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With such a myriad of cleaning products available—from sprays to sanitizers to gadgets and gloves—it can be hard to know what’s actually worth spending money on.
Many cleaning products often don’t deliver the results you expect and some may even cause more harm than good. Here are 10 cleaning products that are better left on the shelves and substitutes you can use instead.
Single-Use Cleaning Wipes
While convenient, these wipes can be costly and often contain harsh chemicals. A reusable cloth with a homemade cleaner is a better option for your wallet and the environment.
Specialized Cleaners
Tile cleaner for tile, kitchen cleaner for the kitchen, wood cleaner for wood… where does it end? One good all-purpose cleaner like Clorox or Lysol can do the same job on a variety of surfaces that most of these individual products claim to do and at much cheaper cost.
Feather Dusters
Feather dusters might look appealing, but they’re high on the list of “least effective cleaning tools.” While they can gather dust and dirt, they don’t perform any better than a simple dry cloth or hand towel. Plus, feather dusters aren’t easy to clean and tend to wear out quickly, needing frequent replacement.
Robot Vacuum
While robot vacuums are useful in light mess situations, they can struggle in homes with heavy pet hair, crumbs, or uneven floors. Instead, buy a quality cordless stick vacuum or an upright model with strong suction and attachments, which are much more effective for homes with higher traffic.
Air Fresheners
While air fresheners may mask unpleasant odors, they don’t eliminate the source of the smell and often contain artificial fragrances that can be harmful. Instead, try natural alternatives like baking soda or essential oils, which provide a fresher scent without the negative side effects.
Dish Scrubbers with Soap Dispensers
These scrubbers might seem convenient, but they often break easily and require expensive refills. A simple sponge or scrub brush paired with your favorite dish soap is more cost-effective and just as effective for cleaning dishes.
Laundry Detergent Pods
Laundry pods may seem convenient, but they aren’t budget-friendly. A pack of 72 pods costs about $19, while the same amount could buy enough liquid detergent for 96 loads. Moreover, many users report that pods often leave residues or even stains. For better value and cleaning power, consider using a reliable store-brand liquid detergent instead.
Drain Cleaners
Drain cleaners may promise to clear your clogged pipes quickly, but they could lead to bigger problems down the line. The harsh chemicals, including hydrochloric acid found in some drain cleaners can actually damage your plumbing over time. Plus, they might not even solve the issue, depending on what’s causing the clog. For a more effective solution, grab a plunger for sinks and tubs, or use a drain snake to physically remove blockages like hair.
Disposable Toilet Brushes
It’s tempting to grab a disposable toilet wand for quick cleaning, but these throwaway brushes can hurt your budget and the environment. Each pack of refills is costly, and tossing that plastic adds to landfill waste. Plus, they often snap mid-scrub, creating a mess. Consider using a sturdy, reusable toilet brush instead. They’re more durable, economical, and can get your toilet sparkling clean without the waste.
Laundry Scent Boosters
Laundry scent boosters may seem appealing, but they’re just another unnecessary addition to your laundry routine. While several brands promote these products, claiming they enhance your wash, they don’t actually clean or soften your clothes. Instead, they only add a strong fragrance that may cause headaches or discomfort. Your detergent should already leave your clothes either lightly scented or odor-free. If you want a pleasant fragrance, add drops of essential oils to wool dryer balls instead.
10 Cleaning Products You Can Make at Home
Are you tired of spending a fortune on cleaning supplies that contain harsh chemicals? Ditching store-bought products in favor of homemade solutions can be a game changer. These homemade cleaning products are the perfect solution and are safe for use around children and pets.
10 Cleaning Products You Can Make at Home
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