The Only Cleaning Items You Actually Need, According to Pros

Between all the cleaning solutions, products, and tech out there, it can be confusing to know where to start when it comes to creating a fool-proof cleaning arsenal. And when you’re short on space, it’s important to have less—rather than excess items. After all, the whole point of cleaning is to minimize clutter.

The good news is you probably don’t need as many products as you think. In fact, you can keep your toolbox to as little as five items, according to the pros.

There are plenty of cleaning staples that are multi-purpose and durable—so they can be used again and again in different areas of the home, achieving maximum results with minimum items. Ahead, three experts share the only cleaning products you need to maintain a fresh, tidy space all year long.

Meet the Experts

• Nicole Sachiko is a professional organizer and the founder of Tidy Lifestyle, a home organization service.

• Keli Jakel is a life transitions coach and the owner of Organized by Keli & Co, a home organizing company.

• Karina Toner is the operations manager of Spekless, a home cleaning service.

Distilled Vinegar

White vinegar is an all-natural, affordable option for cleaning—and has remained a household staple for decades.

“[It’s] like the secret weapon of the minimalistic cleaning world,”  explains Keli Jakel, life transitions coach and owner of Organized by Keli & Co. “It's this natural antibacterial, mild acid that dissolves mineral deposits and stains, and it can even stop mold from growing. It can be mixed with water for an all-purpose spray, or used by itself for tough stains and build-up.”

The natural antiseptic is safe for pets and children, making it a great family-friendly solution.

“[It] has a multipurpose use for counters, floors, and general surfaces,” Nicole Sachiko, professional organizer and founder of Tidy Lifestyle, shares. “I always recommend this for hardwood floors.”

“The smell is also much more enjoyable than bleach!” Sachiko adds. “I pour vinegar into a glass spray bottle and use this to clean my counters every day and for mopping the floors once a week.”

Its effectiveness makes it a go-to solution for eliminating bacteria, germs, and odors, “particularly in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms,” says Karina Toner, operations manager of Spekless.

Vinegar is relatively gentle as well, making it ideal for different types of materials.

“When diluted with water, white vinegar serves as an excellent solution for achieving streak-free surfaces on glass, mirrors, and stainless steel,” Toner explains. “This versatile cleaner replaces the need for multiple specialized cleaning solutions, simplifying the overall cleaning process.”

Microfiber Cloths

Paper towels can take up space when ordered in bulk. Plus, you often need a lot to clean up big spills. Reusable alternatives, particularly microfiber cloths, thus make for a more balanced option.

“Microfiber cloths may not look like much, but they are cleaning superheroes! They have tiny fibers—way smaller than human hair—that make a big surface area,” Jakel notes. “That means they can capture dirt, dust, and grime, all without the need for harsh chemicals. We use them to wipe down surfaces, clean windows, and even dust electronics.”

Beyond dusting, microfiber towels absorb water quickly and air dry fast due to their unique structure, Sachiko explains. “They are handy to have for cleaning counters before or after cooking, water splashes from bathroom sinks, or for emergency spills,” she says.

Not to mention, microfibers are just as good for the home as they are for the environment. “Their reusable nature not only reduces waste but also provides an eco-friendly cleaning solution, aligning with sustainable practices,” Toner says.

Vacuum Cleaner

To some, it may feel obvious, but a vacuum cleaner is one of those modern cleaning gadgets that has good reason to stick around.

“Investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner is an essential step toward maintaining a clean and healthy indoor environment,” Toner explains. “Its efficient dust removal capabilities target allergens and debris from carpets and floors, contributing to improved indoor air quality.”

Opting for a vacuum cleaner with specific attachments can help clean hard-to-reach nooks (without scratching your floors).

“Attachments such as crevice tools and upholstery brushes add versatility, allowing users to address various cleaning needs effectively," Toner says.

Baking Soda

Like vinegar, baking soda is another natural cleaning supply that can be put to use in various areas of the home.

“Baking soda plays a crucial role as a deodorizing agent, neutralizing odors in various settings including refrigerators, carpets, and upholstery,” Toner says. “Its natural composition makes it safe for use on different surfaces without introducing harmful chemicals.”

“Beyond its deodorizing capabilities, baking soda's mild abrasive nature makes it an ideal ingredient for DIY cleaning solutions,” Toner adds. “It acts as a gentle scouring agent, effectively tackling surfaces like sinks and stovetops without causing damage.”

The best part? “It's totally safe to use around food, so it's great for the kitchen,” Jakel says.

Scrubber

While microfiber cloths are great at dusting and soaking up water, there are inevitably times when you’ll need a deeper clean. This is where scrubbers or sponges come in handy.

“There may be tough grime build-up, mold, or stains that require some elbow grease,” Sachiko says. “I usually use these when cleaning the bathroom specifically.”

Classics like Scrub Daddy can tackle more stubborn messes—plus, the sponge dries in an hour so it won’t harbor mold or unpleasant odors.

Read the original article on The Spruce.