When you first move into your own place as a single, the cleaning aisle at the grocery store can feel incredibly intimidating. There are hundreds of bottles promising a spotless home, gadgets that look like sci-fi props, and scents ranging from "ocean breeze" to "alpine meadow." And who has room for all this stuff in a small home anyway?
It’s tempting to grab one of everything. I’ve been there. I once bought a specialised cleaner just for blinds that I used exactly once before losing it under the sink. The truth is though, running a healthy home doesn’t require a massive arsenal. In fact, having too many products usually leads to clutter, which is exactly what we try to avoid around here at Tidymalism.
All you really need is a curated cleaning supplies list to put together a set of reliable items that cover 90% of your cleaning tasks. Whether you're dealing with hardwood floors, scrubbing tile, or just trying to keep dust bunnies at bay, this basic cleaning supplies checklist will help you shop smart.
Here's what I’ve found actually works for maintaining a clean space without wasting money or cabinet space.
In this article
Must-Have Cleaning Tools
Before we get into sprays and scrubbers, we need to talk about hardware. These are the cleaning tools that will do the heavy lifting. You want items that are durable, easy to store, and effective.
A Reliable Vacuum Cleaner
If you have carpet or rugs, a vacuum cleaner is non-negotiable. But even if you have mostly hard floors, a hoover is often better than a broom for picking up hair and fine dust. For a smaller apartment or a single-person household, you don’t necessarily need a massive upright beast. A cordless stick vacuum is often sufficient for daily cleaning and takes up much less closet space. Look for one with attachments to handle upholstery and nooks and crannies like the space between sofa cushions.
Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum, 185AW, 3 Power Modes, Up to 60 Minutes,² Deep Cleans Hard Floors and Carpets, Detangles pet Hair, Converts to Handheld
Dyson V11 Cordless Vacuum, Wand, Docking Station, Charger, Mini Soft Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool, Hair Screw Tool, Motorbar Cleaner Head, Lithium Ion Battery (1)
Miele Classic C1 Pure Suction Vacuum for Hard Floors & Low-Pile Carpet
GERMAN ENGINEERED: Bagged canister vacuum cleaner ideal for homes with hard floors and low pile carpeting
Miele Duoflex HX1 Nordic Blue Cordless Stick Vacuum for Quick Cleanups
Powerful Cleaning Performance: With a Digital Efficiency Motor providing remarkably high suction power for its size, the Duoflex stick vacuum cleans as powerfully and deeply as the known Miele standards
Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL Bagged Canister Vacuum for Hard Floors
Optimized Performance: Suitable for hard floors and low-pile carpet, featuring an XL Parquet brush for gentle cleaning and a universal floorhead with a footswitch for seamless transitions between hard floors and thin carpets
I've had great experiences with both Dyson and Miele, and those are the two brands I'd wholeheartedly recommend. You do you though. Check out the Amazon reviews and do a quick search on Google to see what the cleanfluencers have to say about the vacuum you're eyeballing.
Broom and Dustpan
Even with a vacuum, you'll still need a broom. Sometimes it's just faster to sweep up a spilled bowl of cereal than it is to drag out the vacuum kit and caboodle. Plus, hoovers can struggle with larger debris in the kitchen.
Upgrade Broom and Dustpan Set, Large Size and with Long Handle, Upright,Ideal for Indoor Outdoor Garage Kitchen Room Office Lobby Use (Green)
Extendable Pole Design: The optional extension pole makes the broom length from 38.18 to 50.39 inches, People can choose the appropriate length according to their height. And long handle allow you to Stand upright for comfortable sweeping. NO MORE BENDING!
NACENA Broom and Dustpan Set, 52-in Long Adjustable Handle Broom Dustpan Combo with Dustpan Teeth to Automatically Clean Hair Suitable for Home Kitchen Office Hall Floor（Black&Red）
LIGHTWEIGHT PACKAGING: If you have the need to purchase multiple products, you can buy double sets, It can substantially decrease the amount of material used in packaging boxes, thereby contributing to environmental protection more effectively.
O-Cedar One Sweep Broom & Step-On Dustpan Set | Patented Wave Bristles Remove Over 99% of Dirt in One Pass | Lightweight & Quiet for Pet-Friendly Cleaning
CLEAN MORE IN ONE PASS: Patented wave bristle design lifts and traps over 99% of dust and debris with a single sweep for faster results.
