In Part 1, I ditched propped toilet brushes and chemical-heavy cleaners for simpler hacks. Ready for more? Here are four more cleaning “rules” I’ve tossed out to save time, money, and keep my home sparkling clean. Your home, your rules—let’s break some more.
Rule: You Need a Cleaner for Every Surface
Supermarket aisles push sprays for showers, glass, floors—you name it. I say, skip the clutter. A multi-purpose cleaner handles nearly everything. Humble Suds’ Tea Tree + Lavender All-Purpose Cleaner, with just five natural ingredients, tackles grime while leaving a calming scent that makes my evening wipe-down a mini Zen moment (www.humblesuds.com/tips). For safe disinfecting, I spritz Hypochlorous. Need to scrub? Baking soda or Bar Keepers Friend steps in. Save specialized cleaners for rare, tough messes.
Rule: Paper Towels Are a Cleaning Must
Paper towels? Overrated. I’ve switched to microfiber cloths for everything—even toilets. They trap more dirt, dust, and germs than paper towels, and they’re reusable, saving trees and cash. Microfiber Wholesale’s Pro Multi-Surface Towels are soft, durable, and perfect for polishing or soaking up spills. Their Waffle Weave cloth adds scrubbing power for stubborn spots (www.microfiberwholesale.com). Toss them in the wash, and they’re good as new.
Rule: Always Use the Detergent Dispenser
Those laundry soap trays? Mold magnets. I’ve seen the gunk buildup, and no thanks. Instead, I add one to two tablespoons of detergent directly to the drum before clothes go in. It’s enough for a standard load and keeps my machine cleaner. For stains or bright whites, I sprinkle in oxygen bleach the same way. Simple, effective, done.
Rule: Fabric Softener Makes Clothes Better
Fabric softener’s a hard pass. Its synthetic scents irritate my skin, and the residue it leaves traps dirt, reduces absorbency, and even makes clothes more flammable. No campfire vibes needed in my laundry. I use wool dryer balls or a splash of vinegar in the rinse cycle for soft, clean clothes without the risks.
Clean Your Way
Breaking these rules has made cleaning faster, greener, and cheaper. Experiment, find what works, and make your routine your own.
For more inspiration, see Trish’s insights in The Spruce https://www.thespruce.com/common-cleaning-rules-pros-actually-never-use-11680996