants something that can cope with every type of mess. There aren't many places it won't be able to reach, and if you have lots of carpeted rooms, the 7-inch-wide cleaning tool will do a fast job of deep cleaning. 

After cleaning, use the hose rinse tool to flush the machine with water for easy maintenance. Then, all you need to do is clean its tanks and attachments. 

If you're just looking for something for spot cleaning, a cheaper model with fewer attachments might suffice. Its design features an integrated handle and it's easy to store, otherwise, both its cord and hose are long enough to reach around larger rooms. Bear in mind that you will need to clean your floors beforehand, using a cordless vacuum or an upright model to get rid of debris.

This machine has a 4.4-star rating from almost 6,000 reviewers on Amazon. Shoppers say it's easy to use and that it's surprisingly lightweight given its power.

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The best carpet cleaning machine for pet owners

This cleaner works the same way as the others in the way it has a dirty and clean water tank. You need only fill the clean tank and choose an attachment and you're ready to clean. After use, it's not the easiest to clean admittedly, but don't let that put you off. There are just several different parts that need cleaning. It's recommended to clean the hose by suctioning up some clean water and running it through the machine.

This machine is ideal for pet owners mostly, or if you're after something for spot cleaning only. Though its cord is nice and long at 20 feet, you wouldn't want to deep clean an entire carpet with its 3-inch wide head as it would take forever. The other head it comes with is for cleaning up spills, from red wine to pet urine, which is handy. This special head keeps the liquid in its tiny onboard tank rather than putting it into your machine. It comes with two bottles of solution that are specially designed to target pet stains and odors, plus it's said to be great for cleaning pet beds. 

More than 11,000 Amazon reviewers gave this carpet-cleaning machine a 4.5-star rating. Lots of shoppers comment on how easy it is to use and call it the miracle machine. Most people say it's brilliant for spot-cleaning furniture, rugs, and carpets. They say it's a handy machine to have at home, just in case.

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The best easy to use carpet cleaner

If you're a pet owner and are looking for a powerful machine to tackle pawprints, poop, or pee, this is your best bet. It's portable thanks to wheels and a retractable handle and, according to Amazon shoppers, it's good at banishing odors that come with the aforementioned stains.

Much like all other carpet cleaning machines, this one has a separate dirty water tank from its clean water tank. You need to fill up the clean one with water and solution and you're good to go. The one attachment included is fitted with lots of mini brushes to make scrubbing easy. Once you're finished, it's recommended to keep your machine on for 15 seconds to allow everything to flow out of its hose and into the dirty water tank.

It has 6,000+ ratings on Amazon with an average score of 4.1 out of five stars. Most customers say it's best for rugs, furniture and, spot cleaning. However, it can be tricky to use in cars, tight spaces, and, on stairs.

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Carpet cleaner comparisons

What to consider when buying a carpet cleaner?

When it comes to buying the best carpet cleaner to suit your needs, there are a few factors worth considering...

1. Does it have a large capacity? The machines in this guide all have separate dirty water and clean water tanks, so you're never going to be cleaning your floors with dirty water. With that in mind, all of their capacities are pretty generous. Some might even be too large for spot cleaning and you'll probably have to throw cleaning solution away that you've not ended up using. If you do have a large home or any particularly large rooms that you're planning on fully cleaning, you might have to empty and refill your tank with some of the smaller capacity machines on our list. Think about what you'll be using your machine for before you invest in one of these models.
2. How long is its cable and its hose? This is another factor that you won't need to worry about if your home is small or if you'll be using this machine solely to spot clean. Don't think that you need a huge hose or cord if your home is smaller as this will only make your machine heavier to carry and more cumbersome to use.
3. Does it come with any attachments? All of these machines have two removable water tanks, one for clean water and another for dirty water, as well as a hose. The hose will attach to a head, and some machines come with several heads in various shapes to make it easier to clean different things. If you know you'll only be using your carpet cleaner for targeted messes, such as a red wine stain on a rug or a dog puke stain on a sofa, then the general attachment will do just fine. Otherwise, if you'll be taking yours out to your car or using it on your stairs or in nooks and crannies, you might want to check out machines that come with more than one attachment. All bar one of the machines listed come with formula included.
4. How heavy is it? If you don't own stairs, then this won't be a massive biggie, but for anyone who does and will be lugging this up and down them, we'd go for something under ten pounds, especially because these machines can get quite heavy when they are filled with dirty water. One of our picks has wheels and a retractable handle if you have limited mobility.
5. Is it easy to clean? It's imperative that you clean your machine after each use or it will get smelly — fast. Some machines are designed with a special self-cleaning tool, while others are irrigated using clean water. As a reminder, the Shark MessMaster (available on Amazon) comes with dishwasher-safe parts. But, whatever model you choose, be sure to dispose of the tank's contents responsibly.

How we chose these carpet cleaners

All of these carpet cleaning machines have been featured because they have either been reviewed or are due to be tested by one of the Real Homes team. We test these devices for a minimum of two weeks, using them at least three times over this period (similar to how we test vacuum cleaners). The items pending review were chosen based on their brilliant customer ratings. Shoppers love these carpet-cleaning machines, so we thought we would put them to the test ourselves.

We couldn't survive without our morning cup of coffee, but - as with many things we consume at home - we sometimes wonder about how to make it less wasteful. If you're wondering how to use coffee grounds for cleaning the kitchen, you're in the right place.

It turns out our leftover coffee grounds can be used for cleaning various spots, from pans to kitchen worktops. So next time you're cleaning out your cafetière or best coffee machine, avoid throwing them straight in the compost bin...

'We’ve all heard about lemon juice and vinegar acting as great natural cleaning products for the home,' says Polly Shearer, interiors expert at Tap Warehouse. 'But coffee also has multiple benefits to keep your kitchen spick and span.'

Reusing coffee grounds, or just some instant coffee - will leave you with a clean kitchen that smells great.

1. Scrubbing Pans

Burnt-on food stuck to pots and pans can be a nightmare to remove. And you don't want to damage the non-stick finish by using anything too harsh.

Mix some leftover coffee grounds (around 2 or 3 teaspoons) with warm, soapy water and scrub the pan with a sofa sponge or brush. Coffee will cut through grease because it's acidic.

2. Keep your fridge and bin smelling fresh

If your fridge sometimes gets a bit whiffy, coffee could be the answer. Pop a small container of coffee grounds, or a few beans, in your fridge to neutralize odors.

Likewise, you can pop a couple of teaspoons of coffee at the bottom of your bin before putting in a bin bag to stop the bin from smelling.

3. Cleaning surfaces

When it comes to how to clean the kitchen, the surfaces are one of the first things we tackle. If you've got any tough stains on your worktops, kitchen floor tiles or even your splashback, coffee might just get rid of them once and for all. 

Mix a few teaspoons of instant coffee or used grounds with soapy water to make your own eco-friendly, purse-friendly surface cleaner. You can also reduce the appearance of scratches and stains on wooden surfaces with coffee. Just soak a spoonful of coffee with warm water and gently rub on the surface.

4. Cleaning the grill

Cleaning an oven and grill is a particularly daunting task - but don't be daunted. The longer you put it off, the worse it'll be. 

Try soaking your grill grates in the sink for about 45 minutes in a solution of warm water and a few spoonfuls of coffee to soften stains before scrubbing.

5. Unblocking the sink

That's not it when it comes to how to use coffee grounds for cleaning. Grounds can also defeat blocked drains removing the need for harsh chemicals. Simply pour coffee grounds into the sink - followed by liquid soap and boiling water.

With a bit of luck, this will clear the blockage and leave your sink free of odors.

It's not often that the answer to a household problem is 'buy some beer'. And yet, as it turns out, in the case of removing stains from carpets, beer may well be the unsung hero of home cleaning ingredients. 

We've all been there. Learning how to clean a carpet isn't difficult, but removing a stain, especially if it's old, is a different story. If you've tried the usual suspects like vinegar and baking soda and aren't getting anywhere, it may be time to turn to less orthodox methods that are actually surprisingly effective. 

And the ingredient in question, folks, is...beer. Yes, it sounds counterintuitive, especially if you're dealing with food or alcohol stains, but you may find that beer is surprisingly good at removing stains you thought were too ingrained to bother trying to remove. 

Of course, trying on the best carpet cleaners may do the job, but if you don't have a good tool to hand, a bit of your pint may work just as well.

Beer carpet cleaning hack

'A lesser-known life hack for removing stains from rugs is beer!' explains Nick Acaster, Managing Director of Rugs Direct.

'Beer can literally lift the stain out if you pour a small amount of it on top and rub it lightly, the stain should then disappear. As with all these methods, you may need to repeat this process to make sure all traces of the stain have gone.' 

How does it work? Beer is acidic, with larger ranging between pH 4.00 and 5.00, and ale going down as low as pH 3. This is good news if you're trying to tackle organic stains. And, because beer is a liquid, it is likely to penetrate better than a powder agent.

As with all DIY carpet cleaners, it's always a good idea to test the beer on a small inconspicuous area first, especially if your carpet is very light. You should also think carefully about which beer type you'll be using. Pale ale is less likely to leave behind stains of its own, so don't reach for Guinness! 

All you need to do is carefully blot the beer into the stain until saturated, leave for a few minutes, then blot out with a clean cloth.  And if you still haven't had any luck, try one of the best upholstery cleaner products instead. 

Some of us are team squeegee, and some of us, well, let limescale do its thing. Even if you're the latter, you can normally get tiles and taps squeaky clean with a good scrub. Though, that's easier said than done when you're living in a hard water area — even the best high pressure shower heads can become easily grubbing in that case...

We tried a simple shower limescale remover hack, and it left the glass so clean you'd be at risk of walking into it. When it comes to how to clean glass shower doors, little and often is the best option.

If you've left yours to turn a nice shade of streaky gray, you're not alone. Keep scrolling for a handy shower glass cleaning hack.

Before the glass shower screen cleaning hack

Millie Fender, Real Homes' head of reviews, tried out a cleaning hack using cupboard staples: distilled malt vinegar, water, and baking soda. "Basically, I mixed vinegar and water in a spray bottle and misted the door," she says. 

About a 50/50 split between water and vinegar will do the trick. "I then took my Scrub Daddy, from Amazon, dipped it in bicarb, and buffed it in circles around the door," she explains.

Millie comments that she could feel the texture of the limescale while she was scrubbing the glass, which showed just how caked-on it was. Once that had made a nice paste, she left it to dry for around five hours.

During

"I then washed it away using the handheld shower and gave it one last scrub as I did that," says Millie. "It actually worked really well and I would definitely do it again, even if it did make my shower smell a bit like a chippy while I did it."

White vinegar, which you can find in the cleaning aisle, would have done an even better job because it's more acidic and better at cutting through grime than clear distilled malt vinegar. It's an easy mistake to make, and both smell strong.

After

Although this trick worked like a charm, Millie notes she'll be buying a squeegee for future use.

If you're not sure where to start with how to clean a shower, this satisfying hack is definitely worth a go. You can pick up some inexpensive spray bottles from Amazon, which are useful for cleaning kitchen surfaces and misting plants, too.

Some of the best cleaning products from brands like Dr Beckmann and Astonish will also do a good job. But it just goes to show you don't need bulky products filling up the cupboard under the sink to get great results.

If you're trying to get rid of hard water stains, you'll know all about the frustration that accompanies this task. You keep scrubbing and scrubbing, and they just won't shift. 

