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CNN
16-04-2025
- General
- CNN
18 products professional housekeepers rely on for a spotless home
Expert-approved cleaning products quick picks For a streak-free shine: Microfiber Wholesale Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloths, 8-Pack For tough messes that chemicals can't fix: Pumie Scouring Stick, 2-Pack For tackling grease buildup in the kitchen: Citra Solv Concentrated Cleaner & Degreaser For mopping hard floors: O-Cedar EasyWring Microfiber Spin Mop For vacuuming hard floors: Bissell Zing Bagless Canister Vacuum Sure, many of the trending cleaning products you see all over TikTok really do work, but have you ever wondered what professional housekeepers actually use? As CNN Underscored's home editor, I definitely have. That's why I set out to uncover the essential cleaning tools that pro cleaners recommend, from basics like vacuums and all-purpose cleaners to specialty products with surprising uses. 'A little secret that many professional cleaners don't want to tell you is that nothing we buy is exclusive to professional cleaning companies,' Chris Willatt, founder of Alpine Maids, said. 'You can easily purchase everything we buy to clean your own home. I would prefer if you hired me to clean your house, but you don't have to pay for professional cleaning services to get professional products.' Keep reading to discover the secret weapons that housekeepers and cleaning experts rely on for their toughest messes. Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner in Lilac Turns out Mrs. Meyer's products are loved by CNN Underscored editors and cleaning experts alike. "Mrs. Meyer's Multi-Surface Cleaner is the perfect everyday cleaner because it is tough on grime but gentle on surfaces," Willatt said. "It works on everything from appliances and counters made of wood to stone." He also appreciates the scent (there are tons of options!) and that even though it's made from plant-derived ingredients, it works well. Microfiber Wholesale Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloths, 8-Pack When you ask a cleaning expert for their favorite products, chances are very high that they'll recommend microfiber cloths. "Leaving no lint and no streaks on glass is a must when cleaning homes and is one of the biggest call-backs a cleaning company can get when a cleaner is not paying attention or using the wrong products," Jen and Brian Boyle, members of the Thumbtack Pro Advisory Board and owners of MaidThis Cleaning, said, suggesting this eight-pack from Microfiber Wholesale. "The glass cleaning cloths can also be used on stainless steel in the kitchen to restore the shine after the surface has been cleaned." Tide Powder Laundry Detergent While it's great for laundry, powdered Tide also has plenty of other uses. Sarah McAllister, founder and CEO of GoCleanCo and House Work, said it's her "go-to for pretty much everything" and that "a little bit goes a long way." "It works great on walls, floors, sinks, cabinets, grout, window screens and even toilets," McAllister said. "Need to disinfect? Just add 1/3 cup of bleach. You can even make a paste with water to get rid of stains." Pumie Scouring Stick, 2-Pack You might think pumice stones are solely used for exfoliating your skin, but they're actually quite handy for cleaning too. "These versatile tools can be used to scrub hard water stains and buildup in toilets and baths, as well as the inside of ovens, griddle surfaces and outdoor grills," the Boyles said. "Saving time and energy while cleaning can really add up, and these stones help with that." Since pumice stones are abrasive, make sure you thoroughly read the instructions and avoid delicate surfaces to prevent scratches. You might also notice a gritty residue after cleaning, but that's normal. "We recommend using a cleaning product and a microfiber towel to wipe down the surface after scrubbing to remove any remaining residue and ensure a clean finish," the Boyles said. O-Cedar EasyWring Microfiber Spin Mop O-Cedar's spin mops are among the best of the best, so it makes sense that multiple experts recommended them. "I use this spin mop with my Tide recipe on all types of flooring — hardwood, tile, linoleum, LVP, you name it," McAllister said. "Press the pedal about eight times to get the moisture out until it is just barely damp, then get scrubbing. It's so easy, kids love to help with this chore!"Read our review Zep Hardwood and Laminate Floor Cleaner If you have laminate or hardwood floors, this one is for you. "Zep is my favorite hardwood floor cleaner," Willatt said. "It smells great, does not leave residue and, best of all, it does not leave unsightly streaks like you see in most floor cleaners." You can even use this solution in refillable spray mops. OdoBan Odor Eliminator and Disinfectant Concentrate Some surfaces are just so gross and stinky that they need to be thoroughly disinfected. That's where this concentrated cleaner comes in. "You can use this to clean and disinfect countertops, freshen up upholstery, mop sealed floors, [clean] your stainless steel appliances or even in the shower post-cleaning to prevent the future growth of mold," Carly Castro, TikTok cleaning expert and founder of Clean With Carly, said. Citra Solv Concentrated Cleaner & Degreaser Not sure how to tackle those stubborn greasy messes in the kitchen? Consider Citra Solv. "As the name suggests, it is a citrus-based cleaner that breaks down any tough grease buildup," Willatt said. "It is a biodegradable cleaner that does not use hard chemicals." Just keep in mind that since Citra Solv is a concentrated product, you're supposed to dilute it with water first. Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser, 2-Pack Bar Keepers Friend makes powdered and soft cleansers, both of which were recommended by a few of the cleaning pros I interviewed for this story. It's also one of my favorite cleaning products! "We use the powdered version of this cleanser to deal with our toughest stains," Willatt said. The Boyles rely on it too. "From cleaning cookware with burnt-on grease and food to stainless steel oven racks and sinks, the cleanser does the job," they added. Read our review Rinseroo Jumbo Shower Hose With Spout Maybe you've seen this shower hose on your TikTok feed or on a recent episode of "Shark Tank," but either way, Castro confirmed it is worth the hype. "The Rinseroo makes rinsing your shower (or pet) a breeze," she said. It's especially useful for renters who aren't allowed to change out their shower head for a handheld version. Homax Super-Fine Grit Steel Wool, 12-Pack Steel wool is nothing new, but maybe you never realized how much you could actually use it around the house. Castro recommends steel wool 0000, which is the finest grade available. "It's extremely different from the coarse type found in most supermarkets," she said. "I know it can seem intimidating, but steel wool 0000 works amazing for removing burnt-on foods during oven cleanings or even for removing the most stubborn stains on delicate surfaces like glass. When you feel like you've tried every cleaning tool and nothing is working, reach for this." Bissell Zing Bagless Canister Vacuum McAllister reaches for the Bissell Zing, a bagless canister vacuum, to clean hard floors before and after mopping them. "This vacuum has 10/10 suction, is lightweight and portable, and cost-effective," she said. "This vacuum is not for carpets, however, as you need a carpet vacuum with a beater bar for that." Windex Glass and Window Cleaner Windex is a household name for a reason. It's obviously an essential for cleaning windows, but it can also be used for so many more cleaning tasks. "After you've cleaned your sinks, toilets, light fixtures and other surfaces, give them a quick polish with Windex for that extra sparkle," McAllister said. Sprayway Foaming Action Glass Cleaner But maybe you want an alternative to Windex, particularly if you're looking for an ammonia-free product that's safer around pets. If so, Sprayway's foaming glass cleaner might be your best choice. "We have tried many other glass cleaning products, and nothing else compares — others either don't work or leave streaks," the Boyles said. Dawn Platinum Liquid Dish Soap Dish soap can be used for so many things around the home besides just doing dishes. Dawn — especially Dawn Platinum — comes highly recommended by the experts we spoke with. "Platinum is a thicker soap that breaks down grease easier while remaining gentle enough to be used on most surfaces," the Boyles said. "It also dries clear, so it can be used on a wet microfiber towel to clean and degrease microwave ovens, the fronts of stainless steel kitchen appliances — including refrigerators and ovens — and shower glass doors, along with tackling dirty dishes." Just be careful to avoid too much sudsing, which can leave behind some residue, they warn. Cif Lemon Cream Cif Cream is similar in theory to cleaning products like The Pink Stuff and Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleanser, but it's more delicate on surfaces and not acidic. "This cream cleanser has millions of cleaning crystals that break down grime, soap scum and even stains," Castro said. "It's actually my go-to for hard water marks on glass shower doors!" Cif Cream is often sold in sets with Scrub Daddy sponges. Orange Glo Wood Furniture 2-in-1 Clean Polish Spray As the label implies, Orange Glo is a great choice for cleaning and polishing wood — but there's another under-the-radar use worth considering it for. "This is actually my secret weapon for stainless steel," Castro said. "If you struggle with streaks when polishing stainless steel, you need this product! The fact that it has an incredible orange scent is an [added] bonus." Mr. Clean Summer Citrus Multi-Surface Liquid Cleaner McAllister is a big fan of Mr. Clean's Summer Citrus cleaning solution. "Especially in a kitchen, you need a degreasing product in order to cut the grease and get that kitchen clean, she said. "I use this on various surfaces like the tops of kitchen cabinets, on backsplashes (not marble, though), kitchen light fixtures, blinds and hood vent screens. Mr. Clean can sometimes streak, so be sure to wipe your surface with a clean, damp cloth after cleaning to rinse." For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Jen and Brian Boyle, members of the Thumbtack Pro Advisory Board and owners of MaidThis Cleaning Carly Castro, TikTok cleaning expert and founder of Clean With Carly Sarah McAllister, founder and CEO of GoCleanCo and House Work Chris Willatt, founder of Alpine Maids CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, home and gifts editor Amina Lake Patel asked several cleaning experts for the products they swear by.