Broom and Dustpan Set for Home, 51-in Long Adjustable Handle Angle Broom and Dustpan Combo Set with Dust Pan Teeth to Clean Hair for Home Kitchen Office Lobby Floor Garden (Black&White)
LONG HANDLE BROOM AND DUSTPAN SET: Assembled from detachable stainless steel poles. You can assemble it to the desired length at will, allowing you to sweep easily without bending over
Amazon Basics Dustpan Broom Set with Adjustable Long Handle, Easy to Assemble, Blue and White
FLAGGED BRISTLES: Features flagged, split bristles designed for maximum dust pickup power, capturing fine particles & debris with each sweeping pass
Broom and Dustpan Set， Dust Pan and Broom Combo
Heavy Duty & Stable Build – The Primero Basics broom and dustpan set features sturdy double-section handles and a durable large dust pan, perfect for restaurant supplies, janitorial supplies, and heavy-duty commercial cleaning.
O-Cedar Pet Pro Broom with Step-On Dustpan | Remove 99% with One Sweep | Removes 3 Times More Pet Hair | Quiet Cleaning Tool for Cat and Dog Owners
CLEAN PET HAIR LIKE A PRO: Cleans 99% of dust, dirt, and hair in one sweep with dual bristle technology for better floor contact while the angled broom head makes accessing corners a breeze
XXXFLOWER Broom and Dustpan Set with Cleaning Teeth, 54.5" Long Handle Indoor Sweeping Combo for Home Office Kitchen, Bluish Green
【Detachable Long Handle & No More Bending】 This broom with dustpan combo set features detachable lightweight stainless steel poles, allowing you to choose between 3 to 5 sections to customize the height that suits you best. With a maximum length of 54.53 inches, you can sweep comfortably in a natural standing position – no more bending over or straining your back. It's especially gentle on those with back discomfort, making it a must-have cleaning essential for pain-free daily cleaning.
When shopping, look for an angled broom with sturdy bristle quality. It makes getting into corners significantly easier. You also want a dustpan that has a rubber lip on the edge; this ensures the dirt actually goes into the pan rather than being swept underneath it. A broom and dustpan set that snaps together for vertical storage is a great space-saver for apartment living.
A Good Mop
Mopping has come a long way. You don’t need a heavy bucket and a string mop that smells like a wet dog three days later. For most general cleaning, a flat mop with removable, washable pads is the way to go.
O-Cedar EasyWring Microfiber Spin Mop, Bucket Floor Cleaning System, Red, Gray, Standard
Microfiber
Microfiber Mops for Floor Cleaning: Dust Mop for Hardwood Floors
【Adjust the Length You Need】The length of the dust mop can be adjusted from 44" to 55". It's lightweight and suitable for kids, ladies and the elderly. Large 18.5” mop head make cleaning quick and easy, perfect for busy homemakers and pet owners.
JOYMOOP Flat Mop System, Microfiber Mop and Bucket Set, White, Commercial & Household Use, Hardwood Floor & Wall Cleaning Mop with Long Handle, 4 Microfiber Pads
【ALL-IN-ONE CLEANING SYSTEM】 This Flat Squeeze Mop Bucket Set provides a streamlined process for washing and wringing your mop. It’s designed to help you tackle everyday spills and dirt efficiently, making your floor cleaning routine faster and more straightforward
6Pcs Reusable Microfiber Mop Pads Compatible with Sweeper Mop, Replacement Wet Mopping pad Refills & Washable Dry Sweeping Cloths for Surface/Hardwood Floor Cleaning
Compatible with Sweeper Mop: These reusable Mop pads fit the Sweeper Mop and all 10-12 inch flat mops, but are not compatible with the Sweeper XL
Wall Cleaner Mop with 68” Long Handle,15°Labor-Saving Elbow,Multi-Surface Duster for Painted Walls,Floor,Baseboard & Windows, Includes 2 Replaceable Microfiber Chenille Pads
15° Labor-Saving Elbow Design - Ergonomic bent handle reduces strain and height requirements for effortless ceiling/high-wall cleaning.
Microfiber Mops for Floor Cleaning: Flat Mop for Hardwood Tile Laminate
Microfiber Mops for Floor Cleaning: Flat floor mop with adjustable long handle, flexible lightweight but sturdy, great for housewives, the elderly, children or any home with pets
I prefer microfiber flat mops because you can toss the pads in the washing machine. This is much more sanitary than traditional methods. If you have a lot of hardwood or tile, you can also use a mop dry to pick up dust and then wet for scrubbing.
Toilet Brush
This is the least glamorous item on the checklist, but you absolutely need one. Don't overthink this. A simple toilet brush with a holder that hides the head is perfect. Just make sure you replace it periodically.
Toilet Brush and Holder, 2 Pack Toilet Brush with 304 Stainless Steel Long Handle, Toilet Bowl Brush for Bathroom Toilet-Ergonomic, Elegant,Durable (White)
ElEGANT AND MODERN DESIGN: Why choose Luwing Toilet brush? It’s not only a tool but also more like the decor for a bathroom. The holder keeps the brush head out of view. The ergonomic toilet brush is professionally designed for your bathroom, which makes your bathroom more tidy and modern.
