5 Affordable Cleaning Essentials

Call it domestic science or just plain common sense: With the proper tools, house cleaning becomes a little easier. Just in time for the new season, here are five multitasking and affordable picks.

Above: With a price for less than one dollar, these Tekla Dishtowels make it hard to come up with an excuse to reach for a paper towel. They also double as a casual and rustic napkin; $.79 at Ikea.

Above: Sweep cobwebs and lint balls out of tight spaces with a small handheld broom. Constructed of a single piece of rope, this Sailors’ Whisk Brush is made by a New England craftsman; $12 at Charlie Martel.

Above: A simple and utilitarian washing-up bowl has a myriad of uses, from soaking silver to hand washing delicate fabrics. The Boholmen Rinsing Tub is a compelling option for the size and price; $9.99 at Ikea.

Above: A little elbow grease and a good scouring pad is a must for removing tough grime and stains. Rust-proof and easy on the eye, these Redecker Copper Cloths take the gold over the old steel-wool; a set of two is $9.95 at Sur La Table.

Above: Want a healthy all-purpose cleaner on the cheap? Take a cue from Remodelista editor Sarah and create your own DIY solution; mix one-half cup distilled white vinegar to one cup of water. Dispense the concoction into a repurposed container (Sarah’s choice is the chic Savon de Marseille bottle) and top it with a Tolco Trigger Sprayer; $3.49 at Grainger.

Do you have your own cleaning solution recipe or spring cleaning tip?

For more ideas, check out Remodelista’s posts Brushing Up on Traditions, A Traditional British Utility Room, and Toilet Brush Holders.

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Past Member .

1:48AM PDT on Apr 14, 2012

some of those ideas are pretty much obvious, but thanks anyway

April 14
send a green star

Nicole G.

1:09PM PDT on Apr 4, 2012

Cut up worn/stained sheets and pillowcases along with old terry make the best cleaning cloths and you'll never find a beter grout brush than an old worn out toothbrush!!

April 4
send a green star

Laura M.

12:34PM PDT on Apr 1, 2012

I use diluted vinegar to deodorize my shoes. just one of practically infinite uses. =)

April 1
send a green star

Joellen G.

8:15PM PDT on Mar 22, 2012

I agree with miranda l. I was really surprised to see care2 suggesting we need to go and buy this unnecessary, overpriced, and environmentally damaging, both in its production, and afterwards in the landfill, Stuff. Haven't we all watched "The Story of Stuff"?

March 22
send a green star

Miranda L.

6:45AM PDT on Mar 21, 2012

I manage pretty well with water and vinegar, cleaning cloths made from soft worn-out clothing and bedding, and a broom.

March 21
send a green star

Kristina C.

1:27PM PDT on Mar 20, 2012

I agree that the right tools make cleaning easier - and I also love to use environmentally friendly products that still smell clean, or just add some natural fragrant to it. Of course pretty storage containers are awesome and make it easier for me to start.