25 Essential Cleaning Tools Every Home Needs

Keeping your home clean and organized is essential for a healthy and comfortable living environment. But to achieve great cleaning results, you need the right tools in your arsenal. In this post, we’ll walk you through the 25 essential cleaning tools that will make your cleaning routine efficient, effective, and even enjoyable!

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From versatile microfiber cloths and reliable vacuum cleaners to powerful all-purpose cleaners and handy sponges, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a cleaning novice or a seasoned pro, having these essential cleaning tools at your disposal will make your cleaning tasks a breeze.

So let’s dive in and discover the key cleaning tools that will help you maintain a sparkling clean home!

Upgrade Your Cleaning with the Proper Tools

Keeping your home clean is an essential part of maintaining a healthy living environment. I know when I first got married and had my first son it became very clear just how little I knew about homemaking.

And I hadn’t the first idea of the right tools to use, or how to use them properly if I were to buy them. Because I was great at tidying, but couldn’t tell you how to get a stain out of a onesie. Let alone keep all the different surfaces of our house cleaned.

My Essential Tool Recommendations

Clean Like a Pro: The Essential Cleaning Tools for Every Household Chore

Without the right tools, cleaning can be a frustrating and time-consuming process. That’s why I recommend the most essential cleaning tools for every household and every homemaker who needs to know where to start.

There are a few that just narrowly missed the list, but deserve a mention like garbage disposals, HEPA filters, and basic cleaning tools like a dust mop.

Here is a list of 25 essential cleaning tools that I’m absolutely convinced every home needs.

1. Microfiber Cloths

Microfiber cloths are a great cleaning tool as they can effectively remove dust particles without leaving any residue. They are also excellent for wiping surfaces, mirrors, and glass doors.

Subsequently, they’re also the preferred cleaning tool when polishing your beautiful brass lamps or candlesticks!

They are hardy, easy to clean, and great at thoroughly cleaning an area without a ton of effort on your part. In your home, the bonus of these cloths is they don’t actually require anything but water!

But the best thing is for about the same money you can invest in Bamboo Microfiber cloths which are almost indestructible.

2. Glass Spray Bottles

A spray bottle is a versatile tool that you can use to apply a good natural cleaning solution to different surfaces. You can mix your cleaning solution using water, vinegar, or other cleaning agents like lemons or essential oils that work best for your cleaning needs.

There was a time when I used to just purchase a new bottle of all-purpose cleaner in my favorite seasonal scent. That was when I didn’t really know any better. I overpaid for something that wasn’t even a convenience.

The ability to invest in a few glass bottles and make unending amounts of your own cleaners is also the most budget-friendly choice. Which makes it a clear winner in my book.

3. All-Purpose Cleaner

An all-purpose cleaner is a cleaning solution that can effectively clean most surfaces in your home, such as kitchen countertops, bathroom tiles, and appliances.

By using these natural ingredients, you can make a variety of DIY natural cleaners that are safe, effective, and eco-friendly.

To use the all-purpose cleaner, simply spray the solution on the surface you want to clean and wipe it off with a cloth or sponge.

This cleaner is effective on a variety of surfaces, including countertops, sinks, toilets, and floors. The vinegar and lemon work together to cut through dirt and grime, while the herbs provide a fresh scent and germ-killing.

Plus, it’s non-toxic, eco-friendly, and easy to make with ingredients you probably already have at home. However, I have a few more eco-friendly recipes under my sleeve if you’re ever in need.

4. Window Squeegees & Streak Free Glass Cleaner

Window squeegees, combined with the right cleaning solution and lint-free microfiber towels, are essential for achieving streak-free and crystal-clear glass surfaces.

Their rubber blades efficiently remove water and cleaning solution, leaving no streaks behind. Just beautiful clean windows.

Whether cleaning glass doors, windows, or mirrors, a window squeegee is a great tool for achieving professional-quality results. Say goodbye to smudges and hello to sparkling clean glass with the help of a window squeegee in your cleaning routine.

Streak Free Glass Cleaner

Soap scum on glass surfaces can be a persistent challenge, but with a simple and effective glass cleaner, you can restore your windows and mirrors to a sparkling shine.

Forget about expensive store-bought products and harness the power of natural ingredients and a little elbow grease. Read on to discover an easy recipe and some handy tips for achieving streak-free, crystal-clear glass surfaces.

FAQ

5. Swedish Sponge Cloth

Swedish sponge cloths are a great alternative to paper towels. They are reusable, and you can wash them after use. They are excellent for wiping surfaces and cleaning spills.

There are so many reasons why these are essential cleaning tools, but here are the 7 most important.