Ceramic Toilet Brush and Holder Set, Toilet Bowl Cleaner Brush
🅥 Ceramic Excellence: Crafted with lead-free natural glaze, our ceramic toilet brush holder boasts exceptional durability and wear-resistance. The sleek and elegant design seamlessly integrates with any bathroom decor, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Toilet Brush and Holder, Toilet Bowl Brush with Long Handle, Plastic Holder Easy to Hide, Drip-Proof, Easy to Assemble, Deep Cleaning
Modern Looking: The sleek, minimalist, clean design of this Toilet Bowl Brush and Holder, Looks nice In the bathroom as cleaning supplies.
Toilet Brush and Holder Set: 304 Stainless Steel Heavy Duty Toilet Bowl Brush and Holder with Removable Inner Bowl and Splash Protection, Long Handle Bathroom Cleaning Tool
Durable Stainless Steel & Extended Handle: Crafted with premium 304 stainless steel, this brushed gold toilet brush and holder set resists-rust for long-term use. Features an extended ergonomic 5.6'' handle and metal screw assembly (not cheap plastic!) for firm, detachable connections that withstand heavy scrubbing. Ideal as a heavy-duty RV toilet brush or daily bathroom essential
Cloths, Sponges, and Scrubbers
Now that you have the big tools, let’s talk about what you use to wipe surfaces. This is where a lot of people waste money on disposable products, but a few reusable items are far more effective for house cleaning.
Microfiber Cloths
If I could only choose one item for cleaning supplies, it might be the microfiber cloth. Microfiber is incredible because it grabs onto dust and grime rather than just pushing it around like cotton rags do.
USANOOKS Microfiber Cleaning Cloth Grey - 12 Pcs (12.5"x12.5") - High Performance - 1200 Washes, Ultra Absorbent Microfiber Towel Weave Grime & Liquid for Streak-Free Mirror Shine - Car Washing Cloth
10x GRIP-ROOT WEAVE - TRAP MORE, WORK LESS: Ultra-absorbent microfiber towels for car Grip Root weave works like PLANT ROOT FOLLICLES, sucking up & LOCKING AWAY 8x to 10x its weight in liquid, particulates, moisture, grime and dirt in far LESS TIME than traditional ‘Heavy Duty’ Cleaning Rags. Each towel features a 2.5mm thick design, providing enhanced durability and better grip during use.
Microfiber Cleaning Cloth, 12 Pack Assorted Color Cleaning Rags for Housekeeping, Colorful Reusable Microfiber Towels for Car, Kitchen, Bathroom and Household Cleaning Supplies, 11.8"X11.8"
Fiber
12 Pack Cleaning Cloth,Ultra Soft Absorbent Quick Drying Microfiber Cleaning rags,No scratches,Reusable,Washable,Lint Free Cleaning Towels for Kitchen,Window,Glass,car,11.8"×11.8",(Multicolor)
Super Absorbent：With a high quality short-pile microfiber design, these microfiber cleaning cloths are ultra Absorbent, They can easily absorb large amounts of liquid and wring out spills easily, perfect for wiping surfaces without leaving marks, Even after repeated cleaning, they retain water absorption and softness, ensuring lasting durability
Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths, Ultra Absorbent, Lint Free, Streak Free, Non-Abrasive, Reusable and Washable, 16" x 12", Blue/White/Yellow, Pack of 24
MATERIAL & CONSTRUCTION: Made of microfiber with ultra-soft & non-abrasive design that will not scratch paints, vinyl, glass, finishes or other surfaces
Get a pack of 6 to 12 clothes, depending on how often you do laundry. Use them for dusting shelves, wiping down countertops, cleaning mirrors, and scrubbing the bathroom sink. Because they're reusable, they're an eco-friendly helper and save you money in the long run. I suggest colour-coding them: blue for glass, yellow for dusting, and a specific colour for the bathroom so you don't cross-contaminate.
Sponges and Scrubbers
For washing dishes and scrubbing the bathtub, you need a good sponge. I recommend a dual-sided sponge—one side soft and absorbent, the other side abrasive for scrubbing stuck-on food or soap scum.
Scrub Daddy Sponges Set - Variety Colors - Scratch-Free Multipurpose Dish Sponge - BPA Free & Made with Polymer Foam - Stain & Odor Resistant Kitchen Sponge (8 Count)
Temperature Controlled Scrub - With Scrub Daddy, unlike so many common kitchen sponge and dish scrubber products, you control your scrubbing power! Scrub Daddys FlexTexture foam is firm in cold water for tough scrubbing and soft in warm water for light cleaning. With FlexTexture, you have the right tool for every mess.