This is because hard water stains aren't like any other stains – these are actually a buildup of minerals naturally occurring in water, mostly calcium. So, learning how to remove water stains is less about putting in extra elbow grease and understanding the chemistry involved. And it turns out that there's one specific ingredient that will do the trick without you having to put it very much effort at all. 

The one ingredient you need to shift stubborn hard water stains

And the miracle ingredient is distilled malt vinegar. A little different from your regular white vinegar, distilled malt vinegar is nevertheless very easy to buy. Tony Jones, General Manager at Harvey Water Softeners explains the science behind why distilled malt vinegar is perfect for cleaning hard water residue: 'White distilled malt vinegar is very very acidic with a fairly low PH level, around 2.5. The residue left by hard water has a high calcium content and is naturally on the other end of the PH scale - as an alkaline, its PH level will be more than 7. Because of the residue’s natural properties which are predominantly alkaline, the acidity of the vinegar is great for neutralizing limescale.'

What if I don't have any vinegar?

No vinegar, or don't like using it? Don’t have any distilled malt vinegar? Tony suggests five alternatives to try:

• Fluoride Toothpaste - This can be used to scrub and remove any limescale
• Lemon - you can dissolve limescale by simply rubbing a lemon cut in half over the stained area and leaving on for 10 minutes 
• Bicarbonate of Soda - mix a few teaspoons with water and you can use this as a paste to scrub on impacted areas. Baking soda cleaning tips are useful for other areas in the house, too
• Coca Cola - can also be used as a scrub, its carbonic acid properties help to break down the limescale
• Pickle water - You can use the pickle juice from any jars of pickled veg to clean away hard water scum as well. The citric acid in the pickle juice will break down the hard water residue

You can even try a combination of these to shift stubborn stains – or go for whichever one is close to hand. 

When your home needs a little TLC, it's easy to forget about the harsh chemicals that come with so many of today's cleaning products. Sure, you're caring for your home, but are you doing so at the expense of the planet? While going completely sustainable is a tall order, there's nothing stopping us from making small steps to improve our cleaning practices. I, for one, could do a lot better. 

That doesn't mean spending hours trawling the web, though. Lucky for you, we have done the hard work already. All you need to do is read on, and pick out your essential eco-friendly cleaning products to fill the space underneath your sink. Whether it's time for a bathroom blitz (AspenClean, we're looking at you!), you're fixing up the roof, or simply putting a wash on, every chore has an easy-to-use solution, designed mindfully. This might just mean your chosen cleaner comes in recycled packaging, uses plant-based ingredients, or is non-aerosol. Perhaps, it's simply the ever-resourceful microfibre cloth that helps you do more and create less waste. Together, these form a move in the right direction.

See our favourite eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning products just below, and start the year by slowly stacking your cabinets with solutions that are kinder on the planet. You definitely won't regret it.

18 eco-friendly cleaning products for your sustainable home

Real Homes review process: How we chose these eco cleaning products

The vast majority of the eco-friendly cleaning products we've included above have been tried, tested, and (obviously) loved by a member of Real Homes. Now, in order to test a load of products from a range of brands, we split this task between the team. This way, no one has to unnecessarily clean or use any products they don't actually need as we're very keen on trying to be eco-friendly.

We're not going to go through each product one by one and say who reviewed it, but what we will list is our favourite eco-friendly brands that we buy when shopping for underneath our sink. Here's what we love...

What else to do when searching for eco-friendly cleaning products

1. Limit how much packaging you buy
Decide whether you want separate items for different uses or if you’d prefer something multi-purpose. Doing so will cut down on the number of bottles you need to buy. 

Check that the bottle is recycled and/or recyclable and that the bottle top and label are too. Ideally, choose something that either comes in a large container that will last for ages or something where you can buy refills.

2. Check the list of ingredients
This way you can make sure they are chemical, bleach, chlorine and phosphate-free and look for natural and plant-based extracts, especially if something has a fragrance. Essential oils are fine but artificial perfumes or additives aren’t.

3. Look for natural remedies
If you want to create your own eco-friendly cleaning products, you can always stock up on things like the E-cloths we featured above, baking soda, vegetable soap, lemon juice, and vinegar, as these can be used in so many ways to clean just about anything!

Browse more eco-friendly cleaning products...

If it's really important to you to be able to switch your normal buys for an eco-friendly or non-toxic cleaning product alternative to clean every corner of your house sustainably, then you might still be looking for more cleaning products. These are our favourite retailers for picking up planet-friendly options...

• Amazon eco-friendly cleaning products
• Ethical Superstore eco-friendly cleaning products
• Friendly Turtle eco-friendly cleaning products
• Wearth London eco-friendly cleaning products

Looking for the best wood floor cleaner? Smart thinking. Essential for keeping your home in shipshape, a wood floor cleaner can help maintain or restore your floorboards. Because of the wear and tear they undergo, floorboards need a little TLC every now and again. Whether it's scratches or worn-in dirt you want to take down, there's a solution that can help.

A quick search online and you'll be inundated with reams of products, each one professing the same quality as the other. So, rather than scrolling endlessly through seemingly infinite choices, take a tip or two from us. We've carefully selected some of the best wood floor cleaners you can buy, factoring in a whole range of criteria. Vegan, plant-based, non-slip or pH neutral – it's all there. 

As you browse our top buys, be sure to check out the specs we've outlined. Bottle size varies between products, as does the style – some are sprays, some are screw-cap bottles, and there's even a squirt bottle, too. Plus, you'll want to make sure it's suitable for your specific flooring, be that varnished, lacquered, waxed or laminated. As well, we've been clear to designate each product its own speciality, from the best overall to an organic option, a restorative option and a pet-friendly, non-toxic option.

Oh, and if you need a few more pointers, check out some of the info and advice we have on our how to clean wooden floors guide. Don't miss our best mops roundup for help with this job.

What is the best wood floor cleaner?

We think the best wood floor cleaner you can buy is the Bona Wood Floor Cleaner Spray. However, if you're after something for every day cleaning to pop in your mop, opt for the Astonish Wood Floor Cleaner. 

The best wood floor cleaners

The Bona Wood Floor Cleaner Spray is our best pick of wood floor cleaners to use while mopping your home.

What can it do?
Available in both a one litre spray and a four litre pourable cleaner, Bona Wood Floor Cleaner can be used for both small touch-ups and all-over jobs. It's a spray bottle so is great for targeting areas, too.  It's also pH neutral, streak free, and a non-dulling formulation.

How to use
It's easy: you can use it along with a Bona Microfibre Spray Mop for general cleaning of floors.

The verdict...
This wood floor cleaner makes a quick job of cleaning wood floors, and it dries very quick. Reviewers also reported a quick and economical clean with no residue or streaks on either engineered or hardwood floors and say the resulting effect is less mirror-shine and more soft sheen.

Good to know
You can use this product along with basically any microfibre floor mop.

Made by a leading cruelty-free cleaning brand and it's vegan, the Astonish Wood Floor Cleaner certainly won't disappoint. 

What can it do?
For use on everything from sealed wooden floors to ceramic tiles and even linoleum, it has never been easier, cheaper and more pleasant to clean your floors. All you need to do is dilute it before use!

How to use
Once diluted, pop some of this stuff in your spray mop or bucket and use it to clean your floors. You won't regret it.

The verdict...
For starters, it smells like jasmine & wild berry, so once you've cleaned there won't be any leftover unpleasant bleach-y smell. Not only does this cleaner remove dirt with ease, but it actually leaves a protective coating on your floors to prevent further staining. 

Good to know
It's not only this product from the Astonish range that has caught our eye; we also love their Stain Remover and Mould & Mildew spray to name a few.

While Bona’s floor cleaner spray is our top pick for maintenance and touch-ups, this Rejuvenate Floor Restorer can't be faulted for its ability to bring past-their-best boards back to life. 

What can it do?
As well as cleaning, buffing and adding a protective layer to wood, ceramic tile, marble, slate and linoleum floors, this clever cleaner fills small surface scratches on well-loved areas of flooring.

How to use
First of all, you need to ensure your floor is clean, recently mopped and dry. Then, pour a little solution directly onto your floor and begin mopping with a clean sponge mop. It's recommended that you work small areas at a time (around 4ft x 4ft).

Verdict...
This wood floor cleaner can be used on several different types of floor – a huge bonus. We're not over exaggerating when we say that it gives a new lease of life to floors as that is pretty much an understatement.  Reviewers also rave that it's just as easy to do as giving your floors a quick mop with water; there's not much grafting required.

Good to know
You should mop in the same direction the planks run.

Looking for something that's non-toxic, easy to use and even easier to find in the supermarket? Enter: Method's Wood Floor Cleaner.

What can it do?
This wood floor cleaner brighten and clean your wood floors mess-free. It's made up of non-toxic and biodegradable cleaners (including our favourite, baking soda), so no hazardous residue stays behind on floor, making it safe for pets, people and (without being dramatic) the planet.

How to use
It's super easy: simply squirt some of this stuff on your floors and (dry) mop to spread it around. There's no water required!

The verdict...
It smells great, it's easy to use and it really does make a difference. It leaves floors looking super shiny and clean, and it's affordable. An easy replacement for your current floor cleaner, we think.

The Fiddes Floor Surface Cleaner is an easy to use fuss-free cleaner for those who simply just want to get the rejuvenating job done.

What can it do?
Specially formulated to give a gentle, non-abrasive clean on oiled, varnished, lacquered and waxed wooden floors, the Fiddes floor cleaner promises a thorough clean without any harshness or damage to natural finish of hardwood floors. 

How to use
Simply add two capfuls to four litres of warm water and then apply evenly and sparingly to your floors with either a mop or cloth. Leave to dry.

The verdict...
First of all, we love this because it's rinse-free so after applying, you can just sit on the sofa until it's dry. We'd recommend this product as the best wood floor cleaner if you're wary of the results of cleaning a wooden floor. In other words, it's a safe option.

Good to know
It's hard to get hold of...

Not too dissimilar from our previous pick from Fiddes, this gentle, non-disruptive floor cleaner from Osmo is recommended for waxed and oiled wooden floors. 

What can it do?
Not only can this floor cleaner revive old-looking wood floors, but it also works wonders on wood furniture, doors, wall and ceiling paneling too.

How to use
First of all you'll need to free your floors from debris and dust by using a vacuum or broom. Then, add some diluted Osmo Wash & Care Floor Cleaner to your spray mop bottle and using a damp microfibre head on the mop, spread the product around the surface evenly. Afterwards, go around the room to wipe any parts that aren't yet dry.

The verdict...
Reviewers were impressed by its effectiveness – specifically its ability to lift dirt out of real wood floors in high traffic areas – as well as its mildness, with sensitive users remarking that it didn’t sting their skin or eyes while using it. 

Good to know
While Fiddes has the slight edge for its rinse-free formula, we think this is a great alternative if you like the finishing touch of a quick mop-and-bucket go-over.

Harness the power of naturally-derived cleaners for an Earth-friendly effect that doesn’t skimp on the efficacy with this Parker & Bailey Wood Floor Cleaner.

What can it do?
This wood floor cleaner has the power to remove stains from wood floors with ease. It also leaves a lovely shine so is a great quick-fix for smaller areas. 

How to use
Simply spray onto the section you want to revive or clean and wipe with either a mop, a cloth or a paper towel. You could also spray it onto a dust mop to easily sweep up debris. 