6. DIY Furniture Polish

Create a homemade furniture polish using simple ingredients like vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice. If you own any wooden furniture, this is definitely one of the essential cleaning tools that will keep it looking beautiful and the wood healthy.

This DIY solution cleans and nourishes wood surfaces, while vinegar helps remove dirt and grime. Olive oil provides a natural shine and lemon juice adds a refreshing scent.

With this cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative, you can enhance and protect your furniture without harsh chemicals. Say goodbye to dull surfaces and hello to a natural glow with DIY furniture polish.

FAQ

7. A Reliable Vacuum Cleaner

A vacuum cleaner is an essential tool that you need to have in your cleaning arsenal. It can effectively remove pet hair, dirt, and dust from your carpets and floors. If you have carpet there really is no good alternative.

There is much to be said for favorite brands, particular kinds (like cordless), or even some that rave about robot vacuums. I just know with 5 nature-loving dirty kids in my house what vacuums have worked for me and never say die. So, those are the recommendations I’m giving you today.

The Dyson Multi-Floor Vacuum

The Dyson Multi-floor vacuum is my everyday hero. It has taken so much abuse and lived to tell the stories, notice that it is in plural not singular. I have had my vacuum cleaner for 8 years and it’s still going strong.

Side note: Did you know when you clean a vacuum you become a vacuum cleaner?

8. The Wet/Dry Vac

I’m not talking about some little timid vacuum, I’m talking about the Rigid Wet/Dry Vacuum that you can get at any Home Depot or on Amazon.

They come in many gallon sizes for your choice, but I can’t sing their praises enough. I’m actually of the opinion that these should be on most baby registries. Forget about cute outfits or bottles, every mother needs a wet/dry vac.

I have used it daily for the last 10 years and at this point, I can’t imagine living without it. Sure, it’s kind of heavy-duty, but we like our vacuums chunky in this house.

Whether you need to clean up wet spills, dry debris, or fine dust particles, a wet/dry vacuum is a tool that can help you get the job done quickly and effectively.

9. Paper Towels or Cloth Towels

Paper towels or their alternatives, such as reusable cloth towels or sponge cloths, are a cleaning essential for quick and convenient cleanups.

I use and love all three versions. And while I love the eco-friendly versions, there are some messes you just need a paper towel to clean up! If you have pets or toddlers you understand what I mean.

They absorb spills, wipe surfaces, and are disposable or reusable, making them versatile options for various cleaning tasks. The best part is you could even rip up some old t-shirts to repurpose as reusable towels.

Whether you choose paper towels or opt for more eco-friendly alternatives, these tools provide convenience and efficiency in maintaining a clean and tidy home.

10. The Not-So-Classic Sponge

A classic sponge is a great cleaning tool for tough stains on surfaces such as sinks, countertops, and toilet bowls. You can use them with soapy water to remove stubborn dirt and grime.

But then there are sponges that are just so much better at their jobs. They last longer and are made to be bacteria-free cleaning tools. Which is important.

Sponges like silicone sponges, coconut sponges, and even loofa sponges all have their separate pros and cons. But I love the huge variety of sponges there are these days! Because sometimes you just need a good sponge.

11. Microfiber Mop

A microfiber mop is a great cleaning tool for hard floors. It can effectively clean hardwood floors and other delicate surfaces without scratching them. Absolutely one of the essential cleaning tools if you have pets!

But not all mops are created equal, unfortunately. And depending on what flooring type you have, you may need to be particular.

It’s important to choose the right mop pads for your floors. Whether it’s hardwood or tile, to achieve great cleaning results.

FAQ

12. Toilet Brush

A toilet brush is a necessary tool for cleaning toilet bowls. No one wants to have to stick their hand in a toilet, even with gloves. So they’re kind of a godsend. You can use it with your cleaning solution of choice to remove tough stains and grime.

I have used all of the toilet brushes in my lifetime, but one of my favorite essential cleaning supplies is a toilet brush with silicone bristles. One great thing about this type of toilet brush is that the silicone doesn’t scratch the porcelain.

13. White Vinegar, Baking Soda, & Lemons

White vinegar is a great cleaning agent that you can use to clean various surfaces in your home, including glass doors, sink rims, and stainless steel.

14. Lint Roller

A lint roller is a great cleaning tool for removing pet hair, dust, and dirt from upholstery and clothing.

A lint remover is versatile and useful for cleaning lampshades, curtains, furniture, car interiors, pet accessories, and tidying up crafts. Its convenience and effectiveness make it a must-have tool for quick and easy cleaning tasks.

15. Scrub Brushes

An all-purpose scrub brush is a great cleaning tool for heavy-duty cleaning. It can effectively remove stuck-on food and clean grout lines on your kitchen floor.

