Aurelia Butler

While there are no shortage of fantastic cleaning products out there – from multi-purpose sprays to vacuums that’ll have your house sparkling in no time — some of the most reliable are versatile basics like baking soda and washing soda. What’s the difference between baking soda and washing soda?Though washing soda (also known as sodium carbonate or soda ash) may not get quite as much attention as baking soda (also known as sodium bicarbonate), it’s another type of chemical compound that has plenty of household uses. The main difference between the two is that baking soda can be used for both cooking and cleaning, while washing soda can only be used for cleaning and laundry only. Washing soda also has a larger crystal-like texture, while baking soda has more of a powdery texture. You should also wear gloves when handling washing soda, since it’s a stronger alkali that could cause skin irritation. How to clean with washing sodaArm & Hammer Super Washing Soda Detergent Booster & Household CleanerNow 10% OffCredit: Arm & HammerLike baking soda, Arm & Hammer is the most popular brand of washing soda, and it can generally be found in the laundry aisle of most grocery stores. Its applications go way beyond refreshing dirty clothes, though. There are a dozen household items you can clean with washing soda, according to the cleaning pros at the Good Housekeeping Institute: 1. StainsFor heavily soiled laundry, use one full cup of washing soda along with the typical amount of detergent at the beginning of the wash cycle. You can also pre-treat stains with a paste of 4 tablespoons washing soda and ¼ cup warm water. Use rubber gloves to gently rub the paste into the dampened stain and wash as normal.RELATED: The Best Laundry Stain Removers2. Soap scumBecause washing soda is a natural water softener, it can help clean stubborn soap scum from areas like toilet bowls, tile, sinks and tubs (just don’t use it on fiberglass). To clean these areas, dissolve ½ cup washing soda in a gallon of warm water, scrub thoroughly and rinse well. Connect Images//Getty Images3. A greasy stovetop, oven, range hood or exhaust fanTo eliminate stubborn grease and grime from surfaces, mix a solution of ½ cup washing soda and a gallon of warm water and apply with a damp sponge. For burners, remove them and let them soak in the solution for at least 30 minutes before rinsing and drying. 4. CookwareTo clean heavily soiled pots and pans, sprinkle washing soda on a damp sponge, scrub and then rinse thoroughly. Alternatively, you can make a paste of two parts washing soda, one part water and apply to stained areas. Let stand for 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse. RELATED: How to Clean Stainless Steel Pans5. Plastic garbage binsTo clean a stinky garbage can, dissolve ½ cup of washing soda in a gallon of warm water, wash the the surface, rinse and let dry. Peter Dazeley//Getty Images6. Small appliancesIf your toaster oven or food processor is caked in grease or could simply use a refresh, wipe the exterior with a solution of ½ cup washing soda dissolved in a gallon of warm water.7. Outdoor furniturePlastic and wrought-iron furniture can be revived with a solution of ½ cup washing soda dissolved in a gallon of warm water. For plastic furniture, simply wipe down with a cloth or sponge. For wrought iron, scrub with a stiff-bristled brush, hose off and let dry. 8. Garden toolsIf shovels, clippers and other yard tools have seen better days, you can use a damp stiff-bristled brush to scrub them with washing soda. Once clean, hose off the tools and let them air dry. Hannah Yelverton//Getty Images9. Grill grates and utensilsWhen your barbecue is caked with grease, scrub the grates with washing soda using a damp stiff-bristled brush and then rinse well. You can also soak grates and tools in a solution of ½ cup washing soda dissolved in a gallon of warm water before rinsing and drying. 10. Shower curtainsBanish mold and mildew from your shower curtain by soaking it in a solution of washing soda and water, then rinse and dry thoroughly. RELATED: How to Clean a Glass Shower Door11. Silver jewelryTo remove tarnish, line a bowl with aluminum foil, then fill with hot water and a small amount of washing soda. Let the crystals dissolve, then add your silver jewelry and let soak for up to 15 minutes. Once it stops fizzing, rinse and buff with a soft lint-free cloth until thoroughly dry. RELATED: How to Clean Jewelry12. Concrete floorsApply a paste of washing soda and water on oil and grease spills, let stand overnight, then scrub with a damp brush, hose down and wipe dry.Don Mason//Getty ImagesBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more. More

