Gone are the days when a broom, mop and bucket were all we had to do chores around the house. Today, home cleaning kits, which include a list of household appliances, seek to make home cleaning simpler and more efficient.
Since there are now so many types of equipment, which ones are essential? It is not possible to buy all types, so narrowing down the list to the basics and the most reliable is the key. Here’s a quick rundown of what to buy, as well as features to look out for.
Vacuum Cleaner: The quintessential cleaning tool, you need a vacuum cleaner above all else. Not only is it affordable, but you’ll find one that suits your needs and stays within your budget. Features to look out for include a blower installation, increased bag capacity so you don’t need to empty it every few minutes, range of accessory heads to handle even tough corners, HEPA filter, and good build quality. The last aspect is important because the market is now flooded with cheap equipment that does not last even a year. Always buy from trusted brands.
Steam Cleaner – Ideal for spot cleaning carpets and deep cleaning other surfaces, a steam cleaner isn’t always a part of a homeowner’s cleaning arsenal, but it should be. It’s the only device that kills even the most stubborn germs.
Like vacuum cleaners, steam cleaners should have several features, regardless of whether you buy a handheld, canister, or upright. Accessory heads, a larger water tank, higher pressure capacity, and temperature control are all things to consider. Please note that the machine cannot be used to deep clean carpets, so you will have to choose the next one on the list.
Carpet Cleaner – More expensive than vacuums and steam cleaners, a carpet cleaner is nonetheless a powerful tool for keeping floor coverings looking and feeling fresh. Regular professional cleaning is recommended even if you clean your carpets every two weeks, but a home carpet cleaner will keep out a significant percentage of germs, dirt, and stains.
All-Purpose Cleaner: This is a cleaning agent that can be used to keep wood, metal, glass, and plastic surfaces clean. If you want, you can go for specific cleaners like glass cleaners and wood cleaners, but this is a cheaper option. Remember that certain materials such as granite and marble that need special care should only be cleaned with formulas specific to the material.
If conventional cleaners don’t meet your green standards, buy certified green products from reputable companies. They are much safer to use, do not leach VOCs, and are gentler on the materials being cleaned. Your health and that of your children and pets will also benefit from the clean and green environment.
Toilet brush, mops, dusters and sponges: these cleaning utensils are part of every home and should be included in yours too. Do not interchange their use because the bacteria they collect should not spread to different areas. For example, toilet brushes should only be used for toilets. Mops used for the bathroom floor must be contained as such. Same with sponges, although dusters can be used between rooms.
Once you’ve purchased everything on the list, remember to keep your cleaning tools clean as well. They will complement everything you have purchased and ensure that your home is free of contaminants.