The verdict...
Testers over at Good Housekeeping found it was particularly good at removing scuff marks and loved its spray bottle for easy dispensing. For more eco-friendly cleaning, see our final pick below.

Good to know
Not recommended for use on previously waxed floors.

A ‘concentrated hard-surface all-purpose cleaner’, Sal Suds by Dr Bronner are a great option if you have a combination of wooden and tiled floors and want a one-product-fits-all cleaner. 

What can it do?
This wood floor cleaner is just as good at the rest in terms of giving a good shine, however the thing that gives it an edge is that it's safe to use around babies and pets because it's made from plant-based surfactants and is free from synthetic dyes, fragrances and preservatives. However, we should note that it won't do anything in terms of rejuvenating old floors as it's just meant for cleaning.

How to use
Dilute in your mop bucket or bottle and use to mop your floors. It's that easy.

The verdict...
Organic and with a mild formula, it's a great option if you're environmentally conscious or for those with sensitive skin or asthma set off by harsh chemical cleaners. All in all, this is our top pick of the best wooden floor cleaner if you're eco-conscious.

Good to know
You can use it to clean almost anything including your clothes, dishes and even your bathroom.

How to buy the best wood floor cleaner?

Size
If you've not got much storage space for cleaning products, it's best to avoid products that come in huge bottles. Also, we suggest trying a product before purchasing a huge bottle in case it's not for you. The majority of wooden floor cleaners on our list are 500ml to one litre.

Type 
Wooden floor cleaners come in screw-top bottles or spray bottles. We think it's easier to have a screw-top bottle, especially if you have a spray mop, but if you want to use it to clean wooden furniture too, then it's handy to have a spray bottle.

Suitable for
Some wooden floor cleaners aren't suitable for all types of wooden floors, so it's best to check before you buy.

How do you clean and shine hardwood floors?

Yep, this is always an important question. Firstly, steer clear of pure vinegar, regardless of anything you've heard. Due to its acidity, vinegar can harm the flooring, resulting in dullness. Of course, if vinegar has been integrated into a professionally made formula, like that from Parker & Bailey, then this is fine. Also, you should avoid using excessively harsh detergents as these can cause a sticky layer to form on your flooring, which makes footprints and smudges all the more visible. Our picks above should do just fine.

Before getting down to the cleaning process, though, you'll want to make sure you've properly cleared the floor of dirt and trash, for which a microfibre mop is always a smart idea. As for vacuums, it is wise to leave these in the cupboard as they can scratch hardwood. Once this is done, you can then get on with the deep-cleaning, a task for something like the Bona Wood Floor Cleaner Spray. Once you've sprayed the floor, you can then begin to clean using a mop or cloth, going with the grain of the wood, taking down stains and buffing the surface. Also, it's definitely smart to dry your floor after doing this, as this will further prevent any smearing. Et voilà.

By this point, your floor will be looking far shinier. But if you want to take it a step further, it might be worth considering applying a liquid hardwood scratch concealer. Alternatively, polishing could be a smart move, too. All this takes is a flat-head mop, complete with a microfibre pad, and some wood floor polish like this from Weiman – sold at Amazon. Dealing with unsealed flooring or a tung-oil finish? Go for a wax, not a polish.

Not quite there yet? Read our guide on how to choose wood flooring.

If your kitchen is in a bad way, one of our best kitchen cleaners might just help. Essential for blitzing the cooking space, a quality kitchen cleaner makes the removal of dirt, grease and grime a swift one. Sure, no one loves cleaning the kitchen, but it's a fact of life made less daunting with one of these handy solutions. 

A quick search online and you'll be inundated with reams of products – some good, some bad and some average. So, to save you time and effort, we've done the honours, separating the wheat from the chaff. Culminating in a neat list of five top picks, our selection process factors in some essential considerations. Perhaps you're after an all-rounder? Maybe fragrance is paramount? After all, no one wants their kitchen reeking of bleach. You might even be after a non-spray option, like a cleaning stone? Whatever it is, we've got you covered. Plus, we've outlined some of the key features of each product for the utmost ease. Fume-free, plant-based, biodegradable, vegan... It's all there. 

Oh, and before you scroll ahead, it might be useful to swat up on your cleaning technique. Our guide on how to clean a kitchen should have you set for the sparkliest galley yet.

Cutting through grease and dirt in seconds, this Astonish(ing) kitchen cleaner outshines the rest. It leaves a zesty lemon and grapefruit scent behind, as well as a streak-free shine. To use, simply spray on your surfaces and wipe with a damp cloth or sponge. For tough stains and grease, leave for two minutes before wiping. It should be noted though, it can't be used on unsealed wood, porous surfaces or unglazed tiles. You should also avoid leaving the product on paintwork, gold plating and lacquered or varnished wood for long.

Not just designed for kitchens, this eco-friendly cleaner can be used on all non-porous surfaces in your home. It leaves behind an oh-so pleasant bergamot and ginger scent which lasts for quite a while, and it's very affordable. We'd like to (quietly) rave about its spray nozzle (really), which doesn't drip during use, unlike those of many other spray cleaners. To use, simply spray on your surfaces and wipe clean with a damp cloth. This product can be used on many surfaces in your home, but it's smart to do a patch test beforehand if you're tackling a delicate material.

No matter how tough the stain, this foam spray will remove it. Even though it doesn't emit the acrid chemical smell you’d usually associate with powerful kitchen cleaners, it does an easy job of quickly cutting through grease, oil, food spills and dirt. A little goes a long way, so there's no need to be over-generous when using; simply spray a little on your surfaces and wipe clean with a damp cloth. It can't be used on aluminium, marble, gold, brass or copper, though. In our opinion, this is the best kitchen cleaner for really tough stains.

Want spotless kitchen countertops? With Lakeland's Power & Gentle ECOlogical Kitchen Cleaner, you'll get just that (while still being kind to the planet). Despite being fume-free, plant-based and completely biodegradable, this cleaner offers incredibly effective results while leaving behind a lovely green tea fragrance. Shake the bottle, spray and wipe with a damp cloth – it's as easy as that. Those with marble or granite surfaces should avoid though.

On the hunt for something to clean your kitchen that isn't a spray? Not only does this multi-purpose cleaner work wonders on your taps, hob and any other metals in your kitchen, but it's an excellent surface cleaner. While it requires slightly more effort than the others on our list, the results are more than worth it. Use on your sink and draining board for a lovely shine, and your hob and pots and pans to make them look brand new. To use, wet the sponge included, rub it on the block, squeeze the sponge until it foams and you're set. Wipe down with a damp cloth, and for extra shine, wipe again with a dry cloth. Trust us, this is the stuff of cleaning dreams.

How to buy the best kitchen cleaner

When hunting for the best kitchen cleaner, there are a few considerations and questions you might have. We've outlined some of the key ones below to make your shopping process that much smoother.

On the surface
Some surfaces don't respond well to particular cleaners. For example, porous surfaces, unsealed wood and unglazed tiles can sometimes prove a little tricky. To avoid this issue, be sure to check the specs of the product. If in doubt, a patch test on a hidden area of the material you're applying it to might be wise.

Smells and scents
When it comes to kitchen cleaners, it's inevitable that some will smell a little chemically. After all, the chemicals are often what cut through the grease. With that said, there are certainly some options out there far softer on the nose. For example, the Lakeland Power & Gentle ECOlogical Kitchen Cleaner has a charming green-tea scent and the Astonish Kitchen Cleaner Zesty Lemon cleaner smells like lemons. Our all-time favourite for smell, though, is the Waitrose Ecological Bergamot & Ginger Multi-Purpose Cleaner – who can contest that aromatic combo?

Struck gold
If your kitchen has any awkward trims or accents, such as those made from aluminium, gold, brass or copper, you'll want to make sure the cleaner can cater to them. Some choices, such as the foaming Vamoose Kitchen Cleaner, don't mix well with these adornments, so be sure to check the label.

Bang for your buck
As far as kitchen cleaners go, very few break the bank. Although, there are some that really add up over time. You'll want to pay attention to price as well as the quantity you get per purchase – some bottles might be cheap, but if there's not much in them, they might not be the economic choice you'd thought they were. In general, our selections sit within a reasonable price bracket. In fact, most don't even hit double figures. Oh, and just because a kitchen cleaner is affordable, that doesn't mean it's not good. A case in point? The Waitrose Ecological Bergamot & Ginger Multi-Purpose Cleaner, both inexpensive and generously filled at 500ml a bottle.

What is the best kitchen cleaner?
Overall, we'd put the Astonish Kitchen Cleaner Zesty Lemon top, as it has the best shine and a delightful fragrance, and it shows no mercy on dirt. That said, this is more of an all-rounder. If you have quite specific criteria in mind, such as environmental concerns, you might be better set opting for the eco-friendly Lakeland Power & Gentle ECOlogical Kitchen Cleaner. Alternatively, some users might prefer to use a cleaning stone instead of a spray, so the Biomex Miracle Kitchen & Bathroom Multi Surface Cleaner would be their best bet.

What is the best antibacterial cleaner?
Keeping the kitchen clear of harmful bacteria is always important. For this task, we'd suggest the Astonish Kitchen Cleaner Zesty Lemon, which eliminates bugs and germs including E. coli, salmonella, listeria and MRSA. 

How do you clean a really dirty kitchen?
The question on everyone's lips. Yes, it's essential to have your kitchen cleaner to hand, but you'll need to know how to carry out a deep clean, too. In brief, you'll want to follow a strict order, beginning by decluttering. Then, you'll want to start the dishwasher, before clearing, unblocking and washing the sink, and finally, tackling the stovetops. 

If you do find you need something much much stronger, check out our list of the best steam cleaners – they blitz through dirt in no time with nothing but good old water.

With one of the best oven cleaners to hand, you'll be ready to take down whatever grimy mess you've been avoiding. Whether it's a post-celebration cleanup or simply an overdue cleanse, cleaning the oven is no one's idea of fun. However, arming yourself accordingly with either a quality spray, gel or block will make the job far easier. 

No doubt you've searched online, only to find yourself scrolling aimlessly through hundreds of options. With reams of products to pick from, the hunt can become a job in itself. So, rather than burdening yourself with yet another chore, take a few pointers from us. We've curated a neat selection of the very best oven cleaners out there. All of our selections are relatively affordable, and each comes with its own unique charms. Fragrant, fast or tough on stains – it's all there. Plus, we've got you covered for cruelty-free, fume-free and vegan options, too.

So read on to get those shelves, doors and more gleaming. Or, if you think your oven is beyond help and you want to invest in a new pyrolytic model that cleans itself (yes, really) then check out our guide to the best ovens.

The best oven cleaners

This powerful Oven Mate Oven Cleaning Gel can remove baked-on grease and grime no problem, leaving your oven looking brand new. And the best part is there's no scrubbing needed. To apply, firstly ensure your oven's cold, then pop on the gloves and use the thick side of the brush to paint the inside of your oven with the gel. Leave for 10 minutes or so and then wipe with a damp cloth and it'll be good as new. This is the best oven cleaner if you're after something effective and easy to use, we think.