1Clean a Cutting BoardDejan Ilic//Getty ImagesSprinkle some salt on top of your cutting board, cut a lemon in half and get scrubbing! Then, wash your cutting board in the sink to get rid of any leftover residue. 2Refresh Your Oven DoorIsabel Pavia//Getty ImagesSpruce up your oven door with some natural cleaner. Fill a spray bottle with water and juice from one whole lemon. Spray the oven door and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and wiping it down with a cloth or sponge. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Deodorize a Garbage DisposalAygul Bulte//Getty ImagesSmelly garbage disposal? You’re not alone. Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a lemon cut into slivers down the drain. Run cold water, then turn on the disposal to grind it all up. 4Polish GlasswareOscar Wong//Getty ImagesNo one likes drinking from a cloudy glass. Let your stemware soak in lemon juice for a sparkly finish. The fruit’s natural acid will begin to dissolve the mineral deposits. Then, rub on some baking soda to scrub them off once and for all.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Make an Air Freshenerimv//Getty ImagesWhether an unwanted odor has found its way into your home or you just love the smell of citrus, consider creating your own air freshener. Add two lemons cut into slices and a handful of cloves to a pan of water and bring the mixture to a simmer for 30 minutes. 6Wipe WindowsEyeEm Mobile GmbH//Getty ImagesIf you’re distracted by fingerprints when you look out the window, it might be time to give them a good wipe. To clean the glass, follow the same instructions for cleaning the oven door and create a lemon juice and water mixture in a spray bottle. After spraying, wipe them down with a microfiber cloth. RELATED: The Right Way to Clean WindowsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Shine MetalSimon McGill//Getty ImagesWith just lemon juice and salt, you can break down rusty metal for a shinier finish. Squeeze lemon juice onto a sponge, pour some salt on top and scrub the rust or area of metal that needs shining. If you need something more abrasive, try adding more salt or using a tougher cleaning brush to break it down. 8Remove Soap ScumImage Source//Getty ImagesActing as a natural acidic cleaner, lemon juice, when mixed with water to create a solution, breaks down soap scum. Spray the surface and scrub away. However, if you have marble in your bathroom, avoid using this mixture as it can damage the surface. RELATED: How to Clean a Glass Shower DoorAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below9Freshen up a MicrowaveMarianVejcik//Getty ImagesCut one lemon into slices and place them into a bowl with one cup of water. Put the mixture in the microwave, and warm it up on high for two to three minutes or until the window steams up. Let the bowl cool for five minutes before taking it out and wiping the inside clean with a sponge. RELATED: The Easiest Ways to Clean a Microwave10Wipe Down Your StovetopIsabel Pavia//Getty ImagesWhen life gives you a greasy stovetop, make a lemon and baking soda paste! Sprinkle the baking soda across your stovetop. Then, cut a lemon in half and use it face down to scrub all over the surface until it forms a paste. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping the stove with a damp cloth. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11Fix Stained ContainersInes Fraile//Getty ImagesAdd stained containers to the long list of things lemons can fix. The citric acid present in lemon juice breaks down stains so they can be easily be rinsed away with water. To get started, just scrub half a lemon face down onto the stain, squeezing out the juice. Then, wash the container as you normally would. 12Restore a GrillTonkovic//Getty ImagesCleaning the grill doesn’t have to be a long and strenuous process. Turn your grill on high to heat it up. Once heated, turn it down so you can safely scrub off any grime or buildup using half of a lemon face. Make sure to use tongs to hold the lemon in place to avoid burning yourself. RELATED: 8 Best Grill Brushes for Cleaning Your GrillAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Clean a Cheese Grateromersukrugoksu//Getty ImagesGetting in between each and every opening on your cheese grater can be nearly impossible with a standard sponge. Skip all the hard work and replace your sponge with half a lemon. Rub the surface of the cheese grater with lemon to get any leftover chunks of cheese out. Then, wash as you normally would. 