Scrub Mommy Kitchen Sponges - Dual-Sided Dish Sponges for Scrubbing - Non-Scratch Cleaning Sponges for Washing Dishes, Bathroom & Multi-Surface Cleaning - Online Exclusive (3 Count)
Dual-Sided & Temperature-Controlled - Scrub Mommy takes traditional kitchen sponges and scrubbers to the next level. Her FlexTexture foam stays soft in warm water and firm in cool, while spongy ResoFoam on the back lathers up suds for wiping spills.
Amazon product
Be careful though: sponges can harbor bacteria. Make sure you rinse them well and replace them often. You can also toss them in the upper compartment of your dishwasher to keep them bacteria-free!
For doing dishes, you might prefer to use a dish brush, which tends to dry out faster and stay cleaner longer.
Holikme 6 Pack Dish Brush with Bottle Brush Scrub Brush Straw,Yellow
Fruit and Vegetable Cleaning Brush Set. Find immense joy in washing vegetables & dishes with our kitchen cleaning brush kit. It includes a large bottle brush, a long handle brush for dishes, a vegetable palm scrubber brush and 3 straw tube brushes. With a variety of kitchen brushes, you'll easily take on everyday dish cleaning removing even the most stubborn dirt.
Dish Brush with Handle, 2 Pack Kitchen Scrub Brushes for Cleaning, Dish Scrubber with Stiff Bristles for Sink, Pots, Pans
Quality & sturdy bristles: High elasticity kitchen scrub brush with PET fiber bristles is not easy to deform. Ideal for cleaning, pot, pans, cast Iron skillet, sinks, bathroom and fixtures.
Holikme 3 Pack Dish Brush with Bamboo Handle Cleaning Brush,White Black
Soft Dish Brush: Soft bristles are suitable to tackle grease and grime yet functional to use on non-stick cookware. Built in scraper on brush head easily srubs stuck-on food. Great for cleaning dishes, pans, pots, sink, stoves and kitchen utensils.
OXO Good Grips Dish Scrub Brush with Non-Slip Handle, Nylon Bristles
Durable nylon bristles: Safely scrub away baked-on food, grease and tough messes while protecting non-stick cookware from scratches for long-lasting kitchen performance
Dish Brush with Handle, Dish Scrub Brush with Built-in Scraper
STURDY BRISTLES: The kitchen scrub brush which is made of durable nylon bristles is not easy to deform, suitable for pans, pots, dishes. no worry to scratch your dishes and cookware.
Bamboo Dish Brush Set, 4 Pack, Plastic-Free (2 Medium Sisal, 2 Firm Coconut Coir), Dish Scrubber & Vegetable Brush for Cast Iron, Nonstick
Plastic-Free, Plant-Based Materials：Bamboo handle + natural sisal & coconut coir bristles; a low-waste alternative to plastic dish scrubbers.
Holikme 6 Pack Dish Brush Set with Bottle Brush, Dish Scrub Brush,Gray
Kitchen Dish Brush Set. Find immense joy in washing dishes with our kitchen cleaning brush kit. It includes a large bottle brush, a long handle brush for dishes, a pan scrub bursh and 3 straw tube brushes. With a variety of kitchen brushes, you'll easily take on everyday dish cleaning removing even the most stubborn dirt.
Paper Towels
While I love sustainable options, paper towels are still useful and belong on any basic cleaning supplies list. I use microfiber for 90% of things, but if there is a really gross mess—like pet accidents or big spills on the counter—I prefer to use paper towels to sop things up and throw away immediately. You don't need to use them for everything, but having them on hand is practical for sure.
Household Cleaning Products That Actually Work
Walking down the cleaning aisle, you might think you need a separate cleaner for every surface in your house. You don't. Most cleaning jobs can be handled by a few versatile products. Here's the cleaning product list you need.
Multi-Surface All-Purpose Cleaner
This is your daily go-to. An all-purpose cleaner works on countertops, stove tops, tables, and even the outside of the toilet. You can buy a store-bought brand, or if you want to be eco-friendly, you can find great plant-based options.
