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!

Essential cleaning tools for every home, baking soda, bleach, Swedish sponges, cotton towels, scrub brushes, microfiber cloths.

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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

Some of these essential cleaning tools are an investment upfront. But the years of service they will give you for their cost is definitely worth it. My collection of cleaning tools has been growing for decades.

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!

Microfiber Cloths for Every Cleaning Occassion

Here are some great microfiber cloth options to make your cleaning more effective and streamlined!

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.

benefits of microfiber cloth

Microfiber cloths offer several benefits that earn them on the list of essential cleaning tools every home should have:

  1. Enhanced cleaning power
  2. Lint-free results
  3. Streak-free surfaces
  4. Reusable and durable
  5. Quick drying
  6. Eco-friendly choice

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.

All purpose natural cleaner in a blue glass spray bottle. A large jar of fermenting lemons in vinegar.

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.

All Natural DIY All Purpose cleaner made of fermented lemons in vinegar.

Lemon & Vinegar All Purpose Cleaner

Here’s a simple recipe for a DIY all-purpose cleaner that you can make with natural ingredients:

Ingredients:

  • White Vinegar
  • Lemons
  • A few sprigs of your favorite herb (Rosemary, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Peppermint, etc)

Instructions:

  1. Mix the lemons and vinegar in a glass jar.
  2. Let it sit for 5-6 weeks.
  3. When it’s properly soaked you can drain it from the lemons and herbs into a glass spray bottle.
  4. Screw the spray bottle on and test it on an inconspicuous spot to start.

There are no specific amounts needed. I just filled a 64 oz jar with as many lemon rinds as would fit and filled it with vinegar. It can also sit for however long you want, the more it sits the more powerful the cleaner it is.

Happy Cleaning!

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.

Natural window cleaner in a glass spray bottle. Fermenting lemons in vinegar in a large glass jar and cotton towels.
Natural streak-free glass cleaner in a glass spray bottle.

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.

DIY Streak Free Glass Cleaner

  • 1 Cup Rubbing Alcohol
  • 1 Cup Lemon Vinegar All Purpose Cleaner

Mix, spray, and wipe!

FAQ

Using isopropyl alcohol and white vinegar together makes a quickly evaporating spray glass and mirror cleaner that competes with national brands. This can also be used to give a nice shine to hard tiles, chrome, and other surfaces.

When vinegar and alcohol are mixed, they create a solution with a higher percentage of water content due to their mutual solubility, resulting in a diluted mixture.

No, mixing vinegar and alcohol does not cancel them out. It simply dilutes the solution and increases the water content. The properties and characteristics of vinegar and alcohol remain present but in a less concentrated form.

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.

Beautiful purple pink Swedish sponges curled up in an ironstone pitcher.

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

About Swedish Sponge Cloths

Swedish sponge cloths, also known as Swedish dishcloths, are versatile and eco-friendly cleaning tools that have gained popularity worldwide. Made from a blend of cellulose and cotton, these cloths offer several benefits:

  1. Highly Absorbent.
  2. Long-Lasting.
  3. Reusable and Washable.
  4. Versatile.
  5. Quick-Drying.
  6. Hygienic.
  7. Environmentally Friendly.

With their practicality, durability, and eco-friendly nature, Swedish sponge cloths have become a popular choice for those seeking a reusable and effective cleaning tool for everyday tasks.

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.

Simple Natural Furniture Polish Recipe

  • 1/2 Cup of Olive Oil
  • 1/2 Cup of Vinegar
  • 1/4 Cup of Lemon Juice

Or a Ratio of 2:2:1, Olive Oil, Vinegar, and Lemon Juice.

Mix together and apply to any wooden furniture.

FAQ

Tung oil does not contain VOCs and is entirely non-toxic. Since it is natural, it is one of the best choices for wood polish, especially for children’s toys and kitchens.

The best oils to use in furniture polish are linseed oil, lemon oil, lavender oil, mineral oil, or tung oil. As these will not go rancid.

Mineral oil is often considered the best oil for homemade furniture polish due to its neutral scent, long shelf life, and ability to enhance and protect wood surfaces without causing any potential issues like rancidity or darkening.

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?

A dirt filled Dyson vacuum cleaner in a dining room by a mustard sitting chair.

What Makes the Dyson Multi-Floor Vacuum So Great?

The Dyson Multifloor vacuum cleaner is a highly rated and popular option that offers a range of benefits.

  • Powerful Suction.
  • Versatile Cleaning.
  • Effective Filtration.
  • Bagless Design.
  • Easy Maneuverability
  • Hygienic Bin Emptying.
  • Long Reach.
  • Advanced Brush Technology.
  • Low Maintenance.
  • Trusted Brand

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.

Rigid wet and dry vacuum sitting on a rug in a dining room.

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.

Why Every Home Needs a Shop Vac: 6 Reasons a Wet/Dry Vacuum is a Must-Have Tool

A wet/dry vacuum, also known as a shop vac, can be a highly useful and versatile tool for households. Here are some great reasons why a wet/dry vacuum is useful as an essential household tool:

  1. Versatile cleaning capabilities.
  2. Easy to use.
  3. High suction power.
  4. Multi-functional.
  5. Time-saving.
  6. Durable and long-lasting.

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.

