Discount and many grocery stores carry most types of home cleaning equipment. Various scrubbers, cleansers, and appliances have specific or general uses. Homemakers who wish to save money or clean without harsh chemicals have discovered ways to recycle or make their own for a fraction of the cost.
Basic home cleaning equipment starts with debris collectors. For floors, brooms and static cloth sweepers can remove dust, dirt and crumbs. Vacuums do a better job both on hard flooring and carpets. Debris should be removed while dry, since adding liquid will make it harder to eliminate. A hand duster or dry mop designed to be washed helps save money on refills.
Sponges, rags, brushes, and scrubbers remove dirt and stains with the aid of cleansers. Microfiber rags and lint-free cloths are great for use on glass or delicate surfaces because they clean gently without scratching. Brushes and rough plastic scrubber pads can get more stubborn dirt on tougher surfaces, such as bathtubs and countertops. A vital piece of home cleaning equipment for use with these applicators is a good sturdy plastic bucket.
Specialty cleansers and disinfectants target dirt and grime on countertops and floors as well as in sinks, tubs, and toilets. Manufacturers often recommend a specific cleaning method for their products. Some chemical cleansers may emit harmful fumes and must be used in a well-ventilated area. Bleach works as a disinfectant, but chlorine bleach and ammonia should never be combined.
Elaborate home cleaning equipment can be expensive. Water extraction rug cleaners can be rented instead of purchased to save money. Robotic vacuums have the advantage of working on their own. Vapor steam cleaners that use superheated water to scour dirt and germs clean many surfaces, especially those that have multiple attachments. They should not be used on materials that cannot withstand high heat and moisture.
Frugal people or those concerned about environmental issues can make their own home cleaning equipment. The simplest cleaning agent is soap and water. Vinegar, full-strength or diluted in water, makes an economical cleaner and mild disinfectant. Baking soda is chemically inert, mildly abrasive, and safe to use as a scrubber. Combined with vinegar, its foaming action freshens sink drains and helps remove burned-on foods from cookware.
The eco-conscious housekeeper may purchase green home cleaning equipment, such as mops with washable heads. Recycling old t-shirts and cloth diapers keeps the rag bag full and reduces waste. If a clothesline is available, a good bath in sunlight allows UV rays to lightly disinfect clothing, linens, and stuffed toys, and gives them a fresh scent unique to the outdoors.