The Dr Beckmann Rescue Oven Cleaner comes in a spray bottle, making it ideal for those who don't like getting messy. It's tough, too, so your oven will be free of grease and grime in no time – our home test gave us surprisingly good results. Simple to use, just spray the product into your oven and close the door; leave to work for half an hour to an hour, depending on how dirty your oven is (for those who want a deep clean, leave overnight), then wipe your oven clean with a cloth dipped in soapy water. We think this is the best oven cleaner for tough stains and deep cleaning.

Unlike our other best oven cleaners, the Astonish Original Oven & Cookware Cleaner comes in block form and can be used on everything from ovens to cooker tops, pans, cookware, sinks and tiles. We think it's a great product that's particularly good at removing stubborn grease, burnt oil and dirt from the inside of an oven. To use, simply wet a sponge, nylon scouring pad or soft cloth with clean warm water, then scoop a small amount of the product and cover the dirty surface with it. Using circular motions, rinse it clean with a wet cloth to remove the residue and ta-da! Also, because it's not a spray, it's less harmful to your environment – winning!

Made from a fume-free formula, the Ovenbrite Oven Cleaner comes complete with gloves, a sponge and a bag for your racks to be cleaned in. To use, firstly ensure you're wearing the disposable gloves, then pour half the cleaning solution into the oven rack cleaning bag and place your cold racks inside and seal at the top. Pour the rest of the solution directly into the centre of your oven, then, using the sponge supplied, spread it around. Leave for a minimum of four hours (or overnight if you can) and then wipe away the residue with the sponge and some hot water. Although the bottle only contains one application (or two if your oven is small), this is our pick of the best oven cleaner for ease of use.

Ideal for quick clean-ups, the Oven Mate Daily Oven Cleaner Spray tackles grease, removes fat and lifts food. To use, spray into your cold oven (avoiding the door seals) and leave for up to 30 minutes, then wipe clean – it's as easy as that. It's no-fuss, easy to use and it comes out as a foam. The best oven cleaner for regular cleaning, we think.

When it comes to finding an oven cleaner that isn't too harsh, this option from Dirtbusters is ideal. A safe and effective spray for cleaning ovens, it was originally designed for use by professional cleaners, so you know it's a quality product. Because it has a non-caustic formula, you needn't fret too much about its effect on your skin. Plus, without fumes or nasty odours, this choice won't leave your kitchen reeking of bleach. Its smart formula contains microbes that soften carbon, making removal of grime ever-so easy. And, as well as being ideal for ovens, including self-cleaning ones, it also works brilliantly on hobs, pots and pans. Burnt-on food? No problem. Quite the all-rounder, right?

How to buy the best oven cleaner

Finding the best oven cleaner can be a tricky task indeed. After all, the sheer quantity of solutions out there can sometimes be more confusing than helpful. So, to make things a little simpler, we've outlined some of the key questions and considerations you might have in mind.

• You can find out how to clean an oven in our smart guide.

Spray, gel or block?
A lot of people, without thinking, opt for a spray. Now, of course, there's no reason you shouldn't: sprays are usually pretty intuitive to use, fast-acting and efficient. However, there are certainly some benefits in considering a gel or block option. For example, often gels are kinder on the planet, simply in virtue of the fact that they are not sprays. And, in the case of gels, these can be very easy to use, with less intrusive smells.

Bang for your buck
Look, none of the options we've picked out are going to break the bank, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't check the solution size. For example, the gel cleaner from Ovenbrite is very cheap, but it only offers you about two applications. Alternatively, something like the Oven Mate Daily Oven Cleaner Spray should see you through more use, although, obviously, it costs a little more.

Oven type
What kind of oven do you have? It's an important question because some cleaners are not suitable for use on specific styles, materials and surfaces. For example, some sprays cannot be used on enamel-coated, aluminium or self-cleaning ovens. If you have a self-cleaning oven, the Dirtbusters Bio Oven Cleaner would be a smart choice.

What is the best oven cleaner to use?
As you might gauge from the above considerations, it is wholly dependent on the oven and the criteria you have in mind. Overall, we place the Oven Mate Oven Cleaning Gel top due to ease of use, the handy extras it comes with and its ability to cut through grime and grease. Of course, if you are after something more specific, such as a block option, you might consider the Astonish Original Oven & Cookware Cleaner, which is both vegan and kind on the earth. So, when browsing our selections, be sure to check out the specs we've listed.

What do professional oven cleaners use to clean ovens?
Good question. After all, why settle for less than the best. All our choices are of a high standard, but if we had to pick the most professional, we would point you to the Dirtbusters Bio Oven Cleaner, which was first used by the pros before getting big on the wider market.

Spring cleaning time is here, and if you are in need of all new sustainable cleaning tools then we can help expand your already impressive collection. We've found everything from bamboo squeegees to sustainable mops and even an eco-friendly dish brush set. Available to buy everywhere including Dunelm and Amazon. Shopping at these retailers should mean that you can enjoy your new cleaning tools sooner rather than later, with same-day delivery and click & collect options available, and we hope it helps you make the switch from using plastic products to bamboo buys.

Our Shopping Editor has rounded up the best eco-friendly cleaning buys on the web, so that you can clean with peace of mind. Wave goodbye to plastic mops and hello to eco-friendly alternatives. Also, sustainable cleaning tools are no longer an expensive buy – especially the ones we have listed below as prices start from £1.50.

Head to our dedicated eco page for more sustainable suggestions. 

10 sustainable cleaning tools to buy in 2021

Keep scrolling for our favourite sustainable cleaning tools on the web right now, and click through to buy them from either Dunelm or Amazon. 

1. Bamboo Window Squeegee – £1.50

2. Bamboo Chenille Duster – £2.50 at Dunelm

3. Bamboo Chenille and Microfibre Mop – £6 at Dunelm

4. ARYA Eco Dish Brush Set – £13.99 at Amazon

5. JVL 20-305 Bamboo Dustpan and Bristle Brush Set - £9.52 at Amazon

6. Bamboo Cotton Mop – £4 at Dunelm

• The best mops to buy in 2021

7. Bamboo Microfibre Duster – £3 at Dunelm

8. Bamboo Long Handle Dustpan and Brush – £8 at Dunelm

BBQ season is officially here, but before you slap the burgers and sausages on your best BBQ make sure you've given it a good clean. 

One of the most common BBQ cleaning hacks out there is splashing a bit of bear over your grill to remove any grime. Some claim that about half a bottle of beer poured over greasy grates of a warm grill will loosen dirt.

• See also: How to clean the barbecue - 10 five minute tricks

But is leftover beer really the wonder BBQ cleaning ingredients it claims to be...it sounds almost too good to be true. So we decided to ask the experts if this common hack really works. After all, no one wants to spend hours scrubbing, whether it's your best portable BBQ or bigger gas BBQ. 

Take notes and bring your BBQ out of its winter hibernation mode with minimal elbow grease. Save yourself the hassle this weekend and check out our guide on how to light a BBQ and keep guests happy.

So, why do people pour beer on their BBQs in the first place? 'Most lagers are carbonated, which may help to dissolve dirt and grease,' says Mike Hardman from Alliance Online. 'However, it’s probably not going to be powerful enough to clean a very dirty grill.' 

'Plus, unless you rinse your barbeque thoroughly with water afterward, it would end up feeling quite sticky. So, I wouldn't recommend wasting a beer on your BBQ.' Instead, the Marketing Manager at catering equipment supplier Alliance Online recommends using an oven cleaner to leave your BBQ sparkling.

'If you don't have any oven cleaner handy, you can also try coating the surface in a paste made up of bicarbonate of soda and a few teaspoons of water,' Mike adds. 

'Leave the mixture to do its thing for at least twenty minutes and then wipe clean and rinse thoroughly. Don't forget to dry your barbeque so it doesn't get rusty.' We're all for natural cleaning methods, so don't forget the cleaning power of bicarbonate of soda.

Bar-Be-Quick, on the other hand, advises washing your grill at the end of your next BBQ while it's still warm. The heat will have loosened any grime and it should be easier to wash off. 

'If you’re still entertaining and don’t fancy this,' a Bar-Be-Quick spokesperson says, 'place a hot water-soaked newspaper onto your dirty grill or bowl and leave for half an hour. This should soak into the grime so you will be able to gently clean it off afterward.'

• How to BBQ – our guide to help you get it right and enjoy delicious barbecued food every time

For more inspiration, take a look at our garden ideas page. If you want to get your BBQ in top shape before inviting friends over, it's clear beer isn't the best option. Heating it up beforehand and trying the newspaper hack will help things along. Then you can go in with oven cleaner or bicarb and it'll be gleaming in no time.

Chrissy Teigen, Kris Jenner, and Emma Grede have teamed up to create a line of plant-based home cleaning and self-care products named Safely. The much-anticipated range launches today and comprises hand soap, hand sanitizer, and hand cream.

• See also: Spring cleaning: 22 clever ways to clean your home naturally

The Safely cleaning products also include an everyday laundry product, a universal cleaner, and a glass cleaner. Each item comes packed in an oversized yet minimalist bottle in a shade of mint green, teal, or white - a far cry from standard colorful bottles usually found in the cupboard under the kitchen sink.

These six products are included in a bundle marked as 'Kris' fave', called the Clean Freak Kit. The everyday laundry detergent is $14, and can be bought as part of the Essential Home Kit trio ($27), which includes the universal cleaner and glass cleaner too. The hand sanitizer is $9, and the hand cream costs $10. 

Safely is launching at a time when, globally, we're more conscious of cleanliness than ever before. Plus, the internet is already full of cleaning hacks shared by cleaning enthusiasts across the planet. The timely launch also comes just after the spring equinox, a moment in the year many of us feel the pull to get out our best cleaning products for some thorough cleaning in our homes. 

The range has been teased on social media over the past few days, the highlight of which being a slapstick video of Chrissy and Kris, as Chrissy pitches pretend ideas for a new business venture.

It opens with Chrissy sat on a sumptuous sofa, addressing the camera. 'I want my own product line because, honestly, everyone has one already,' she jokes. She adds that she wants to call in the help of Kardashian matriarch, Kris Jenner, the 'branding master'.

'You know what we should do?' Kris says in the promo clip. 'We should create a line of super-effective cleaning products - plant-based, that are safe enough for the entire family, and we can even use them to wash our hands,' Kris adds. The strapline is 'plant-powered cleaning that smells great and actually works.' 

Cleaning the kitchen shouldn't leave us worried about our pets or young children being exposed to harsh chemicals. Safely's fresh-smelling potions are free from parabens, ammonia, bleach and animal byproducts. On Safely's Instagram stories, Chrissy writes, 'Kris and I are on a mission to rid America's homes of harsh chemicals... One countertop at a time.'

• See also: Jessica Alba reveals her hack for cleaning the Kitchen in under 10 minutes

Together, the Keeping Up With The Kardashians star and Cravings cookbook author have a huge level of experience in business. Chrissy Teigen's range of cookware is available at Target. It would be almost impossible to name all the ranges Kris has helped created while managing her daughters' careers and running a production company, Jenner Communications. 

The Safely products are exclusively available in the US, but there are plans for international shipping in the future.

Cleaning up your outside space ready for the 29th of March, when we are officially allowed another household over in our garden? We've already rounded up the best patio cleaners on the market, but a few weeks ago we thought we would actually put one to the test. We tried and tested the Jeyes Fluid Patio Cleaner, and we have been pleasantly surprised with the results.

Whether you have access to a pressure washer or not, Jeyes Flud patio cleaner can give great results – and fast. So, if your patio, driveway or path is in need of a serious transformation then keep reading.