Lysol All Purpose Cleaner Spray, Disinfectant, Lemon, 32oz
ALL PURPOSE CLEANER KILLS 99.9% OF VIRUSES and BACTERIA: Lysol All Purpose disinfectant spray kills 99.9% of viruses and bacteria including the COVID-19 virus to help keep your family protected
method All-Purpose Cleaner Spray, French Lavender, 28 fl oz
PUT THE HURT ON DIRT: this powerful all-purpose cleaning spray features an innovative formula with hardworking ingredients for cleaning power that cuts through grease + grime and delivers a thorough clean with a streak-free finish
MRS. MEYER'S CLEAN DAY Cleaner Spray, Rain Water, 16 fl oz, 3 Pack
Quick and easy multi surface spray removes stuck on dirt
method All-Purpose Cleaner Spray, Lime + Sea Salt, 28 fl oz
PUT THE HURT ON DIRT: this powerful all-purpose cleaning spray features an innovative formula with hardworking ingredients for cleaning power that cuts through grease + grime and delivers a thorough clean with a streak-free finish
MRS. MEYER'S CLEAN DAY Cleaner Spray, Lemon Verbena, 16 fl oz, 3 Pack
REMOVES DIRT, FRESHENS SURFACES: A Multi-Surface Spray that cleans nonporous surfaces quickly, and leaves a fresh garden-inspired scent throughout your home.
2X Double Concentrated All Purpose Cleaner, Lavender Purple, 20 Gallon, Liquid Household Cleaner for Hardwood Floors and Surfaces, Mopping Solution pack of 20
CONCENTRATED FORMULA: 2X concentrated all-purpose cleaner delivers powerful cleaning performance while requiring less product per use
This cleaner handles surface dirt, spills, and grease. If you're trying to keep a clean and tidy home, a quick spritz and wipe down with all-purpose spray as part of your daily cleaning routine makes a huge difference.
Dish Soap
Obviously, you need dish soap for your dishes. But dish soap is also a secret weapon for all the cleaning tips gurus. It's an incredible degreaser!
Natural Diswasher Cleaner & Deodorizer - 12oz
ALL-MACHINE COMPATIBLE: Works in standard, front-load, top-load and HE dishwashers so you can use the same product regardless of model.
Dawn EZ-Squeeze Ultra Dish Soap, Dishwashing Liquid, Original, Dish Soap Refill, 22 fl oz
1. LESS SCRUBBING: Experience 50% less scrubbing with Dawn Ultra dish soap liquid compared to Dawn Non-Concentrated
Cleancult Dish Soap Liquid Refill (32oz, 1 Pack) - Plant Based Cleaning Power - Dish Soap that Cuts Grease & Grime - Free of Harsh Chemicals - Uses 90% Less Plastic - Free & Clear
CLEAN ALWAYS MEANS CLEAN: Clean isn’t just a state, it’s a feeling we facilitate. Our dishwashing liquid converts dirty dishes into sparkling clean ones, all while leaving your hands soft and smooth and your home plastic free.
Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day, Liquid Dish Soap Refill, Lemon Verbena, 48 Fl Oz
This liquid Dish Soap cuts through grease, while making dishes clean and bright
Ajax Ultra Liquid Dish Soap, Triple Action, Orange Scent, 52 fl oz
WHAT’S INCLUDED: One 52 fl oz bottle of Ajax Ultra Liquid Dish Soap, Triple Action, Orange Scent
Amazon Basics Dish Soap, Fresh Scent, 50 fl oz, Pack of 1, Packaging May Vary
GREASE-CUTTING POWER: Experience the grease-cutting capabilities of our liquid dish soap, designed to swiftly handle tough grease
You can mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water to clean your kitchen cabinets, wipe down sticky baseboards, or even spot-clean stains on the carpet. It's mild enough not to damage most surfaces but tough on grease.
Glass Cleaner
To get mirrors and windows streak-free, you generally need a specific cleaner. While some people use their all-purpose spray, it often leaves a residue. A dedicated glass cleaner like Windex makes certain your bathroom mirror is really streak-free and clean.
Windex Glass & Window Cleaner Spray Bottle, Original, 23 oz
What You'll Get: One 23 oz spray bottles of Windex Original Blue Glass and Window Cleaner
Amazon Basics Glass Cleaner, Streak-Free Shine, 32 Fl Oz, Pack of 2 with 1 Sprayer
Ready-to-use glass cleaner wipes out smudges, fingerprints, and more
Sprayway Foaming Glass Cleaner | Fresh Scent | Value Pack
STREAK-FREE CLEANING POWER: Delivers a crystal-clear finish with no residue, haze, or film left behind on glass surfaces.
Windex Fast Shine Foam Glass Cleaner, All-Purpose Cleaning Spray, 19 oz
Discover the streak-free sparkle of Windex Fast Shine Foam, the no-drip foam glass cleaner
Enhon 13 Piece Glass Cleaning Kit with Plugs & Caps, Cleaner
Professional Glass Cleaning Kit: Our glass cleaning kit includes 2 premium silicone brushes (one flexible, one regular), 3 glass cleaning plugs, 3 glass cleaning caps, a collapsible funnel, a non-slip mat, a high-quality microfiber towel, and a storage pouch to keep it all together
Disinfectant or Bleach
While all-purpose cleaner removes dirt, it doesn't always kill germs. For the toilet bowl or after someone has been sick, you need something stronger.