Chicago Tribune
01-04-2025
- General
- Chicago Tribune
The best spin mops for a spotless home
Which spin mop is best? When was the last time you bought a mop? While a broom that's been living in the back of your closet can be just as effective after many years of use, mops have a relatively short shelf life. They get dirtier, heavier and more difficult to use over time. Try a spin mop instead. The best spin mops for the home make an undesirable but necessary chore a whole lot simpler. The O-Cedar EasyWring Microfiber Spin Mop, a top pick, earned high marks for its ease of use and its ability to fit into narrow spaces and tight corners. Here's everything to consider when shopping for a spin mop. What to know before you buy a spin mop Advantages Spin mops have several advantages over regular mops. Unlike a regular mop head, which seems to stay sopping wet no matter how hard you squeeze it, spin mop heads retain just enough moisture to clean properly. No more gross, dirty mop water getting on your feet or your floors, taking forever to dry. Spin mops get their name from the mechanism inside their bucket that spins water out of the mop head, similar to how a salad spinner dries lettuce. Since it's easier to rinse your mop, you'll do it more often, which makes the cleaning process faster and more effective. Ease of use Your spin mop should come with a bucket, a handle and a mop head. Some models may also come with other accessories. Your bucket and your mop should assemble quickly out of the box. Make sure to follow manufacturer instructions for proper use and care. Mopping isn't scrubbing. A mop should glide across the floor and turn on a dime without issue. A mop that doubles as a workout isn't a mop that you'll keep around for very long. Handle design A spin mop's handle should be sturdy and not bend or break when wet or stuck on a corner. Most spin mops have a handle that arrives in multiple parts that you have to assemble. It's a good idea to test the handle before you wet the mop. Use it to dust the floor and see how it holds up. If it's even a little bit flimsy, return it. It won't get any better once you add water. If you're on the shorter or taller side, be sure to select a spin mop with a telescoping handle that can be adjusted to a comfortable height. What to look for in a quality spin mop Bucket design Remember that you're going to have to fill your bucket with water and put it down on the floor. Then you'll have to pick it up once you're done and dump it outside or in the sink. This can be a heavy task for older adults or anyone with back problems. If this is a concern, look for spin mop buckets with wheels on the bottom and/or built-in drain spouts. Another important bucket design feature is the splash guard. It's easy to spill water while moving the bucket or using your mop. Stop that spill with a splash guard. Spin mechanism The salad spinner-like mechanism that dries out your mop head operates via a foot pedal built into the bucket or via a lever on the mop handle. The foot pedal option is convenient, but if you press the pedal too hard, it can be easy to accidentally knock over the bucket, especially if it's not too full. The lever on the mop handle option makes it easier to prevent accidents, but it also may not get the mop head quite as dry. It could also prove difficult for those with arthritis or issues with grip strength. Multiple mop heads Some spin mops will come with multiple mop heads for different uses. They may be bigger, smaller or have special scrubbing features. Be sure to utilize each mop head for its intended use. Other models will come with multiple types of the same mop head. While microfiber mop heads are machine washable, it's still a good idea to replace them after several months. If your mop doesn't move as easily as it used to, or if your floors still seem dirty after cleaning, the likely culprit is a mop head that needs replacing. How much you can expect to spend on a spin mop A low-end spin mop will run you $20-$30. Keep a close eye on user reviews in this category as cheaper models are made from cheaper materials and may not hold up well over time. Mid-range spin mops with better construction and more features cost around $30-$50. High-end models aren't too much extra. They generally fall between $50 and $70. Spin mop FAQ Can I use spin mops on any type of hard floor? A. Yes. If you're concerned, use your spin mop dry first and pick up any dirt, dust or hair. This will decrease the risk of scratches when you add water. What's the best way to wash a spin mop head? A. Follow manufacturer instructions, but in general, mop heads can be placed on a gentle cycle in the washing machine with a mild detergent. Never use bleach or fabric softener. Hang and air dry. If you're not washing your mop head after each use, it's a good idea to at least let the mop head hang and air dry before storing. What are the best spin mops to buy? Top spin mop O-Cedar EasyWring Microfiber Spin Mop What you need to know: Quality construction and a smart design make this spin mop the best overall choice for most buyers. What you'll love: The triangle mop head design makes cleaning corners and other tight spaces simple. The microfiber mop head is machine washable. What you should consider: The bucket is smaller compared to other models on the market. Top spin mop for the money Simpli-Magic Spin Mop with Foot Pedal What you need to know: This model has all the features you'd want in a spin mop for a fair price. What you'll love: The bucket features a convenient carrying handle and easy-to-use foot pedal. It comes with three mop heads. What you should consider: Taller users may find the handle too short. Worth checking out Twist and Shout Original Hand Push Spin Mop What you need to know: The unique design features of this spin mop make cleaning a breeze. What you'll love: The self-wringing mop allows you to clean faster and easier, and the head can rotate to fit under furniture. The mop heads last for up to a year. What you should consider: This model is pricier than others, and some users say the handle doesn't hold up well over time. Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change. Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