Here's how (and why) I used this patio cleaner, and where you can buy a bottle of this magic stuff for yourself.

What do you use Jeyes Fluid for?

You can use this patio cleaner on dirty patios to remove algae, mould, mildew and just general dirt. It also removes 99.9 per cent of germs from your floor.

Why did I use it?
For some reason or another, I had a load of algae grow on my patio after this winter, which turned it green – it has never done this before. So, with no easy access to a hose tap to use a pressure washer on this space, I thought I would give a patio cleaner a try. I've used this patio cleaner twice now – two coats over the same area – and each time I have been thoroughly impressed with the results. In a few words, this patio cleaner turned my terrace from looking drab to looking fab pretty much instantly, and to say I am excited to do the rest of it would be an understatement. Saturdays in lockdown, eh!

How I used Jeyes Fluid patio cleaner

So, using a bucket (a bedroom bin that we don't use) I diluted this patio cleaner as per the instructions on the bottle. Then, I carefully walked it through my entire house to my back garden and started pouring over my patio, slab by slab, and after covering I began to scrub. Using a garden broom, that is, to make this a lot easier. After the job was done I left this stuff to set in for a few hours, and then using the same bucket but washed out, I poured water over the patio to rinse it. I also have a dog so this was for peace of mind that he wouldn't lick something he shouldn't. 

After drying, I saw an incredible difference as I only applied this cleaner to a third of my patio. As you can see from the photos above, the transformation is insane – especially when bearing in mind there was no pressure washer used. Use the arrows above to scroll through transformation photos. 

How to use Jeyes Fluid patio cleaner:

1. Dilute as per bottle instructions
2. Pour over your patio
3. Scrub (if necessary)
4. Leave for a few hours
5. Rinse with water
6. Wait to dry
7. Repeat if necessary

What to bear in mind when using Jeyes Fluid patio Cleaner

You'll want to dilute it exactly as the bottle says, and I had in mind that you can never use too much – so I used quite a lot on a small space. If your patio is quite dirty, then you'll really want to scrub. You might want to repeat if you're not totally happy once dried. Be sure to take before and after photos so that you can compare with ease.

Also, this patio cleaner isn't just for use on patios but driveways and tarmac, too. It can also clean mould, mildew and dirt as well as algae. And it can apparently kill 99.9 per cent of germs from your floor.

How much Jeyes Fluid patio cleaner do I need?

One two-litre bottle of this cleaner can clean up to 90 metres squared – that's around nine car parking spaces. You might want to allow for two coats if your patio is in desperate need of a scrub.

Does Jeyes Fluid clean concrete?

Absolutely! That's what I used it on and you can see the results above. You can use it on patios, driveways or paths – whether stone or concrete.

Can I use Jeyes Fluid with a pressure washer?

You can definitely use Jeyes Fluid patio cleaner with a pressure washer. In fact, if you can, we suggest doing so for better results. It just so happened that we couldn't but even then we still were left with great results. You can also use it with a garden sprayer.

• See our best pressure washers guide for our top recommendations

Where to buy Jeyes Fluid patio cleaner?

Social media gave birth to an ever-growing community of cleaning fans, with #hincharmy totaling over a million Instagram posts. Over on Generation Z platform TikTok, #CovidCleaning has 840,000 views, but experts are warning that mixing products at home can have lethal results. 

‘Social media is a great place for life hacks, but when it comes to cleaning, especially with chemicals, there are things to be aware of in order to be safe,’ says Edward Tennent, an antimicrobial expert at Zonitise.

• See also: How to deep clean your house this weekend

Namely, mixing bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or lemon juice can be fatal. This is because it creates chlorine gas, which is toxic and can kill if you breathe too much in. ‘I’m sure it will shock many to see that some of what they might be doing at home could be very dangerous,’ Edward adds.

A survey conducted by Zonitise revealed that half of us have tried out cleaning hacks we’ve seen online, and many of us have been making our own cleaning products at home. This, coupled with the fact we’re all more conscious of keeping our homes germ-free due to Covid, makes it all the more important to ensure you’re sanitizing your home safely. According to Zonitise experts, these are the top three most dangerous household cleaning products to mix.

Bleach and ammonia 

This mixture creates toxic vapor, which causes burning eyes and respiratory problems, and organ damage. Not only that, if there’s enough ammonia in the mixture it will create a highly explosive toxic substance. Some household and industrial-strength cleaning products (like window cleaners) contain ammonia so mixing those with bleach is to absolutely be avoided.

Bleach and rubbing alcohol 

Rubbing alcohol is sometimes used as a disinfectant. When combined with bleach it creates a substance so toxic that when it’s breathed in can knock you out and kill you if you inhale too much. 

Bleach mixed with vinegar or lemon juice 

This makes a toxic gas and in high quantities. The gas causes chemical burns on the skin and attacks the respiratory system. It can even cause death if it’s highly concentrated or in a room with no fresh air.

• See also: Mrs Hinch's secret weapon for cleaning an oven is a total game-changer - and less than £5

A good rule of thumb to remember when cleaning with a potent product like bleach? You really don't need to mix it with anything else in order for it to do it's job properly, and doing so could lead to some seriously harmful fumes.

A gleaming kitchen doesn’t last long, but it sure feels good. It’s an area of the home that’s in constant use, so it doesn’t take long for smears and grubby fingerprints to appear. When it comes to how to clean a kitchen, cleaning fanatics often recommend using baby oil for a sparkling finish, but what do the experts think?

Baby oil used on a soft, dry cloth will effectively remove streaks from shiny surfaces like stainless steel or enamel - but it won't actually sanitize the surface. Baqir Khan, owner of Proactive Cleaners, says 'Oils like olive oil, mineral oil and baby oil won't clean surfaces so you'll still need to use other surface cleaners to remove dirt. 

'Start with a small amount of oil to avoid making everything too greasy and always polish steel in the direction of the grain,' he adds. Your usual surface cleaner or washing up liquid and warm water on a multifibre cloth will remove germs before you start polishing.

• See also: Best kitchen cleaner: 5 buys to get your kitchen spotless

So baby oil will really help to keep appliances looking shiny, whether that's your sink, fridge, dishwasher, oven, or even microwave. This said, cleaning company Fabulosa does not recommend using baby oil at all when cleaning the kitchen as it could cause problems further down the line. 

‘Although the surface might look clean and shiny after use, over a period of time the surface will attract dust which could cause discoloring,’ Fabulosa warns.

• See also: Do these top social media cleaning hacks work? We put them to the test

Instead,Fabulosa recommends using a multi-surface polish with a microfibre cloth to remove any unsightly streaks. Fabulosa's own multi-surface polish removes smears from surfaces like wood, glass, metal, and plastic, and kills 99.9% of bacteria, as well as eliminating odors. Baqir from Proactive Cleaners, on the other hand, says oils 'help to repel smudges in the future by leaving behind a protective film.'

So while a very small amount of baby oil will get rid of those marks that have been bugging you, remember to use a product that effectively sanitizes first - and keep an eye on dust!

Have you ever put all your clothes in the washing machine only to realize that you're completely out of laundry detergent? It's a real stressful sitch. Maybe you've scrolled through TikTok to find an alternative, stumbled on the dish soap as detergent hack, and wondered if it's actually a good idea.

When it comes to cleaning products, you're def better off using them for their intended purpose. If you use dish soap rather than laundry powder or detergent to clean your clothes, it can cause a domino effect of problems. 

Firstly, dish soap creates lots more suds and foam compared to laundry products, which could cause your washing machine to overflow. Secondly, any suds that remain in the machine can cause problems in the pumps and drains. Neither of these sounds like a good time and you'll end up with a pretty cranky landlord at your door.

Still eyeing up the dish soap? We've spoken to two experts to get their verdict on the hack...

Can you put dish soap in your washing machine?

Let's get to it. This is the answer to the all-important question. "Although you can wash your clothes with washing up liquid and you will get good results, it’s not something I would recommend, especially in your washing machine," Instagram cleaning expert Mrs D tells us. "The washing machine will become overloaded with suds, which will free flow from your washing machine drawer." Yikes, that doesn't sound good. She adds that laundry detergents are specially designed for washing machines, which is why you don’t get suds overload with them.

Sadie Sillett, cleaning expert and co-founder of The Funky Appliance Company agrees. "Whether you intend to wash clothes or clean the drum, putting washing liquid in your washing machine is definitely a bad idea," she says. "It will create a massive amount of lather and you will most likely end up with bubbles all over the floor." Foam parties are totes fun, but not when you've created them by accident.

Got a clothing crisis and need to get your garments clean? Here are three better options.

3 alternatives to using dish soap in your washing machine

Now you know what you can use instead of laundry detergent, be sure to stay away from using liquid soap. It may seem like a convenient option, but the damage it can do to your machine and your kitchen just isn't worth the bubble trouble.

Up next: These 8 dishwasher cleaning hacks will make this chore so much easier 

Lavender is known for its medicinal qualities and calming, alluring scent. Diffused in oil form or dried as leaves, lavender has been used to treat mental health issues, anxiety, depression, and even cancer. But while we know lavender has some great perks for humans, is lavendar safe for cats?

The answer is a little bit of a mixed bag. While the lavender plant itself is relatively harmless for felines, the herb's essential oils are incredibly toxic. Here's what you need to know if you have a kitty at home. 

More questions? Check out Real Homes advice. 

Cats and lavender essential oils

If you have a lavender plant on your windowsill and your curious kitty confuses it for a chew toy, don't rush them to the vet. Chances are, they will be just fine. It's the pure form of lavender essential oil that can be threatening and even deadly for cats.

This is because essential oils vaporize quickly and are easily absorbed into the skin. While a few drops on your wrists may make you feel relaxed, felines don't have the enzyme needed to metabolize lavender oil. If consumed or applied to your kitty's skin, lavender essential oil can cause stress and damage to their liver.

When diffusing lavender for aromatherapy, the concentration of oils being humidified is relatively low. Still, resist temptation to diffuse around your cat. The diffused oils can still cause respiratory problems. And, if any droplets land on your cat, they can get sick from licking their paws later.

Lavender (as well as flowers like bergamot) contain linalyl acetate and linlool, compounds that are toxic to cats. If absorbed or ingested, these compounds can cause lavender poisoning. 

Lavender poisoning in cats

Think your kitty has nine lives? When it comes to lavender poisoning, she probably does. The illness isn't lethal and can be quickly treated. If you think your pet has gotten into some lavender, look for the following symptoms: 

• Drooling
• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting
• Off-balance gait
• Lethargy and muscle weakness
• Muscle tremors
• Pawing along face and mouth
• Redness on skin, lips, and tongue

If you notice any of those signs, take your furry friend to the vet. Thankfully, they can be treated with IV fluids and anti-vomiting medication. If your kitty has suffered burns from eating lavender essential oils or potpourri, it may be difficult for them to eat until they've recovered. In extreme cases, the vet can insert a feeding tube until burns have healed.

Before your cat comes home, be sure to remove all lavender essential oils and potpourri from your space. 

If you accidentally spilled a few drops onto your pet's fur but haven't noticed any symptoms, there's no need to rush to the vet. Instead, quickly give her a bath in warm water with feline-friendly shampoo and keep your eyes peeled for any changes in behavior. 

Read more: 

• Best vacuums for pet hair 2020: Top picks for combating fuzz and fluff

The best mold spray will eliminate the annoying black marks that appear in many people's bathrooms and kitchens – and sometimes in more unusual places. 