14Tackle Build-up on Pots and PansGrace Cary//Getty ImagesIf you’ve ever scrubbed a burnt pot or pan for what feels like forever, try this hack. Cut up two full lemons into slices and place them in the pan. Fill it with water so it covers the burnt area and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, turn off the stove and let it cool off before dumping it into the sink. At this point, you should be able to get all the gunk off with a gentle scrubbing and rinse. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15DIY a Cleaner for Miscellaneous Surfaceswera Rodsawang//Getty ImagesFor a lemon-infused all-purpose cleaner, combine one part white vinegar, one part water, a lemon rind and rosemary sprigs and pour everything into a spray bottle. Let the mixture infuse for a week before using. However, avoid using lemons and lemon-based cleaners on surfaces like natural stone, wood, electronics and upholstery as the natural acidic properties have the potential to leave them damaged. RELATED: The Best All-Purpose CleanersLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates. Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

Spring often feels like a fresh start — the ideal time to tackle cleaning and organizing projects you’ve been overlooking all year. Cleaning the entire house isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do everything at once. Rather than stress over where to begin, follow our spring cleaning checklist, which includes detailed instructions for every room and what must be done throughout the house.Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Cleaning Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, says you should do most of these tasks year-round, but the change of season is a great time to play catch-up. “Spring is the time to do the tasks that have been nagging at you, and that will give you the greatest sense of accomplishment and satisfaction to check off your to-do list.”Our advice? Set a realistic cleaning schedule and once the weather is warm enough, open up the windows and get to deep cleaning. What You’ll Need:If you’re planning to clean the entire house, you’ll need an assortment of cleaning supplies — starting with these must-haves. Your pre-spring cleanup is also “the perfect time to treat yourself to new cleaning tools,” according to Forté. Think microfiber cloths, dusters, mop pads and vacuum filters, or an upgraded vacuum cleaner.Quality vacuum cleaner with attachmentsTop-tested mopMicrofiber clothesHeavy-duty spongesRubber glovesEssential cleaners, including dish soap, white vinegar, baking soda, all-purpose spray and glass cleanerSpring Cleaning Checklist:What to Clean in All Rooms:Before you deep clean individual rooms, consider what should be done throughout the house — think dusty baseboards, dirty walls and dull windows in every room. You may choose to divide your to-do list by room, or start by tackling these tasks one by one. Clean baseboards: Vacuum baseboards with the brush attachment. If needed, follow with a wet microfiber cloth (use water or all-purpose cleaner). Dust ceilings, vents, fans and light fixtures: Use a soft cloth lightly dampened with water to wipe away dust.Clean walls: Your walls might be dusty or dirty (think food splatters in the kitchen). Dust walls with a dry floor mop and tackle grime with a mixture of dish soap and water.Wipe down mirrors: Try a glass cleaner and microfiber cloth. Wash windows and window treatments: Before cleaning windows with glass cleaner, wipe down the screens and frames. Dust window treatments or clean them in the washing machine if the care label permits. Vacuum and mop floors: Use a vacuum to pick up dust, dirt and debris (using attachments to tackle corners and moldings). Use a damp mop to clean floors — don’t forget a cleaner that is safe for your flooring.Related StoryYour Room-by-Room Cleaning Checklists:BedroomsKseniya Ovchinnikova//Getty ImagesBathroomsMark Lopez//Getty ImagesRelated StoryKitchenJohn keeble//Getty ImagesLiving RoomCreativaStudio//Getty ImagesOutdoor SpacesJohn keeble//Getty ImagesClear out guttersPressure wash deck, patio and siding Wash outdoor furnitureClean and organize the garageRelated StoryLaundry RoomYinYang//Getty ImagesStay Committed to a Cleaner Home More

