Maintaining a clean home doesn’t require expensive cleaning equipment or trendy storage solutions. Professional cleaners share their best cleaning hacks using inexpensive, everyday items to achieve excellent results. These creative solutions combine common household products with budget-friendly finds from Amazon to help you save time and money while keeping your home in top shape.
Wondering How the Pros Keep It So Clean?
Have you ever walked into a perfectly organized house and wondered how they do it? Professional cleaners have mastered efficiency by using unexpected items that simplify their cleaning routines. The following list highlights their favorite unusual, money-saving hacks that help homeowners maintain spotless spaces without spending a fortune.
Professional Cleaners’ Favorite Weird, Budget-Friendly Home Hacks
1. Use a Lint Roller for Dusting Lampshades
Lampshades are notorious dust magnets, and traditional dusters often just spread debris around. Professional cleaners recommend lint rollers because they deliver fast and effective cleaning results. The Scotch-Brite Lint Roller on Amazon costs under $10 and is perfect for catching dust and pet hair without the mess. Simply roll and toss the used sheet to reveal a perfectly clean surface.
2. Clean Blinds with an Old Sock and Vinegar
A simple way to clean blinds is by using an old sock soaked in a water and vinegar solution. Slip the sock over your hand and run it along each slat for a thorough clean. The vinegar cuts through dirt while the fabric traps dust particles. It’s free, effective, and eco-friendly.
3. Remove Pet Hair with Rubber Gloves
Instead of sticky rollers or costly gadgets, professionals use rubber gloves to remove pet hair from furniture. Dampen the gloves slightly and run your hands over the surface. The static electricity helps lift and remove hair completely. The Playtex Living Reusable Rubber Cleaning Gloves on Amazon are a reliable, affordable option that cleaning experts swear by.
4. Use Baking Soda to Freshen Mattresses
Mattresses can develop unpleasant odors and trap moisture. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the surface, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum it up. Professionals use this trick to deodorize between deep cleans. Add a few drops of lavender essential oil for a fresh scent. Try Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda—a staple in every cleaner’s toolkit.
5. Use a Pillowcase to Clean Ceiling Fans
Prevent dust from falling on you while cleaning ceiling fans by sliding an old pillowcase over each blade before wiping it. This hack keeps dust contained and makes cleanup easier. Finish by wiping the blades with a damp microfiber cloth for a spotless result.
6. Magic Erasers for Grimy Sneakers and Walls
Magic Erasers aren’t just for walls—they’re great for restoring white sneakers and cleaning scuffed baseboards, too. The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Original Cleaning Pads on Amazon are inexpensive and versatile. Keep one under your sink or near your entryway for quick cleanups.
7. Vinegar and Baking Soda for Drain Freshening
White vinegar and baking soda are cleaning staples because they offer a natural, affordable alternative to chemical drain cleaners. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water. This combination removes grime and neutralizes odors—perfect for regular maintenance, though it won’t fix major clogs.
8. Use Dryer Sheets to Dust Baseboards
Wipe baseboards with dryer sheets to keep them dust-free. Their anti-static properties help prevent new dust from sticking, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. This simple trick turns a household item into a clever cleaning tool that keeps your baseboards cleaner for longer.
9. Coffee Filters for Streak-Free Glass
Paper towels can leave lint behind, but coffee filters create a streak-free finish when cleaning mirrors and windows. Spray Windex Original Glass Cleaner on the surface, then wipe with a coffee filter for a crystal-clear shine. Bonus: coffee filters are inexpensive and biodegradable.
10. Lemon and Salt to Polish Cutting Boards
To naturally clean and deodorize wooden cutting boards, cut a lemon in half, sprinkle coarse salt on the board, and scrub. The lemon’s acidity helps remove stains while the salt acts as a gentle abrasive. Rinse with warm water to reveal a fresh, clean surface.
11. Dryer Balls Instead of Fabric Softener
Professional cleaners love wool dryer balls as an eco-friendly alternative to liquid fabric softeners. They reduce drying time, naturally soften fabrics, and can be reused for hundreds of loads. The Smart Sheep Wool Dryer Balls on Amazon are a top-rated choice that saves both money and energy.
12. Non-Gel Toothpaste to Remove Water Rings from Wood
A dab of non-gel toothpaste on a soft cloth can remove water rings from wooden furniture. Gently rub the area until the mark fades, then wipe clean. This simple trick works best on light stains and is a favorite among furniture experts.
13. Newspaper to Deodorize Shoes and Fridges
Crumpled newspaper can help eliminate odors naturally. Place some inside your refrigerator or shoes overnight to absorb unwanted smells. This classic trick works like magic—no chemicals required, and it’s completely free.
Keep It Simple and Smart
You can keep your home clean using simple methods that don’t require expensive tools or harsh chemicals. These creative, budget-friendly solutions deliver professional-quality results.
NW Maids is your top choice for house cleaning services. Our professional team knows all the best cleaning methods and uses eco-friendly products to keep your home spotless—so you can relax and enjoy your space.