How to Clean Your Home on a Budget
Cleaning doesn't have to cost a fortune. In fact, many of the products we usually buy to get rid of stains or odors could easily be replaced with something cheaper or even a homemade solution. Whether you're trying to cut down on expenses or simplifying your cleaning budget, there are many things you can do.
- Avoid paper towels. Instead, opt for cleaning cloths and reusable materials. Not only will this save you tons of money but it's also good for the environment. Extra-absorbent materials are best, as they can be used to wipe off excess of liquids for a longer period of time before they require to be rinsed off.
- Buy a multi-purpose cleaner. Most people don't need different cleaning products to clean the bathroom, kitchen or floors. The exception to this is a glass cleaner, which is made with a different composition (mostly alcohol-based), so it doesn't leave streaks behind. For everything else, a multi-purpose cleaner will do. Vinegar, baking soda or bleach can be used basically anywhere (but check on a corner first to ensure there's no discoloration) and will cost you just pennies.
- Use half the amount recommended by manufacturers. Often a scoop of laundry detergent will do, even if the package suggests two. The same is true of dish detergent, dishwashing soap and floor cleaners. Start with a small amount and adjust it as necessary.
- Stick to store brands as much as possible. Not all popular brand-names are better than unknown ones. Rather than looking at the name, search for the list of ingredients and compare. Concentrated products are often better, as they can be diluted to your convenience. The durable bully wipe makes the perfect cleaning cloth.
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