People often dream of large houses — dedicated rooms solely for working or practicing hobbies, extra bedrooms for house guests and spacious living areas for entertaining. But, a bigger house also means expensive mortgage payments, more frequent maintenance and additional rooms to clean. So, is it worth investing in a big house?Organizing expert Shira Gill doesn’t think so. Since 2013, Shira’s family of four has lived in a 1,200-square-foot house in the San Francisco Bay Area. The 1916 craftsman bungalow has only three bedrooms, one bathroom, two closets and a very small basement, but the pro organizer finds her family thrives in a cozier environment. The Beauty of Small SpacesWith more financial freedom and less time spent cleaning the house, Shira is a believer of “less is more” and doesn’t dream of upgrading to a larger property. “Our small home isn’t a compromise — it’s a conscious choice that aligns perfectly with our values and lifestyle,” says Shira, author of three organizing books, including the recently published LifeStyled. “It gives us the financial freedom, time and energy to focus on meaningful experiences, travel and adventures.”Whether you’re considering a move or thinking critically about your current abode, here’s a few major reasons why a small home may improve your quality of life — and the environment.Vivian Johnson for Shira GillShira’s light and airy dining room is used for family meals, homework and entertaining friends. Photo by: Vivian JohnsonWhat are the perks of a smaller house?It limits financial stress.Smaller houses tend to cost less to buy and maintain, plus less square footage tends to be cheaper to heat, cool and power. A smaller footprint means saving money in most areas — from lower mortgage payments and smaller utility bills to reduced expenses on furniture, house paint and cleaning supplies. “Because we have chosen to live within our means, we don’t feel the financial strain that comes with investing in a bigger or more impressive plot of real estate,” says Gill. “Being able to comfortably pay for our home and maintain it leads to less overall stress and relationship strain, and frees up resources we can use towards travel, personal development and even philanthropy.”There’s less to clean and maintain.Smaller rooms means it’s faster to clean, declutter and organize on a regular basis — which means more time for yourself. “A quick vacuum and wipe down of surfaces takes us less than 15 minutes and leaves us with more time, energy and freedom for all the things we actually want to be spending time on,” says Shira.Vivian Johnson for Shira GillShira’s bedroom is simple and minimalist, reserving the largest bedroom in the house for her two girls. Photo by: Vivian JohnsonIt’s better for the planet.If you’re worried about the environmental footprint, a smaller house requires less energy and resources. “Heating and utility bills are smaller because there’s less space to heat and cool,” says Shira. “A smaller home requires less furniture and decor, so small space dwellers can consume less, which also means less packaging and less waste.”It’s more reasonable to invest in quality home items. Furnishing a home can get expensive, but when you have limited space, it’s easier to justify a splurge. “With less to buy, we can invest in higher quality essentials — even little luxuries like fresh flowers each week,” says Shira. “I truly love every item in our home from our plush towels and bedding to the wooden dish brush by our kitchen sink.” There’s a more comfortable, cozy feel. Often, a smaller house feels warmer and more inviting. It encourages family members to spend more time together, whether that’s kids sharing a bedroom or the whole family gathering in the living room for movie night. “Our kids have had to learn how to share, compromise and be team players,” says Shira. “In the end, the small space not only brings us closer physically — it builds character and collaboration that they’ll carry into adulthood.” More From Professional OrganizersAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More

1Best Plant-Based CleanerSeventh Generation All Purpose CleanerCredit: Seventh GenerationThis four-pack works out to only a few dollars per bottle when you crunch the numbers. Plus, the multi-purpose cleaner can tackle various tasks throughout the home.Why our experts love it: In our tests, it cut through grease and grime and cleaned surfaces quickly without leaving behind streaks. Seventh Generation claims the bottle is made from 100% recycled plastic too.