We've rounded up the best products for tackling mold growth – but please bear in mind that if mold is caused by a structural issue in the home, a spray won't solve it. 

We present a selection of the most effective sprays, as well as a brush-on product that is great for tiles in bathrooms. These cleaning products can be safely used around the home – just remember to open the windows as you use them – but we have also found a bleach-free option for those who are worried about using harsh chemicals in the home.

Best mold sprays

A highly effective, fast-acting mould spray, Astonish Mould and Mildew blaster is our pick of the best mould spray you can buy. 

For use on walls, UPVC window frames, glass, plastic shower curtains and much more, a little goes a long way to remove mould stains and most of all, kill 99.9% of bacteria. Spray it on the affected area, leave for around 10 minutes and wipe clean. No scrubbing required – it's as simple as that. Because this mould and mildew blaster is so strong and effective, be careful when spraying as it does come out fast, and if you spray too much on your walls or leave it on for too long, it could remove paint or make it run.

It's easy for bathrooms to develop mold, but it can be extremely difficult to get rid of, especially if the stains are deep into your sealant or grout. This mould spray is very effective at getting at tough mould stains (and it can be used to remove coffee or tea stains from worktops, too). Spray HG Mould Spray onto the affected area and leave for around 10 minutes. Rinse off with water and a sponge, and if there's still a stain, repeat the process. As with the majority of mould removers, this spray does smell quite strong.

An ideal product if you have mold growing near wires or in an intricate place where a precise application is required, this mold remover has a brush head so you can apply the product directly to target the affected area. It also works within minutes and doesn't have a very strong smell, which is a bonus. Using the brush, spread the gel evenly over the stain and leave it to work for 30 minutes. Wipe with a wet cloth and for very stubborn stains, repeat. You'll need to wash the brush head during application over a large area or you'll spread the mold, but overall it's a pretty effective product. 

Be warned: it comes out fast and it cannot be used on enamel, marble, aluminum, wood or granite.

With a different spray head to give a lighter application, Cif Perfect Finish Mould Stain Removal Spray removes black mould stains from tiles within minutes. An ideal product to have in your bathroom cleaning basket. Spray it onto the mould from a distance and leave the product to work for 15 to 20 minutes. You can then either rinse with water or let the product dry on its own. While it doesn't do an amazing job on silicone (which, in our experience, is a difficult surface to remove mould from once it's established anyway), it can transform an otherwise rundown bathroom very quickly. 

This non-toxic bleach-free mold cleaner is ideal for those who are eco-conscious. It acts to remove mold quickly and can be used on several surfaces. The best part is that because it's bleach-free and non-toxic, it has little to no smell and is safe to use around pets. To use, simply spray on the (dry) affected area and wait until the product dries. Wipe clean with a damp cloth afterward. Because the product has no bleach in, it won't work on stubborn mold or mold which is deep into silicone or grout (but then even the toughest products sometimes struggle with this). Other than that, in our opinion, this is the best mold spray for eco-friendly homes.

How to buy the best mold spray

There are a few things to bear in mind when purchasing one of the best mold sprays, such as:

Application method

Now, we know this is a list of the best mold sprays, but there's one product that comes with a brush for tidier application on those intricate areas. Most of the others are sprays that you will need to wipe with a paper towel, or something similar.

What your needs are

Perhaps you're eco-conscious and want a mold spray that is non-toxic, or you need something to specifically remove mould from your bathroom; whatever the problem, purchase a product to specifically target that area. If not, go for our first pick, Astonish Mould & Mildew Remover, which can remove mold from just about anywhere. 

Remember:

As with the majority of cleaning products, once you've sprayed mold remover, you should open your windows to allow air to circulate the room, as the smell can be overpowering.

How to prevent mold from coming back

Mold likes damp, cool conditions, so eliminate the two as much as possible. The two key factors to preventing mold from reappearing in your home are: 1) ventilation, and 2) appropriate heating. Air your house regularly, even in winter (10 minutes a day during cold months is fine). Homes that aren't adequately heated are especially prone to mold: you need the dry air to discourage the spores from growing. 

Finally, if the problem is serious, you'll need to invest in damp proofing and insulation. If you're in rented accommodation, it's your landlord's legal responsibility to make sure your home is structurally sound to prevent damp and mold. Don't be afraid to contact your local council about this problem. 

Find out more about how to insulate your home in our guide.

More cleaning must haves:

• The best upholstery cleaners
• The best carpet cleaning solutions

Aldi has launched a range of Mrs Hinch's favourite cleaning buys – bang tidy. We were sure to get our hands on Mrs Hinch's cleaning caddy that went on sale at Aldi last month and we're ready to stock it up with these nifty essentials. 

Let's be honest, there's nothing fun about cleaning... but you've got to admit that it's super satisfying when you find a technique or a product that just works. Mrs Hinch is a gem for doing the legwork when it comes to pointing us in the direction of the best supplies and how-to's, and Aldi doesn't miss a beat, so here are her favourite buys, all in one place!

• Best cleaning products: 50 home cleaning essentials everybody needs
• Head over to our deals hub for loads more fab deals 

1. Vileda Turbo Smart Mop, £19.99

Is it time to ditch your old mop? If so, this is the model to choose if you're on a budget. The rotating wringer is foot activated; it'll spin without splashing! The mop head is 100% microfibre which means and is a triangle shape with a pivoting head for easy access into corners.

Vileda Turbo Smart Mop, £19.99

• Best mop: 10 top buys for spotless floors

2. Kirkton House Electrostatic Duster, £1.99

Fluffy, fluffy, fluffy – these dusters are more than just good looking! Attracting the small dust particles and trapping them, this duster will become your secret weapon. What's more, it has a soft grip handle for comfortable use. 

Kirkton House Electrostatic Duster, £1.99

3. Astonish Oven & Grill Paste, £2.99

Nobody wants a grubby oven but sometimes it just seems like too much effort to maintain the clean. This is a fab thing to have around, promising that squeaky clean feeling if you use the specialist sponge.

Astonish Oven & Grill Paste, £2.99

4. Almat Oxi-Stain Remover Bright, £1.89

A formula that won't let you down, this is an effective product for cleaning your laundry and getting rid of tricky stains. Give your clothes that revamp they are looking for thanks to this bright stain remover.

Almat Oxi-Stain Remover Bright, £1.89

5. Ozmo Fridge And Microwave Cleaner, £1.99

Let this product do the legwork for you when it comes to the tiresome job of cleaning your fridge and microwave. It'll destroy 99.9% of germs and it also has a food safe formula.

Ozmo Fridge And Microwave Cleaner, £1.99

5. Zoflora Concentrated Disinfectant, £1.99

A 250ml bottle that has multiple uses – follow the instructions on the bottle and disinfect away! You can use it neat or add to a water bottle to make your own cleaning spray.

Zoflora Concentrated Disinfectant, £1.99

6. Minky Antibacterial Kitchen Pad, £2.49 

This piece of kit will make light of cleaning and washing up tasks, promising sparkling surfaces.What's more, this anti-bacterial cleaning pad has non-scratch technology so you don't need to worry about marks.

Minky Antibacterial Kitchen Pad, £2.49

7. Soda Crystals, £0.79

Cleaning crystals are great for softening hard water and removing limescale, and this is Mrs Hinch's fave! It's made from 100% sodium carbonate decahydrate and will also do a fab job of removing grease and stains.

Soda Crystals, £0.79

Read more: 

• How to clean a toilet: top tips for easy and efficient cleaning

The best dishwasher tablets will help you forget the days of red-knuckle scrubbing and greasy sinks. The tablets on our list will tackle stuck on food, stains, and will deliver that inimitable sparkle that only dishwashers can deliver, really. 

Whatever you’re after, we’ve got the picked out only the best options and top-rated dishwasher tablets, from powerful capsules and tablets to eco options that are septic-tank friendly, and listed the best deal prices on them today. 

Keep scrolling to buy – but if you're not sure what's going to suit you best, you can start by reading our tips on how to buy the best dishwasher tablets at the bottom of the page. And if you need a new appliance? Don't miss our guide to the best dishwashers on the market.

The best dishwasher tablets 

The Fairy All-In-One Platinum Dishwasher Tablets are the best dishwasher tablets you can buy, as not only do you get a bumper pack but they also come with first-time cleaning action as well as cleaning a greasy filter. The soluble pouch dissolves much quicker than hard tablets too, so there’s no fuss and no mess.

Brilliant shine

Cutting through grease and grime, these capsules have salt and rinse aid action built in, as well as glass and silver protection for glassware, utensils and cutlery, so everything comes out sparkling.

Tough on stains

Say goodbye to having to do a second clean, as Fairy Platinum All-in-One has first-time cleaning action thanks to enzymes in the powder base that help to break down burnt-on residue.

Results

A great priced bumper pack with all the cleaning action you’d want. There’s a liquid-top compartment in each capsule that cuts through grease easily, which also helps to leave your dishwasher smelling lemon fresh. They even tackle hidden grease and dirt from the filter and there’s an anti-limescale system to stop calcium build-up, which would eventually prevent your dishwasher from working its best.

Good to know

Recommended by some of the leading appliance brands including Whirlpool, Hotpoint and Indesit, so you know you’re in safe hands.

• Buy Fairy All-In-One Platinum Dishwasher Tablets

Next up in our list are the Fairy Platinum Plus Dishwasher Tablets. Best for keeping cookware and dishes in tip-top condition, these tablets break down food residue while removing the dull sheen that can accumulate over time. Here's everything you need to know:

Low temperatures

Thanks to the three liquid chambers that make up each capsule, the detergent dissolves fast so it works in low temperatures as well as high.

Short cycles

Works in short cycles too, which is ideal when you’re in a hurry or need a quick turnaround of side plates and cutlery when you have friends over.

Integrated action

With built-in rinse aid and salt function, these tablets offer glass and silver protection.

Good to know

Your dishwasher will smell lovely and fresh with the lemon scent while fast dissolving means faster cleaning, perfect for short cycles.

• Buy the Fairy Platinum Plus Dishwasher Tablets

Next are the Finish All In One Max lemon tablets, which are perfect for giving dishes a thorough clean and shiny finish without having to pre-rinse.

Power gel

These tablets combine detergent with power gel for outstanding results every time and there’s a multi-chamber technology that activates each cleaning agent when it’s needed.

Shiny finish

Even homes with hard water will see the difference in their glassware, as these tablets have a quick dissolving power gel that gets rid of residue for a perfect shine.

Pre-soaking

The Powerball penetrates as well as breaking down and lifting away tough stains and burnt-on food residue while the advanced powder with bleach cleans those hard to reach stains.

Good to know

These are so powerful that you may actually want to cut them in half – there'll be less chance of soapy residue afterwards, too. 

• Buy the Finish Max All In One Lemon tabs

Those looking for an eco-friendly dishwasher tablet option without any chemicals will love the Ecover All-In-One Dishwasher Tablets; perfect for families with young children or those with septic tanks rather than mains drainage.

Fragrance-free

Some people prefer a non-fragranced tablet as there’s no risk of a lingering after taste on dishes or cutlery.

Quick drying

Thanks to its fast drying formula, dishes and glasses are streak-free.

Sparkling results

These tablets may be plant and mineral based but they still tackle dried-on food head on.