Clorox Scentiva Scented Liquid Bleach, Lavender and Jasmine, 81 fl. oz. Bottle (Package May Vary)
5X FRESHNESS (1): Enjoy an improved scent experience with 5X freshness (1) in every wash; one 81 fl. oz. bottle of Clorox Scentiva Lavender and Jasmine Scented Bleach; Package May Vary
Clorox Zero Splash Bleach Packs, 12 Count, 4 Pack
CLOROX BLEACH: Clorox Bleach Packs are a controlled way to clean with bleach in a convenient pod! Use these packs as you would liquid bleach with laundry detergent
Cloralen 3-in-1 Liquid Bleach Multipurpose Cleaner - 32.12 fl oz
FRESH DEODORIZING SCENT: Fights dirt and odors while leaving your home smelling fresh, clean, and revitalized
Clorox No Splash Bleach, 40 Fluid Ounces (Package May Vary)
NO-SPLASH CONCENTRATED BLEACH: One 40 fl. oz. bottle of Clorox No-Splash Formula Liquid Bleach, a thicker formula that delivers a controlled pour with less spilling and splashing
(6 Gallons) - Liquid Chlorine Bleach, for Laundry, Household and Commercial Cleaning, 1 Gallon Jugs
6 - 1 Gallon Jugs of Bleach
Bleach is the heavy hitter here. A small bottle of bleach is useful for sanitising and whitening. However, be very careful with it because it will ruin your clothes and can be dangerous if mixed with other chemicals. Never mix bleach with vinegar or ammonia, for example. If bleach feels too intense, look for a disinfectant spray that kills 99.9% of germs. This is a must-have cleaning item during flu season alone.
Distilled White Vinegar and Baking Soda
If you want to clean safely and efficiently without harsh chemicals, these two pantry staples are amazing.
Amazon Saver, Distilled White Vinegar, Great for Cooking and Cleaning, 128 Fl Oz (Previously Happy Belly, Packaging May Vary)
One gallon of Distilled White Vinegar
Iberia Distilled White Vinegar, 5% Acidity, 32 fl oz
5% ACIDITY: Clear distilled white vinegar with a clean, sharp taste
Heinz Distilled White Vinegar, 32 fl oz Bottle
One 32 fl oz bottle of Heinz All Natural Distilled White Vinegar 5% Acidity
Amazon Saver, Distilled White Vinegar, 32 Fl Oz
One 32 fluid ounce bottle of Distilled White Vinegar
Distilled white vinegar is fantastic for removing hard water deposits on faucets and cleaning glass (mix vinegar and water 50/50). It’s also great for descaling your coffee maker.
Baking soda is a gentle abrasive. It’s perfect for scrubbing a stainless steel sink, cleaning grout, or even refreshing a mattress. If you sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of your trash can, it helps absorb odor. I also keep an opened box of Arm & Hammer in my fridge to absorb odours.
ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda Fridge-n-Freezer Odor Absorber, 14 oz Box
POP ONE IN, STOP ODOR: Pack of 12 x 14 oz ARM & HAMMER Fridge-n-Freezer Baking Soda Odor Absorbers helps food taste as it should by absorbing and deodorizing lingering odors without harsh chemicals
Bob's Red Mill Baking Soda, 16oz
PURE BAKING POWER: Bob’s Red Mill Baking Soda ensures perfectly risen cookies, cakes, breads, and muffins that bring friends and family together
ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda, 2.7 Lbs
A HOUSEHOLD CLASSIC: This 2.7 lb resealable bag of ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda unlocks 100+ uses across your home—from kitchens and laundry rooms to crafting tables and beyond
Amazon Grocery, Baking Soda for Baking and Freshening, 16 Oz
One 16 ounce carton of Baking Soda
Combining vinegar and baking soda creates a fizzing reaction that can help dislodge gunk in drains, though it’s not a miracle cure for severe clogs. Both staples are the backbone of many cleaning solutions you can make yourself. (Check out my recipe for making your own cleaning solution!)
Supplies for a Deep Clean
Every once in a while, you need to go beyond the surface wipe-down. This is typically called deep clean or spring cleaning, but really it’s just maintenance. Here are a few specialised items to add to your cleaning supplies checklist for when you want to get into the nitty-gritty (literally).
Stain Remover
Life happens. At some point somebody will spill red wine, coffee, or salsa. A dedicated stain remover for fabrics is good to have on hand. Whether it is for your clothes or the living room rug, having this ready prevents a permanent mark.
Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray, Laundry Stain Remover, 4 Oz
POWERFUL & FAST WORKING This lightning fast laundry stain remover spray is perfect for clothes, upholstery, and carpets.
OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray, 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 3)
12 FL OZ OXICLEAN MAX FORCE STAIN REMOVER SPRAY; this newborn and baby essential helps parents power out tough set-in laundry stains the first time; spray now and wash up to 7 days later
Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray, 22oz
What You'll Get: One 22oz spray bottle of Shout's Prewash Active Enzyme Stain Remover Spray. Bottle, excluding trigger & label, made of 25% Post Consumer Recycled plastic!
Shout Advanced Gel Laundry Stain Remover Spray, 22oz, (1-Pack)
What You'll Get: One 22oz spray bottle of Shout's Advanced Laundry Stain Remover Gel. Bottle, excluding trigger & label, made of 25% Post Consumer Recycled plastic!
Bathroom Cleaner with Limescale Remover
If you have tile in your shower, soap scum and hard water can build up quickly. An all-purpose cleaner might struggle here. A dedicated bathroom cleaner designed to cut through limescale and grout grime will save you a lot of scrubbing. Spray it on, let it sit for ten minutes to let the cleaning power work, and then scrub away.
Lime-A-Way Hard Water Stain Remover Spray, Bathroom Cleaner, 32 fl oz
#1 MOST EFFECTIVE LIMESCALE REMOVER - Eliminates tough lime, calcium, and rust stains caused by hard water minerals without scrubbing.
Stardrops The Pink Stuff Miracle Bathroom Foam Cleaner, 25 Fl Oz
DEEP CLEANING ACTION: The Pink Stuff Bathroom Foam Cleaner is specially formulated to tackle tough bathroom stains and grime, leaving your bathroom surfaces sparkling clean with minimal effort
Scrubbing Bubbles Continuous Clean Toilet Tank Drop-Ins, 3 Count
What You'll Get: Three tablets of Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Bowl Tablets
Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Bowl Cleaning Gel, Non-Bleach Bathroom Cleaner, Gets Rid of Limescale and Hard Water + Rust Stains, Rainshower Scent, 24oz
What You'll Get: One 24oz bottle of Scrubbing Bubbles Rainshower Power Stain Destroyer Toilet Bowl Cleaning Gel
Vacplus Toilet Brush, 2 Pack, 100% Pumice Stone, Long Handle
SCRUBS AWAY TOUGH STAINS: Vacplus pumice stone toilet bowl cleaner powers through all sorts of difficult bathroom stains with ease. Its natural abrasive properties allow it to effectively remove hard water rings in toilets, rock-hard mineral deposits around drains and faucets, limescale buildup, rust stains on metal surfaces, and even tough algae in pools and tubs. This toilet cleaner stick works like an eraser to refresh your bathroom.
Scrubbing Bubbles Fresh Gel Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Rainshower 24 Ct
What You'll Get: 1 Gel Dispenser and 24 Scrubbing Bubbles Rainshower Fresh Gel Stamps
ATTITUDE Bathroom Cleaner Spray, EWG Verified, Lemon & Rosewood, 26 fl oz
REMOVES SOAP SCUM & GRIME: Breaks down soap scum, hard-water marks and everyday buildup on tubs, tiles, shower walls, sinks and grout. Spray, let it work, rinse or wipe clean.
Duster with Extendable Handle
I mentioned microfiber cloths for dusting, but what about ceiling fans or the tops of door frames? An extendable duster helps you reach these high spots without standing on a wobbly chair. If you have high ceilings, this is a cleaning tool worth the investment to keep your home cleaning routine safe.
Amazon product
New U.S. Duster Company Triple Action High Reach Dusting Kit | Webster Cobweb Ceiling Fan Duster with 13 to 20 Foot Extension Telescope Pole | Lightweight Microfiber Cleaning Set…
3 ATTACHMENTS FOR ALL YOUR CLEANING NEEDS- Allows you to reach high vaulted ceilings and dust ceiling fans high ceiling duster. Very much user friendly. You can use it with an ease and clean your ceilings, high corners etc.
Extendable Microfiber Duster Extension Rod | Ceiling Fan Duster 20 Foot Reach | Cobweb 3-Stage Aluminum Telescoping Pole | Lightweight Webster Telescoping Cleaning Tool | U.S. Duster Co.
2 ATTACHMENTS FOR ALL YOUR CLEANING NEEDS- Allows you to reach high vaulted ceilings and remove cobwebs dust ceiling fans high ceiling duster.
Cobweb Duster, Extendable Reach 20 feet, Ceiling Fan Duster | 3-Stage Aluminum Telescoping Pole | Medium Stiff Bristles | Long Handle Webster Duster for Cleaning | U.S Duster Co.