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “It’s surprising how much grime this stuff picks up, we’ve already gone through two bottles and plan on stocking up on some more,” said one five-star reviewer who called this their new favorite cleaner.2Top Tested Disinfectant WipesLysol Disinfectant WipesCredit: LysolLysol is a cult classic when it comes to cleaning products, and for a reason. These disinfecting wipes are easy to use and can take on highly trafficked areas like door handles, light switches and more. Why our experts love it: Lysol products consistently perform well in Lab evaluations and our pros were impressed with how quickly these wipes cleaned surfaces. We even recommend keeping a container in your car.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “The thickness of the wipes is perfect — they’re durable and don’t tear easily, even for tougher cleaning tasks,” said one five-star review out of the more than 114,000 five-star shopper reviews.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Viral Cleaning ProductScrub Daddy SpongesCredit: Scrub DaddyThe Scrub Daddy sponge debuted on Shark Tank in 2012 and has since started a dish-cleaning phenomenon.Why our experts love it: Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forté tested out the viral sensation in her home and found that the Scrub Daddy sponge can take on tough cleaning tasks that require heavy-duty scrubbing.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “Scrub Daddy sponges live up to the hype! They are gentle on dishes but tough on grime, and I love that they change texture based on water temperature — soft in warm water and firm in cold,” said one satisfied shopper.RELATED: Scrub Daddy vs. Scrub Mommy: Which Sponge Cleans Best?4TICARVE Car Cleaning GelNow 14% OffCredit: TICARVESome nooks and crannies can feel impossible to reach, but this unique cleaning gel makes it easy to nab dust collecting in your car vents, console panel and the like.Why our experts love it: It’s easy to knead the slime a few times before pressing it on a dusty spot, then slowly pull it away and voilà: even hard-to-reach areas look clean instantly.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “It’s unscented and doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue, which is a huge plus. You can reuse it multiple times until it gets too dirty,” said one Amazon shopper.RELATED: TikTok Amazon Finds That Make Incredible Life HacksAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Top Tested Cleaning GlovesCasabel Cleaning GlovesCredit: CasabellaNothing is more annoying than water sliding down your arms while washing dishes. These gloves are designed so you can roll over the ends to create cuffs that catch water. Why our experts love it: When testing, our pros found that the liner was soft and made the gloves easy to slip on and off. Even if you don’t roll them over, the longer length helps with any drips. What Amazon shoppers are saying: “I work as a private chef — my hands are constantly in water. These gloves are super easy to put on and take off (imperative in my life), very comfortable and great fit, have good longevity, and [have] a fair price for at least four months of heavy use,” said one satisfied Amazon shopper.RELATED: Best Dishwashing Gloves, Tested by Cleaning Experts6BEST QUICK STAIN REMOVER FOR WINEWine Away Red Wine Stain RemoverCredit: Wine AwayRemoving red wine stains from clothes, carpet or furniture can be a tricky business, which is why it’s helpful to have a designated stain remover on hand for fresh and dried stains.Why our experts love it: In Lab tests, this red wine stain remover completely erased wine stains, as well as purple grape juice stains. We observed no residue after use and found it easily washed out of carpet and fabric. These stellar results landed it a Good Housekeeping Cleaning Award two years in a row.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “It easily removed a huge, week-old red wine stain from my white linen sofa. Like seriously miracle status,” said one satisfied shopper.RELATED: Best Stain Removers, Tested by Cleaning ExpertsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Best cleaner for delicate materialsCapture Carpet & Rug Dry CleanerNow 14% OffCredit: CaptureIf you have delicate fabrics in your home, like a velvet couch, this dry cleaner can freshen and brighten without causing damage. Why our experts love it: In our Lab tests, we found it was easy to use and offered a helpful solution to cleaning difficult materials. What Amazon shoppers are saying: “I was more than surprised at the results. I cleaned a 9×12 area rug that our dog has taken over. What a huge difference after using Capture. I will use it again…and again,” said one five-star reviewer. 