Good to know

You can snap the tablets in half, as some buyers say that half a tablet works just as well on a basic dishwasher load for four people, making your tablets go twice as far!

• Buy Ecover All-In-One Dishwasher Tablets

These Ecozone Ultra All-In-One Dishwasher Tablets leave dishes shiny and streak-free and are suitable for vegans and allergy sufferers too.

Non toxic

There are no chemicals used in this product, so you can be sure that it’s safe for use around young children or if you need something that works with a septic tank.

Cruelty-free

These tablets are Certified Cruelty Free as well as vegan and environmentally-friendly due to its plant-based ingredients.

British made

Manufactured in the UK.

Good to know

There’s no synthetic smell or residue with these tablets and no residue on crockery or cutlery either, just a clean wash.

• Bjuy Ecozone Ultra All-In-One Dishwasher Tablets

What are the best dishwasher tablets?

The best dishwasher tablets right now are the Fairy All-in-One Platinum Dishwasher Tablets, as these lemon-scented capsules offer first-time cleaning on tough food stains as well as tackling grease inside the appliance and leaving glasses sparkling. 

Read more on both below, or see our best list below to save time:

How to buy the best dishwasher tablets 

Washing dishes in a dishwasher is certainly more efficient than washing up by hand, but to make sure you’re being 100% efficient, make sure you’re buying the best detergent for the job. 

Available as hard tablets or liquid capsules, detergents are made up from a combination of enzymes and chemicals and the best products are those that have the right combination to tackle tough stains while dealing with grease and grime at the same time, leaving dishes – and your dishwasher – clean and fresh. 

Different brands

Check out reviews of what buyers say to see what you think will work for you, as each brand and product is different. Some are better with burnt-on food while others handle grease and watermarks well. Some are designed to work only at high temperatures while others are ideal for lower heat.

Eco-friendly

If you want to choose an environmentally-friendly option, look for plant-based ingredients, which are also vegan and cruelty-free as well as being suitable for septic tanks.

• Back to top

Looking for more cleaning advice?

• You'll also find plenty of cleaning tips and tricks over on our hub page
• Find the best mops in our guide

Fan of cleaning guru and social media sensation Mrs Hinch? Then you’ll be right up to date with all the kitchen cleaning hacks and, in particular, the products she likes to use in her own home and to share with her army of Hinchers, of course.

One of her favourite cleaning finds is the SPh2ONGE. The SPh2ONGE is a sponge, of course, which we all need in our cleaning kits, but the reason why this version is so useful is that it’s super-absorbent. Result? Whether you’re soaking up a spill, or doing the cleaning, you can take this sponge over to the sink without drips. And that, like the renowned clean-fluencer, we love.

The inventor of the SPh2ONGE is Christopher Foster, who came up with the idea when he was defrosting his freezer and wanted to avoid getting water all over the floor. We asked him to share his top tips on how to use the super sponge to get your cleaning done in double quick time and true Mrs Hinch style. Check out these ideas... and see Mrs Hinch with her hen present, just below (plus where to buy one).

1. Soak up spills

'If you’ve knocked something over on a kitchen worksurface, or, let’s just say, someone set their juice down on the living room carpet then forgot it was there and it’s spreading, you need a rapid remedy. The beauty of this sponge is that it can absorb up to eight times its weight in liquid, so you can cope with these annoying home accidents quickly.

'Apply the sponge to the spill, let it take up the liquid, then squeeze it out in the sink with no mess in between.'

2. Deal with water

'Just like Christopher Foster, when you’re defrosting the freezer, you’ll need to stop the water getting all over the floor. The solution is to use the SPh2ONGE to soak up the melt as you go. Easy.

'It’s also handy to have one of these in the bathroom to sort out the results of over enthusiastic bath times, and showerers who just can’t seem to keep the water behind the curtain or shower screen.'

3. Do the dusting

'Damp dusting is the way to stop what’s settled on the surfaces flying up into the air only to re-settle putting you no further forward. You can use this handy sponge damp and it will pick up dust and hair plus pet fur so you can dispose of it and you only have to do the job once.'

4. Clean without streaks

'How annoying is it when you’ve cleaned but there are still streaks? Finish off your cleaning chore with this clever number and you can say goodbye to the tell-tale marks that spoil the finish, and buff like Mrs Hinch does.'

5. Shine appliances

'Need to tackle the oven, the fridge, or the coffee machine? This super absorbent sponge can help you complete all these jobs. And how about using it to keep your tumble dryer safe, too? It’s a whiz at picking up the fluff that appears every time you dry a load.'

6. Wipe down the sink

'Crumbs, coffee grounds, tea... it can all get stuck to the sides and bottom of the kitchen sink however carefully you empty items and scrape plates. You can use this nifty number to wipe the sink down, then put all the grot straight into the bin.'

This weeks Aldi Specialbuys are sure to appeal to those who've been embracing their inner Mrs Hinch during lockdown and going at their homes with a toothbrush (metaphorical or not) in a bid to ensure it's cleaned from top to bottom.

That's right, this week Aldi are offering many of Mrs Hinch's favourite cleaning essentials from as little as 99p, which is great news if you're on a mission to 'Hinch' your home happy without spending a fortune. 

From the world renowned 'minky' to bleach tablets, bathroom cleaner and drain unblocker, you'll find everything you need to restore your home to its former glory in the middle aisle at Aldi from 4th June.

Find cleaning hacks, essentials and more over on our cleaning hub.

More cleaning essentials and tips

• Best mould spray – tackle mould and mildew around the house
• How to clean a toilet – tips and tricks to get the job done

Big Zoflora user but running out of idea? Jot down these Zoflora uses and clean your home from top to bottom using one product. Trust us: this cleaning product is a game-changer. Not only can it kill bacteria and several viruses, but it leaves an oh-so-lovely smell behind. Your guests will be begging for your secret.

Zoflora is named the UK's number one disinfectant for good reason – one bottle of Zoflora can help rid your surfaces of bacteria, freshen your upholstery and clean daily use items such as television remotes, door handles and more. One bottle of Zoflora can last for several cleans as this disinfectant needs to be diluted before use. More on that below.

We've tried and tested a number of uses with this very popular disinfectant and are happy to report back the ones we love and use on a daily basis. From washing machine cleaning hacks to cleaning pet items, deep cleaning toys and freshening up drains. We've thought of everything and popped it below. Pens at the ready!

Find more of the best cleaning products in our buyer's guide.

• Click to shop Zoflora at Amazon

Find more advice, tips and hacks for cleaning your home on our dedicated hub page. Use the links below to jump to what you want to see. First up, we've popped everything you need to get yourself going – spray bottles, cleaning cloths and more.

• Zoflora and Coronavirus – does it work?
• How much Zoflora should I use?
• What should I not use Zoflora on?
• The best Zoflora uses around the home – 16 of them, to be exact...
• What are the Zoflora scents?

Zoflora starter kit...

Zoflora and COVID-19

Zoflora have confirmed they are yet to test their disinfectant against COVID-19 as the health authorities are yet to release a strain to allow testing. This means that using Zoflora to clean COVID-19 infested surfaces means there's no guarantee this disinfectant will kill the virus. However, Zoflora has been tested against other coronaviruses and showed activation within five minutes. From this, we can assume that Zoflora can kill COVID-19, but cannot be 100 per cent sure until the relevant testing has happened. 

Zoflora can, however, kill E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria, and viruses such as Influenza –Type A (H1N1), Human Herpes Virus, Rotavirus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

How much Zoflora should I use?

• Diluted: generally, you should dilute Zoflora so it's one part Zoflora, 40 parts water. So one capful (10ml) from any size bottle is fine if you're diluting to make 400ml of disinfectant;
• Neat: one capful should be used to really give something a good clean, such as drains or toilets;
• Mop: for mop buckets, as they're bigger than spray bottles, you can use four capfuls to 1.5 litres of water. Same goes for soaking cleaning cloths after use.

What not to use Zoflora on

• Not to be used on polished wood, painted or varnished surfaces. 
• Not recommended for use on concrete imprint driveways, patios, or other dyed outdoor surfaces.
• It's important not to mix Zoflora with other chemicals.

17 best Zoflora uses for cleaning your home

What do we say when advising you to use chemicals to clean with? Always do a patch test first and read the manufacturer's instructions...

1. Use Zoflora to mop your floors (obvs) – but your child's high chair?

Did you know that your child's high chair has, on average, 1,500 times more faecal matter on it than his/her potty. Really. Well, according to Zoflora. So, wiping it down after every meal and thoroughly once a week will banish all that bacteria – and, hopefully, the image we've just conjured for you.

2. Use Zoflora to clean your floors and make them shine

Moving swiftly on to floors... After you've vacuumed your floor and it's free of crumbs, dirt and pet hair, grab a mop and bucket and dilute four capfuls of Zoflora to 1.5 litres of hot water. Squeeze the mop well and buff after for a lovely shine. You can do this on tiles, lino and painted pine floors, and it'll ensure any bacteria which has been brought in from outside is killed, while making your floors look clean. 

Use a spray mop for easier mopping, but be careful not to soak your floors. It's worth noting though, that Zoflora can't be used on polished or oiled wood.

3. Spray Zoflora on upholstery, curtains and mattresses for an instant refresh

Sofa a bit, well, niffy? Curtains giving off a scent of last weekend's party? Mattress... sweaty? Forget your average fabric refresh, dilute some Zoflora (as directed on the box) in a spray bottle and spritz sparingly on to your upholstery, curtains and mattresses to not only make your home smell fresh but to kill bacteria, too. 

Don't use so much that furnishings become damp – even a light application will make the product's scent stick for a while. And it's a smart idea to carry out a patch-test beforehand to prevent marking delicate furniture. We'd avoid using on fabrics such as velvet, too.

Find out how to clean a mattress in 5 easy steps with our handy guide.

4. Use Zoflora to clean your bathroom... and toilet brush

Let's take those bacteria-killing but kid-friendly properties into the bathroom. Of course, you can use it as an air freshener but spritz it over your shower tray, add a capful to your toilet, and add capful to a sink or bath bath filled with hot water, leave for 20 minutes, empty and rinse, and your fittings will be gleaming (and hygienic).

Wait a minute, though, we're not finished – and sorry about this, but we're going to talk toilet brushes, the ultimate germ hot spot in the bathroom. Our advice, soak the whole thing in a bucket filled with a capful of Zoflora and hot water, then fill the bottom of the toilet brush holder with neat Zoflora to keep it smelling sweet(ish).

Use our guides below to get even better results:

5. Use Zoflora as a germ-killing, odour-stopping air freshener

Hey, we're down with living with a bit of bacteria – it's all good for the immune system, right? And, we all know that most cleaning agents we buy remove dirt... But did you know that a lingering niffs are usually down to the bacteria that's left behind by any products we're using that don't deal with them? 

That's where a good clean with bacteria-murdering really comes into its own. Or, if you just want to give your home a quick refresh, use a spray bottle to spritz diluted Zoflora around the house. It'll kill any bacteria or viruses developing on surfaces, banishing those household smells for just a little longer.

6. Disinfect your bins using Zoflora

So, we might all clean our indoor bins regularly (right?), and of course you can do it with Zoflora (add some kettle water and a neat capful of Zoflora into the bottom of an empty bin and leave for 20 minutes, wipe down with kitchen roll or leave to air dry), but it turns out that it's also good for disinfecting recycling bins, nappy bins and other bins outdoors, too. 