But there are also softer bristle brushes that are great for cleaning natural fibers with a more delicate nature, like baskets. Both are equally as important for your keeping your home and treasures clean.

But just as important as a good scrub brush is having old toothbrushes to help you get in hard to reach areas. The best part is, it’s the perfect job for a toothbrush you’re done using in your mouth! And it’s seriously one of the best tools you can have on hand.

16. Pair of Rubber Gloves

Rubber gloves are an essential tool for any cleaning arsenal. They shield your hands from harsh chemicals, hot water, and bacteria, ensuring both cleanliness and safety.

With their waterproof and durable nature, rubber gloves provide a barrier against pet hair, tough stains, and excess water. Whether scrubbing toilets, handling cleaning solutions, or washing dishes, rubber gloves offer comfort and protection, making them a must-have for any cleaning routine.

17. Feather Duster

A feather duster is a classic cleaning tool known for its gentle and efficient dusting capabilities. Its soft feathers attract and trap dust particles, making it ideal for delicate surfaces, decor, and light fixtures.

A feather duster’s soft feathers attract and trap dust particles, while a ceiling fan microfiber duster extends your reach to clean high areas. Areas like ceiling fans.

Both tools efficiently remove dust from delicate surfaces and fan blades, ensuring a clean and dust-free environment. These essential dusters make dusting a breeze and help maintain a fresh and tidy home.

18. Cleaning Caddy

A cleaning kit is a convenient way to store all your essential cleaning tools in one place. It can include a nice-sized bucket, sponges of different sizes and textures, mop pads, and other necessary tools.

But there is no good reason the function of this little tool can’t also be lovely. These are my favorite stylish cleaning caddies.

19. Cordless Drills with Scrub Brush Attachments

When it comes to tackling stubborn dirt and grime, cordless drills with scrub brush attachments are the secret weapons in your cleaning arsenal. With their powerful rotation and stiff bristles, they effortlessly remove tough stains, stuck-on food, and grime from various surfaces.

Whether it’s scrubbing grout lines, cleaning kitchen floors, or tackling heavy-duty cleaning tasks, these versatile tools paired with the right cleaning solution deliver great cleaning results.

Say goodbye to elbow grease and hello to a more efficient and effective cleaning process with cordless drills and scrub brush attachments.

20. Carpet Cleaner

There are two loves of my life in this category as well. I just have a thing for vacuums, I think. I think I’ve mentioned that I am not a fan of carpet, but if we must have it then there must be a way to keep it clean.

Since having children I have always owned carpet cleaners. I just can’t imagine a baby with its face on a rug that I can’t clean. So these two miracle workers get pulled out regularly.

These are two carpet steam cleaners that I have used for years and love dearly.

21. A Nice Sized Bucket

You don’t realize how many times you need a bucket to keep your house clean until you don’t have a bucket. Basically, it helps you hold water and cleaner at another location that isn’t your sink.

You want a sturdy well-made bucket. I’ve had cheap ones and there are few things worse than having a bucket full of water fall all over the floor because the handle snaps off. Rubbermaid makes a pretty great bucket.

22. Broom & Dustpan

A good broom and dustpan combo is essential for efficient cleaning. With stiff bristles, easy maneuverability, and a rubber lip on the dustpan, they capture dirt, pet hair, and dust from various surfaces.

Lightweight and durable, they ensure quick cleanup and are pet-friendly. Compact for storage and easy to maintain, a reliable broom and dustpan are must-have tools for a clean home.

23. Trash Can

A good trash can is an essential cleaning tool that offers convenience and cleanliness. With features like a sturdy build, a foot pedal for hands-free operation, and a tight-fitting lid, it helps contain odors and prevents pests.

Choose one with a large capacity, easy-to-clean material, and a removable liner for hassle-free maintenance. Keep your home clean and organized with a reliable and functional trash can that complements your cleaning routine.

24. Dish Soap

Dish soap is an essential cleaning tool with versatile benefits. Its grease-cutting power and ability to create a soapy solution make it ideal for various cleaning tasks.

Homemade soap can be made in a few different ways, one popular soap is Castile Soap which is natural and eco-friendly. For a lovely scent, you can also take the time to herb infuse your castile soap first!

FAQ

25. Steam Mop

A steam mop is one of the essential cleaning tools that offers several benefits. It harnesses the power of steam to sanitize and remove dirt, grime, and bacteria from hard surfaces.

FAQ

If You Like Cleaning Tips, Tricks, & Recipes…

In Conclusion

In conclusion, having the right cleaning tools is a good idea for regular house cleaning. It’s great news that most of these tools are easy to find and won’t cost a lot of money.

With the right cleaning products, you can achieve great cleaning results, and cleaning your home will be a good job that you can be proud of.

Thanks for stopping by!

Julie