8Best Screen Cleaner for Quick JobsiRoller Screen CleanerCredit: iRollerWe recommend this pocket-sized tool for lifting smudges from touchscreen devices — without needing to pull out a spray bottle and cloth. Why our experts love it: In Lab tests, the adhesive roller lifted almost all dust and grease from the screen. Dirtier screens can fill the tool up quickly, but you can rinse it under tap water and let it air dry to clean it off.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “Compact, easy to use, and it actually works! Cleans lint, fingerprints from hand lotion, and anything else that clings to screens,” said one five-star reviewer. RELATED: Best Screen Cleaners for Every DeviceAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below9Best Steamer and Iron ComboSunbeam Power Steam Handheld SteamerNow 22% OffCredit: SunbeamThis dual handheld steamer and iron takes care of two appliances in one and delivers excellent power at an affordable price. Why our experts love it: In our Lab tests, this steamer scored well in our wrinkle-removing evaluations. It ran for 12 minutes without needing a refill. It also comes with a brush attachment that helps revive napped fabrics such as wool.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “Love everything about this! Not too heavy, kicks out steam like a champ, water well is a good size, and….tada!! It looks like a hairdryer,” said one satisfied reviewer. RELATED: Best Clothes Steamers, Tested by Laundry Experts10Scotch-Brite Glass Cooktop WandNow 13% OffCredit: Scotch-BriteCleaning the stove can be a dreaded task after an elaborate recipe, but this wand from Scotch-Brite makes it easier. All you need is water to tackle stovetop messes — no cleaning liquid necessary.Why our experts love it: We previously gave it a GH Cleaning Award because we were so impressed with how well it cut through grease and stuck-on grime from a glass cooktop in the GH Test Kitchen.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “My glass top stove is beautiful, but not easy to clean. This cleansing pad solves the problem. It quickly distributes the cleanser and absorbs the greasy residue,” said one satisfied Amazon shopper. RELATED: Best Stovetop Cleaners Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11ODISTAR Desktop Vacuum CleanerNow 20% OffCredit: ODISTARThis mini vac nabs small debris on your desk thanks to a 360° design that picks up dirt in every direction. It requires two AA batteries (not included) and will give you up to 90 minutes of run time.Why our experts love it: Its compact shape will look sleek next to your computer and if you want a pop of color, you can also choose an orange mini vac. Our pros like how easy this gadget makes cleaning your office desk.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “This mini vacuum is super efficient at picking up dust, crumbs, and small debris without being noisy or bulky,” said one Amazon shopper.RELATED: Best Office Gadgets and Accessories for Your Desk12Casabella SqueegeeCredit: CasabellaThis silicone squeegee grabs water in just one pass and can even clip onto your showerhead for easy storage.Why our experts love it: Our pros recommend wiping away water from your shower daily to help limit mold and mildew. This tool has a soft, comfortable grip and can maneuver around fixtures and into corners, making it easy to use regularly. What Amazon shoppers are saying: “It’s the best at removing water droplets in our shower and we have tiled walls that are textured. We go over the tile twice and this squeegee does the job,” said one Amazon shopper.RELATED: Best Shower Cleaners, Tested by Home Care ExpertsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Best Value Spin ScrubberKlever Electric Spin ScrubberCredit: KleverLittle elbow grease is required when cleaning tough stains thanks to this affordable electric spin scrubber that comes with four brush attachment types. Why our experts love it: It effectively removed soil during our tests and we found the ergonomic handle comfortable to hold. What Amazon shoppers are saying: “From hard to soft bristles, this scrubber has got all bases covered. I’ve used it in my bathroom, kitchen, and even on my patio, and it’s handled every job like a champ,” said one five-star reviewer.RELATED: Best Electric Spin Scrubbers, According to Rigorous Testing14Best Drain Cleaner for Kitchen Green Gobbler Drain Clog RemoverCredit: Green GobblerCleaning a clogged drain is a messy chore, but thankfully the Green Gobbler Drain Clog Remover features pre-measured cleaning packs for easy cleaning.Why our experts love it: We like how easy these no-fuss single-use packs are to use for unclogging a drain or toilet. Our testers appreciated the included manual clog remover tool, and our tests found that one pack of five can deliver two to five cleanings, depending on how substantial the clog.