7. Disinfect and clean pet trays, beds and carriers

Cleaning after pets is a tricky one. If your cat or house rabbit use a litter tray, you need something that will do a good job of cleaning and disinfecting but that is also pet-friendly. Step forward Fresh Home Zoflora, created specifically for homes with pets. You can simply spray it (follow instructions on the bottle for dilution) into the empty tray, leave to soak then wipe out. You can also spray pet carriers so they stay fresh smelling, and you can clean pet beds and toys with it, too. 

For the best ways to clean up after cats, check out our guide. For dogs, here's how to clean up after your dog.

8. Zoflora washing machine and dishwasher deep clean

Cleaning your washing machine and dishwasher every now and then extends their lifetimes and ensures they're cleaning your clothes as well as they can. We're all for that. But did you know that washing machine drums and dishwasher interiors are the perfect habitat for collecting and growing harmful bacteria? 

Adding a neat capful of Zoflora to your empty washing machine/dishwasher and running a hot cycle every once in a while will keep yours in squeaky clean condition. Funky odours be gone!

9. Disinfect your washing clothes, sponges and mop heads

If you have favourite washing cloths you like to keep for a deep clean like Mrs Hinch does (Minkehs, Pinkehs and Dave), then give them a good wash with some Zoflora to keep them smelling fresh and free of germs. Fill up your kitchen sink with hot water, add a capful of Zoflora and your cloths and let them soak for 20 minutes. Squeeze them out and hang to air dry. 

10. Sterilise your phone and desk (you'll want to if you read this)

Ready for some more gross-out facts? The average home office desk is home to 20,000 PER SQUARE INCH. And, your phone's ear piece and mouth piece each harbours 1,400 germs. Germs also thrive on lots of the household items you use day-to-day, such as remote controls, light switches and, of course, on your mobile phone. Panic not. Spray a little diluted Zoflora on to a cloth and wipe down your electrical items for peace of mind. Once a week will do. 

11. Give your lightbulbs a new lease of life

Lightbulbs – most people forget about cleaning them. But dust collects on lightbulbs, which affects the light they emit. And in kitchens, that dust becomes grime which, once the bulbs warm up, emits a smell, too. So, giving them a good clean every now and then will banish both those nasties. Of course you could use a cloth dampened with water to clean the bulbs (lights unplugged obvs), but if you add a dash of Zoflora, you'll get a hint of its scent when the lights go back on. A hack to brighten your life (literally).

12. Freshen up your vacuum cleaner (filters)

Does your vacuum cleaner have a filter, as opposed to bags? Perfect. Why not clean it with Zoflora before you vacuum? It'll spread the scent when you vacuum, which means you won't have to go round the house spraying it afterwards. 

13. Use Zoflora to make your fridge fresher

If your fridge is harbouring a lingering smell you just can't shift (mouldy cheese and aged cabbage, we're looking at you), use well-diluted Zoflora to give it a good clean. The bacteria banishing properties will shift the smell. Just don't use too much – you don't want that expensive cheese tasting of Mountain Air, Lavender Escape, Linen Fresh or whatever scent is your favourite.

14. Spritz your fake flowers

Got fake flowers in your home? Let's be honest, they're a much easier option than re-purchasing fresh ones every week and in the long run mean less plastic waste. However, they can be quite hard to keep clean – smell and dust-wise. To battle this, rinse them under a tap (or put them in the garden and hose them en masse), then simply spray with a diluted Zoflora solution and leave. We've found that Bouquet or Summer Bouquet works best.

15. Zoflora on radiators? Yes you can... and here's why

Remember what we said about lightbulbs above emitting your favourite Zoflora scent when they warm up? Same goes for radiators. So, when you're cleaning, use a little Zoflora on your cloth and wipe radiators over. Next time they come on, they'll scent the room. Clever.

16. Smelly car? This will do the trick

Want to get in the car to be greeted with nothing but nice smells? Next time you're giving your car some TLC, use a cloth sprayed with Zoflora to clean the vents. It's that easy. Next time you turn on said vents, your favourite smell will fill the car. Because car air fresheners are overrated, right?

17. Now go outside and clean

So, that's the house done. Now, venture outdoors and ad a neat capful to your drains. Of course it's not going to knock out every germ lurking but they will smell fresher, which is handy if you've got a smelly drain right by the patio and guests due for a lunch al fresco any minute.

Giving the garden a deeper clean? You can use diluted Zoflora on patios to freshen them up and to clean pet soils, as well as on garden furniture and children's play apparatus to keep them clean. The neighbours may start asking for tips.

What are the Zoflora scents?

• Springtime
• Midnight Blooms (LIMITED EDITION)
• Hello Spring
• Honeysuckle and Jasmine
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• Lemon Zing
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Are you using your cleaning products wrong? How hard can it be, right? I mean, we all know how to wash our hands so thoroughly they’re as clean as a surgeon’s ready to operate. We’re pros!

So we should know how to clean our homes properly. But are we failing to read the instructions and just recklessly squirting away with our fresh-off-the-shelf cleaning products? Whipping out dusters and cloths from where we stuffed them after use and simply smearing old dirt back on our surfaces (yuck).

So stop and think before your start. Read the labels and follow our tips on how to clean properly – otherwise your new-found enthusiasm for it could do more harm to your home than good.

How to use antibacterial wipes

After hand sanitiser, these are the new go-tos for our cleaning needs as we wipe down everything someone else might have come into contact with. But it’s easy to undermine their effectiveness. Only use a wipe to clean one surface before disposing of it. If you keep reusing it you’ll just transfer the dirt and germs from one surface to another. You may need more than one wipe to cover a large area. 

Always check the ingredients before using to make sure it is suitable for that surface; for instance acid-based cleaners should never be used on granite. To give the disinfectant a chance to work on the bacteria, leave it visibly wet for several minutes and let it air-dry.

How to use bleach

With brand name bleaches promising to kill nearly 100 per cent of bacteria and germs, who wouldn’t want to reach for it to make sure things are clean and safe. But as anyone who has accidentally bleached the colour out of their clothes knows, it needs to be handled with caution*. 

It can be used neat or diluted. Like the antibacterial wipes, you need to give it time to be effective. Don’t squirt into your toilet then wash away, leave it for at least 15 minutes or even overnight. If the sink plughole smells, pour bleach in until it overflows and let it stand for five minutes. 

It can be used diluted to clean floors (Domestos recommend 120ml of bleach per 5 litres of water), and to sanitise dishcloths and sponges (Domestos say use 60ml bleach in half a bucket of water for soaking)

* Don’t mix bleach with anything other than water. Avoid combining it with other cleaning agents, vinegar, ammonia (found in many glass or window cleaners) or rubbing alcohol – it can cause toxic fumes.

How to clean with vinegar

Your gran’s handy helper, useful for cooking or cleaning, this household staple is a versatile little number, and a hit with people wanting a cheaper, greener alternative to store-bought chemical cleaners. 

You can mix distilled white vinegar with water to clean windows or the microwave, wipe down shower doors with it or put some vinegar in a plastic bag and let the shower head soak in it to get rid of mineral build up. 

Because it is acidic, you shouldn’t use it on granite or marble surfaces, stone floor tiles, on knives or in irons, nor on hardwood floors or furniture. And though vinegar is antibacterial, it won’t kill the coronavirus.

Coronavirus disinfectants: What will and won't work

How to use laundry detergent

When you’re doing a wash are you just glooping in the detergent, slamming the door and thinking job well done? Wrong! If you are not measuring it out, chances are you are using too much, leaving residue and marks on the clothes you are trying to clean, making your machine smell and wasting money by going through detergent too quickly. The excess suds can hold onto the dirt and trap it in places where it won’t get rinsed away – like collars – letting bacteria build up (yeww).

Too many bubbles will act as a cushion between clothes stopping them from rubbing against each other – which is what gets them clean. And the suds can also put a strain on your machine as it tries to break them down. 

The fill lines on caps may be hard to see, so use a marker to make sure you are not going above the lines and measuring out too much. If you are still seeing suds after a wash, cut it back to the lowest recommended level of detergent.

How to clean your clothes safely during the coronavirus pandemic

How to use oven cleaner

Everyone’s least favourite job, and the one we probably avoid at all costs because of the toxic fumes and the caustic nature of the cleaner needed to break down baked-on residue. But this is what we put our food into, so it needs to be clean. Oven cleaner will often come with gloves to stop it splashing on your skin and burning you, and a thorough set of instructions; read them! 

Make sure your oven is cold – not hot – before you start, and turn off the electricity or pilot light. Only spray the cleaner inside the oven, avoiding the trim, pilot light or heating element. Don’t use it on the top, in a self-cleaning oven or in a microwave. 

Close the door and leave it to work for the amount of time the instructions advise. Using the gloves, and a wet sponge or cloth, wipe all the loosened oven dirt out. If you get splashed, rinse with water for at least 20 minutes. Let the oven ‘air’ before you switch it back on again.

Cleaning tools

You may be pretty proud of your cleaning regime, diligently scrubbing or wiping every surface. But have you taken a good look at what you are using? How long have you been using the same brush, duster or sponge* that now harbour old dirt and germs?

You should rinse brushes and sponges in hot water after every use, and disinfect weekly in four and a half litres of hot water mixed with half a cup/120ml of bleach. Alternatively, you can soak them overnight in a bowl of white vinegar or put them in the dishwasher when you are doing a load.

For dusters, shake them outside and then clean in washing up liquid and warm water. For microfibre cloths, soak in warm water, rinse and hang out to dry.

*You can zap nearly 100 per cent of bacteria on a sponge by soaking it in water and then microwaving on high for a minute or two.

How to use bathroom cleaner

When cleaning your bathroom, give it time. Don’t just squirt, wipe and rinse. Let your chosen cleaner do some of the hard work. Start with the toilet; direct the cleaning agent under the rim, going all round, then close the lid to let it take effect. When you come back to it, wipe the outside of the bowl thoroughly with disinfectant cleaner. Inside just scrub round with the cleaner you already applied.

For the basin, shower and bath, spray or sponge on the appropriate cleaning fluid and then let it soak into the dirt, residue and old soap on the surface. Use a microfibre cloth or soft-bristled brush to rub it in as they are slightly abrasive.

Don’t forget to clean all the things you touch regularly – including taps, the shower control, the toilet flush and the door handle – or stand on, like bathmats.

How to use floor cleaners

One floor cleaner does not suit all floor surfaces, so always read the labels to make sure what you are using won’t damage yours. For instance, strong chemicals may degrade or stain tile flooring. Don’t be too liberal with the mop – getting the floor too wet could lead to wood or laminate warping or buckling, or vinyl flooring becoming unglued.

Carpets can be vacuumed weekly or steam cleaned if necessary. Wood or hard floors can be swept or vacuumed and then wiped down with antibacterial floor wipes or cleaner. Laminate can be vacuumed and then use a microfibre mop and laminate floor cleaner (or a DIY solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water mixed in a spray bottle).

For floor tiles, vacuum or sweep regularly so crumbs and dirt don’t get ground in. Use a soft broom on a marble or natural stone floor which won’t scratch the surface. Mop with warm water if its not too dirty, or add a squirt of washing up liquid. Wipe with clear water and then a dry mop.

Vinegar is fine for cleaning ceramic floors but avoid using this, or any acidic cleaning solution, on marble, limestone or travertine as it will corrode the surface.

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