Professional cleaners have strong opinions about which cleaning products are worth the money and which are simply a waste. In interviews with three industry veterans, they identified seven items that they say consumers can confidently leave on store shelves. These products, they argue, often underperform, create unnecessary waste, or even cause damage to household surfaces.
The advice comes from Jacqueline Stein, founder of Home Reimagined; Kadi Dulude, owner of Wizard of Homes; and Chris Murphy, operations training manager at MaidPro. Their collective experience spans residential and commercial cleaning, and their recommendations focus on effectiveness, cost savings, and environmental impact.
Laundry Products That Fall Short
Stein points to fabric softener as one of the most overrated cleaning products. She explains that it leaves a waxy residue on fabrics, which reduces absorbency and can trap odors. Dryer sheets, she adds, are also unnecessary. “The key to keeping fabrics in great condition is buying quality items and caring for them properly over time—you shouldn’t need to soften them,” she says.
Instead of relying on these additives, Stein suggests investing in well-made clothing and linens and following proper care instructions. This approach not only extends the life of fabrics but also cuts down on the chemicals introduced into the home.
Dusting Sprays and Wipes: Not Worth It
Dusting sprays, according to Stein, can actually make the job harder. They leave behind a greasy film that attracts more dust. She recommends using a dry microfiber cloth or one lightly dampened with water for effective dusting.
Disinfecting wipes also come under fire. Stein notes they are “expensive, create excess waste, and often just spread germs and dirt around instead of picking them up.” She suggests using a clean microfiber cloth with a disinfecting spray instead. Dulude echoes this, pointing out that wipes are single-use, often require multiple to finish a task, and the ones at the bottom of the container frequently dry out before use.
Disposable Toilet Brushes and Air Fresheners
Dulude advises against disposable toilet brushes, citing their single-use nature and lack of scrubbing power. She recommends a reusable brush and suggests soaking it in bleach when it needs cleaning.
Air fresheners, she says, are only a temporary fix. “It's best to get to the cause of the smell and find a way to remove the smell so it won't come back,” she explains. Addressing the source of odors, such as garbage bins or damp areas, is more effective than masking them.
Steam Mops and Glass Cleaners
Dulude is not a fan of steam mops, which she finds merely push dirt around. Her team uses a commercial vapor steam cleaner, which she says is significantly more effective.
Murphy advises skipping traditional glass cleaners, which often leave streaks and residue. He recommends a simple mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. This cost-effective solution leaves glass streak-free, he says.
Dulude adds that in most cases, a single multi-purpose cleaning solution can work across different rooms, eliminating the need for many specialized products. This not only saves money but also reduces clutter and chemical use in the home.
By heeding this advice, consumers can streamline their cleaning routines, save money, and adopt more eco-friendly practices, all while achieving better results.