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “Put 3 scoops into a shower drain that was chronically stopping despite many attempts with a snake. Added a bit of hot water. Four hours later it was running like brand new,” said one five-star reviewer. RELATED: Best Drain Cleaners, Tested by ExpertsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below15HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning ClothNow 20% OffCredit: HOMEXCELWhen it comes to cleaning a glass shower door and wiping down other delicate surfaces like windows or a glass coffee table, these gentle microfiber cloths are our experts’ pick. Why our experts love it: Microfiber cloths won’t cause damage or leave behind streaks. These cloths are also designed to be ultra-absorbent so you can even use them to dry dishes or wipe up spills. One purchase comes with 12 cloths for just under $8.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “The cloths are durable, soft, and withstand multiple washes, making them a reliable choice for various cleaning needs,” said one five-star review out of the more than 32,000 five-star reviews.16Most Versatile Bathroom CleanerMr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath ScrubberCredit: Mr. CleanThis versatile scrubber can tackle almost every bathroom surface, from the tub to the sink. Just wet the pad and squeeze to activate the foam cleanser that helps you scrub away stains.Why our experts love it: We found that this Good Housekeeping Seal-Holder combined the perfect amount of cleaning solution and muscle power to successfully remove grime on hard surfaces like shower walls and even bathroom tile.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “I have very hard well water. Have used a lot of cleaners that didn’t work all that well. These made cleaning my shower super easy and it sparkled afterward,” said one Amazon shopper.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below17Best Odor Fighter for KitchenFebreze Kitchen Odor EliminatorCredit: FebreezeA GH Seal Holder, the Febreeze Kitchen Odor Eliminator banishes lingering smells of food like fish and bacon, leaving behind a long-lasting fresh lemon scent. Why our experts love it: Even when we sprayed the odor eliminator into a stinky trash can, garbage smells dissipated immediately.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “In my opinion, these Febreze spray cans really work some magic in taking care of odors. And this is my favorite scent, which is a lemon citrus, very fresh scent,” said one Amazon shopper. 18Swiffer PowerMop Multi-Surface Mop KitNow 17% OffCredit: SwifferThis GH Seal Star features disposable pads that have hundreds of scrubbing strips to provide a faster, deeper and longer-lasting clean. Why experts love it: In Lab tests, we found the PowerMop easy to assemble and the absorbent pads successfully picked up smeared ketchup without spreading it around.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “The mop glides right over every surface with ease and actually cleans the floor rather than just spreading dirt around,” said one five-star Amazon review.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below19Top Tested Dish SoapDawn Platinum Dish SoapCredit: DawnRated best overall in our list of dish soaps, this budget-friendly dishwashing liquid detergent produces long-lasting suds and can hold grease in suspension so as not to re-dirty your dishes.Why our experts love it: You can often find a bottle by the sinks in the GH Test Kitchen and Kitchen Appliances Lab, and our staffers also use it to get grease stains out of clothing.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “For the price and how far a little dab will last, it’s been my go-to for months now. Dishes are always clean, great smell and again last a long time,” said a satisfied Amazon shopper.RELATED: Best Dish Soaps for Sparkling Clean Dishes20Stardrops The Pink StuffCredit: StardropsThis (super affordable!) tub has more than 220,000 online reviews, making it one of the most popular cleaning products we have come across. Why our experts love it: It’s a multi-purpose cleaner that you can use on various surfaces around your home. Apply the paste to a cloth or sponge, rub the product into whatever you are cleaning and then rinse away.What Amazon shoppers are saying: “I used this to clean my grimy oven and it worked like a charm! It got off all the gunk on the oven lining, the racks, and even the windows with very little effort,” said one five-star reviewer. Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

