Simplify Your Cleaning Products | Family Economics

By Sarah Kimmel

If you are anything like me you can look under your sink (or wherever you store your cleaning products), and there are about 30 different things in there, half of which you actually use. What should you keep and what should you get rid of to make sure your cleaning tools are always accessible and ready to use?

First, take all of the cleaning products out, and organize them into piles according to their function. Once you have them organized, if there are several in one category, pick your favorite, and toss the rest. If you don’t have a favorite, keep trying different products until you find one that you can really get behind in each of the essential categories. 

Next you need to make sure you have all of the essential products, so you won’t get caught buying things that clutter up your cleaning cupboard again! You need a degreaser, window cleaner, toilet cleaner/sanitizer, dusting spray, a heavy duty cleaner (for soap scum in showers and sinks), a few rags, and sponges. Some people don’t like to use the same rag to clean the sink that they cleaned the toilet with. If you are one of those people you might consider the type of products that offer a cleaner and tool all in one. Find what works for you and your family and get rid of everything else.

Now that you have narrowed down all of your options, it’s time to make sure they are accessible. I recommend purchasing a plastic caddy, or purchasing enough of your favorite products to store a set in each bathroom. I prefer to have the products in each bathroom. That way cleaning the bathroom can be as quick and easy as washing your hands. When you use the restroom, take an extra minute to wipe down the mirror and sink, and your weekly cleaning will go so much quicker. 

Having all of your cleaning products ready to go when you need them will make cleaning less of a chore, and much more fun!