PROFESSIONAL COBWEB DUSTER – REACH UP TO 20 FT- Easily remove cobwebs, dust, and debris from high ceilings, corners, and hard-to-reach areas. Perfect for vaulted ceilings, ceiling fans, and tall walls—no ladder needed.
If you sit in a wheelchair, you'll definitely want to have one on hand. I put together a round-up of a few other neat gadgets to help with household cleaning for folks with disabilities.
How to Store Cleaning Supplies Safely
Once you have your cleaning supplies checked off, you need a place to put them. If you live in a small space, this can be tricky.
The most common spot to store cleaning supplies is under the bathroom or kitchen sink. If you do this, I highly recommend getting a plastic caddy. You can load your cleaner, cloths, sponge, and gloves into the caddy and carry it from room to room. This makes the cleaning routine much faster because you aren't running back and forth because you left the glass cleaner in another room.
Large Cleaning Supplies Caddy Portable Shower Caddy Basket Dark Gray
Plastic Basket Size: 16.5 in L x 9.8 in W x 6.7 in H, can hold what you need, easy to use; lightweight, easy to clean. It is a good gift choice.
Tiawudi Portable Shower Caddy, Caddy Organizer with Handle, Plastic Shower Basket Hold Soap, Shampoo, Hair Supplies and Beauty Products, Cleaning Supplies Organizer for Home, Dorm, Shelf and Cabinet
Organized Storage: This shower caddy designed in 3 compartments to keep items separated and organized. Drainage holes in bottom of the tote let water flow away to keep items dry. With this plastic basket, you can well organize the closets, shelves, cabinets, cupboards and countertops.
Casabella Cleaning Storage Caddy with Handle Plastic Multipurpose Organizer, Rectangle, 1.85-Gallon, Gray
PORTABLE CLEANING ORGANIZER: Lightweight cleaning caddy makes it simple to move supplies from room to room and is ideal for household office or professional use
Mighty Tuff Rough and Rugged All-Purpose Cleaning Caddy, Grey/Black 2 Count (CD0170)
LARGE CAPACITY – Large enough for paper towels and spray bottles, with large pockets for gardening tools or bathroom supplies. It contains two large sections on either side, with a handle in the middle to maintain balance during transportation.
Safety Note: If you have pets or kids visiting, make sure your cleaning product stash is secured with child-proof locks. Even "natural" cleaners can be harmful if ingested.
Tips for a Clean and Tidy Home
Having the right cleaning supplies is step one. Step two is actually using them. I’ve found that the secret to a spotless home isn’t spending all Sunday scrubbing—it’s small, daily habits.
- The 15-minute timer: Set a timer for 15 minutes a day. Grab your cleaning checklist and do the basics: wipe counters, sweep the kitchen, put dishes away.
- Clean as you go: When you cook, wash the bowls while the pasta boils. Wipe the sink after you brush your teeth. It prevents grime from building up.
- Use the right tools: Don't try to scrub a bathtub with a paper towel. Use your sponge and the right cleaner. It saves elbow grease.
Why This Basic Cleaning Supplies List Works
This cleaning supplies checklist avoids the fluff. You don't need a specific spray for electronics (a barely damp microfiber cloth usually works) or a specialised granite polisher unless you're feeling very fancy.
By sticking to this basic cleaning supplies list, you save money and cupboard space. You also avoid the mental load of managing dozens of bottles.
Supplies Checklist for Your Next Shopping Trip
To make it easy, here's the consolidated supplies checklist to take to the store:
Tools:
- Vacuum cleaner (stick or canister)
- Broom and dust pan
- Flat mop with washable pads
- Toilet brush
- Bucket (optional, but helpful)
Consumables:
- Pack of microfiber cleaning cloths (6-12, depending on size and how often you do laundry)
- Sponges (scrubby and soft sides)
- Paper towels (2 rolls max)
Liquids and Sprays:
- All-purpose cleaner
- Dish soap
- Glass cleaner
- Bleach or Disinfectant
- Distilled white vinegar
- Baking soda
- Bathroom tile / tub cleaner
- Stain remover (for carpet / laundry)
What's On Your Essential Cleaning List?
Running a household is a learning curve for everyone starting out. You'll figure out which brand of cleaner you prefer (I personally love the smell of lemon verbena) and which mop feels best in your hands.
The goal isn’t to have a home that looks like a museum, it's a clean home that feels comfortable and healthy to live in. With the right supplies, you're well-equipped to handle the mess of everyday life and keep your place looking great.
Start with this list, and as you get comfortable with your space, you can add specialised supplies if you find you really need them.
Happy cleaning!