1ToysEvgeniia Siiankovskaia//Getty ImagesLet’s face it: Kids’ toys often end up in their mouths. Because all-purpose cleaners may contain hazardous ingredients, it’s important to avoid using it on these items. Instead, try placing plush toys in the washer or plastic toys on the top rack of the dishwasher. There are plenty of safer ways to clean toys, according to our cleaning experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute. 2Unfinished Woodalexandrumagurean//Getty ImagesMany all-purpose cleaners contain chemicals that could potentially leave unfinished floors warped or stained. Instead, choose a dedicated wood floor cleaner and make sure to read all instructions before scrubbing. RELATED: 7 Best Hardwood Floor CleanersAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Shower and Bathtubtacojim//Getty ImagesYou’re going to need something a bit stronger to properly clean hard water stains, stubborn soap scum or mold and mildew in the bathroom. Our cleaning experts have tested a variety of shower cleaners, choosing their favorites based on how effectively they sanitize and disinfect grimy bathroom surfaces. RELATED: How to Clean Glass a Shower Door4Pet BowlsKinga Krzeminska//Getty ImagesPets are family too. That’s why it’s important to keep harsh ingredients away from the bowls they drink and eat from. You can clean pet bowls as you would clean normal bowls — by hand in the sink or in the dishwasher if safe. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Glassathima tongloom//Getty ImagesWhile it’s not necessarily unsafe to clean glass windows with an all-purpose cleaner, it’s more likely to leave streaks and smudges, according to cleaning experts at the GHI. We recommend the Cleaning Lab’s top pick: Invisible Glass Cleaner. RELATED: The Right Way to Clean Windows6UpholsteryGeorge Pachantouris//Getty ImagesAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Stainschanakon laorob//Getty ImagesTough stains are extremely frustrating. Don’t add to the problem by using a cleaner that’s not fit for the job. Instead of trying an all-purpose spray, apply a stain remover before throwing it in the wash. RELATED: The Best Stain Removers for Clothes8Granite or Marble CountertopsGrace Cary//Getty ImagesAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below9ElectronicsYagi Studio//Getty Images10CarpetYulia Naumenko//Getty ImagesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates. Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

It’s no secret that shower curtains are prone to mold and mildew. Icky spots can grow on shower curtain liners, along tile grout and in moist corners due to poor ventilation. Turns out, how you leave the curtain after a steamy shower can make a huge difference. As a kid, my mom always insisted I close the shower curtain after showering — but, I’ve had roommates who prefer leaving it open. So, I’m curious: What method is better for moisture control and air circulation? Our cleaning experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute are here to settle the shower curtain debate once and for all — open or closed?Whether it’s a constant argument in your household or you’ve never actually considered why your shower grows mold, this cleaning advice may change your shower routine.Related StoryShould the shower curtain stay open or closed? The pros have spoken: It’s best to fully close the shower curtain. “After showering, you should pull open and stretch the shower curtain out, eliminating any folds that could retain water,” says Carolyn Forté, Home Care & Cleaning Lab executive director. Shower curtains and plastic liners that are left open can dry properly, preventing the buildup of mold and mildew. Not to mention, bathrooms with closed shower curtains tend to look tidier — especially when guests are over. Some argue that keeping the shower curtain open will help moisture evaporate faster and allow air to circulate in the bathroom. Forté argues, “enough air still circulates around the sides and the top for the walls and tub to dry with the curtain drawn.”Shower walls actually dry “pretty quickly,” adds Forté. With an open shower curtain, moisture is trapped in the folds of your curtain or liner, which take much longer to dry. Pro tip: Plastic curtain liners can be machine washed on a warm, delicate cycle and dried on low heat for a few minutes.More From Our Cleaning ExpertsAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More

Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more. More