Swedish sponges in an ironstone pitcher, paper towels on a wooden holder, and another ironstone pitcher with a wooden scrub brush, microfiber towel, and wooden spoons atop a cotton towel.

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.

What Makes Microfiber Mops Better Than Other Mops?

Here are a few reasons why a microfiber mop is better than a normal mop:

  1. Better cleaning performance.
  2. More effective at removing germs.
  3. Environmentally friendly.
  4. Easier to use.
  5. Faster drying time.

FAQ

Microfiber is the best material for mopping due to its high absorbency, effective dirt and debris trapping, and streak-free cleaning performance.

Professional cleaners often use flat microfiber mops or commercial-grade wet mops for their efficiency, effectiveness, and ability to handle large cleaning tasks.

Both dry and wet mops have their advantages. Dry mops are great for dusting and pet hair, while wet mops effectively remove spills and stains. The best choice depends on your specific cleaning needs and the surface you’re cleaning.

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.

Benefits of a Toilet Brush with Silicone Bristles

Toilet brushes with silicone bristles offer a number of benefits compared to traditional toilet brushes with nylon bristles. Here are a few of the benefits:

  1. More hygienic.
  2. Easier to clean.
  3. Durable.
  4. More effective.
  5. Eco-friendly.

Overall, a toilet brush with silicone bristles offers a more hygienic, easier to clean, more durable, more effective, and more eco-friendly option for keeping your toilet clean.

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.

Baking soda, vinegar, wooden spoons, and cotton towels, on top of a beautiful walnut lazy Susan.
Natural cleaner of fermented lemons in vinegar with wooden measuring spoons and natural cotton towels.

3 Powerhouse ingredients

White vinegar, baking soda, and lemons are essential cleaning tools for several reasons:

  1. White vinegar’s acidity cuts through grease and disinfects surfaces.
  2. Baking soda’s gentle abrasive properties remove stains and deodorize.
  3. Lemons’ natural acidity brightens and freshens surfaces.

Together, these natural ingredients provide eco-friendly, versatile, and effective cleaning solutions for various household tasks.

Copper Pot repurposed as an herb planter with lavender in it.

Top 10 Herbs to Grow for Effective Homemade Cleaners

Watch this short story I put together on the most effective herbal tools you can grow in your garden!

Photo Credit: Capturing Wonderland

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.

Ironstone pitcher with a wooden scrub brush, wooden measuring spoons, and a microfiber towel.

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.

Little Green Steam Machine

  1. Portable and compact design.
  2. Powerful steam cleaning for tough stains.
  3. Effective for removing pet hair and dirt.
  4. Versatile for various surfaces.
  5. Easy-to-use operation.
  6. Quick drying and eco-friendly cleaning.
  7. Convenient for spot cleaning and small spaces.

Bissell Pro Heat X2

  1. Powerful cleaning performance for removing tough pet stains and odors.
  2. Heatwave Technology for maintaining optimal water temperature.
  3. CleanShot Pretreater for targeting and treating stubborn stains.
  4. Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes for thorough deep cleaning.
  5. Lightweight and easy-to-maneuver design.
  6. Large water tank capacity for extended cleaning sessions.
  7. Express Clean Mode for quick drying and convenience.

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!

Homemade Dish Soap

  • Water
  • Grated Bar Soap (chemical free)
  • Baking Soda
  • Salt

For directions and a more detailed recipe head to Sustainable Slow Living.

FAQ

In general, it is recommended to let the herbs infuse in oil for at least 1 to 4 weeks. This allows the oil to extract the aromatic compounds and beneficial properties from the herbs.

The best soap to use in a homemade dish soap recipe is liquid castile soap. Castile soap is a mild and gentle soap made from plant-based oils, such as olive oil, coconut oil, or hemp oil. It is free from synthetic additives and harsh chemicals, making it safe for use on dishes and gentle on the skin.

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.

Shark steam mop steaming in the middle of cleaning a tile floor.

FAQ

The downside of a steam mop is that it may not be suitable for all types of flooring, such as unsealed hardwood or delicate surfaces that can be damaged by moisture or heat.

A steam mop offers efficient and chemical-free cleaning, sanitizes surfaces, eliminates tough stains, and is safe for use around children and pets.

Steam mops can provide effective cleaning by utilizing the power of steam to remove dirt, grime, and bacteria from surfaces, making them a valuable tool for achieving a deep and thorough clean.

If You Like Cleaning Tips, Tricks, & Recipes…

Making natural cleaners from natural ingredients. Homesteading skills to learn include creating sustainable cleaners for your home.

The Best Homemade Eco-Friendly Bathroom Cleaners

I’m going to give you all the secrets to making the best homemade eco-friendly bathroom cleaners so you don’t have to use toxic chemicals for ease of use.

Photo Credit: Capturing Wonderland

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

Meet the Author

Hi, I’m Julie! Mother to five beautiful kids, Homeschool Educator, Writer, Handicraft & DIY Enthusiast, Photographer, Thrifter, and Furniture Restorer. Follow along for fun DIY projects creating a handmade home on a budget! Read more about me here→

8 Comments

  1. I love the uses you mentioned for a wet/dry vac! Never would have thought of those! Also, I’ve heard so many good things about e-cloths, I think I’m going to have to get some soon. Thanks for the tips!

    1. Love my wet dry vac too! I only have one little one but boy does food get everywhere. I probably vacuum every day. Great ideas on this list.

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