Must Have Cleaning Supplies for a Tidy Home

Keeping your home clean is easier when you're armed with the right tools from the start.

Every home gets messy—it’s just part of life. From crumbs on the kitchen floor to fingerprints on the windows, there’s always something needing attention. But the secret to maintaining a tidy home isn’t working harder—it’s working smarter. And that all starts with having the right cleaning supplies on hand.

You don’t need a cupboard full of fancy gadgets to keep your place clean. Just a few well-chosen, everyday items can make a huge difference. Whether you're tackling a deep spring clean or just doing a quick once-over before guests arrive, this list of must-have cleaning supplies will help you stay organised, efficient, and stress-free.

Microfibre Cloths

Forget paper towels—microfibre cloths are the real heroes of everyday cleaning. They're super absorbent, reusable, and can handle everything from dust to spills with ease.

Why they’re essential:

• Can be used dry for dusting or damp for wiping
• Don’t leave streaks or lint behind
• Safe on all surfaces
• Washable and long-lasting

Keep different colours for different jobs—like one for the bathroom, one for the kitchen, and one for glass.

All-Purpose Cleaner

An effective all-purpose cleaner saves you from having dozens of bottles under the sink. It’s great for benchtops, appliances, cupboard doors, and even the odd wall mark.

Choose one that’s:

• Safe for multiple surfaces
• Non-toxic and low-odour
• Tough on grease and grime
• Eco-friendly if possible

Use it in combination with your microfibre cloths for quick daily clean-ups.

Disinfectant Spray or Wipes

Especially important in high-touch areas like the kitchen and bathroom, disinfectant sprays or wipes help kill germs and reduce the risk of illness. They’re handy for everything from doorknobs to remote controls.

Use them on:

• Toilet seats and flush buttons
• Kitchen benches and handles
• Mobile phones and light switches
• Tables and desks

Just remember to check the label for proper contact time for full disinfecting power.

Glass and Mirror Cleaner

Smudgy mirrors and fingerprints on glass can ruin an otherwise clean room. A streak-free glass cleaner helps restore the sparkle to your home.

Ideal for:

• Bathroom mirrors
• Glass doors and windows
• TV and computer screens (check the label)
• Glass tables or picture frames

For best results, use a lint-free cloth or newspaper if you're going old school.

Vacuum Cleaner

No tidy home is complete without a good vacuum. Whether you have carpets, rugs, tiles or timber floors, regular vacuuming helps reduce dust, hair, and allergens.

Look for:

• HEPA filter if you have allergies
• Lightweight or cordless options for convenience
• Attachments for furniture and corners
• Adjustable settings for different surfaces

Try to vacuum high-traffic areas two to three times a week and bedrooms weekly.

Broom and Dustpan

Sometimes you just need to quickly sweep up crumbs, pet hair, or dry dirt without dragging out the vacuum. A broom and dustpan set is perfect for quick touch-ups.

Handy for:

• Kitchen floors
• Porch or entryways
• Balconies and laundry areas
• Small messes in between big cleans

Keep one easily accessible in the kitchen or laundry for fast results.

Mop and Bucket or Spray Mop

For non-carpeted areas, you’ll need a mop to give your floors that final polished look. A spray mop is excellent for small jobs, while a classic mop and bucket works better for big spaces or deep cleans.

Best mops:

• Microfibre flat mops (great for everyday use)
• Spray mops (quick and convenient)
• String or sponge mops for larger areas

Use with a floor-safe cleaning solution that suits your surface type.

Scrubbing Brushes and Sponges

Not all messes come off with a cloth. Scrubbing brushes and sponges are perfect for tougher tasks like grout, tubs, or oven trays.

Good options include:

• Small scrub brushes for grout and corners
• Non-scratch sponges for dishes or delicate surfaces
• Heavy-duty scrubbers for tiles or outdoor messes
• Old toothbrushes for fiddly areas

Replace sponges regularly to avoid spreading bacteria.

Toilet Brush and Toilet Cleaner

It’s not glamorous, but every home needs a toilet brush and a quality toilet cleaner. These two keep your bathroom hygienic and presentable.

Look for:

• Angled bristles for under the rim
• A holder with ventilation
• Thick gel cleaner that clings to the bowl
• Optional bleach for stain removal

Clean once a week—or more often in busy households.

Laundry Basket and Cleaning Gloves

Laundry baskets help keep dirty clothes contained and out of sight, while gloves protect your hands from harsh chemicals or hot water.

Other handy extras:

• A bucket for soaking clothes or mopping
• A caddy to carry your cleaning supplies
• Lint roller for pet hair or fluff
• Air fresheners or essential oils for a clean-smelling home

Having everything in one place makes cleaning quicker and more enjoyable.

Storage Organisers for Cleaning Supplies

Keep all your gear in one tidy, easy-to-access spot. Use a portable cleaning caddy, a shelf in the laundry, or under-sink storage bins.

Organising tips:

• Group similar items together
• Label spray bottles if you decant them
• Store out of reach of children and pets
• Keep regularly used items up front

When your tools are organised, you're more likely to use them—and less likely to dread cleaning day.

Final Thoughts: A Clean Home Starts with the Right Tools

You don’t need to spend hours scrubbing or invest in fancy equipment to keep your home looking and feeling great. With these must-have cleaning supplies in your toolkit, you’ll be well-prepared to handle daily mess, weekly chores, and even those unexpected spills or muddy footprints.

The key is to keep it simple. Stick to essentials that work well for your home and routine, and keep them within easy reach. Cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s just another part of caring for the space you live in.

So stock your cupboard, put on some music, and clean a little as you go. You’ll be amazed how quickly your home starts to feel fresher, calmer, and more enjoyable to be in.